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08:47
Characterizing Single-Molecule Conformational Changes Under Shear Flow with Fluorescence Microscopy
Published on: January 25, 2020
The effects of shear flow on protein structure and function.
Innocent B Bekard1, Peter Asimakis, Joseph Bertolini
1Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia.
Biopolymers
|May 6, 2011
Summary
Fluid shear forces can damage protein molecules, impacting their biological functions. This review discusses the effects of these forces on protein structure and function, with implications for bioprocessing and disease.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Biophysics
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Proteins are vital complex molecules essential for numerous biological functions.
- Fluid shear forces encountered during bioprocessing and bodily circulation can cause protein denaturation and damage.
- Impaired protein structure and function can lead to molecular damage with significant biological consequences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing studies on the effects of hydrodynamic shear forces on protein structure and function.
- To discuss the implications of protein damage from shear forces in bioprocessing.
- To explore the role of shear-induced protein damage in the pathophysiology of diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating hydrodynamic shear forces on proteins.
- Analysis of protein structure and function alterations under shear stress.
- Discussion of bioprocessing and clinical relevance of findings.
Main Results:
- Hydrodynamic shear forces can significantly alter protein structure and impair molecular function.
- The extent of protein damage is dependent on shear force magnitude and duration.
- Review synthesizes current knowledge on shear-induced protein modifications.
Conclusions:
- Understanding shear-induced protein damage is critical for optimizing biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
- Protein dysfunction due to shear forces may contribute to the development or progression of certain diseases.
- Further research is needed to mitigate shear-related protein damage in clinical and industrial settings.
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