Dynamical spectroscopy and microscopy of proteins in cells

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Biophysics

Background:

• A robust understanding of protein folding is established.
• The influence of the in-cell environment on protein dynamics remains an active area of investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in studying fast in-cell protein dynamics.
• To discuss the emerging role of protein surfaces in cellular processes.

Main Methods:

• In-cell Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.
• Time-resolved fluorescence microscopies.

Main Results:

• Recent studies have accelerated the understanding of protein dynamics on the nanosecond to second timescale within cells.
• Protein surfaces are increasingly recognized for their roles beyond solvent interaction.

Conclusions:

• In-cell environments significantly modulate protein folding, binding, and function.
• Protein surfaces act as critical cellular components controlling protein mobility, function, and interactions, including post-translational modifications.