
PhD student - Laboratory of Structural biology of signaling proteins
PhD project: Regulatory mechanisms of C2-WW-HECT (Nedd4-like) E3 ubiquitin ligases and the role of protein-protein interactions in their regulation
Nedd4-2 is a HECT E3 ligase that plays a critical role in pathophysiology by regulating multiple substrates, including the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC). Pathological consequences of Nedd4-2 dysregulation include respiratory distress, hypertension, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney disease. In addition to the not yet fully elucidated Ca2+ - dependent regulation of Nedd4-2, Nedd4-2 is regulated via phosphorylation and binding to various binding partners including scaffolding proteins 14-3-3. 14-3-3 proteins have the ability of binding the functionally different signal proteins, including kinases, phosphatases and transmembrane receptors by changing their function. The aim of this project is to elucidate the regulatory mechanism human (Smurf1, Nedd4L), yeast (Rsp5) HECT E3 ubiquitin ligases and to understand the role protein-protein interactions in their regulation.
For this purpose, the structure of Nedd4L, Smurf1, Rsp5 complexes with different binding partners (ClC-5, 14-3-3 proteins, arrestins) will be studied using integrative structural biology methods, in particular cryo-EM, SAXS, H/D exchange coupled to MS and chemical crosslinking coupled to MS. The structure of these complexes will be solved by combining the results of experimental methods and methods of structural bioinformatics (if needed). The activity of E3 ligases will be measured using liposome-binding, pulse-chase and autoubiquitination assays. Combined, these approaches will allow us to elucidate regulatory mechanisms of Nedd4-like E3 ubiquitin ligases. This is a project in the field of structural biology and biophysical chemistry of proteins and is funded by grants from the research group. Cooperation with the Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague.
Requirements
Successful candidate should enjoy working in the field of structural biology/biophysics/physical chemistry, be curious and has the courage to try out new things. Required is M.Sc. degree with the defense until June 2022 (fields: Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or similar). The knowledge of molecular biology, protein expression and purification is a strong advantage. Good knowledge of English is required.
We offer
4-years Ph.D. student position starting from September 2023 (possible to start earlier June/July), funding from the Czech Science Foundation (GA ČR), opportunity to gain expertise in preparation of recombinant proteins and methods of integrative structural biology, work in an international group of scientists, participation at international conferences and workshops, friendly, motivating environment, part-time contract for 3 years with the possibility of renewal, 5 weeks of vacation, subsidized lunch
Location
BIOCEV
Job commencement: September 2023 (possible to start earlier June/July)
RNDr. Veronika Obšilová, Ph.D.
+420325873513
veronika.obsilova@fgu.cas.cz