Investigating the structure and dynamics of biological systems and complex formulations in the solid-state using NMR spectroscopy

Julie Forman-Kay delves into her research on intrinsically disordered proteins, which lack stable structures but play crucial roles in biology. Using advanced NMR techniques, her team studies these proteins’ dynamic ensembles and their behavior in biomolecular condensates. This research is pivotal for understanding how mutations in disordered regions contribute to diseases like autism spectrum disorder. Julie’s work highlights the importance of structural biology in uncovering the mechanisms behind protein function and pathology.

Tatyana Polenova is a Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Delaware and leads a team of scientists at the Polenova Laboratory. Her research focuses on investigating the structure and dynamics of biological systems and complex formulations in the solid-state using NMR spectroscopy, combined with computational, and biochemical methods. Alongside her team at the Polenova Laboratory, she is currently studying HIV-1 capsid and SARS-CoV-2 protein assemblies, microtubule- and actin- associated protein assemblies, and vanadium-containing halo peroxidases, with the aim of better understanding disease mechanisms and assisting with drug discovery and development, as well as biotechnology applications.