Structure-function studies, goal

Powerful mechanistic enzymology in conjunction with structural biology studies have provided insight into the manner in which the protein environment of an apoenzyme augments and controls coenzyme reactivity. The goal of the protein design efforts that include coenzyme functionality is to estabhsh whether these features can be emulated within designed peptide and protein constructs. 

The goal of the present study was to prepare a series of derivatives related to podocarpic acid for use in structure/activity studies designed to reveal functional groups responsible for the molecules fungistatic properties. Four specific modifications were planned ... 

In early studies of cytochromes, spectroscopic methods were relied upon for determination of spin state, coordination number, and axial-heme ligation. Model hemes in which metal-ion size, charge, and d-orbital occupancy, as well as ligand structure and composition, could be systematically varied, were spectrally characterized for comparison to cytochromes. Synthetic 6cLS Fe and Fe porphyrinates have been studied for many years with the goal of clarifying structure-function relationships observed in cytochromes. 

The low cost and desirable physical properties of PE motivate efforts to extend its use to products of higher value. Ironically, it is PEs physical properties and methods of production that contribute to hmiting realization of this goal (Brintzinger et al, 1995 Hadjichristidis et al, 2000). For example, to extend the potential applications of PE, it is important to develop structure-property relationships of this polymer, as weU as overcome some of its drawbacks, such as incompatibility with other materials. The lack of model polyethylene with tailored structure, controlled molecular weight and low polydispersity has limited structure-property studies of this polymer (Bielawski et al, 2002). The absence of functionality or the ability to incorporate PE segments in block copolymers has limited the compatibility of commercial polyethylene products with other materials (Dong and Hu, 2006). 

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