NTT Research and Development 2010 Review of Activities

Overview

In the human brain, neural networks process external information and transmit it to other parts. In this processing and transmission, receptor proteins are key molecules that transmit information by changing their conformation. We have succeeded in observing the structural dynamics of this, which will contribute to our understanding of the mechanism of other receptor dynamics and the mechanism of neural networks. In addition, it will be helpful information for fabricating nano-bio devices^*1, which combine receptor proteins and nanostructured substrates.

Features

• Successful stable placement of receptor proteins on a substrate by using electrostatic interaction
• Regulation of receptor protein orientation reconstituting into a lipid bilayer
• Proof that single receptor protein exhibits pore dilation^*2
• Successful time-lapse imaging of conformational changes in a receptor protein
• Discovery of large dynamics in the extracellular domain of a receptor protein

Application scenarios

• Feeling sensor (e.g., pain): super-sensitive sensor that can detect single molecules
• Development of self-contained and low-energy-consumption devices using biological energy
• High throughput screening for drug development by using arrays of devices
• Development of biomimetic communication system

• *1 Nano-bio device: nanoscale structured device composed of biological molecules
• *2 Pore dilation: enlargement of the receptor protein pore. Recent reports have discussed the possibility of other proteins exhibiting this phenomenon.