Structural Biology Group

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Team leader: dr hab. Maria Górna

Team leader’s e-mail address: mw.gorna@uw.edu.pl

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Brief description of the research topic:

We study the structure and function of proteins and their complexes using structural biology methods such as cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and protein crystallography, supported by functional assays both in vitro and in cell culture. We use structural models to characterise protein activity and function, to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying selected human diseases or to aid drug discovery. With our discoveries and inventions, we would like to help fight infections or treat inflammatory diseases in humans, as well as develop RNA-related technologies.

Our research focuses on RNA metabolism and drug discovery for infectious diseases. One of our interests is human antiviral IFIT proteins, which bind viral RNA and prevent the translation of viral proteins. We are investigating the role of IFIT complexes, particularly in the regulation of the immune response. We are also using IFIT proteins as molecular tools for pathogen RNA detection and RNA selection prior to sequencing.

Another project aims to develop chemical tools that could be used for targeted proteolysis of bacterial proteins. Targeted protein degradation (TPD) could be used to study protein function in a chemical genetics approach or lead to the development of an entirely new type of antibiotics. We are taking the first steps to introduce TPD into Gram-negative bacteria, which may serve as a future therapeutic approach against multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens.

We are also working on drug development against infectious diseases in two international consortia. We are investigating the decapping enzyme ALPH1 of parasitic protozoa with the hope of combating trypanosomiases (sleeping sickness, Chagas disease) and leishmaniases. We are also participating in the development of antifungal drugs within the JPIAMR platform.