Crystal structure of TSPO from Rhodobacter sphaeroidesFEI LI
Translocator protein (TSPO) is highly conserved across the kingdoms of life and, in humans, is implicated in a variety of diseases. This integral mitochondrial membrane protein is undoubtedly important, but its exact function is a matter of controversy. Two papers published today (January 29) in Science describing the crystal structure of bacterial TSPO should help resolve the matter, although they contradict a previously proposed structure.
“The structures themselves are really beautiful,” said structural biologist Chris Tate of the Medical Research Council’s Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, UK, who was not involved in the studies. “Membrane proteins are very difficult to work on . . . so when you have two independent groups actually coming up with seemingly identical or very similar structures, it’s very ...
