New approaches toward the photochemical regulation of gene function

ORGN 159

Wesleigh F. Edwards, wfedward@ncsu.edu and Alexander Deiters, alex_deiters@ncsu.edu. Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, 2620 Yarbrough Drive, Box 8204, Raleigh, NC 27695
In order to elucidate biological functions and mechanisms, precise external control over biological processes is necessary. Light represents a superior control element, as it can be easily regulated in timing, location, and amplitude. We are using light-responsive moieties and small organic molecules, in conjunction with biological macromolecules, to create new tools for the light-regulation of gene activity. Specifically, we will report our advances toward the light-regulation of enzymatic activity, protein-protein interaction, and oligonucleotide function. Due to the modularity of our approach, we will be able to quickly advance our in vitro results into bacterial and mammalian cell systems, as well as whole organisms.