Modeling the interactions of LAT1

We have once again gained one critical milestone. The second publication for Jussi's Ph.D. thesis was published yesterday. This is actually really interesting study, as here, we were able to combine for the first time our biological data with molecular modeling, in that sense that Tuomo, our modeler or TV-chemist as we call him, was able to explain the interactions of different compounds with our target transporter LAT1 (L-type amino acid transporter 1). So we were able to understand not only binding process of the compounds to LAT1, but also to predict what kind of structural requirements are essential for the compounds, so that they don't only bind to LAT1 but also is transported across the plasma membrane through LAT1's cavity. And this is not a simple process, since the translocation is a multi-step process that involve a conformational changes of the transproter, from the outward-open position of LAT1 (to which the compounds bind) to inward-open position (from which the compound is released to cytosolic side of the cells). However, also in this study, like almost in all cases, you realize that this is only a start and more experiments with more sophisticated methods are needed to understand more. Luckily, in this case, we already have a second Ph.D. student, Kati who is working hard to find more details out of this fascinating field. So I look forward to see what else we can dig out of LAT1!

Anyway, thank you for all the co-authors and congratulation Jussi, one step closer of your graduation!

Link to the publication.