We use a combination of biochemical, crystallographic and electron microscopic techniques to study the mechanism of translation by ribosomes. Some current projects in the lab include:
- The fundamental process of translation in bacteria and eukaryotes. By solving structures of intermediates during translational initiation, elongation, and termination, we are building molecular movies that track the complete process of protein synthesis.
- The initiation of translation in eukaryotes. We want to understand the interactions of initiation factors with the 40S ribosomal subunit, mRNA and initiator tRNA, as well as the conformational changes induced by the binding of these factors.
- Noncanonical and regulatory mechanisms of translation.
- The effect of an organellar environment on the structure and function of ribosomes.