A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Shubhasis Haldar at S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences (SNBNCBS) (under Department of Science & Technology) has spotlighted a previously overlooked protein, p47, that plays a crucial role in helping other proteins withstand mechanical stress in living cells. Using single-molecule magnetic tweezers, researchers demonstrated that p47, long considered a mere assistant to the protein-processing molecular machine p97 can act independently as a “mechanical chaperone.” It binds to and stabilizes stretched proteins, enhancing their ability to refold even under persistent pulling forces.
This discovery challenges established understanding of protein mechanics and opens a novel therapeutic avenue. By targeting accessory cofactors like p47, researchers may be able to develop treatments for ailments characterized by compromised protein stability under mechanical strain, including heart muscle diseases and genetic conditions like laminopathies.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders: Can therapeutic modulation of mechanical cofactors such as p47 transform treatment strategies for diseases caused by mechanical protein instability?
Follow the full news here:
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2163680
