Biophysical Society Newsletter | December 2017

6

2017

BIOPHYSICAL SOCIETY NEWSLETTER

DECEMBER

Publications BJ – Know the Editors James Cole

molecules and distinguish between host and viral RNAs? Our recent studies demonstrate how single stranded regions can contribute to PKR binding and activation by short duplexes. Surprisingly, we found that PKR can even bind single-stranded RNAs lacking any secondary structure, albeit with lower affinity. We identified a basic region in PKR as the single-stranded RNA binding site. This is an exciting observation that suggests a mechanism for how PKR cooperatively interacts with single- and double-stranded regions present in RNA activa- tors. We are now working to test this model and to define the structure of a complex of PKR with single-stranded RNA. Q. What have you read lately that you found really interesting or stimulating? (a paper, a book, science or not science) I recently read Madeline Albright ’s autobiography, Madam Secretary . She has led a fascinating life and describes the improbable series of events that led from growing up in communist-controlled Czechoslovakia to serving as Secretary of State un- der Bill Clinton . Her book provides a candid and personal account of how high-stakes diplomatic negotiations really work.

University of Connecticut Editor, Proteins

James Cole

Q. What are you currently working on that excites you? I am interested in how the innate immunity system recognizes molecules that signal the pres- ence of a pathogen. There are several receptors that bind RNAs produced by viruses and initiate an antiviral response. How are they activated? Could we develop methods to modulate these receptors to create novel antiviral drugs? A key component of this pathway is protein kinase R (PKR). Although PKR was originally classified as a double-stranded RNA binding protein, we now appreciate that it is regulated by a variety of host and viral RNAs with complex secondary and tertiary structures. How does PKR recognize these

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