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How can we decipher the dynamics of membrane proteins ? Is Batesian mimicry enough to deceive predators? Let's find out!
Come along and celebrate some of Nottingham's fantastic postdocs as they take us through their research for National Postdoc Appreciation Week 2023! (NPAW2023).
Postdocs are an essential part of our institute as they share their knowledge, skills and advice. This event will showcase their excellence! Refreshments and goody bags will be provided courtesy of Proteintech.
#NPAW2023 #CelebratePostdocs @proteintech @pintofscience
Come along and celebrate some of Nottingham's fantastic postdocs as they take us through their research for National Postdoc Appreciation Week 2023! (NPAW2023).
Postdocs are an essential part of our institute as they share their knowledge, skills and advice. This event will showcase their excellence! Refreshments and goody bags will be provided courtesy of Proteintech.
#NPAW2023 #CelebratePostdocs @proteintech @pintofscience
Looking at cell membranes and membrane proteins using solid state NMR
Dr. Vivien Yeh
(Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Nottingham)
The function and integrity of a cell membrane is vital for maintenance of essential biological processes, and membrane proteins are proteins located on or interact with the membrane. However, the complexity and physical properties of membranes make it a challenge to study using biophysical techniques. Solid state NMR is a versatile tool that can look at membrane, membrane proteins and their interactions, by monitoring changes to atomic environments and dynamics. Here I will introduce some experimental approaches and strategies for studying biomembrane and membrane proteins using solid state NMR, as well as some applications and examples of the information you can get out of solid state NMR.
Exploring predator responses to mimetic prey using novel 3D-printed insect phenotypes
Dr Christopher Taylor
(Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Nottingham)
Batesian mimics gain protection from predators by being mistaken for more dangerous prey, for example harmless hoverflies that look like wasps. But there is great variation in their appearance, including the level of accuracy attained. Are these signals optimal for deceiving predators, or could they be improved?
We have printed a range of novel 3D insect phenotypes, including some much more accurate than existing species. We presented these stimuli to predators in learning tasks, to assess the levels of protection gained. We reveal how different predators judge mimetic accuracy, and which visual traits are most important in determining their response. Our approach allows us to explore the selective pressures at play in a classic example of animal adaptation, with far greater levels of realism than have previously been achieved.
We have printed a range of novel 3D insect phenotypes, including some much more accurate than existing species. We presented these stimuli to predators in learning tasks, to assess the levels of protection gained. We reveal how different predators judge mimetic accuracy, and which visual traits are most important in determining their response. Our approach allows us to explore the selective pressures at play in a classic example of animal adaptation, with far greater levels of realism than have previously been achieved.
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