Uni-Tübingen

Sub-project A02: The pH in the TGN/EE as specificity determinant in the post-Golgi trafficking

Principle Investigator

Prof. Dr. Karin Schumacher

Universität Heidelberg

COS, Entwicklungsbiologie

der Pflanzen

INF 230, 69120 Heidelberg

Tel 06221-54-546436

Fax 06221-54-546404

karin.schumacherspam prevention@cos.uni-heidelberg.de

Prof. Dr. Ursula Kummer

Universität Heidelberg

COS/Bioquant, Modellierung

biologischer Prozesse

INF 267, 69120 Heidelberg

Tel 06221-54-51278

Fax 06221-54-51483

ursula.kummerspam prevention@bioquant.uni-heidelberg.de

Summary

The trans-Golgi network/early endosome (TGN/EE) is the central hub for cellular protein trafficking. The complex sorting processes taking place in this compartment require acidification by the V-ATPase, a protein complex with multiple roles as a proton-pump, pH-sensor and mediator of membrane fusion events. Within project A02 it is thus investigated, which sorting- and transport mechanisms are directly linked to the V-ATPase and if these are pH-dependent or pH-independent processes. Based on systematic measurements of pH in the individual compartments of the cell, mathematical models will be developed that will allow us to determine if the known mechanisms of cellular pH-homeostasis are sufficient to explain the experimental data or if additional transport mechanisms have to be postulated.