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.schumacher@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.kummer@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.