Unusual Chromophore and Cross-Links in Ranasmurfin: A Blue Protein from the Foam Nests of a Tropical Frog.
Oke, M., Ching, R.T., Carter, L.G., Johnson, K.A., Liu, H., Mcmahon, S.A., White, M.F., Bloch Jr, C., Botting, C.H., Walsh, M.A., Latiff, A.A., Kennedy, M.W., Cooper, A., Naismith, J.H.(2008) Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 47: 7853
- PubMed: 18781570
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/anie.200802901
- Primary Citation of Related Structures:
2VH3 - PubMed Abstract:
Ranasmurfin is an unusual blue protein isolated from the nests of a Malaysian tree frog, Polypedates leucomystax,[1] showing the rich chemical diversity displayed by biomolecular foams. Many species of tropical frogs use foams to protect delicate eggs and developing embryos against environmental challenges. These nests act as miniature ecosystems containing a spectrum of novel proteins and other macromolecules with functions related to foam stabilization and adhesion, resistance to microbial degradation, predation, or dehydration, providing a biocompatible environment for embryonic development.Thisworkformspartofourwiderstudyofthe intriguing physical and chemical properties of biofoams as unusual examples of biological soft matter.[2]
Organizational Affiliation:
Centre for Biomolecular Science and The Scottish Structural Proteomics Facility, The University, St Andrews, UK.