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The Origin and Early Evolution of Membrane ProteinsThe origin and early evolution of membrane proteins, and in particular ion channels, are considered from the point of view that the transmembrane segments of membrane proteins are structurally quite simple and do not require specific sequences to fold. We argue that the transport of solute species, especially ions, required an early evolution of efficient transport mechanisms, and that the emergence of simple ion channels was protobiologically plausible. We also argue that, despite their simple structure, such channels could possess properties that, at the first sight, appear to require markedly larger complexity. These properties can be subtly modulated by local modifications to the sequence rather than global changes in molecular architecture. In order to address the evolution and development of ion channels, we focus on identifying those protein domains that are commonly associated with ion channel proteins and are conserved throughout the three main domains of life (Eukarya, Prokarya, and Archaea). We discuss the potassium-sodium-calcium superfamily of voltage-gated ion channels, mechanosensitive channels, porins, and ABC-transporters and argue that these families of membrane channels have sufficiently universal architectures that they can readily adapt to the diverse functional demands arising during evolution.
Document ID
20060053344
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Pohorille, Andrew
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Schweighofter, Karl
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Wilson, Michael A.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 23, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2006
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Meeting Information
Meeting: 2006 Gordon Research Conference on the Origin of Life
Location: Lewiston, ME
Country: United States
Start Date: July 23, 2006
End Date: July 28, 2006
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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