Copper homeostasis is unique as it requires high-affinity binding with molecules and copper sensing mechanisms to ensure a low level of free copper in both the cytoplasm and the periplasm. While the cellular copper efflux mechanism through the P-type ATPases has been studied, the process of copper uptake into the cytoplasm remains unclear. To understand how copper enters the cell, we conducted an experimental research on two potential copper importers CcoA (PA1848) and HmtA (PA2435) in this project. We also worked on characterizing their particular role played in copper transport through phenotypical and functional analyses, including metal sensitivity test, redox stress test, and copper tolerance test in both excess and deficient copper environments.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Sun, Yi

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-032116-180307

Advisor

• Argüello, José M.

Year

• 2016

Date created

• 2016-03-21

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biochemistry

Rights statement

• In Copyright