Research Projects

Energy transduction by enzymes and their collective dynamics in solutions have recently been a major focus area of investigation in active matter research. The goal of the proposed study is to develop a fundamental understanding of enzyme dynamics in the complex intracellular environment and investigate the influence of enzymatic forces over the mechanics of small molecules in their vicinity. Encouraged by the recent theoretical predictions and our preliminary experimental observations, we propose to investigate transduction and distribution of energies by active enzymes under cellular conditions to glean a comprehensive understanding of the motion of cytoplasmic organelles and small molecules during bio-catalytic reactions. We would like to understand in details how the nature of the cytosolic milieu could possibly help in transferring enzyme generated energy in their neighborhood and influence various intracellular processes and phenomena. Our preliminary investigations suggest that force generated by active enzymes and their mutual interactions in complex crowded environment may facilitate novel emergent dynamics and thereby find many useful applications, which we would like to investigate thoroughly through complementary theoretical and experimental studies. Our research also aims to explore if enzyme generated forces are strong enough to influence and control particle transport through cellular membranes. Successful completion of the objectives of this proposal will open many research possibilities based on active biomolecular mechanics, substantially improving our knowledge on activity induced transport and delivery.

Enzymes, Crowding, Catalysis, Nanomotors, Activity, Diffusion