Abstract
Multi-drug resistance is becoming an increasing problem in the treatment of bacterial infections and diseases. The mechanosensitive channel of large conductance (MscL) is highly conserved among prokaryotes. Evidence suggests that a pharmacological agent that can affect the gating of, or block the current through, MscL has significant potential as a new class of antimicrobial compound capable of targeting a range of pathogenic bacteria with minimal side-effects to infected patients. Using molecular dynamics we examine the binding of fullerenes and nanotubes to MscL and demonstrate that both are stable within the MscL pore. We predict that fullerenes will attenuate the flow of ions through MscL by reducing the pore volume available to water and ions, but nanotubes will prevent pore closure resulting in a permanently open pore. Moreover, we confirm experimentally that it is possible to attenuate the flow of ions through MscL using a C60-γ cyclodextrin complex.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
