Probing the potential role of the rieske protein in superoxide formation in complex III

This Project Grant award from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), under the Biomedical Research and Research Training Program (CFDA 93.859), provides $373,731 to Trinity University to conduct research on the potential role of the Rieske protein in superoxide formation in Complex III. The primary objectives are to determine if the reduction potential of the Rieske protein can be a source of superoxide when its redox potential is mismatched, and to thoroughly characterize the Rieske protein. The research will utilize a yeast system to measure superoxide production and study the effects on yeast growth. Additionally, the reduction potential of the isolated yeast Rieske protein will be measured. This award has a performance period from September 1, 2024 to August 31, 2027. The project also includes a sub-award to Berry College to support the research.

Abstract

Reactive oxygen species include molecules such as superoxide, peroxide and hydroxyl radicals. High levels of these molecules have been shown to lead to diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. The proposal aims to determine if the reduction potential of the rieske protein in complex III can be a source of superoxide when the reduction potential is not matched its redox partner. In order to study this hypothesis, a yeast system where mutations can be made to rieske has been produced, and a series of mutant yeast strains have been made. The production of superoxide will be measured using confocal microscopy and its effect on the yeast ascertained through growth assays. In addition, the reduction potential of the isolated yeast rieske protein will be measured. The protein will also be thoroughly characterized, adding a new system that has not been explored previously to the literature.