In-cell Protein Structure and Dynamics: An Integrative Biophysical Approach

This Research Topic aims to highlight cutting-edge research and authoritative reviews that advance the understanding of protein structure and dynamics directly within the cellular environment. With a focus on integrative biophysical approaches, it welcomes studies that probe how proteins fold, fluctuate, interact, and function in the crowded, heterogeneous milieu of the cell, and how these behaviors differ from those observed in vitro.Contributions are encouraged that combine experimental and computational methods to elucidate the conformational landscapes and dynamic properties of proteins in living cells or cell-like conditions, and that link these properties to biological function, dysfunction, and therapeutic intervention.Key areas of interest include, but are not limited to:- In-cell investigations of protein folding, misfolding, and conformational ensembles- Structural disorder and conformational plasticity in native and disease-relevant cellular contexts- Allostery, molecular recognition, and supramolecular complex formation in vivo- In-cell studies of amyloidogenic proteins and the molecular basis of protein aggregation in human disease- The impact of post-translational modifications, crowding, and phase separation on protein structure and dynamics- Integrative biophysical strategies combining NMR, FRET, mass spectrometry, cryo-EM, single-molecule, and advanced imaging in cells- Computational modeling and simulations that bridge in vitro and in-cell protein behavior- In-cell biophysics-guided drug design and protein engineering targeting dynamic conformational statesBy integrating in-cell measurements with powerful biophysical and computational tools, this Research Topic seeks to provide mechanistic insight into how the cellular environment shapes protein structure, dynamics, and function in both physiological and pathological settings. The collection particularly welcomes contributions that connect in-cell protein biophysics to human disease mechanisms, therapeutic development, and protein engineering, in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals of Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9). Topic editors: Rupam Ghosh, Wesam S. Ahmed, PhD, Animesh Mishra Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78243/in-cell-protein-structure-and-dynamics-an-integrative-biophysical-approach