The Protein Data Bank (PDB) contains the structures of over 4000 proteins of unknown function. In an attempt to assign function to some of these structures we combined in silico and in vitro analyses focusing on those most likely to be of the hydrolase class. We used bioinformatics tools including active site-alignment software, BLAST, Pfam, and Dali to predict putative protein functions. We expressed and purified the proteins and carried out in vitro activity assays, informed by the in silico-predicted enzyme function. We present data confirming the in vitro hydrolase function of several proteins of known structure but previously unidentified function. These studies used the Biochemistry Authentic Scientific Inquiry Lab (BASIL) modules as a framework and were carried out as part of an undergraduate course-based research experience (CURE).
Support or Funding Information
This work was supported by the National Science Foundation under grants #1503811 amp; 1709805
This work was supported by the National Science Foundation under grants #1503811 amp;amp; 1709805
