Grant: Operating Grant

Understanding how all the proteins encoded by the genome of an animal work together to form a living organism requires a complete description of the 'wiring circuits' that underlie fundamental cellular processes. A key feature is the tendency of proteins to interact physically to form complexes that serve as molecular 'machines'. Proteins with similar or overlapping biological roles generally belong to the same complex. Here, we propose to map and explore the physical interaction architecture of protein complexes present in the different tissue compartments of the classical multicellular model organism nematode worm (Caenorhabditis elegans) using powerful technology recently developed by our group. Our integrated experimental and computational approach will enable us to generate high quality circuit diagrams encompassing all the essential proteins involved in important biological processes required for animal cell growth, development and survival. Since many worm genes are conserved across animal evolution, the identification of the overall physical and functional architecture of C. elegans should inform on protein complexes in other species, including humans. The data generated in this project will lead to a deeper understanding of animal cell biology and therefore will serve as a valuable resource for the entire biomedical research community, including human geneticists trying to track down the molecular basis of important human disorders to spur on the development of new clinical therapies.