Research

The aim of my research is to understand the structural and functional consequences of
protein-protein interactions. To achieve this goal, I am using solution NMR spectroscopy
and X-ray crystallography combined with molecular biology tools for protein expression
and biochemical techniques for protein purification and characterization. In particular, I am
focusing on the role Beta2-GlycoproteinI ( B2GPI) plays in coagulation/fibrinolysis and in
cell activation through interaction with cell-surface receptors. B2GPI is a primary target for
the autoimmune antibodies (aPL) associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
Clinical symptoms of APS are persistent arterial and/or venous thrombosis, recurrent
miscarriages and thrombocytopenia. Molecular mechanisms leading to APS are not well
understood. Structural studies of B2GPI complexes will help to delineate physiologic
functions of B2GPI and how these functions are modulated in APS. Atomic details of the
contact sites will be used as a basis for the design of small molecules capable of blocking
B2GPI to overcome the pathological effects of aPL.