Is the Protein Folding Problem Really Solved? Probing Hidden Conformations on the Energy Landscape
Dr. Susan Marqusee
Professor of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley
October 7, 2026
Seminar Details
Host: Dr. Josh Wand
Time: 4:00pm-5:00pm
Location: BICH Rm. 108
Seminar Abstract
The amino acid sequence of a protein encodes more than the native three-dimensional structure; it encodes the entire energy landscape – an ensemble of conformations whose energetics and dynamics are finely tuned for folding, binding and activity. Small variations in the sequence and environment modulate this landscape, even when the protein’s native structure is unchanged. I will describe results from different experimental approaches that have allowed us to selectively label rare and transient conformations and peak into these hidden regions of the energy landscape.