The PDZ Domain as a Complex Adaptive System
2007

Understanding PDZ Domain Interactions

Sample size: 126 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Kurakin Alexei, Swistowski Andrzej, Wu Susan C., Bredesen Dale E.

Primary Institution: The Buck Institute for Age Research

Hypothesis

How do PDZ domains balance specificity and promiscuity in protein interactions?

Conclusion

The study reveals that PDZ domains exhibit a unique combination of specificity and adaptive plasticity, essential for their role in cellular organization.

Supporting Evidence

  • PDZ domains are critical for organizing protein interactions in cells.
  • Specificity and promiscuity in PDZ interactions are essential for synaptic function.
  • Adaptive plasticity in PDZ domains allows for flexibility in cellular organization.

Takeaway

PDZ domains are like puzzle pieces that can fit together in many ways, helping cells stay organized while also being flexible.

Methodology

The study used target-assisted iterative screening (TAIS) to analyze large populations of peptide ligands for PDZ domains.

Potential Biases

Potential biases in ligand selection and analysis methods could affect the interpretation of results.

Limitations

The study primarily focuses on specific PDZ domains and may not generalize to all protein interaction modules.

Statistical Information

P-Value

2.8E-15

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0000953

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication