W. W. Metcalf

Investigation of gating in outer membrane porins provides new perspectives on antibiotic resistance mechanisms

This study uses molecular dynamics simulations and experiments to show that dynamic gating of E. coli outer membrane porin OmpF, mediated by conserved acidic residues, regulates antibiotic permeability and contributes to antibiotic resistance.

Rationalizing generation of broad spectrum antibiotics with the addition of a primary amine

This study uses molecular dynamics simulations and experimental validation to show that adding a primary amine to antibiotics enhances their permeation through the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria by aligning dipole moments and forming electrostatic interactions.

Functional interactions between post-translationally modified amino acids of methyl-coenzyme M reductase in Methanosarcina acetivorans

The paper identifies a methyltransferase responsible for S-methylcysteine modification in MCR and shows that interactions between post-translational modifications affect enzyme function and thermal stability.

Biochemical characterization of the methylmercaptopropionate:cob(I)alamin methyltransferase from Methanosarcina acetivorans

This paper characterizes the MtpA methyltransferase from Methanosarcina acetivorans, showing it catalyzes methyl transfer from methylcob(III)alamin to mercaptopropionate but not to CoM, suggesting a second methyltransferase is needed for the full reaction.

Energy conservation via hydrogen cycling in the methanogenic archaeon Methanosarcina barkeri

This study provides direct evidence that Methanosarcina barkeri uses hydrogen cycling to generate a proton motive force, supporting energy conservation via H2 production and consumption.

Genetic, biochemical, and molecular characterization of Methanosarcina barkeri mutants lacking three distinct classes of hydrogenase

The paper characterizes Methanosarcina barkeri mutants lacking hydrogenases, showing their non-essential but significant role in methanol growth and revealing redox state sensing mechanisms.

Post-translational thioamidation of methyl-coenzyme M reductase, a key enzyme in methanogenic and methanotrophic Archaea

The paper identifies thioglycine modification in McrA, a key enzyme in methane metabolism, and shows its role in protein stability rather than catalysis, with implications for evolutionary origins.