Stephen Graf Brohawn

This study identifies a direct interaction between SARS-CoV-2 M protein and sphingolipids that regulates its conformational dynamics and virus assembly.

The paper identifies VIPR systems, which use noncontiguous RNA codes for DNA recognition, suggesting an ancient origin of adaptive immunity through viral interactions.

The paper introduces Tension TRAAKer, a chemigenetic fluorescent membrane tension reporter that visualizes tension dynamics in living cells with high spatiotemporal precision.

This study determines the cryo-EM structure of TASK-1 at low pH and shows how protonation of an extracellular histidine leads to channel closure, with mutations affecting proton sensitivity.

The paper reveals the structural mechanism of VIPR RNA-guided DNA recognition through triplex formation, showing how noncontiguous RNA sequences direct DNA targeting.

This study determines the structure of LRRC8A:D VRACs using cryo-EM, revealing lipid-gating and subunit-specific structural features.

This study shows cannabinoids inhibit mechanosensitive K2P channels, including disease-causing mutants, and reveals the mechanism of channel block via CBD binding.

The paper presents cryo-EM structures of ChRmine, a microbial channelrhodopsin, in lipid nanodiscs, revealing its trimeric architecture and structural basis for its unique optogenetic properties.

This study presents cryo-EM structures of TWIK1 at different pH levels, revealing how protonation of an extracellular histidine triggers conformational changes that gate the K+ channel.

This paper engineers high-performance microbial opsins for precise spatial and temporal control of neuronal networks, enabling large-scale activation of defined neurons in vivo and in vitro.

This study shows ultrasound activates TRAAK K+ channels directly through the lipid membrane, with kinetics similar to mechanical activation, suggesting mechanosensitive channels mediate ultrasound's effects on neurons.

The paper shows TRAAK is localized to nodes of Ranvier and contributes to nerve conduction by modulating membrane potential and Na+ channel availability.

The paper presents cryo-EM structures of LRRC8A in lipid nanodiscs with DCPIB inhibitor, revealing gating mechanisms and lipid-dependent structural changes.