Dr. Maria Laura Mascotti; CONICET, Argentina

Evolution of Respiratory Enzymes and Membrane Fusion at the Origin Eukaryotes

Enzymes shape cellular metabolism by enabling biochemical reactions within defined spatial and temporal constraints. Understanding their function requires considering both their molecular properties and their evolutionary history. In my lab, we study the emergence and diversification

of enzymes involved in aerobic metabolism and bioenergetics.

In this seminar, I will present recent work on the evolution of electron transport chain proteins, highlighting how evolutionary approaches can inform both functional interpretation and potential applications. I will also introduce a membrane fusion mechanism that may have operated during early eukaryogenesis and discuss its implications for the cellular transitions underlying the origin of eukaryotes.

Thursday, May 7 / 4.15pm / room 5161.0105, Bernoulliborg