Protein purification and structural analysis of UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) from the natural sweetener Stevia

Lindsey Aubuchon

Abstract

The growing diabetes epidemic is affecting more than 100 million Americans. More than 10% of the American population suffers from diabetes according to the CDC. Another 88 million people in the US are believed to have prediabetes. Scientists are working on solutions to combat this dangerous disease. Diabetes is described as a chronic disease that affects the blood sugar regulation in the body. Therefore, identification of safe, natural, low, or zero-calorie sugar alternatives could be valuable in combatting this disease. One of the most promising options for sugar substitutes are steviol glycosides which derive from the leaves of the tropical Stevia rebaudiana plant. Steviol glycosides are between 200 and 300 times sweeter than normal sucrose (table sugar). For this project, we have identified enzymes, known as UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) which play a major role in the production pathway of steviol glycosides. Our goal was to purify the enzymes and crystalize them in order to solve the 3D structure of the proteins.

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Soon Goo Lee

Acknowledgment: Kerstin Schmiederer

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Lindsey Aubuchon

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Email: lna5052@uncw.edu

lms-schmiedererk@uncw.edu