Spontaneous inter-conversion of insulin fibril chirality

Chem Commun (Camb). 2012 Mar 18;48(23):2837-9. doi: 10.1039/c2cc16895b. Epub 2012 Jan 12.

Abstract

Amyloid fibrils are associated with many neurodegenerative diseases and are considered to be the energetically most favorable form of proteins. Here we report that a small pH change initiates spontaneous transformation of insulin fibrils from one polymorph to another. As a result, fibril supramolecular chirality overturns both accompanying morphological and structural changes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Amyloid / chemistry*
  • Amyloid / metabolism
  • Circular Dichroism
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Insulin / chemistry
  • Insulin / metabolism
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force
  • Stereoisomerism

Substances

  • Amyloid
  • Insulin