Predict protein interaction effects of mutations?

Question

[pmedi]

Is there a way to predict alterations on signaling/protein-protein interactions of a mutated protein? I have two genes with different point mutations, which I want to analyze. I have already western blot data, but it would be nice to have a complementary info of what to expect with each mutation. Thanks!!

[russhh]

does a 3d structure exist for each of the proteins?

[pmedi]

unfortunately, not for all...

Answer 1

[Larry_Parnell]

You can run 3D prediction software or even 2D for each version of each protein, making note of any changes in the predictions between the two alleles. If the structure changes, you can make the prediction that the interaction might also change, or be more likely to be affected.

You can also determine how well conserved the amino acid encoded by the major allele is across a series of closely and distantly related organisms. This can be especially informative if you note that other organisms also encode what you have as the mutant or minor allele at that amino acid. If those organisms also do not have a gene for the interacting protein, then the story gets real interesting. But look for evidence that both interacting proteins are present in a series of different organisms and make note of the amino acids found at the residues in question.

Lastly, you can try software that predicts protein-protein docking. I have no experience with this to be able to comment on its functionality with respect to your question.