Petite proteins shaping cell membranes: Structural insights into the tetraspanin membrane-protein family

Abstract

Membrane proteins play pivotal roles in diverse biological functions, including cell-cell communication and the formation and maintenance of specialized membrane structure. Despite advances in structural biology and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), challenges persist in studying small membrane proteins. This thesis focuses on tetraspanins, small membrane proteins crucial for organizing complex structures within cell membranes. From purification to structural analysis, the presented work provides fundamental insights into the molecular mechanisms of tetraspanins and for future research and applications in the field of membrane protein structural biology.