Biochemistry & Analytical Biochemistry

Abstract

Microtubule and Adrenaline Interaction: A Key Source to Understand Conscious Balance in a Human Body

Pushpa Sahni*, Sonam

Microtubules are present in our whole body. Microtubules are regulated by microtubule-associated protein. Microtubules exhibit dynamic instability, an intrinsic behavior characterized by alternating phases of growth, shortening, and pausing. Among the many functions postulated for microtubules, it has frequently been suggested that they play an important role in hormone release. Microtubules are also reported to play an important role in learning, memory and consciousness. The question arises whether a hormone, adrenaline can awake an unconscious person. Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine is released mainly through the activation of nerves connected to the adrenal glands, which trigger the secretion of adrenaline and thus increase the levels of adrenaline in the blood. There is a relatively small epinephrine neurotransmitter system within the brain. It is also reported that Adrenaline acts on the brain to modulate brain activity and memory. Studies on oxidative stress showed that it has direct link with microtubule assembly and disassembly and it also affects cognitive behaviour. Adrenaline also controls oxidative stress. It becomes interesting and imperative to find out how adrenaline controls oxidative stress and microtubule organization. Oxidative stress decreases microtubule growth. Microtubules play an important role in hormone release. Keeping microtubule a key component, the present study focusses on the docking of adrenaline into Microtubule Associated Proteins (MAPs), alpha and beta tubulin and microtubules. Various computer simulation methods viz. PyMOL, ArgusLab, AutoDock, AutoDock Vina and Discovery Studio Visualizer have been used in the present study to understand the structure, conformation, stability, binding energy and potential energy of protein and its interaction with various ligands. Adrenaline docked successfully into Microtubule Associated Proteins (MAPs), alpha and beta tubulin and microtubules. The present study also led to an interesting observation that Microtubules stability increased when Adrenaline docked into Microtubules. From the present docking study it is hypothesized that Microtubules and Adrenaline together control brain activity and help to maintain the conscious state of the being at physical level.

Published Date: 2024-07-26; Received Date: 2024-06-21