Corry Group - Transport proteins and computational biophysics

Our research examines the structure and function of a family of pore forming proteins known as ion channels. We use cutting edge computational methods to understand the mechanisms by which these and other membrane proteins can identify and transport molecules across the cell membrane, how the pores open and close to control this transport, and how they are influenced by the surrounding membrane. In addition we are interested in studying transport in other kinds of pores, be they in proteins, crystaline materials or synthetic membranes. Gaining a fundamental understanding of the operation of biological pores has allowed us to design synthetic porous membranes that can be used for the desalination of sea water or to remove dangerous contaminants from water supplies.

Proteins and macromolecules can be difficult to study due to their size, functioning at the interface of microscopic molecular behaviour and macroscopic mechanical behaviour. To investigate them we use a combination of computational techniques including quantum calculations, atomistic and coarse grained molecular dynamics, and macroscopic modelling. As experts in molecular simulation we apply our skills to help many other groups better understand the structure and function of their proteins of interest. In addition we utilise FRET microscopy (Förster Resonance Energy Transfer) to experimentally study the conformational changes of proteins as they function, and design computational codes to better design and interpret FRET experiments.

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Publications

Scientists closer to outsmarting malaria parasites

Story | Friday 6 May 2022
Researchers have discovered why malaria parasites are vulnerable to some drug therapies but resistant to others, offering scientists another piece of the puzzle in the global fight against the disease.

New research looks to reduce side effects in commonly used drugs

Story | Tuesday 27 February 2018
New research from The Australian National University (ANU) has drilled down to the molecular level to find similarities across six pharmaceutical drugs used in pain relief, dentist anaesthetic, and treatment of epilepsy, in a bid to find a way to reduce unwanted side-effects.
Meet the Thought Leaders: Dr Ben Corry

Meet the Thought Leaders: Dr Ben Corry

Story | Wednesday 26 November 2014
Dr Ben Corry, Thought Leader and Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Science & Biochemistry discusses why working with some of the leading researchers in the world provides an ideal opportunity to build your science career.

Ben Corry

Story | Monday 1 September 2014
Following his passion for science, Ben Corry graduated with a PhD in Physics from ANU and is now a senior lecturer in the Research School of Biology, focusing his reach on biophysics.
New insights into pain relief

New insights into pain relief drugs

Story | Friday 4 July 2014
The precise knowledge of how the drug molecules attach to proteins in the nerve cell give a springboard for redesigning drugs without the side-effects that current drugs bring with them.
CryoEM process graphic

MicroED for Biological Samples: Requirements, Sample Preparation and Data Processing

Event | Thu 8 October 2020
Seminar by Mathieu Coincon, Senior Researcher – MicroED specialist Swedish CryoEM Facility, Stockholm
Dr Diana Stojanovski, University of Melbourne

Mitochondrial Protein Import in Health and Disease

Event | Thu 17 October 2019
Mitochondrial function and cell viability require a functional and healthy mitochondrial proteome.

Piezo channels: tension, tethers and transduction

Event | Thu 26 July 2018

Mechanosensitive channels are fundamental molecular components of mechanosensory systems in all organisms.

Simulation of Thermally and Light-Induced DNA Damage

Event | Thu 15 March 2018

DNA is the target biomolecule of many anticancer drugs because DNA replication is one of the most vulnerable cellular process.

What does a local anaesthetic and a medication for epilepsy have in common?

Event | Thu 15 March 2018

Voltage-gated sodium channels are integral in electrical signaling within the human body and are key targets for anesthetics and antiepileptic comp