Tom Rapoport is a Professor of Cell Biology at Harvard Medical School. His lab focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms by which proteins are transported across the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane. The research investigates the protein-conducting channel, a complex formed by a conserved trimeric membrane protein, known as the Sec61p complex in eukaryotes and the SecY complex in prokaryotes. Rapoport's work has revealed key insights into how these channels function as passive pores and the essential partner proteins involved in driving translocation. His lab is particularly focused on the mechanisms behind co-translational translocation involving the ribosome and aims to obtain high-resolution structures of ribosome-nascent chain-channel complexes using advanced techniques like electron cryo-microscopy. Additionally, his interests include the process of endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD) and the mechanisms by which misfolded proteins are transported back to the cytosol for degradation. Rapoport's research encompasses several areas, including the structure and function of tubular ER and the mechanisms that govern the formation of ER tubules, particularly through the roles of specific proteins and GTPases. He aims to elucidate the intricate workings of these vital cellular processes.
Harvard Medical School • Boston, MA
Leading research and teaching in the field of Cell Biology.