Virginia K Walker

Title: Virginia K Walker: Innovator in Thermal Hysteresis Proteins

Introduction

Virginia K Walker is a prominent inventor based in Sydenham, CA. She has made significant contributions to the field of thermal hysteresis proteins, with a total of 5 patents to her name. Her work focuses on the isolation and purification of novel antifreeze proteins that have the potential to revolutionize various applications.

Latest Patents

Virginia's latest patents include a groundbreaking class of thermal hysteresis proteins (THP) isolated from the mealworm beetle. These proteins exhibit up to 100 times the specific activity of traditional fish antifreeze proteins. Internal sequencing and cDNA cloning have confirmed the identity and activity of the THP, which range from 8.4 to 10.7 kDa. The proteins are characterized by their Thr- and Cys-rich composition, primarily consisting of 12-amino-acid repeats. At a concentration of 55 µg/mL, the THP can depress the freezing point by 1.6°C below the melting point. Furthermore, at approximately 1 mg/mL, these proteins can account for a thermal hysteresis of 5.5°C found in Tenebrio larvae. The THP operates through an adsorption-inhibition mechanism, resulting in the formation of oval-shaped ice crystals with curved prism faces.

Career Highlights

Virginia K Walker is affiliated with Queen's University at Kingston, where she continues her research and innovation in the field of thermal hysteresis proteins. Her work has garnered attention for its potential applications in various industries, including biotechnology and food preservation.

Collaborations

Virginia has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Peter L Davies and Laurie A Graham, contributing to the advancement of research in her field.

Conclusion

Virginia K Walker is a trailblazer in the study of thermal hysteresis proteins, with her innovative work paving the way for future advancements in antifreeze technology. Her contributions are significant and continue to impact various scientific fields.