ClpX-mediated remodeling of mu transpososomes: selective unfolding of subunits destabilizes the entire complex

E. coli ClpX, a member of the Clp/Hsp100 family of ATPases, remodels multicomponent complexes and facilitates ATP-dependent degradation. Here, we analyze the mechanism by which ClpX destabilizes the exceedingly stable Mu transpososome, a natural substrate for remodeling rather than degradation. We find that ClpX has the capacity to globally unfold transposase monomers, the building blocks of the transpososome. A biochemical probe for protein unfolding reveals that ClpX also unfolds MuA subunits during remodeling reactions, but that not all subunits have their structure extensively modified. In fact, direct recognition and unfolding of a single transposase subunit are sufficient for ClpX to destabilize the entire transpososome. Thus, the ability of ClpX to unfold proteins is sufficient to explain its role in both complex destabilization and ATP-dependent proteolysis.