Long-term molecular dynamics simulation of copper azurin: structure, dynamics and functionality

A long-term molecular dynamics simulation (1.1 ns), at 300 K, of fully hydrated azurin has been performed to put into relationship the protein dynamics to functional properties with particular attention to those structural elements involved in the electron transfer process. A detailed analysis of the root mean square deviations and fluctuations and of the intraprotein H-bonding pattern has allowed us to demonstrate that a rigid arrangement of the beta-stranded protein skeleton is maintained during the simulation run, while a large mobility is registered in the solvent-exposed connecting regions (turns) and in the alpha-helix. Moreover, the structural elements, likely involved in the electron transfer path, show a stable H-bonding arrangement and low fluctuations. Analysis of the dynamical cross-correlation map has revealed the existence of correlated motions among residues connected by hydrogen bonds and of correlated and anti-correlated motions between regions which are supposed to be involved in the functional process, namely the hydrophobic patch and the regions close to the copper reaction center. The results are briefly discussed also in connection to the current through-bond tunneling model for the electron transfer process. Finally, a comparison with the structural and the dynamical behaviour of plastocyanin, whose structure and functional role are very similar to those of azurin, has been performed.