Structure of NPP1, an ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase involved in tissue calcification

Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase-1 (NPP1) converts extracellular nucleotides into inorganic pyrophosphate, whereas its close relative NPP2/autotaxin hydrolyzes lysophospholipids. NPP1 regulates calcification in mineralization-competent tissues, and a lack of NPP1 function underlies calcification disorders. Here, we show that NPP1 forms homodimers via intramembrane disulfide bonding, but is also processed intracellularly to a secreted monomer. The structure of secreted NPP1 reveals a characteristic bimetallic active site and a nucleotide-binding groove, but it lacks the lipid-binding pocket and open tunnel present in NPP2. A loop adjacent to the nucleotide-binding site, which is disordered in NPP2, is well ordered in NPP1 and might promote nucleotide binding. Remarkably, the N-terminal somatomedin B-like domains of NPP1, unlike those in NPP2, are flexible and do not contact the catalytic domain. Our results provide a structural basis for the nucleotide pyrophosphatase activity of NPP1 and help to understand how disease-causing mutations may affect NPP1 structure and function.