Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 11, 2026

A Protocol for Computer-Based Protein Structure and Function Prediction
Published on: November 3, 2011
Structure-based working model of SecDF, a proton-driven bacterial protein translocation factor
1Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan.
SecDF, a bacterial membrane protein, acts as an independent motor for protein translocation, utilizing proton gradients to pull precursor proteins into the periplasm. Recent structural studies reveal its dynamic molecular mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Structural Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The SecYEG complex and SecA ATPase drive protein translocation across bacterial membranes.
- Newly synthesized proteins move from the cytoplasm to the periplasm through the SecYEG channel.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent structural studies of the bacterial membrane protein SecDF.
- To elucidate the dynamic molecular mechanisms of SecDF in protein translocation.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of crystal structures of SecDF at resolutions above 3Å (reported 2017, 2018).
- Review of functional and structural data from 2011.
Main Results:
- SecDF undergoes conformational transitions to extract precursor proteins from the SecYEG channel.
- SecDF functions as an independent motor, utilizing proton gradients and interacting with proteins in its periplasmic region.
- SecDF can complete translocation even when SecA is inactivated.
Conclusions:
- SecDF plays a crucial role in bacterial protein translocation, acting as an independent motor.
- Understanding SecDF's structure and dynamics is key to deciphering its translocation mechanism.
- Proton motive force is likely a key energy source for SecDF-mediated translocation.
More Related Videos
10:10Neutron Crystallography Data Collection and Processing for Modelling Hydrogen Atoms in Protein Structures
Published on: December 1, 2020
09:17Structure-Based Simulation and Sampling of Transcription Factor Protein Movements along DNA from Atomic-Scale Stepping to Coarse-Grained Diffusion
Published on: March 1, 2022
Related Concept Videos
Bacterial Translocation and Protein Secretion
Cotranslational Protein Translocation
Sec61 channel partners for cotranslational translocation
During cotranslational translocation, the Sec61 channel partners with the signal recognition particle (SRP), the signal recognition particle receptor (SR), and the ribosomes to transport the nascent polypeptide chain...
Translocation of Proteins into the Mitochondria
Sorting of outer membrane proteins:
Mitochondrial outer membrane proteins are of two types: the transmembrane, beta-barrel porins, and the membrane-anchored, alpha-helical proteins. Beta-barrel porin precursors are translocated by the TOM complex and inserted into the outer mitochondrial membrane by the SAM complex. In contrast,...
Protein and Protein Structure
A protein's shape is critical to its function. For example, an enzyme...
Protein Translocation Machinery on the ER Membrane
Sec61 protein conducting channel
In eukaryotes, the translocon complex comprises a core heterotrimeric translocator channel called the Sec61 complex. This channel includes three transmembrane proteins, Sec61α, Sec61β, and Sec61γ, and is the largest subunit of the...
Structural Protein Function
Collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals, is found throughout the body. In connective tissue, such as skin, ligaments, and tendons, it provides tensile strength and elasticity. In bones and teeth, it mineralizes to...