Structure and conformational dynamics of the Pseudomonas CbrA transceptor

The CbrA protein is a central regulator of carbon metabolism, biofilm formation, and virulence in Pseudomonas species, but the molecular mechanisms by which CbrA links nutrient sensing to downstream signaling has remained unclear. CbrA is a rare "transceptor" that combines membrane transporter and histidine kinase domains into a single functional polypeptide. The structural basis for histidine recognition and membrane transport, as well as signaling through intracellular histidine kinase domains has remained elusive. Here we determined a cryo-EM structure of CbrA which provides key molecular details of the SLC5-STAC domains in this unusual system. Unexpectedly, the small peptide CbrX encoded upstream of CbrA formed a stable complex with the SLC5 transporter domain. The structure reveals how histidine binds within the transporter, and molecular dynamics simulations provide insight into proton gradient driven conformational changes that enable histidine transport. These findings define the molecular architecture of key CbrA functional domains, and pave a path toward developing a comprehensive understanding of coupling between membrane transport and downstream signaling pathways that guide essential physiological traits in Pseudomonas.

CbrA is a key regulator of carbon-nitrogen metabolism in Pseudomonas and is essential for successful host infection. The molecular basis for CbrA's dual role in membrane transport and downstream signaling has remained elusive. Here we determined a cryo-EM structure that defines the organization of the CbrA SLC5 and STAC domains, and reveals that the small peptide CbrX encoded upstream of CbrA forms a stable complex with the SLC5 transporter region. A structure with histidine trapped in the binding cavity, together with molecular dynamics simulations, identifies protonation dependent transitions that guide the transport cycle. This work establishes a mechanistic foundation for understanding how CbrA and related transceptors integrate substrate sensing and transport with regulatory control of signaling.