Domain structure and quaternary organization of the bacteriophage P22 Erf protein

The structure and activities of the recombination-promoting P22 Erf protein were examined in vitro. Treatment of the protein with elastase produces a stable amino-terminal fragment, consisting of amino acid residues 1 to (approximately) 136. We have purified this fragment, designated fragment B, to apparent homogeneity by gel filtration chromatography. Fragment B retains the oligomeric structure and single-stranded DNA binding specificity of intact Erf. It differs, however, in lacking the ability of intact Erf to bind single-stranded DNA into large aggregates following mild heat treatment of the protein. In addition, its binding to DNA may be weaker than that of intact Erf. Intact Erf sediments through a sucrose gradient as a discrete species with an apparent S20,w of approximately 11 X 7 S. Its sedimentation behavior is affected little, if at all, by concentration. Fragment B also sediments as a discrete species at approximately 10 X 4 S. In the electron microscope, intact Erf appears as rings, with 10 to 14 small projecting structures resembling the teeth of a gear. Fragment B is similar, except that it appears to lack the peripheral structures. From these observations, we conclude that Erf consists of at least two structurally and functionally distinct domains, and that it has a discrete ring-like oligomeric structure.