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Small-angle X-ray solution scattering study on the dimerization of the FKBP25mem from Legionella pneumophila

B Schmidt1, S König, D Svergun

  • 1Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, Arbeitsgruppe Enzymologie der Peptidbindung, Halle/Saale, Germany.

FEBS Letters
|September 25, 1995
PubMed

Insights

The Legionella pneumophila FKBP25mem protein forms stable dimers, with each monomer featuring distinct proximal and peripheral domains. Structural analysis reveals potential N-terminal contact regions crucial for this dimeric complex.

Area of Science:

  • Structural Biology
  • Protein Biochemistry
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • FKBP25mem, a peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans-isomerase (PPIase) from Legionella pneumophila, also known as the macrophage infectivity potentiator (Mip) protein, is implicated in bacterial virulence.
  • Understanding the quaternary structure of FKBP25mem is essential for elucidating its biological function and interactions within the host environment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the oligomeric state and solution structure of the Legionella pneumophila FKBP25mem protein.
  • To determine the molecular mass, overall shape, and domain organization of FKBP25mem in solution.

Main Methods:

  • Small-angle X-ray solution scattering (SAXS) was employed to study the dimerization and structural characteristics of FKBP25mem.
  • Analysis of SAXS data yielded molecular mass, radius of gyration, and Porod volume, enabling shape modeling.

Main Results:

  • FKBP25mem exists as a stable dimer with a molecular mass of 44 kDa, independent of protein concentration (2-13 mg/ml).
  • The protein exhibits a radius of gyration of 3.3 nm and a Porod volume of 87 nm3.
  • A structural model revealed that each monomer comprises perpendicular proximal and peripheral domains, with the peripheral domain accommodating a structure similar to human FKBP12.

Conclusions:

  • FKBP25mem forms a stable dimeric complex, suggesting functional relevance for this quaternary structure.
  • The dimeric structure features distinct domains, with potential inter-monomer contact sites located at the N-terminal regions.
  • The structural insights provide a foundation for understanding FKBP25mem's role in Legionella pneumophila pathogenesis.

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