The gene encoding cytochrome-c oxidase subunit I from Synechocystis PCC6803

The gene (coxI or CoxA) encoding subunit I (COI) of cytochrome-c oxidase (cytochrome aa3) of Synechocystis PCC6803, Synechococcus PCC7942 (Anacystis nidulans R2) and Nostoc PCC8002 (Nostoc Mac), was identified by heterologous hybridization of chromosomal digests with a 17-bp oligodeoxyribonucleotide (probe C) derived from the coxI of Paracoccus denitrificans. A single genomic fragment was found to bind to probe C in all chromosomal digests. Due to its favorable signal-to-noise ratio, the genome of Synechocystis was chosen for the isolation and sequencing of this gene. A genomic DNA library in pUC18 was screened with probe C. The two probe C-positive plasmids, pDAUV1 and pDAUV2, contained a 1-kb overlapping region, with the conserved 17-bp sequence encoding the CuB-binding region of the COI polypeptide. These plasmids were subcloned into competent Escherichia coli DH5 alpha cells, and the nucleotide sequences were determined. The deduced amino acid (aa) sequences of Synechocystis COI and homologous proteins from a variety of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms showed an overall similarity of between 38.6 and 45.8%. Hydropathy plots revealed 12 potential transmembrane helices. All of the six histidines needed for the binding of heme a and the heme a3/CuB bimetallic center are present in the expected positions of the Synechocystis COI protein (533 aa, M(r) 59,390). A monospecific antibody raised against P. denitrificans COI gave an unequivocal immunological cross-reaction on Western blots of membrane preparations from Synechocystis, Anacystis and Nostoc, showing that the product of gene coxI is indeed synthesized and incorporated into cyanobacterial membranes.