Solution structures of Bacillus anthracis protective antigen proteins using small angle neutron scattering and protective antigen ion channel formation kinetics

Abstract

We are studying the structures of bacterial toxins that form ion channels and enable macromolecule transport across membranes. For example, the crystal structure of the Staphylococcus aureus alpha-hemolysin channel in its functional state was confirmed using neutron reflectometry (NR) with the protein reconstituted in membranes tethered to a solid support. This method, which provides sub-nanometer structural information, could also test putative structures of the Bacillus anthracis Protective Antigen 63 (PA63) channel, locate where B.