Abstract
The functional L-asparaginase from Escherichia coli is a homotetramer with a molecular weight of about 142 kDa. The X-ray structure of the enzyme, crystallized in a new form (space group C2) and refined to 1.95 A resolution, is compared with that of the previously determined crystal form (space group P2(1)). The asymmetric unit of the new crystal form contains an L-asparaginase dimer instead of the tetramer found in the previous crystal form. It is found that crystal contacts practically do not affect the conformation of the protein. It is shown that subunit C of the tetrameric form is in a conformation which is systematically different from that of all other subunits in both crystal forms. Major conformational differences are confined to the lid loop (residues 14-27). In addition, the stability of this globular protein is analyzed in terms of the interactions between hydrophobic parts of the subunits.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Acta Crystallographica Section D Biological Crystallography
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
