Abstract
BackgroundSubunit number is amongst the most important structural parameters that determine size, symmetry and geometry of a circular protein oligomer. The L-tryptophan biosynthesis regulator, TRAP, present in several Bacilli, is a good model system for investigating determinants of the oligomeric state. A short segment of C-terminal residues defines whether TRAP forms an 11-mer or 12-mer assembly. To understand which oligomeric state is more stable, we examine the stability of several wild type and mutant TRAP proteins.Methodology/Principal FindingsAmong the wild type B. stearothermophilus, B. halodurans and B. subtilis TRAP, we find that the former is the most stable whilst the latter is the least. Thermal stability of all TRAP is shown to increase with L-tryptophan concentration. We also find that mutant TRAP molecules that are truncated at the C-terminus - and hence induced to form 12-mers, distinct from their 11-mer wild type counterparts - have increased melting temperatures. We show that the same effect can be achieved by a point mutation S72N at a subunit interface, which leads to exclusion of C-terminal residues from the interface. Our findings are supported by dye-based scanning fluorimetry, CD spectroscopy, and by crystal structure and mass spectrometry analysis of the B. subtilis S72N TRAP.Conclusions/SignificanceWe conclude that the oligomeric state of a circular protein can be changed by introducing a point mutation at a subunit interface. Exclusion (or deletion) of the C-terminus from the subunit interface has a major impact on properties of TRAP oligomers, making them more stable, and we argue that the cause of these changes is the altered oligomeric state. The more stable TRAP oligomers could be used in potential applications of TRAP in bionanotechnology.
Highlights
Cyclic protein oligomers pose promise as the basis for engineering molecular machines, including those that operate by rotation of one or more components about a principal axis
We explore how the presence of Ltryptophan and its’ binding affects thermal stability in the context of the three wild type and three mutant TRAP molecules
We explore the influence of the oligomeric state on thermal stability by comparing wild type 11-subunit and mutant 12-subunit molecules from the same species
Summary
Cyclic protein oligomers pose promise as the basis for engineering molecular machines, including those that operate by rotation of one or more components about a principal axis. Their suitability, owing to their unique geometry, is evident by their frequent occurrence in key bio-mechanical and regulatory roles. The central component of the bacteriophage DNA-translocating motor can exist in different oligomeric states [5]. This demonstrates a general problem associated with instability of circular oligomers and variation in their oligomeric states when they are extracted from their natural environment. To understand which oligomeric state is more stable, we examine the stability of several wild type and mutant TRAP proteins
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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 callDisclaimer: 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.
