It has been suggested that uncoupling proteins (UCPs) transport protons via interconversion between two conformational states: one in the "cytoplasmic state" and the other in the "matrix state". Matrix and cytoplasmic salt-bridge networks are key controllers of these states. This study proposes a mechanism for proton transport in tetrameric UCP2, with focus on the role of the matrix network. Eleven mutants were prepared to disrupt (K → Q or D → N mutations) or alter (K → D and D → K mutations) the salt-bridges in the matrix network. Proteins were recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli membrane, reconstituted in model lipid membranes, and their structures and functions were analyzed by gel electrophoresis, circular dichroism spectroscopy, fluorescence assays, as well as molecular dynamics simulations. It is shown that the UCP2 matrix network contains five salt-bridges (rather than the previously reported three), and the matrix network can regulate the proton transport by holding the protein's transmembrane helices in close proximity, limiting the movement of the activator fatty acid(s). A biphasic two-state molecular model is proposed for proton transport in tetrameric (a dimer of stable dimers) UCP2, in which all the monomers are functional, and monomers in each dimer are in the same transport mode. Purine nucleotide (e.g., ATP) can occlude the internal pore of the monomeric units of UCP tetramers via interacting with positive residues at or in the proximity of the matrix network (K38, K141, K239, R88, R185, and R279) and prevent switching between cytoplasmic and matrix states, thus inhibiting the proton transport. This study provides new insights into the mechanism of proton transport and regulation in UCPs.
to the drug-binding site. in this study, we test the hypothesis that therapeutic drugs bind to different subsets of residues within defined subpockets in the TMDs of the protein. Our general approach is to introduce tryptophans (Trps) at strategic positions in order to monitor drug binding. These Trps were introduced on the background of a new fully functional low-Trp Pgp that retains three native conformationally sensitive Trps in the cytoplasmic domains, or onto a Trp-less Pgp. Using purified protein reconstituted in a lipid bilayer nanodiscs, and fluorescence changes, such as quenching, and resonance energy transfer (FRET), we present first results of Pgp interactions with prototypical substrates, such as the cyclopeptides QZ-Val and QZ-Phe that occupy structurally defined and distinct binding sites, as well as nicardipine and zosuquidar. The impact on the substrate translocation mechanisms of Pgp will be discussed.
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