Mechanistic insights into metal ions transit through threefold ferritin channel

ConclusionsOverall, the study provides insights into Fe2+ entry mechanism and characteristic features of metal-protein interactions that influence the metal ions passage. The dynamics data suggest that E130 may act as a metal selectivity gate. This implicates an ion-specific entry mechanism through the channel with the distinct diffusion kinetics being the discriminating factor.General Significance: Ferritin nanocages not only act as biological iron reservoirs but also have gained importance in material science as template scaffolds for synthesizing metal nanoparticles. This study provides mechanistic understanding on the conduction of different metal ions through the channel.Graphical abstract
Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) General Subjects - Category: Biochemistry Source Type: research