Diffracted X-ray tracking method for recording single-molecule protein motions

Publication date: Available online 9 May 2019Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - General SubjectsAuthor(s): Hirofumi ShimizuAbstractBackgroundProteins change their conformation depending on function. Although a vast number of static pictures of proteins have been accumulated, information regarding their dynamics in function is limited. Diffracted X-ray tracking (DXT) is a good candidate to obtain the missing data.Scope of reviewA gold nanocrystal was attached to the target protein as a probe and the motion of the X-ray diffraction spots from the crystal corresponded to the motion of the target. Although it has advantages of high temporal (sub-millisecond) and spatial (approximately 0.1°) resolutions, it is not extensively utilized. This review focused on its effective application from a user's perspective. We also present an example with the KcsA channel and the status of recent developments to show the future possibilities of the method.Major conclusionsDXT is a powerful method to investigate intramolecular structural changes. For instance, in the KcsA channel, the method revealed a wave of conformational changes transmitted from the gate region to the end of the molecule. The method is continuously being developed, and users can choose an appropriate measurement system depending on the condition of their sample.General significanceRevealing the protein structural changes with respect to function is an important frontier. The most distinctive feature of the DXT me...
Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) General Subjects - Category: Biochemistry Source Type: research