Recognition of flanking DNA sequences by EcoRV endonuclease involves alternative patterns of water-mediated contacts.
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Horton NC, Perona JJ
Recognition of flanking DNA sequences by EcoRV endonuclease involves alternative patterns of water-mediated contacts.
J Biol Chem. 1998 Aug 21;273(34):21721-9.
- PubMed ID
- 9705308 [ View in PubMed]
- Abstract
The 2.1-A cocrystal structure of EcoRV endonuclease bound to 5'-CGGGATATCCC, in a crystal lattice isomorphous with the cocrystallized undecamer 5'-AAAGATATCTT previously determined, shows novel base recognition in the major groove of the DNA flanking the GATATC target site. Lys104 of the enzyme interacts through water molecules with the exocyclic N-4 amino groups of flanking cytosines. Steric exclusion of water molecule-binding sites by the 5-methyl group of thymine drives the adoption of alternative water-mediated contacts with AT versus GC flanks. This structure provides a rare example of structural adaptability in the recognition of different DNA sequences by a protein and suggests preferred strategies for the expansion of target site specificity by EcoRV.