Crystal structure of the archaeal A1Ao ATP synthase subunit B from Methanosarcina mazei Gö1: Implications of nucleotide-binding differences in the major A1Ao subunits A and B

ATP synthase evolution on a cross-braced dated tree of life

The timing of early cellular evolution, from the divergence of Archaea and Bacteria to the origin of eukaryotes, is poorly constrained. The ATP synthase complex is thought to have originated prior to the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA) and analyses of ATP synthase genes, together with ribosomes, have played a key role in inferring and rooting the tree of life. We reconstruct the evolutionary history of ATP synthases using an expanded taxon sampling set and develop a phylogenetic cross-bracing approach, constraining equivalent speciation nodes to be contemporaneous, based on the phylogenetic imprint of endosymbioses and ancient gene duplications. This approach results in a highly resolved, dated species tree and establishes an absolute timeline for ATP synthase evolution. Our analyses show that the divergence of ATP synthase into F- and A/V-type lineages was a very early event in cellular evolution dating back to more than 4 Ga, potentially predating the diversification of Archaea and Bacteria. Our cross-braced, dated tree of life also provides insight into more recent evolutionary transitions including eukaryogenesis, showing that the eukaryotic nuclear and mitochondrial lineages diverged from their closest archaeal (2.67-2.19 Ga) and bacterial (2.58-2.12 Ga) relatives at approximately the same time, with a slightly longer nuclear stem-lineage.

Proton Pumping ATPases: Rotational Catalysis, Physiological Roles in Oral Pathogenic Bacteria, and Inhibitors

Proton pumping ATPases, both F-type and V/A-type ATPases, generate ATP using electrochemical energy or pump protons/sodium ions by hydrolyzing ATP. The enzymatic reaction and proton transport are coupled through subunit rotation, and this unique rotational mechanism (rotational catalysis) has been intensively studied. Single-molecule and thermodynamic analyses have revealed the detailed rotational mechanism, including the catalytically inhibited state and the roles of subunit interactions. In mammals, F- and V-ATPases are involved in ATP synthesis and organelle acidification, respectively. Most bacteria, including anaerobes, have F- and/or A-ATPases in the inner membrane. However, these ATPases are not believed to be essential in anaerobic bacteria since anaerobes generate sufficient ATP without oxidative phosphorylation. Recent studies suggest that F- and A-ATPases perform indispensable functions beyond ATP synthesis in oral pathogenic anaerobes; F-ATPase is involved in acid tolerance in Streptococcus mutans, and A-ATPase mediates nutrient import in Porphyromonas gingivalis. Consistently, inhibitors of oral bacterial F- and A-ATPases, such as phytopolyphenols and bedaquiline, strongly diminish growth and survival. Herein, we discuss rotational catalysis of bacterial F- and A-ATPases, and discuss their physiological roles, focusing on oral bacteria. We also review the effects of ATPase inhibitors on the growth and survival of oral pathogenic bacteria. The features of the catalytic mechanism and unique physiological roles in oral bacteria highlight the potential for proton pumping ATPases to serve as targets for oral antimicrobial agents.

Rotary Ion-Translocating ATPases/ATP Synthases: Diversity, Similarities, and Differences

Ion-translocating ATPases and ATP synthases (F-, V-, A-type ATPases, and several P-type ATPases and ABC-transporters) catalyze ATP hydrolysis or ATP synthesis coupled with the ion transport across the membrane. F-, V-, and A-ATPases are protein nanomachines that combine transmembrane transport of protons or sodium ions with ATP synthesis/hydrolysis by means of a rotary mechanism. These enzymes are composed of two multisubunit subcomplexes that rotate relative to each other during catalysis. Rotary ATPases phosphorylate/dephosphorylate nucleotides directly, without the generation of phosphorylated protein intermediates. F-type ATPases are found in chloroplasts, mitochondria, most eubacteria, and in few archaea. V-type ATPases are eukaryotic enzymes present in a variety of cellular membranes, including the plasma membrane, vacuoles, late endosomes, and trans-Golgi cisternae. A-type ATPases are found in archaea and some eubacteria. F- and A-ATPases have two main functions: ATP synthesis powered by the proton motive force (pmf) or, in some prokaryotes, sodium-motive force (smf) and generation of the pmf or smf at the expense of ATP hydrolysis. In prokaryotes, both functions may be vitally important, depending on the environment and the presence of other enzymes capable of pmf or smf generation. In eukaryotes, the primary and the most crucial function of F-ATPases is ATP synthesis. Eukaryotic V-ATPases function exclusively as ATP-dependent proton pumps that generate pmf necessary for the transmembrane transport of ions and metabolites and are vitally important for pH regulation. This review describes the diversity of rotary ion-translocating ATPases from different organisms and compares the structural, functional, and regulatory features of these enzymes.

Crystallographic and enzymatic insights into the mechanisms of Mg-ADP inhibition in the A1 complex of the A1AO ATP synthase

F-ATP synthases are described to have mechanisms which regulate the unnecessary depletion of ATP pool during an energy limited state of the cell. Mg-ADP inhibition is one of the regulatory features where Mg-ADP gets entrapped in the catalytic site, preventing the binding of ATP and further inhibiting ATP hydrolysis. Knowledge about the existence and regulation of the related archaeal-type A₁A_O ATP synthases (A₃B₃CDE₂FG₂ac) is limited. We demonstrate MgADP inhibition of the enzymatically active A₃B₃D- and A₃B₃DF complexes of Methanosarcina mazei Gö1 A-ATP synthase and reveal the importance of the amino acids P235 and S238 inside the P-loop (GPFGSGKTV) of the catalytic A subunit. Substituting these two residues by the respective P-loop residues alanine and cysteine (GAFGCGKTV) of the related eukaryotic V-ATPase increases significantly the ATPase activity of the enzyme variant and abolishes MgADP inhibition. The atomic structure of the P235A, S238C double mutant of subunit A of the Pyrococcus horikoshii OT3 A-ATP synthase provides details of how these critical residues affect nucleotide-binding and ATP hydrolysis in this molecular engine. The qualitative data are confirmed by quantitative results derived from fluorescence correlation spectroscopy experiments.

The stimulating role of subunit F in ATPase activity inside the A1-complex of the Methanosarcina mazei Gö1 A1AO ATP synthase

A1AO ATP synthases couple ion-transport of the AO sector and ATP synthesis/hydrolysis of the A3B3-headpiece via their stalk subunits D and F. Here, we produced and purified stable A3B3D- and A3B3DF-complexes of the Methanosarcina mazei Gö1 A-ATP synthase as confirmed by electron microscopy. Enzymatic studies with these complexes showed that the M. mazei Gö1 A-ATP synthase subunit F is an ATPase activating subunit. The maximum ATP hydrolysis rates (Vmax) of A3B3D and A3B3DF were determined by substrate-dependent ATP hydrolysis experiments resulting in a Vmax of 7.9 s(-1) and 30.4 s(-1), respectively, while the KM is the same for both. Deletions of the N- or C-termini of subunit F abolished the effect of ATP hydrolysis activation. We generated subunit F mutant proteins with single amino acid substitutions and demonstrated that the subunit F residues S84 and R88 are important in stimulating ATP hydrolysis. Hybrid formation of the A3B3D-complex with subunit F of the related eukaryotic V-ATPase of Saccharomyces cerevisiae or subunit ε of the F-ATP synthase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis showed that subunit F of the archaea and eukaryotic enzymes are important in ATP hydrolysis.

The a subunit of the A1AO ATP synthase of Methanosarcina mazei Gö1 contains two conserved arginine residues that are crucial for ATP synthesis

Like the evolutionary related F1FO ATP synthases and V1VO ATPases, the A1AO ATP synthases from archaea are multisubunit, membrane-bound transport machines that couple ion flow to the synthesis of ATP. Although the subunit composition is known for at least two species, nothing is known so far with respect to the function of individual subunits or amino acid residues. To pave the road for a functional analysis of A1AO ATP synthases, we have cloned the entire operon from Methanosarcina mazei into an expression vector and produced the enzyme in Escherichia coli. Inverted membrane vesicles of the recombinants catalyzed ATP synthesis driven by NADH oxidation as well as artificial driving forces. [Formula: see text] as well as ΔpH were used as driving forces which is consistent with the inhibition of NADH-driven ATP synthesis by protonophores. Exchange of the conserved glutamate in subunit c led to a complete loss of ATP synthesis, proving that this residue is essential for H+ translocation. Exchange of two conserved arginine residues in subunit a has different effects on ATP synthesis. The role of these residues in ion translocation is discussed.

Mutations in early follicular lymphoma progenitors are associated with suppressed antigen presentation

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is incurable with conventional therapies and has a clinical course typified by multiple relapses after therapy. These tumors are genetically characterized by B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (BCL2) translocation and mutation of genes involved in chromatin modification. By analyzing purified tumor cells, we identified additional novel recurrently mutated genes and confirmed mutations of one or more chromatin modifier genes within 96% of FL tumors and two or more in 76% of tumors. We defined the hierarchy of somatic mutations arising during tumor evolution by analyzing the phylogenetic relationship of somatic mutations across the coding genomes of 59 sequentially acquired biopsies from 22 patients. Among all somatically mutated genes, CREBBP mutations were most significantly enriched within the earliest inferable progenitor. These mutations were associated with a signature of decreased antigen presentation characterized by reduced transcript and protein abundance of MHC class II on tumor B cells, in line with the role of CREBBP in promoting class II transactivator (CIITA)-dependent transcriptional activation of these genes. CREBBP mutant B cells stimulated less proliferation of T cells in vitro compared with wild-type B cells from the same tumor. Transcriptional signatures of tumor-infiltrating T cells were indicative of reduced proliferation, and this corresponded to decreased frequencies of tumor-infiltrating CD4 helper T cells and CD8 memory cytotoxic T cells. These observations therefore implicate CREBBP mutation as an early event in FL evolution that contributes to immune evasion via decreased antigen presentation.

ATP synthases from archaea: the beauty of a molecular motor

Archaea live under different environmental conditions, such as high salinity, extreme pHs and cold or hot temperatures. How energy is conserved under such harsh environmental conditions is a major question in cellular bioenergetics of archaea. The key enzymes in energy conservation are the archaeal A1AO ATP synthases, a class of ATP synthases distinct from the F1FO ATP synthase ATP synthase found in bacteria, mitochondria and chloroplasts and the V1VO ATPases of eukaryotes. A1AO ATP synthases have distinct structural features such as a collar-like structure, an extended central stalk, and two peripheral stalks possibly stabilizing the A1AO ATP synthase during rotation in ATP synthesis/hydrolysis at high temperatures as well as to provide the storage of transient elastic energy during ion-pumping and ATP synthesis/-hydrolysis. High resolution structures of individual subunits and subcomplexes have been obtained in recent years that shed new light on the function and mechanism of this unique class of ATP synthases. An outstanding feature of archaeal A1AO ATP synthases is their diversity in size of rotor subunits and the coupling ion used for ATP synthesis with H(+), Na(+) or even H(+) and Na(+) using enzymes. The evolution of the H(+) binding site to a Na(+) binding site and its implications for the energy metabolism and physiology of the cell are discussed.

Eukaryotic V-ATPase: novel structural findings and functional insights

The eukaryotic V-type adenosine triphosphatase (V-ATPase) is a multi-subunit membrane protein complex that is evolutionarily related to F-type adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthases and A-ATP synthases. These ATPases/ATP synthases are functionally conserved and operate as rotary proton-pumping nano-motors, invented by Nature billions of years ago. In the first part of this review we will focus on recent structural findings of eukaryotic V-ATPases and discuss the role of different subunits in the function of the V-ATPase holocomplex. Despite structural and functional similarities between rotary ATPases, the eukaryotic V-ATPases are the most complex enzymes that have acquired some unconventional cellular functions during evolution. In particular, the novel roles of V-ATPases in the regulation of cellular receptors and their trafficking via endocytotic and exocytotic pathways were recently uncovered. In the second part of this review we will discuss these unique roles of V-ATPases in modulation of function of cellular receptors, involved in the development and progression of diseases such as cancer and diabetes as well as neurodegenerative and kidney disorders. Moreover, it was recently revealed that the V-ATPase itself functions as an evolutionarily conserved pH sensor and receptor for cytohesin-2/Arf-family GTP-binding proteins. Thus, in the third part of the review we will evaluate the structural basis for and functional insights into this novel concept, followed by the analysis of the potentially essential role of V-ATPase in the regulation of this signaling pathway in health and disease. Finally, future prospects for structural and functional studies of the eukaryotic V-ATPase will be discussed.

Crystal and NMR structures give insights into the role and dynamics of subunit F of the eukaryotic V-ATPase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Subunit F of V-ATPases is proposed to undergo structural alterations during catalysis and reversible dissociation from the V1VO complex. Recently, we determined the low resolution structure of F from Saccharomyces cerevisiae V-ATPase, showing an N-terminal egg shape, connected to a C-terminal hook-like segment via a linker region. To understand the mechanistic role of subunit F of S. cerevisiae V-ATPase, composed of 118 amino acids, the crystal structure of the major part of F, F(1-94), was solved at 2.3 Å resolution. The structural features were confirmed by solution NMR spectroscopy using the entire F subunit. The eukaryotic F subunit consists of the N-terminal F(1-94) domain with four-parallel β-strands, which are intermittently surrounded by four α-helices, and the C terminus, including the α5-helix encompassing residues 103 to 113. Two loops (26)GQITPETQEK(35) and (60)ERDDI(64) are described to be essential in mechanistic processes of the V-ATPase enzyme. The (26)GQITPETQEK(35) loop becomes exposed when fitted into the recently determined EM structure of the yeast V1VO-ATPase. A mechanism is proposed in which the (26)GQITPETQEK(35) loop of subunit F and the flexible C-terminal domain of subunit H move in proximity, leading to an inhibitory effect of ATPase activity in V1. Subunits D and F are demonstrated to interact with subunit d. Together with NMR dynamics, the role of subunit F has been discussed in the light of its interactions in the processes of reversible disassembly and ATP hydrolysis of V-ATPases by transmitting movements of subunit d and H of the VO and V1 sector, respectively.

Relevance of the conserved histidine and asparagine residues in the phosphate-binding loop of the nucleotide binding subunit B of A₁A₀ ATP synthases

The nucleotide binding sites in A-ATP synthases are located at the interfaces of subunit A and B, which is proposed to play a regulatory role. Differential binding of MgATP and -ADP to subunit B has been described, which does not exist in the related α and B subunits of F-ATP synthases and V-ATPases, respectively. The conserved phosphate loop residues, histidine and asparagine, of the A-ATP synthase subunit B have been proposed to be essential for γ-phosphate interaction. To investigate the role of these conserved P-loop residues in nucleotide-binding, subunit B residues H156 and N157 of the Methanosarcina mazei Gö1 A-ATP synthase were separately substituted with alanine. In addition, N157 was mutated to threonine, because it is the corresponding amino acid in the P-loop of F-ATP synthase subunit α. The structures of the subunit B mutants H156A, N157A/T were solved up to a resolution of 1.75 and 1.7 Å. The binding constants for MgATP and -ADP were determined, demonstrating that the H156A and N157A mutants have a preference to the nucleotide over the wild type and N157T proteins. Importantly, the ability to distinguish MgATP or -ADP was lost, demonstrating that the histidine and asparagine residues are crucial for nucleotide differentiation in subunit B. The structures reveal that the enhanced binding of the alanine mutants is attributed to the increased accessibility of the nucleotide binding cavity, explaining that the structural arrangement of the conserved H156 and N157 define the nucleotide-binding characteristics of the regulatory subunit B of A-ATP synthases.

Subunit F modulates ATP binding and migration in the nucleotide-binding subunit B of the A(1)A(O) ATP synthase of Methanosarcina mazei Gö1

The interaction of the nucleotide-binding subunit B with subunit F is essential in coupling of ion pumping and ATP synthesis in A(1)A(O) ATP synthases. Here we provide structural and thermodynamic insights on the nucleotide binding to the surface of subunits B and F of Methanosarcina mazei Gö1 A(1)A(O) ATP synthase, which initiated migration to its final binding pocket via two transitional intermediates on the surface of subunit B. NMR- and fluorescence spectroscopy as well as ITC data combined with molecular dynamics simulations of the nucleotide bound subunit B and nucleotide bound B-F complex in explicit solvent, suggests that subunit F is critical for the migration to and eventual occupancy of the final binding site by the nucleotide of subunit B. Rotation of the C-terminus and conformational changes in subunit B are initiated upon binding with subunit F causing a perturbation that leads to the migration of ATP from the transition site 1 through an intermediate transition site 2 to the final binding site 3. This mechanism is elucidated on the basis of change in binding affinity for the nucleotide at the specific sites on subunit B upon complexation with subunit F. The change in enthalpy is further explained based on the fluctuating local environment around the binding sites.

Engineered tryptophan in the adenine-binding pocket of catalytic subunit A of A-ATP synthase demonstrates the importance of aromatic residues in adenine binding, forming a tool for steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy

A reporter tryptophan residue was individually introduced by site-directed mutagenesis into the adenine-binding pocket of the catalytic subunit A (F427W and F508W mutants) of the motor protein A(1)A(O) ATP synthase from Pyrococcus horikoshii OT3. The crystal structures of the F427W and F508W mutant proteins were determined to 2.5 and 2.6 Å resolution, respectively. The tryptophan substitution caused the fluorescence signal to increase by 28% (F427W) and 33% (F508W), with a shift from 333 nm in the wild-type protein to 339 nm in the mutant proteins. Tryptophan emission spectra showed binding of Mg-ATP to the F427W mutant with a K(d) of 8.5 µM. In contrast, no significant binding of nucleotide could be observed for the F508W mutant. A closer inspection of the crystal structure of the F427W mutant showed that the adenine-binding pocket had widened by 0.7 Å (to 8.70 Å) in comparison to the wild-type subunit A (8.07 Å) owing to tryptophan substitution, as a result of which it was able to bind ATP. In contrast, the adenine-binding pocket had narrowed in the F508W mutant. The two mutants presented demonstrate that the exact volume of the adenine ribose binding pocket is essential for nucleotide binding and even minor narrowing makes it unfit for nucleotide binding. In addition, structural and fluorescence data confirmed the viability of the fluorescently active mutant F427W, which had ideal tryptophan spectra for future structure-based time-resolved dynamic measurements of the catalytic subunit A of the ATP-synthesizing enzyme A-ATP synthase.

Conserved glycine residues in the P-loop of ATP synthases form a doorframe for nucleotide entrance

The phosphate binding loop (GXXXXGKT(S)) is conserved in several mononucleotide-binding proteins with similar three-dimensional structures. Although variations in other amino acids have been noted, the first glycine and glycine-lysine residues are highly conserved in all enzymes, whose role is yet to be understood. Alanine substitutions for critically positioned glycines-G234, G237, and G239-were generated for the catalytic A-subunit of A-ATP synthase from Pyrococcus horikoshii OT3, and their crystal structures were determined. They showed altered conformation for the phosphate binding loop, with G234A and G237A becoming flat and with G239A taking an intermediate conformation, resulting in the active-site region being closed to nucleotide entry. Furthermore, the essential amino acids S238 and K240, which normally interact with the nucleotide, become inaccessible. These mutant structures demonstrate the role of the strictly conserved glycine residues in guarding the active-site region for nucleotide entrance in archaea-type ATP synthases.

Binding of subunit E into the A-B interface of the A(1)A(O) ATP synthase

Two of the distinct diversities of the engines A(1)A(O) ATP synthase and F(1)F(O) ATP synthase are the existence of two peripheral stalks and the 24kDa stalk subunit E inside the A(1)A(O) ATP synthase. Crystallographic structures of subunit E have been determined recently, but the epitope(s) and the strength to which this subunit does bind in the enzyme complex are still a puzzle. Using the recombinant A(3)B(3)D complex and the major subunits A and B of the methanogenic A(1)A(O) ATP synthase in combination with fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) we demonstrate, that the stalk subunit E does bind to the catalytic headpiece formed by the A(3)B(3) hexamer with an affinity (K(d)) of 6.1±0.2μM. FCS experiments with single A and B, respectively, demonstrated unequivocally that subunit E binds stronger to subunit B (K(d)=18.9±3.7μM) than to the catalytic A subunit (K(d)=53.1±4.4). Based on the crystallographic structures of the three subunits A, B and E available, the arrangement of the peripheral stalk subunit E in the A-B interface has been modeled, shining light into the A-B-E assembly of this enzyme.

Structural divergence of the rotary ATPases

The rotary ATPase family of membrane protein complexes may have only three members, but each one plays a fundamental role in biological energy conversion. The F1Fo-ATPase (F-ATPase) couples ATP synthesis to the electrochemical membrane potential in bacteria, mitochondria and chloroplasts, while the vacuolar H+-ATPase (V-ATPase) operates as an ATP-driven proton pump in eukaryotic membranes. In different species of archaea and bacteria, the A1Ao-ATPase (A-ATPase) can function as either an ATP synthase or an ion pump. All three of these multi-subunit complexes are rotary molecular motors, sharing a fundamentally similar mechanism in which rotational movement drives the energy conversion process. By analogy to macroscopic systems, individual subunits can be assigned to rotor, axle or stator functions. Recently, three-dimensional reconstructions from electron microscopy and single particle image processing have led to a significant step forward in understanding of the overall architecture of all three forms of these complexes and have allowed the organisation of subunits within the rotor and stator parts of the motors to be more clearly mapped out. This review describes the emerging consensus regarding the organisation of the rotor and stator components of V-, A- and F-ATPases, examining core similarities that point to a common evolutionary origin, and highlighting key differences. In particular, it discusses how newly revealed variation in the complexity of the inter-domain connections may impact on the mechanics and regulation of these molecular machines.

The critical roles of residues P235 and F236 of subunit A of the motor protein A-ATP synthase in P-loop formation and nucleotide binding

The mutants P235A and F236A have been generated and their crystal structure was determined to resolutions of 2.38 and 2.35 A, respectively, in order to understand the residues involved in the formation of the novel arched P-loop of subunit A of the A-ATP synthase from Pyrococcus horikoshii OT3. Both the structures show unique, altered conformations for the P-loop. Comparison with the previously solved wild type and P-loop mutant S238A structures of subunit A showed that the P-loop conformation for these two novel mutants occupy intermediate positions, with the wild type fully arched and the well-relaxed S238A mutant structures taking the extreme positions. Even though the deviation is similar for both mutants, the curvature of the P-loop faces the opposite direction. Deviations in the GER-loop, lying above the P-loop, are similar for both mutants, but in F236A, it moves towards the P-loop by around 2 A. The curvature of the loop region V392-V410, located directly behind the P-loop, moves close by 3.6 A towards the P-loop in the F236A structure and away by 2.5 A in the P235A structure. Two major deviations were observed in the P235A mutant, which are not identified in any of the subunit A structures analyzed so far, one being a wide movement of the N-terminal loop region (R90-P110) making a rotation of 80 degrees and the other being rigid-body rotation of the C-terminal helices from Q520-A588 by around 4 degrees upwards. Taken together, the data presented demonstrate the concerted effects of the critical residues P235A, F236, and S238 in the unique P-loop conformation of the A-ATP synthases.

The structure of the peripheral stalk of Thermus thermophilus H+-ATPase/synthase

Proton-translocating ATPases are ubiquitous protein complexes that couple ATP catalysis with proton translocation via a rotary catalytic mechanism. The peripheral stalks are essential components that counteract torque generated from proton translocation during ATP synthesis or from ATP hydrolysis during proton pumping. Despite their essential role, the peripheral stalks are the least conserved component of the complexes, differing substantially between subtypes in composition and stoichiometry. We have determined the crystal structure of the peripheral stalk of the A-type ATPase/synthase from Thermus thermophilus consisting of subunits E and G. The structure contains a heterodimeric right-handed coiled coil, a protein fold never observed before. We have fitted this structure into the 23 A resolution EM density of the intact A-ATPase complex, revealing the precise location of the peripheral stalk and new implications for the function and assembly of proton-translocating ATPases.

Structural determination of functional units of the nucleotide binding domain (NBD94) of the reticulocyte binding protein Py235 of Plasmodium yoelii

BACKGROUND

Invasion of the red blood cells (RBC) by the merozoite of malaria parasites involves a large number of receptor ligand interactions. The reticulocyte binding protein homologue family (RH) plays an important role in erythrocyte recognition as well as virulence. Recently, it has been shown that members of RH in addition to receptor binding may also have a role as ATP/ADP sensor. A 94 kDa region named Nucleotide-Binding Domain 94 (NBD94) of Plasmodium yoelii YM, representative of the putative nucleotide binding region of RH, has been demonstrated to bind ATP and ADP selectively. Binding of ATP or ADP induced nucleotide-dependent structural changes in the C-terminal hinge-region of NBD94, and directly impacted on the RBC binding ability of RH.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

In order to find the smallest structural unit, able to bind nucleotides, and its coupling module, the hinge region, three truncated domains of NBD94 have been generated, termed NBD94(444-547), NBD94(566-663) and NBD94(674-793), respectively. Using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy NBD94(444-547) has been identified to form the smallest nucleotide binding segment, sensitive for ATP and ADP, which became inhibited by 4-Chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan. The shape of NBD94(444-547) in solution was calculated from small-angle X-ray scattering data, revealing an elongated molecule, comprised of two globular domains, connected by a spiral segment of about 73.1 A in length. The high quality of the constructs, forming the hinge-region, NBD94(566-663) and NBD94(674-793) enabled to determine the first crystallographic and solution structure, respectively. The crystal structure of NBD94(566-663) consists of two helices with 97.8 A and 48.6 A in length, linked by a loop. By comparison, the low resolution structure of NBD94(674-793) in solution represents a chair-like shape with three architectural segments.

CONCLUSIONS

These structures give the first insight into how nucleotide binding impacts on the overall structure of RH and demonstrates the potential use of this region as a novel drug target.

The effect of NBD-Cl in nucleotide-binding of the major subunit alpha and B of the motor proteins F1FO ATP synthase and A1AO ATP synthase

Subunit alpha of the Escherichia coli F(1)F(O) ATP synthase has been produced, and its low-resolution structure has been determined. The monodispersity of alpha allowed the studies of nucleotide-binding and inhibitory effect of 4-Chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan (NBD-Cl) to ATP/ADP-binding. Binding constants (K ( d )) of 1.6 microM of bound MgATP-ATTO-647N and 2.9 microM of MgADP-ATTO-647N have been determined from fluorescence correlation spectroscopy data. A concentration of 51 microM and 55 microM of NBD-Cl dropped the MgATP-ATTO-647N and MgADP-ATTO-647N binding capacity to 50% (IC(50)), respectively. In contrast, no effect was observed in the presence of N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide. As subunit alpha is the homologue of subunit B of the A(1)A(O) ATP synthase, the interaction of NBD-Cl with B of the A-ATP synthase from Methanosarcina mazei Gö1 has also been shown. The data reveal a reduction of nucleotide-binding of B due to NBD-Cl, resulting in IC(50) values of 41 microM and 42 microM for MgATP-ATTO-647N and MgADP-ATTO-647N, respectively.

Crystal structure of A3B3 complex of V-ATPase from Thermus thermophilus

Vacuolar-type ATPases (V-ATPases) exist in various cellular membranes of many organisms to regulate physiological processes by controlling the acidic environment. Here, we have determined the crystal structure of the A(3)B(3) subcomplex of V-ATPase at 2.8 A resolution. The overall construction of the A(3)B(3) subcomplex is significantly different from that of the alpha(3)beta(3) sub-domain in F(o)F(1)-ATP synthase, because of the presence of a protruding 'bulge' domain feature in the catalytic A subunits. The A(3)B(3) subcomplex structure provides the first molecular insight at the catalytic and non-catalytic interfaces, which was not possible in the structures of the separate subunits alone. Specifically, in the non-catalytic interface, the B subunit seems to be incapable of binding ATP, which is a marked difference from the situation indicated by the structure of the F(o)F(1)-ATP synthase. In the catalytic interface, our mutational analysis, on the basis of the A(3)B(3) structure, has highlighted the presence of a cluster composed of key hydrophobic residues, which are essential for ATP hydrolysis by V-ATPases.

Nucleotide binding states of subunit A of the A-ATP synthase and the implication of P-loop switch in evolution

The crystal structures of the nucleotide-empty (A(E)), 5'-adenylyl-beta,gamma-imidodiphosphate (A(PNP))-bound, and ADP (A(DP))-bound forms of the catalytic A subunit of the energy producer A(1)A(O) ATP synthase from Pyrococcus horikoshii OT3 have been solved at 2.47 A and 2.4 A resolutions. The structures provide novel features of nucleotide binding and depict the residues involved in the catalysis of the A subunit. In the A(E) form, the phosphate analog SO(4)(2-) binds, via a water molecule, to the phosphate binding loop (P-loop) residue Ser238, which is also involved in the phosphate binding of ADP and 5'-adenylyl-beta,gamma-imidodiphosphate. Together with amino acids Gly234 and Phe236, the serine residue stabilizes the arched P-loop conformation of subunit A, as shown by the 2.4-A structure of the mutant protein S238A in which the P-loop flips into a relaxed state, comparable to the one in catalytic beta subunits of F(1)F(O) ATP synthases. Superposition of the existing P-loop structures of ATPases emphasizes the unique P-loop in subunit A, which is also discussed in the light of an evolutionary P-loop switch in related A(1)A(O) ATP synthases, F(1)F(O) ATP synthases, and vacuolar ATPases and implicates diverse catalytic mechanisms inside these biological motors.

Inter-subunit interaction and quaternary rearrangement defined by the central stalk of prokaryotic V1-ATPase

V-type ATPases (V-ATPases) are categorized as rotary ATP synthase/ATPase complexes. The V-ATPases are distinct from F-ATPases in terms of their rotation scheme, architecture and subunit composition. However, there is no detailed structural information on V-ATPases despite the abundant biochemical and biophysical research. Here, we report a crystallographic study of V1-ATPase, from Thermus thermophilus, which is a soluble component consisting of A, B, D and F subunits. The structure at 4.5 A resolution reveals inter-subunit interactions and nucleotide binding. In particular, the structure of the central stalk composed of D and F subunits was shown to be characteristic of V1-ATPases. Small conformational changes of respective subunits and significant rearrangement of the quaternary structure observed in the three AB pairs were related to the interaction with the straight central stalk. The rotation mechanism is discussed based on a structural comparison between V1-ATPases and F1-ATPases.

Spectroscopic and crystallographic studies of the mutant R416W give insight into the nucleotide binding traits of subunit B of the A1Ao ATP synthase

A strategically placed tryptophan in position of Arg416 was used as an optical probe to monitor adenosine triphosphate and adenosine-diphosphate binding to subunit B of the A(1)A(O) adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase from Methanosarcina mazei Gö1. Tryptophan fluorescence and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy gave binding constants indicating a preferred binding of ATP over ADP to the protein. The X-ray crystal structure of the R416W mutant protein in the presence of ATP was solved to 2.1 A resolution, showing the substituted Trp-residue inside the predicted adenine-binding pocket. The cocrystallized ATP molecule could be trapped in a so-called transition nucleotide-binding state. The high resolution structure shows the phosphate residues of the ATP near the P-loop region (S150-E158) and its adenine ring forms pi-pi interaction with Phe149. This transition binding position of ATP could be confirmed by tryptophan emission spectra using the subunit B mutant F149W. The trapped ATP position, similar to the one of the binding region of the antibiotic efrapeptin in F(1)F(O) ATP synthases, is discussed in light of a transition nucleotide-binding state of ATP while on its way to the final binding pocket. Finally, the inhibitory effect of efrapeptin C in ATPase activity of a reconstituted A(3)B(3)- and A(3)B(R416W)(3)-subcomplex, composed of subunit A and the B subunit mutant R416W, of the A(1)A(O) ATP synthase is shown.

Interaction of the Thermoplasma acidophilum A1A0-ATP synthase peripheral stalk with the catalytic domain

The peripheral stalk of the archaeal ATP synthase (A1A0)-ATP synthase is formed by the heterodimeric EH complex and is part of the stator domain, which counteracts the torque of rotational catalysis. Here we used nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to probe the interaction of the C-terminal domain of the EH heterodimer (E(CT1)H(CT)) with the N-terminal 23 residues of the B subunit (B(NT)). The data show a specific interaction of B(NT) peptide with 26 residues of the E(CT1)H(CT) domain, thereby providing a molecular picture of how the peripheral stalk is anchored to the A3B3 catalytic domain in A1A0.

Domain features of the peripheral stalk subunit H of the methanogenic A1AO ATP synthase and the NMR solution structure of H(1-47)

A series of truncated forms of subunit H were generated to establish the domain features of that protein. Circular dichroism analysis demonstrated that H is divided at least into a C-terminal coiled-coil domain within residues 54-104, and an N-terminal domain formed by adjacent alpha-helices. With a cysteine at the C-terminus of each of the truncated proteins (H(1-47), H(1-54), H(1-59), H(1-61), H(1-67), H(1-69), H(1-71), H(1-78), H(1-80), H(1-91), and H(47-105)), the residues involved in formation of the coiled-coil interface were determined. Proteins H(1-54), H(1-61), H(1-69), and H(1-80) showed strong cross-link formation, which was weaker in H(1-47), H(1-59), H(1-71), and H(1-91). A shift in disulfide formation between cysteines at positions 71 and 80 reflected an interruption in the periodicity of hydrophobic residues in the region 71AEKILEETEKE81. To understand how the N-terminal domain of H is formed, we determined for the first time, to our knowledge, the solution NMR structure of H(1-47), which revealed an alpha-helix between residues 15-42 and a flexible N-terminal stretch. The alpha-helix includes a kink that would bring the two helices of the C-terminus into the coiled-coil arrangement. H(1-47) revealed a strip of alanines involved in dimerization, which were tested by exchange to single cysteines in subunit H mutants.

The little we know on the structure and machinery of V-ATPase

The life of every eukaryotic cell depends on the function of vacuolar H+-ATPase (V-ATPase). Today we know that V-ATPase is vital for many more physiological and biochemical processes than it was expected three decades ago when the enzyme was discovered. These range from a crucial role in the function of internal organelles such as vacuoles, lysosomes, synaptic vesicles, endosomes, secretory granules and the Golgi apparatus to the plasma membrane of several organisms and specific tissues, and specialized cells. The overall structure and mechanism of action of the V-ATPase is supposed to be similar to that of the well-characterized F-type ATP synthase (F-ATPase). Both consist of a soluble catalytic domain (V1 or F1) that is coupled to a membrane-spanning domain (Vo or Fo) by one or more `stalk' components. Owing to the complexity and challenging properties of V-ATPase its study is lagging behind that of its relative F-ATPase. Time will tell whether V-ATPase shares an identical mechanism of action with F-ATPase or its mode of operation is unique.

Three-dimensional structure of A1A0 ATP synthase from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus by electron microscopy

The archaeal ATP synthase is a multisubunit complex that consists of a catalytic A(1) part and a transmembrane, ion translocation domain A(0). The A(1)A(0) complex from the hyperthermophile Pyrococcus furiosus was isolated. Mass analysis of the complex by laser-induced liquid bead ion desorption (LILBID) indicated a size of 730 +/- 10 kDa. A three-dimensional map was generated by electron microscopy from negatively stained images. The map at a resolution of 2.3 nm shows the A(1) and A(0) domain, connected by a central stalk and two peripheral stalks, one of which is connected to A(0), and both connected to A(1) via prominent knobs. X-ray structures of subunits from related proteins were fitted to the map. On the basis of the fitting and the LILBID analysis, a structural model is presented with the stoichiometry A(3)B(3)CDE(2)FH(2)ac(10).

A second transient position of ATP on its trail to the nucleotide-binding site of subunit B of the motor protein A(1)A(0) ATP synthase

The adenosine triphosphate (ATP) entrance into the nucleotide-binding subunits of ATP synthases is a puzzle. In the previously determined structure of subunit B mutant R416W of the Methanosarcina mazei Gö1 A-ATP synthase one ATP could be trapped at a transition position, close to the phosphate-binding loop. Using defined parameters for co-crystallization of an ATP-bound B-subunit, a unique transition position of ATP could be found in the crystallographic structure of this complex, solved at 3.4 A resolution. The nucleotide is found near the helix-turn-helix motif in the C-terminal domain of the protein; the location occupied by the gamma-subunit to interact with the empty beta-subunit in the thermoalkaliphilic Bacillus sp. TA2.A1 of the related F-ATP synthase. When compared with the determined structure of the ATP-transition position, close to the P-loop, and the nucleotide-free form of subunit B, the C-terminal domain of the B mutant is rotated by around 6 degrees, implicating an ATP moving pathway. We propose that, in the nucleotide empty state the central stalk subunit D is in close contact with subunit B and when the ATP molecule enters, D moves slightly, paving way for it to interact with the subunit B, which makes the C-terminal domain rotate by 6 degrees.

New insights into structure-function relationships between archeal ATP synthase (A1A0) and vacuolar type ATPase (V1V0)

Adenosine triphosphate, ATP, is the energy currency of living cells. While ATP synthases of archae and ATP synthases of pro- and eukaryotic organisms operate as energy producers by synthesizing ATP, the eukaryotic V-ATPase hydrolyzes ATP and thus functions as energy transducer. These enzymes share features like the hydrophilic catalytic- and the membrane-embedded ion-translocating sector, allowing them to operate as nano-motors and to transform the transmembrane electrochemical ion gradient into ATP or vice versa. Since archaea are rooted close to the origin of life, the A-ATP synthase is probably more similar in its composition and function to the "original" enzyme, invented by Nature billion years ago. On the contrary, the V-ATPases have acquired specific structural, functional and regulatory features during evolution. This review will summarize the current knowledge on the structure, mechanism and regulation of A-ATP synthases and V-ATPases. The importance of V-ATPase in pathophysiology of diseases will be discussed.

ATP/ADP binding to a novel nucleotide binding domain of the reticulocyte-binding protein Py235 of Plasmodium yoelii

The mechanism by which a malaria merozoite recognizes a suitable host cell is mediated by a cascade of receptor-ligand interactions. In addition to the availability of the appropriate receptors, intracellular ATP plays an important role in determining whether erythrocytes are suitable for merozoite invasion. Recent work has shown that ATP secreted from erythrocytes signals a number of cellular processes. To determine whether ATP signaling might be involved in merozoite invasion, we investigated whether known plasmodium invasion proteins contain nucleotide binding motifs. Domain mapping identified a putative nucleotide binding region within all members of the reticulocyte-binding protein homologue (RBL) family analyzed. A representative domain, termed here nucleotide binding domain 94 (NBD94), was expressed and demonstrated to specifically bind to ATP. Nucleotide affinities of NBD94 were determined by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, where an increase in the binding of ATP is observed compared with ADP analogues. ATP binding was reduced by the known F1F0-ATP synthase inhibitor 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole. Fluorescence quenching and circular dichroism spectroscopy of NBD94 after binding of different nucleotides provide evidence for structural changes in this protein. Our data suggest that different structural changes induced by ATP/ADP binding to RBL could play an important role during the invasion process.

Structural organization of the V-ATPase and its implications for regulatory assembly and disassembly

V-ATPases (vacuolar ATPases) are membrane-bound multiprotein complexes that are localized in the endomembrane systems of eukaryotic cells and in the plasma membranes of some specialized cells. They couple ATP hydrolysis with the transport of protons across membranes. On nutrient shortage, V-ATPases disassemble into a membrane-embedded part (V0), which contains the proton translocation machinery, and an extrinsic part (V1), which carries the nucleotide-binding sites. Disassembly decouples ATP hydrolysis and proton translocation. Furthermore, the disassembled parts are inactive, leading to an efficient shutdown of ATP consumption. On restoring the nutrient levels, V1 and V0 reassemble and restore ATP-hydrolysis activity coupled with proton translocation. This reversible assembly/disassembly process has certain conformational constraints, which are best fulfilled by adopting a unique conformation before disassembly.

Stoichiometry and localization of the stator subunits E and G in Thermus thermophilus H+-ATPase/synthase

Proton-translocating ATPases are central to biological energy conversion. Although eukaryotes contain specialized F-ATPases for ATP synthesis and V-ATPases for proton pumping, eubacteria and archaea typically contain only one enzyme for both tasks. Although many eubacteria contain ATPases of the F-type, some eubacteria and all known archaea contain ATPases of the A-type. A-ATPases are closely related to V-ATPases but simpler in design. Although the nucleotide-binding and transmembrane rotor subunits share sequence homology between A-, V-, and F-ATPases, the peripheral stalk is strikingly different in sequence, composition, and stoichiometry. We have analyzed the peripheral stalk of Thermus thermophilus A-ATPase by using phage display-derived single-domain antibody fragments in combination with electron microscopy and tandem mass spectrometry. Our data provide the first direct evidence for the existence of two peripheral stalks in the A-ATPase, each one composed of heterodimers of subunits E and G arranged symmetrically around the soluble A(1) domain. To our knowledge, this is the first description of phage display-derived antibody selection against a multi-subunit membrane protein used for purification and single particle analysis by electron microscopy. It is also the first instance of the derivation of subunit stoichiometry by tandem mass spectrometry to an intact membrane protein complex. Both approaches could be applicable to the structural analysis of other membrane protein complexes.

Inventing the dynamo machine: the evolution of the F-type and V-type ATPases

The rotary proton- and sodium-translocating ATPases are reversible molecular machines present in all cellular life forms that couple ion movement across membranes with ATP hydrolysis or synthesis. Sequence and structural comparisons of F- and V-type ATPases have revealed homology between their catalytic and membrane subunits, but not between the subunits of the central stalk that connects the catalytic and membrane components. Based on this pattern of homology, we propose that these ATPases originated from membrane protein translocases, which, themselves, evolved from RNA translocases. We suggest that in these ancestral translocases, the position of the central stalk was occupied by the translocated polymer.

NMR solution structure of subunit F of the methanogenic A1AO adenosine triphosphate synthase and its interaction with the nucleotide-binding subunit B

The A1AO adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase from archaea uses the ion gradients generated across the membrane sector (AO) to synthesize ATP in the A3B3 domain of the A1 sector. The energy coupling between the two active domains occurs via the so-called stalk part(s), to which the 12 kDa subunit F does belong. Here, we present the solution structure of the F subunit of the A1AO ATP synthase from Methanosarcina mazei Gö1. Subunit F exhibits a distinct two-domain structure, with the N-terminal having 78 residues and residues 79-101 forming the flexible C-terminal part. The well-ordered N-terminal domain is composed of a four-stranded parallel beta-sheet structure and three alpha-helices placed alternately. The two domains are loosely associated with more flexibility relative to each other. The flexibility of the C-terminal domain is further confirmed by dynamics studies. In addition, the affinity of binding of mutant subunit F, with a substitution of Trp100 against Tyr and Ile at the very C-terminal end, to the nucleotide-binding subunit B was determined quantitatively using the fluorescence signals of natural subunit B (Trp430). Finally, the arrangement of subunit F within the complex is presented.

1H, 13C, and 15N resonance assignments of subunit F of the A(1)A (O) ATP synthase from Methanosarcina mazei Gö1

Energy coupling between the A(1 )ATPase of archaea type A(1)A(O) ATP synthase and its integral membrane sub-complex A(O) occurs via the stalk part, formed by the subunits C, D and F. To provide a molecular basis of the energy coupling, we performed NMR studies. Here, we report the assignment of the subunit F.

Dimeric Core Structure of Modular Stator Subunit E of Archaeal H+-ATPase

Archaeal H(+)-ATPase (A-ATPase) is composed of an A(1) region that hydrolyzes ATP and an integral membrane part A(0) that conducts protons. Subunit E is a component of peripheral stator(s) that physically links A(1) and A(0) parts of the A-ATPase. Here we report the first crystal structure of subunit E of A-ATPase from Pyrococcus horikoshii OT3 at 1.85 A resolution. The protomer structure of subunit E represents a novel fold. The quaternary structure of subunit E is a homodimer, which may constitute the core part of the stator. To investigate the relationship with other stator subunit H, the complex of subunits EH was prepared and characterized using electrophoresis, mass spectrometry, N-terminal sequencing and circular dichroism spectroscopy, which revealed the polymeric and highly helical nature of the EH complex with equimolar stoichiometry of both the subunits. On the basis of the modular architecture of stator subunits, it is suggested that both cytoplasm and membrane sides of the EH complex may interact with other subunits to link A(1) and A(0) parts.

Small-Angle X-ray Scattering Reveals the Solution Structure of the Peripheral Stalk Subunit H of the A1AO ATP Synthase from Methanocaldococcus jannaschii and Its Binding to the Catalytic A Subunit

The H subunit of the A1AO ATP synthase is a component of one of the peripheral stalks connecting the A1 and AO domain. Subunit H of the Methanocaldococcus jannaschii A1AO ATP synthase was analyzed by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) in order to determine the first low-resolution structure of this molecule in solution. Independent to the concentration used, the protein is dimeric and has a boomerang-like shape, divided into two arms of 12.0 and 6.8 nm in length. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy revealed that subunit H is comprised of 78% alpha-helix and a coiled-coil arrangement. To understand the orientation of the helices and the localization of the N- and C-termini inside the dimer, three truncated forms of subunit H (H8-104, H1-98, and H8-98) were expressed, purified, and analyzed by CD. SAXS experiments of H1-98 show that the maximum dimension of the truncated protein dropped to 15.1 nm. Comparison of the low-resolution shapes of H and H1-98 indicates that this goes along with structural changes in the C-terminal arm of the boomerang-like structure. Together with the result of a disulfide formation of a fourth truncated form, H1-47, with a cysteine at position 47, the data suggest a parallel alpha-helical interaction. In addition, all four truncated proteins are dimeric in solution. Tryptophan emission spectra showed specific binding of H and H8-104 to the neighboring, catalytic A subunit, which could not be detected in the presence of H1-98. Finally, the arrangement of H within the A1AO ATP synthase is presented.

Life close to the thermodynamic limit: how methanogenic archaea conserve energy

Methane-forming archaea are strictly anaerobic, ancient microbes that are widespread in nature. These organisms are commonly found in anaerobic environments such as rumen, anaerobic sediments of rivers and lakes, hyperthermal deep sea vents and even hypersaline environments. From an evolutionary standpoint they are close to the origin of life. Common to all methanogens is the biological production of methane by a unique pathway currently only found in archaea. Methanogens can grow on only a limited number of substrates such as H(2) + CO(2), formate, methanol and other methyl group-containing substrates and some on acetate. The free energy change associated with methanogenesis from these compounds allows for the synthesis of 1 (acetate) to a maximum of only 2 mol of ATP under standard conditions while under environmental conditions less than one ATP can be synthesized. Therefore, methanogens live close to the thermodynamic limit. To cope with this problem, they have evolved elaborate mechanisms of energy conservation using both protons and sodium ions as the coupling ion in one pathway. These energy conserving mechanisms are comprised of unique enzymes, cofactors and electron carriers present only in methanogens. This review will summarize the current knowledge of energy conservation of methanogens and focus on recent insights into structure and function of ion translocating enzymes found in these organisms.

The emerging structure of vacuolar ATPases

Bioenergetics and physiology of primary pumps have been revitalized by new insights into the mechanism of energizing biomembranes. Structural information is becoming available, and the three-dimensional structure of F-ATPase is being resolved. The growing understanding of the fundamental mechanism of energy coupling may revolutionize our view of biological processes. The F- and V-ATPases (vacuolar-type ATPase) exhibit a common mechanical design in which nucleotide-binding on the catalytic sector, through a cycle of conformation changes, drives the transmembrane passage of protons by turning a membrane-embedded rotor. This motor can run in forward or reverse directions, hydrolyzing ATP as it pumps protons uphill or creating ATP as protons flow downhill. In contrast to F-ATPases, whose primary function in eukaryotic cells is to form ATP at the expense of the proton-motive force (pmf), V-ATPases function exclusively as an ATP-dependent proton pump. The pmf generated by V-ATPases in organelles and membranes of eukaryotic cells is utilized as a driving force for numerous secondary transport processes. V- and F-ATPases have similar structure and mechanism of action, and several of their subunits evolved from common ancestors. Electron microscopy studies of V-ATPase revealed its general structure at low resolution. Recently, several structures of V-ATPase subunits, solved by X-ray crystallography with atomic resolution, were published. This, together with electron microscopy low-resolution maps of the whole complex, and biochemistry cross-linking experiments, allows construction of a structural model for a part of the complex that may be used as a working hypothesis for future research.

Reconstitution in vitro of V1 complex of Thermus thermophilus V-ATPase revealed that ATP binding to the A subunit is crucial for V1 formation

Vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase (V-ATPase or V-type ATPase) is a multisubunit complex comprised of a water-soluble V(1) complex, responsible for ATP hydrolysis, and a membrane-embedded V(o) complex, responsible for proton translocation. The V(1) complex of Thermus thermophilus V-ATPase has the subunit composition of A(3)B(3)DF, in which the A and B subunits form a hexameric ring structure. A central stalk composed of the D and F subunits penetrates the ring. In this study, we investigated the pathway for assembly of the V(1) complex by reconstituting the V(1) complex from the monomeric A and B subunits and DF subcomplex in vitro. Assembly of these components into the V(1) complex required binding of ATP to the A subunit, although hydrolysis of ATP is not necessary. In the absence of the DF subcomplex, the A and B monomers assembled into A(1)B(1) and A(3)B(3) subcomplexes in an ATP binding-dependent manner, suggesting that ATP binding-dependent interaction between the A and B subunits is a crucial step of assembly into V(1) complex. Kinetic analysis of assembly of the A and B monomers into the A(1)B(1) heterodimer using fluorescence resonance energy transfer indicated that the A subunit binds ATP prior to binding the B subunit. Kinetics of binding of a fluorescent ADP analog, N-methylanthraniloyl ADP (mant-ADP), to the monomeric A subunit also supported the rapid nucleotide binding to the A subunit.

Structural and functional analysis of the coupling subunit F in solution and topological arrangement of the stalk domains of the methanogenic A1AO ATP synthase

The first low-resolution shape of subunit F of the A(1)A(O) ATP synthase from the archaeon Methanosarcina mazei Gö1 in solution was determined by small angle X-ray scattering. Independent to the concentration used, the protein is monomeric and has an elongated shape, divided in a main globular part with a length of about 4.5 nm, and a hook-like domain of about 3.0 nm in length. The subunit-subunit interaction of subunit F inside the A(1)A(O) ATP synthase in the presence of 1-ethyl-3-(dimethylaminopropyl)-carbodiimide EDC was studied as a function of nucleotide binding, demonstrating movements of subunits F relative to the nucleotide-binding subunit B. Furthermore, in the intact A(1)A(O) complex, crosslinking of subunits D-E, A-H and A-B-D was obtained and the peptides, involved, were analyzed by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Based on these data the surface of contact of B-F could be mapped in the high-resolution structure of subunit B of the A(1)A(O) ATP synthase.