Crystal structure of staphylococcal enterotoxin B, a superantigen.

Swaminathan, S; Furey, W; Pletcher, J; Sax, M · Nature · 1992

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

The three-dimensional structure of staphylococcal enterotoxin B, which is both a toxin and a super-antigen, has been determined to a resolution of 2.5 A. The unusual main-chain fold containing two domains may represent a general motif adopted by all staphylococcal enterotoxins. The T-cell receptor binding site encompasses a shallow cavity formed by both domains. The MHCII molecule binds to an adjacent site. Another cavity with possible biological activity was also identified.

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