Differential dynamics in the G protein-coupled receptor rhodopsin revealed by solution NMR.

Klein-Seetharaman, Judith; Yanamala, Naveena V K; Javeed, Fathima; Reeves, Philip J; Getmanova, Elena V; Loewen, Michele C; Schwalbe, Harald; Khorana, H Gobind · Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A · 2004

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

G protein-coupled receptors are cell-surface seven-helical membrane proteins that undergo conformational changes on activation. The mammalian photoreceptor, rhodopsin, is the best-studied member of this superfamily. Here, we provide the first evidence that activation in rhodopsin may involve differential dynamic properties of side-chain versus backbone atoms. High-resolution NMR studies of alpha-(15)N-labeled receptor revealed large backbone motions in the inactive dark state. In contrast, indole side-chain (15)N groups of tryptophans showed well resolved, equally intense NMR signals, suggesting restriction to a single specific conformation.

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