Download MendeleyStructural basis for specificity in the poxvirus topoisomerase.
Perry, K., Hwang, Y., Bushman, F.D., Van Duyne, G.D.(2006) Mol Cell 23: 343-354
- PubMed: 16885024
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcel.2006.06.015
- Primary Citation of Related Structures:
2H7F, 2H7G - PubMed Abstract:
Although smallpox has been eradicated from the human population, it is presently feared as a possible agent of bioterrorism. The smallpox virus codes for its own topoisomerase enzyme that differs from its cellular counterpart by requiring a specific DNA sequence for activation of catalysis. Here we present crystal structures of the smallpox virus topoisomerase enzyme bound both covalently and noncovalently to a specific DNA sequence. These structures reveal the basis for site-specific DNA recognition, and they explain how catalysis is likely activated by formation of a specific enzyme-DNA interface. Unexpectedly, the poxvirus enzyme uses a major groove binding alpha helix that is not present in the human enzyme to recognize part of the core recognition sequence and activate the enzyme for catalysis. The topoisomerase-DNA complex structures also provide a three-dimensional framework that may facilitate the rational design of therapeutic agents to treat poxvirus infections.
Organizational Affiliation:
University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
