Refinement of the structure of human Rab5a GTPase domain at 1.05 A resolution

Acta Crystallogr D Biol Crystallogr. 2004 Jan;60(Pt 1):54-60. doi: 10.1107/s0907444903021632. Epub 2003 Dec 18.

Abstract

Rab5 is a GTPase that regulates early endosome fusion. Its GTPase domain crystal structure is reported here at 1.05 A resolution in complex with a GTP-analog molecule. It provides the highest resolution three-dimensional model so far obtained for proteins from the Ras-like GTPase family. This study allows extension of structural examination of the GTPase machinery as well as of high-resolution protein structures in general. For example, a buried water-molecule network was observed underneath the switch regions, which is consistent with the functional roles of these regions in the molecular-switching process. Furthermore, residues of multiple conformation and clustered distribution of anisotropic thermal motions of the protein molecule may have general implications for the function of Ras-like GTPases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Anisotropy
  • Crystallography, X-Ray / methods*
  • Escherichia coli / genetics
  • Guanosine / analogs & derivatives
  • Guanosine / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen Bonding
  • Models, Molecular
  • Protein Conformation
  • Protein Structure, Tertiary
  • Recombinant Proteins / chemistry
  • Recombinant Proteins / genetics
  • rab5 GTP-Binding Proteins / chemistry*
  • rab5 GTP-Binding Proteins / genetics
  • rab5 GTP-Binding Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • Recombinant Proteins
  • Guanosine
  • rab5 GTP-Binding Proteins