To probe the structural basis for protein histidine kinase (PHK) catalytic activity and the prospects for PHK-specific inhibitor design, we report the crystal structures for the nucleotide binding domain of Thermotoga maritima CheA with ADP and three ATP analogs (ADPNP, ADPCP and TNP-ATP) bound with either Mg(2+) or Mn(2+). The conformation of ADPNP bound to CheA and related ATPases differs from that reported in the ADPNP complex of PHK EnvZ. Interactions of the active site with the nucleotide gamma-phosphate and its associated Mg(2+) ion are linked to conformational changes in an ATP-lid that could mediate recognition of the substrate domain. The inhibitor TNP-ATP binds CheA with its phosphates in a nonproductive conformation and its adenine and trinitrophenyl groups in two adjacent binding pockets. The trinitrophenyl interaction may be exploited for designing CheA-targeted drugs that would not interfere with host ATPases.

• PMID: 11276258
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Journal Article | Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't | Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

Authors

Bilwes AM, Quezada CM, Croal LR, Crane BR, Simon MI

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