Applied Mathematics

Volume 9, Issue 10 (October 2018)

ISSN Print: 2152-7385   ISSN Online: 2152-7393

Google-based Impact Factor: 0.58  Citations  

Global Geometrical Constraints on the Shape of Proteins and Their Influence on Allosteric Regulation

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DOI: 10.4236/am.2018.910076    744 Downloads   1,290 Views  Citations
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ABSTRACT

Proteins are the workhorse molecules of the cell, which are obtained by folding long chains of amino acids. Since not all shapes are obtained as a folded chain of amino acids, there should be global geometrical constraints on the shape. Moreover, since the function of a protein is largely determined by its shape, constraints on the shape should have some influence on its interaction with other proteins. In this paper, we consider global geometrical constraints on the shape of proteins. Using a mathematical toy model, in which proteins are represented as closed chains of tetrahedrons, we have identified not only global geometrical constraints on the shape of proteins, but also their influence on protein interactions. As an example, we show that a garlic-bulb like structure appears as a result of the constraints. Regarding the influence of global geometrical constraints on interactions, we consider their influence on the structural coupling of two distal sites in allosteric regulation. We then show the inseparable relationship between global geometrical constraints and protein interactions; i.e. they are different sides of the same coin. This finding could be important for the understanding of the basic mechanisms of allosteric regulation of protein functions.

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Morikawa, N. (2018) Global Geometrical Constraints on the Shape of Proteins and Their Influence on Allosteric Regulation. Applied Mathematics, 9, 1116-1155. doi: 10.4236/am.2018.910076.

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