Fusion surface structure, function, and dynamics of gamete fusogen HAP2

Citation:

Feng J, Dong X, Pinello J, Zhang J, Lu C, Iacob RE, Engen JR, Snell WJ, Springer TA. Fusion surface structure, function, and dynamics of gamete fusogen HAP2. Elife 2018;7

Date Published:

2018 10 03

Abstract:

HAP2 is a class II gamete fusogen in many eukaryotic kingdoms. A crystal structure of HAP2 shows a trimeric fusion state. Domains D1, D2.1 and D2.2 line the 3-fold axis; D3 and a stem pack against the outer surface. Surprisingly, hydrogen-deuterium exchange shows that surfaces of D1, D2.2 and D3 closest to the 3-fold axis are more dynamic than exposed surfaces. Three fusion helices in the fusion loops of each monomer expose hydrophobic residues at the trimer apex that are splayed from the 3-fold axis, leaving a solvent-filled cavity between the fusion loops in each monomer. At the base of the two fusion loops, Arg185 docks in a carbonyl cage. Comparisons to other structures, dynamics, and the greater effect on gamete fusion of mutation of axis-proximal than axis-distal fusion helices suggest that the apical portion of each monomer could tilt toward the 3-fold axis with merger of the fusion helices into a common fusion surface.

Last updated on 11/09/2018