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Title: Suprafacial Orientation of the SCF[superscript Cdc4] Dimer Accommodates Multiple Geometries for Substrate Ubiquitination

Journal Article · · Cell

SCF ubiquitin ligases recruit substrates for degradation via F box protein adaptor subunits. WD40 repeat F box proteins, such as Cdc4 and {beta}-TrCP, contain a conserved dimerization motif called the D domain. Here, we report that the D domain protomers of yeast Cdc4 and human {beta}-TrCP form a superhelical homotypic dimer. Disruption of the D domain compromises the activity of yeast SCF{sup Cdc4} toward the CDK inhibitor Sic1 and other substrates. SCF{sup Cdc4} dimerization has little effect on the affinity for Sic1 but markedly stimulates ubiquitin conjugation. A model of the dimeric holo-SCF{sup Cdc4} complex based on small-angle X-ray scatter measurements reveals a suprafacial configuration, in which substrate-binding sites and E2 catalytic sites lie in the same plane with a separation of 64 {angstrom} within and 102 {angstrom} between each SCF monomer. This spatial variability may accommodate diverse acceptor lysine geometries in both substrates and the elongating ubiquitin chain and thereby increase catalytic efficiency.

Research Organization:
Argonne National Lab. (ANL), Argonne, IL (United States). Advanced Photon Source (APS)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
OSTI ID:
1007591
Journal Information:
Cell, Vol. 129, Issue (6) ; 06, 2007; ISSN 0092-8674
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
ENGLISH