Modular structure of solubilized human apolipoprotein B-100. Low resolution model revealed by small angle neutron scattering

J Biol Chem. 2006 Jul 14;281(28):19732-9. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M601688200. Epub 2006 May 16.

Abstract

Being intimately involved in cholesterol transport and lipid metabolism human low density lipoprotein (LDL) plays a prominent role in atherogenesis and cardiovascular diseases. The receptor-mediated cellular uptake of LDL is triggered by apolipoprotein B-100 (apoB-100), which represents the single protein moiety of LDL. Due to the size and hydrophobic nature of apoB-100, its structure is not well characterized. Here we present a low resolution structure of solubilized apoB-100. We have used small angle neutron scattering in combination with advanced shape reconstruction algorithms to generate a three-dimensional model of lipid-free apoB-100. Our model clearly reveals that apoB-100 is composed of distinct domains connected by flexible regions. The apoB-100 molecule adopts a curved shape with a central cavity. In comparison to LDL-associated apoB-100, the lipid-free protein is expanded, whereas according to spectroscopic data the secondary structure is widely preserved. Finally, the low resolution model was used as a template to reconstruct a hypothetical domain organization of apoB-100 on LDL, including information derived from a secondary structure prediction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Apolipoprotein B-100
  • Apolipoproteins B / chemistry*
  • Circular Dichroism
  • Detergents / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Lipids / chemistry
  • Models, Molecular
  • Models, Statistical
  • Neutrons
  • Protein Conformation
  • Protein Structure, Secondary
  • Scattering, Radiation
  • Spectrophotometry

Substances

  • Apolipoprotein B-100
  • Apolipoproteins B
  • Detergents
  • Lipids