Residual native structure in a thermally denatured beta-hairpin

J Phys Chem B. 2005 Sep 15;109(36):17025-7. doi: 10.1021/jp053949m.

Abstract

We investigate the thermal denaturation of trpzip2 between 15 and 82 degrees C using two-dimensional infrared (2D IR) vibrational spectroscopy, dispersed vibrational echo (DVE) spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The FTIR and DVE spectra of trpzip2 show in the amide I region of the spectrum two resonances, which arise primarily from the interstrand coupling between local amide I oscillators along the peptide backbone. The coupling is seen directly in the 2D IR spectra as the formation of cross-peak ridges. Although small shifts of these frequencies occur on heating the sample, the existence of cross-peak ridges at all temperatures indicates that stable hydrogen bond interactions persist between the two beta-strands. These observations indicate a significant amount of native structure in the thermally denatured state of trpzip2.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Hot Temperature
  • Protein Conformation
  • Protein Denaturation
  • Proteins / chemistry*
  • Spectrum Analysis / methods

Substances

  • Proteins