Conformational analysis of aqueous BMP-2 using atomistic molecular dynamics simulations

J Phys Chem B. 2011 Feb 10;115(5):1122-30. doi: 10.1021/jp106092d. Epub 2010 Dec 31.

Abstract

BMP-2 is an osteoinductive protein, involved in the differentiation and proliferation of osteoblasts, with potential application as bioactive agent in bone implants and scaffolds. Since the three-dimensional structure of a protein usually determines its bioactivity, in order to efficiently design bone implants activated with BMP-2 it is essential to identify the factors influencing the protein conformation. In the present work, atomistic molecular dynamics simulations are employed to investigate the BMP-2 monomer and homodimer in vacuum and water. The influence of each environment on the BMP-2 structure is analyzed regarding protein structural changes and energy contributions driving the BMP-2 conformation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 / chemistry*
  • Dimerization
  • Molecular Dynamics Simulation*
  • Protein Structure, Secondary
  • Protein Structure, Tertiary
  • Thermodynamics
  • Vacuum
  • Water / chemistry

Substances

  • Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2
  • Water