Structures and folding pathways of topologically knotted proteins

J Phys Condens Matter. 2011 Jan 26;23(3):033101. doi: 10.1088/0953-8984/23/3/033101. Epub 2010 Dec 10.

Abstract

In the last decade, a new class of proteins has emerged that contain a topological knot in their backbone. Although these structures are rare, they nevertheless challenge our understanding of protein folding. In this review, we provide a short overview of topologically knotted proteins with an emphasis on newly discovered structures. We discuss the current knowledge in the field, including recent developments in both experimental and computational studies that have shed light on how these intricate structures fold.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Animals
  • Computer Graphics
  • Computer Simulation
  • Databases, Protein
  • Humans
  • Protein Conformation
  • Protein Folding*
  • Proteins / chemistry*

Substances

  • Proteins