Mapping Single-Molecule Protein Complexes in 3D with DNA Nanoswitch Calipers

J Am Chem Soc. 2023 Dec 27;145(51):27916-27921. doi: 10.1021/jacs.3c10262. Epub 2023 Dec 14.

Abstract

The ability to accurately map the 3D geometry of single-molecule complexes in trace samples is a challenging goal that would lead to new insights into molecular mechanics and provide an approach for single-molecule structural proteomics. To enable this, we have developed a high-resolution force spectroscopy method capable of measuring multiple distances between labeled sites in natively folded protein complexes. Our approach combines reconfigurable nanoscale devices, we call DNA nanoswitch calipers, with a force-based barcoding system to distinguish each measurement location. We demonstrate our approach by reconstructing the tetrahedral geometry of biotin-binding sites in natively folded streptavidin, with 1.5-2.5 Å agreement with previously reported structures.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Binding Sites
  • Biotin* / chemistry
  • DNA
  • Nanotechnology* / methods
  • Streptavidin / chemistry

Substances

  • Streptavidin
  • Biotin
  • DNA