Recombinant Mycobacterium leprae ATP synthase subunit c (atpE)
Description
Introduction to Recombinant Mycobacterium leprae ATP Synthase Subunit c (atpE)
Recombinant Mycobacterium leprae ATP synthase subunit c (atpE) is a bioengineered protein derived from the atpE gene, which encodes a critical component of the F₀ sector of the F₁F₀-ATP synthase. This enzyme is essential for ATP synthesis and proton translocation in M. leprae, a pathogen causing leprosy. The recombinant form is produced heterologously in systems like E. coli, yeast, or baculovirus, often with N-terminal His-tags for purification and structural studies .
Functional Insights
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C-Ring Assembly: Subunit c oligomerizes into a ring (typically 9 subunits in mycobacteria), creating a proton channel .
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Proton Translocation: Residues Glu61 and Tyr64 coordinate proton movement, while Asp28 and Ile66 stabilize the proton-binding cleft .
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Drug Targeting: Mutations in subunit c (e.g., Asp28→Gly, Glu61→Asp) confer resistance to TMC207, a drug targeting the mycobacterial C-ring .
Production and Applications
Recombinant atpE is produced for structural, biochemical, and vaccine-related research.
Functional Consequences
| Condition | ATP Synthase Activity | Biological Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Wild-type | Low ATP hydrolysis | Prevents ATP waste, maintains proton motive force |
| Δα533–545 (deletion) | High ATP hydrolysis | Disrupts ATP/ADP homeostasis, lethal if unchecked |
Interactions with Host and Chaperones
While not directly interacting with subunit c, M. leprae HSP18 binds ATP, enhancing its chaperone function. This interaction may indirectly stabilize ATP synthase under stress .
Comparative Analysis with Other Mycobacterial Strains
| Feature | M. leprae atpE | M. tuberculosis atpE |
|---|---|---|
| Subunit c Stoichiometry | c₉ | c₉ or c₁₀ |
| Key Mutational Sites | Asp28, Glu61, Ile66 | Asp28, Glu61, Ala63 |
| Drug Resistance | TMC207 resistance via mutations | TMC207 resistance via mutations |
| ATP Synthase Regulation | C-terminal α extension | C-terminal α extension |
Product Specs
Note: We prioritize shipping the format currently in stock. However, if you have specific format requirements, please indicate them when placing the order. We will fulfill your request if possible.
Note: All protein orders are shipped with standard blue ice packs by default. If dry ice shipping is required, please inform us in advance as additional fees will apply.
Generally, the shelf life of liquid form is 6 months at -20°C/-80°C. The shelf life of lyophilized form is 12 months at -20°C/-80°C.
Target Background
KEGG: mlb:MLBr01140
