Unique features in the C-terminal domain provide caltractin with target specificity

Conformational Plasticity of Centrin 1 from Toxoplasma gondii in Binding to the Centrosomal Protein SFI1

Centrins are calcium (Ca²⁺)-binding proteins that are involved in many cellular functions including centrosome regulation. A known cellular target of centrins is SFI1, a large centrosomal protein containing multiple repeats that represent centrin-binding motifs. Recently, a protein homologous to yeast and mammalian SFI1, denominated TgSFI1, which shares SFI1-repeat organization, was shown to colocalize at centrosomes with centrin 1 from Toxoplasma gondii (TgCEN1). However, the molecular details of the interaction between TgCEN1 and TgSFI1 remain largely unknown. Herein, combining different biophysical methods, including isothermal titration calorimetry, nuclear magnetic resonance, circular dichroism, and fluorescence spectroscopy, we determined the binding properties of TgCEN1 and its individual N- and C-terminal domains to synthetic peptides derived from distinct repeats of TgSFI1. Overall, our data indicate that the repeats in TgSFI1 constitute binding sites for TgCEN1, but the binding modes of TgCEN1 to the repeats differ appreciably in terms of binding affinity, Ca²⁺ sensitivity, and lobe-specific interaction. These results suggest that TgCEN1 displays remarkable conformational plasticity, allowing for the distinct repeats in TgSFI1 to possess precise modes of TgCEN1 binding and regulation during Ca²⁺ sensing, which appears to be crucial for the dynamic association of TgCEN1 with TgSFI1 in the centrosome architecture.

Structural Basis for the Functional Diversity of Centrins: A Focus on Calcium Sensing Properties and Target Recognition

Centrins are a family of small, EF hand-containing proteins that are found in all eukaryotes and are often complexed with centrosome-related structures. Since their discovery, centrins have attracted increasing interest due to their multiple, diverse cellular functions. Centrins are similar to calmodulin (CaM) in size, structure and domain organization, although in contrast to CaM, the majority of centrins possess at least one calcium (Ca²⁺) binding site that is non-functional, thus displaying large variance in Ca²⁺ sensing abilities that could support their functional versatility. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on centrins from both biophysical and structural perspectives with an emphasis on centrin-target interactions. In-depth analysis of the Ca²⁺ sensing properties of centrins and structures of centrins complexed with target proteins can provide useful insight into the mechanisms of the different functions of centrins and how these proteins contribute to the complexity of the Ca²⁺ signaling cascade. Moreover, it can help to better understand the functional redundancy of centrin isoforms and centrin-binding proteins.

Conformational scanning of individual EF-hand motifs of calcium sensor protein centrin-1

Centrin-1, a Ca²⁺ sensor protein of the centrin family is a crucial player for cell division in eukaryotes and plays a key role in the microtubule organising centre. Despite being regarded as a calcium sensor with a matched structure to calmodulin/troponin C, the protein undergoes mild changes in conformation and binds Ca²⁺ with moderate affinity. We present an in-depth analysis of the Ca²⁺ sensing by individual EF-hand motifs of centrin-1 and address unsolved questions of the rationales for moderate affinity and conformational transitions of the protein. Employing the more sensitive approach of Trp scanning of individual EF-hand motif, we have undertaken an exhaustive investigation of Ca²⁺ binding to individual EF-hand motifs, named EF1 to EF4. All four EF-hand motifs of centrin-1 are structural as all of them bind both Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺. EF1 and EF4 are the most flexible sites as they undergo drastic conformational changes following Ca²⁺ binding, whereas EF3 responds to Ca²⁺ minimally. On the other hand, EF2 moves towards the protein surface upon binding Ca²⁺. The independent filling mode of Ca²⁺ to EF-hand motifs and lack of intermotif communication explain the lack of cooperativity of binding, thus constraining centrin-1 to a moderate affinity binding protein. Thus, centrin-1 is distinct from other calcium sensors such as calmodulin.

The interplay of self-assembly and target binding in centrin 1 from Toxoplasma gondii

Centrins are conserved calcium (Ca²⁺)-binding proteins typically associated with centrosomes that have been implicated in several biological processes. In Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, three centrin isoforms have been recognized. We have recently characterized the metal binding and structural features of isoform 1 (TgCEN1), demonstrating that it possesses properties consistent with a role as a Ca²⁺ sensor and displays a Ca²⁺-dependent tendency to self-assemble. Herein, we expanded our studies, focusing on the self-association and target binding properties of TgCEN1 by combining biophysical techniques including dynamic light scattering, isothermal titration calorimetry, nuclear magnetic resonance, circular dichroism, and fluorescence spectroscopy. We found that the self-assembly process of TgCEN1 depends on different physicochemical factors, including Ca²⁺ concentration, temperature, and protein concentration, and is mediated by both electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. The process is completely abolished upon removal of the first 21-residues of the protein and is significantly reduced in the presence of a binding target peptide derived from the human XPC protein (P17-XPC). Titration of P17-XPC to the intact protein and isolated domains showed that TgCEN1 possesses two binding sites with distinct affinities and Ca²⁺ sensitivity; a high-affinity site in the C-lobe which may be constitutively bound to the peptide and a low-affinity site in the N-lobe which is active only upon Ca²⁺ stimulus. Overall, our results suggest a specific mechanism of TgCEN1 for Ca²⁺-modulated target binding and support a N-to-C self-assembly mode, in which the first 21-residues of one molecule likely interact with the C-lobe of the other.

Distinct Calcium Binding and Structural Properties of Two Centrin Isoforms from Toxoplasma gondii

Centrins are calcium (Ca2+)-binding proteins that have been implicated in several regulatory functions. In the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, three isoforms of centrin have been identified. While increasing information is now available that links the function of centrins with defined parasite biological processes, knowledge is still limited on the metal-binding and structural properties of these proteins. Herein, using biophysical and structural approaches, we explored the Ca2+ binding abilities and the subsequent effects of Ca2+ on the structure of a conserved (TgCEN1) and a more divergent (TgCEN2) centrin isoform from T. gondii. Our data showed that TgCEN1 and TgCEN2 possess diverse molecular features, suggesting that they play nonredundant roles in parasite physiology. TgCEN1 binds two Ca2+ ions with high/medium affinity, while TgCEN2 binds one Ca2+ with low affinity. TgCEN1 undergoes significant Ca2+-dependent conformational changes that expose hydrophobic patches, supporting a role as a Ca2+ sensor in toxoplasma. In contrast, Ca2+ binding has a subtle influence on conformational features of TgCEN2 without resulting in hydrophobic exposure, suggesting a different Ca2+ relay mode for this isoform. Furthermore, TgCEN1 displays a Ca2+-dependent ability to self-assemble, while TgCEN2 did not. We discuss our findings in the context of Ca2+ signaling in toxoplasma.

SAC3B is a target of CML19, the centrin 2 of Arabidopsis thaliana

Arabidopsis centrin 2, also known as calmodulin-like protein 19 (CML19), is a member of the EF-hand superfamily of calcium (Ca2+)-binding proteins. In addition to the notion that CML19 interacts with the nucleotide excision repair protein RAD4, CML19 was suggested to be a component of the transcription export complex 2 (TREX-2) by interacting with SAC3B. However, the molecular determinants of this interaction have remained largely unknown. Herein, we identified a CML19-binding site within the C-terminus of SAC3B and characterized the binding properties of the corresponding 26-residue peptide (SAC3Bp), which exhibits the hydrophobic triad centrin-binding motif in a reversed orientation (I8W4W1). Using a combination of spectroscopic and calorimetric experiments, we shed light on the SAC3Bp-CML19 complex structure in solution. We demonstrated that the peptide interacts not only with Ca2+-saturated CML19, but also with apo-CML19 to form a protein-peptide complex with a 1 : 1 stoichiometry. Both interactions involve hydrophobic and electrostatic contributions and include the burial of Trp residues of SAC3Bp. However, the peptide likely assumes different conformations upon binding to apo-CML19 or Ca2+-CML19. Importantly, the peptide dramatically increases the affinity for Ca2+ of CML19, especially of the C-lobe, suggesting that in vivo the protein would be Ca2+-saturated and bound to SAC3B even at resting Ca2+-levels. Our results, providing direct evidence that Arabidopsis SAC3B is a CML19 target and proposing that CML19 can bind to SAC3B through its C-lobe independent of a Ca2+ stimulus, support a functional role for these proteins in TREX-2 complex and mRNA export.

Calcium-induced human centrin 1 self-assembly and double-regulating the binding with peptide R18-Sfi1p

Centrin is a member of the EF-hand super-family that plays pivotal role in the centrosome duplication and separation. In the present paper, we characterized the properties of metal ions as well as peptide R18-Sfi1p binding to human centrin 1 (HsCen1) by fluorescence spectra and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). Four metal ions binding sites on HsCen1 were identified through ITC experiments. The conditional binding constants of the EF-hand domain on HsCen1 with Ca²⁺ were quantitatively calculated. In reversible manner, Ca²⁺ can induce HsCen1 self-assembly. In addition, HsCen1 bound with peptide R18-Sfi1p in calcium-dependent with middle-affinity. Phosphorylation at Ser170 weakened interaction HsCen1 with the substrate and removal calcium ions further weakened interactions of the two molecules. Hence, we inferred that centrin initiating downstream peptides may be a double-regulated process by calcium and phosphorylation. These results are of significance for understanding the relationship between PTM and metal regulation.

A role for Saccharomyces cerevisiae Centrin (Cdc31) in mitochondrial function and biogenesis

Centrins belong to a family of proteins containing calcium-binding EF-hand motifs that perform well-established roles in centrosome and spindle pole body (SPB) duplication. Yeast encodes a single Centrin protein (Cdc31) that binds components in the SPB. However, further studies revealed a role for Centrins in mRNA export, and interactions with contractile filaments and photoreceptors. In addition, human Centrin-2 can bind the DNA-lesion recognition factor XPC, and improve the efficiency of nucleotide excision repair. Similarly, we reported that yeast Cdc31 binds Rad4, a functional counterpart of the XPC DNA repair protein. We also found that Cdc31 is involved in the ubiquitin/proteasome system, and mutations interfere with intracellular protein turnover. In this report, we describe new findings that indicate a role for Cdc31 in the energy metabolism pathway. Cdc31 and cdc31 mutant proteins showed distinct interactions with proteins in energy metabolism, and mutants showed sensitivity to oxidative stress and poor growth on non-fermentable carbon. Significant alteration in mitochondrial morphology was also detected. Although it is unclear how Cdc31 contributes to so many unrelated mechanisms, we propose that by controlling SPB duplication Centrin proteins might link the cellular responses to DNA damage, oxidative load and proteotoxic stresses to growth control.

Binding of calcium and target peptide to calmodulin-like protein CML19, the centrin 2 of Arabidopsis thaliana

Calmodulin-like protein 19 (CML19) is an Arabidopsis centrin that modulates nucleotide excision repair (NER) by binding to RAD4 protein, the Arabidopsis homolog of human Xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group C protein. Although the necessity of CML19 as a part of the RAD4 plant recognition complex for functional NER is known at a cellular level, little is known at a molecular level. Herein, we used a combination of biophysical and biochemical approaches to investigate the structural and ion and target-peptide binding properties of CML19. We found that CML19 possesses four Ca²⁺-specific binding sites, two of high affinity in the N-terminal domain and two of low affinity in the C-terminal domain. Binding of Ca²⁺ to CML19 increases its alpha-helix content, stabilizes the tertiary structure, and triggers a conformational change, resulting in the exposure of a hydrophobic patch instrumental for target protein recognition. Using bioinformatics tools we identified a CML19-binding site at the C-terminus of RAD4, and through in vitro binding experiments we analyzed the interaction between a 17-mer peptide representing this site and CML19. We found that the peptide shows a high affinity for CML19 in the presence of Ca²⁺ (stoichiometry 1:1) and the interaction primarily involves the C-terminal half of CML19.

Prp40 Homolog A Is a Novel Centrin Target

Pre-mRNA processing protein 40 (Prp40) is a nuclear protein that has a role in pre-mRNA splicing. Prp40 possesses two leucine-rich nuclear export signals, but little is known about the function of Prp40 in the export process. Another protein that has a role in protein export is centrin, a member of the EF-hand superfamily of Ca²⁺-binding proteins. Prp40 was found to be a centrin target by yeast-two-hybrid screening using both Homo sapiens centrin 2 (Hscen2) and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii centrin (Crcen). We identified a centrin-binding site within H. sapiens Prp40 homolog A (HsPrp40A), which contains a hydrophobic triad W₁L₄L₈ that is known to be important in the interaction with centrin. This centrin-binding site is highly conserved within the first nuclear export signal consensus sequence identified in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Prp40. Here, we examine the interaction of HsPrp40A peptide (HsPrp40Ap) with both Hscen2 and Crcen by isothermal titration calorimetry. We employed the thermodynamic parameterization to estimate the polar and apolar surface area of the interface. In addition, we have defined the molecular mechanism of thermally induced unfolding and dissociation of the Crcen-HsPrp40Ap complex using two-dimensional infrared correlation spectroscopy. These complementary techniques showed for the first time, to our knowledge, that HsPrp40Ap interacts with centrin in vitro, supporting a coupled functional role for these proteins in pre-mRNA splicing.

Binding of Euplotes octocarinatus centrin to peptide from xeroderma pigmentosum group C protein (XPC)

Trp is buried in the hydrophobic cavity, the peptide folds into an α-helix, and the interaction is enthalpically driven from ITC.

Role of four conserved aspartic acid residues of EF-loops in the metal ion binding and in the self-assembly of ciliate Euplotes octocarinatus centrin

Ciliate Euplotes octocarinatus centrin (EoCen) is an EF-hand calcium-binding protein closely related to the prototypical calcium sensor protein calmodulin. Four mutants (D37K, D73K, D110K and D146K) were created firstly to elucidate the importance of the first aspartic acid residues (Asp37, Asp73, Asp110 and Asp146) in the beginning of the four EF-loops of EoCen. Aromatic-sensitized Tb³⁺ fluorescence indicates that the aspartic acid residues are very important for the metal-binding of EoCen, except for Asp73 (in EF-loop II). Resonance light scattering (RLS) measurements for different metal ions (Ca²⁺ and Tb³⁺) binding proteins suggest that the order of four conserved aspartic acid residues for contributing to the self-assembly of EoCen is Asp37 > Asp146 > Asp110 > Asp73. Cross-linking experiment also exhibits that Asp37 and Asp146 play critical role in the self-assembly of EoCen. Asp37, in site I, which is located in the N-terminal domain, plays the most important role in the metal ion-dependent self-assembly of EoCen, and there is cooperativity between N-terminal and C-terminal domain (especially the site IV). In addition, the dependence of Tb³⁺ induced self-assembly of EoCen and the mutants on various factors, including ionic strength and pH, were characterized using RLS. Finally, 2-p-toluidinylnaphthalene-6-sulfonate (TNS) binding, ionic strength and pH control experiments indicate that in the process of EoCen self-assembly, molecular interactions are mediated by both electrostatic and hydrophobic forces, and the hydrophobic interaction has the important status.

Electrostatics effects on Ca(2+) binding and conformational changes in EF-hand domains: Functional implications for EF-hand proteins

Mutations of Gln41 and Lys75 with nonpolar residues in the N-terminal domain of calmodulin (N-Cam) revealed the importance of solvation energetics in conformational change of Ca(2+) sensor EF-hand domains. While in general these domains have polar residues at these corresponding positions yet the extent of their conformational response to Ca(2+) binding and their Ca(2+) binding affinity can be different from N-Cam. Consequently, here we address the charge state of the polar residues at these positions. The results show that the charge state of these polar residues can affect substantially the conformational change and the Ca(2+) binding affinity of our N-Cam variants. Since all the variants kept their conformational activity in the presence of Ca(2+) suggests that the differences observed among them mainly originate from the difference in their molecular dynamics. Hence we propose that the molecular dynamics of Ca(2+) sensor EF-hand domains is a key factor in the multifunctional aspect of EF-hand proteins.

Trifluoroacetic acid as excipient destabilizes melittin causing the selective aggregation of melittin within the centrin-melittin-trifluoroacetic acid complex

Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) may be the cause of the bottleneck in high resolution structure determination for protein-peptide complexes. Fragment based drug design often involves the use of synthetic peptides which contain TFA (excipient). Our goal was to explore the effects of this excipient on a model complex: centrin-melittin-TFA. We performed Fourier transform infrared, two-dimensional infrared correlation spectroscopies and spectral simulations to analyze the amide I'/I'* band for the components and the ternary complex. Melittin (MLT) was observed to have increased helicity upon its interaction with centrin, followed by the thermally induced aggregation of MLT within the ternary complex in the TFA presence.

Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange Reflects Binding of Human Centrin 2 to Ca(2+) and Xeroderma Pigmentosum Group C Peptide: An Example of EX1 Kinetics

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a genetic disease affecting 1 in 10,000-100,000 and predisposes people to early-age skin cancer, a disease that is increasing. Those with XP have decreased ability to repair UV-induced DNA damage, leading to increased susceptibility of cancerous non-melanomas and melanomas. A vital, heterotrimeric protein complex is linked to the nucleotide excision repair pathway for the damaged DNA. The complex consists of XPC protein, human centrin 2, and RAD23B. One of the members, human centrin 2, is a ubiquitous, acidic, Ca(2+)-binding protein belonging to the calmodulin superfamily. The XPC protein contains a sequence motif specific for binding to human centrin 2. We report here the Ca(2+)-binding properties of human centrin 2 and its interaction with the XPC peptide motif. We utilized a region-specific H/D exchange protocol to localize the interaction of the XPC peptide with the C-terminal domain of centrin, the binding of which is different than that of calmodulin complexes. The binding dynamics of human centrin 2 to the XPC peptide in the absence and presence of Ca(2+) are revealed by the observation of EX1 H/D exchange regime, indicating that a locally unfolded population exists in solution and undergoes fast H/D exchange.

The two human centrin homologues have similar but distinct functions at Tetrahymena basal bodies

Centrins are a ubiquitous family of small Ca(2+)-binding proteins found at basal bodies that are placed into two groups based on sequence similarity to the human centrins 2 and 3. Analyses of basal body composition in different species suggest that they contain a centrin isoform from each group. We used the ciliate protist Tetrahymena thermophila to gain a better understanding of the functions of the two centrin groups and to determine their potential redundancy. We have previously shown that the Tetrahymena centrin 1 (Cen1), a human centrin 2 homologue, is required for proper basal body function. In this paper, we show that the Tetrahymena centrin 2 (Cen2), a human centrin 3 homologue, has functions similar to Cen1 in basal body orientation, maintenance, and separation. The two are, however, not redundant. A further examination of human centrin 3 homologues shows that they function in a manner distinct from human centrin 2 homologues. Our data suggest that basal bodies require a centrin from both groups in order to function correctly.

The structure, molecular dynamics, and energetics of centrin-melittin complex

Centrin is a calcium binding protein (CaBP) belonging to the EF-hand superfamily. As with other proteins within this family, centrin is a calcium sensor with multiple biological target proteins. We chose to study Chlamydomonas reinhardtii centrin (Crcen) and its interaction with melittin (MLT) as a model for CaBP complexes due to its amphipathic properties. Our goal was to determine the molecular interactions that lead to centrin-MLT complex formation, their relative stability, and the conformational changes associated with the interaction, when compared to the single components. For this, we determined the thermodynamic parameters that define Crcen-MLT complex formation. Two-dimensional infrared (2D IR) correlation spectroscopy were used to study the amide I', I'*, and side chain bands for (13)C-Crcen, MLT, and the (13)C-Crcen-MLT complex. This approach resulted in the determination of MLT's increased helicity, while centrin was stabilized within the complex. Herein we provide the first complete molecular description of centrin-MLT complex formation and the dissociation process. Also, discussed is the first structure of a CaBP-MLT complex by X-ray crystallography, which shows that MLT has a different binding orientation than previously characterized centrin-bound peptides. Finally, all of the experimental results presented herein are consistent with centrin maintaining an extended conformation while interacting with MLT. The molecular implications of these results are: (1) the recognition of hydrophobic contacts as requirements for initial binding, (2) minimum electrostatic interactions within the C-terminal end of the peptide, and (3) van der Waals interactions within MLTs N-terminal end are required for complex formation.

The two domains of centrin have distinct basal body functions in Tetrahymena

The basal body is a microtubule-organizing center responsible for organizing the cilium, a structure important for cell locomotion and sensing of the surrounding environment. A widely conserved basal body component is the Ca(2+)-binding protein centrin. Analyses of centrin function suggest a role in basal body assembly and stability; however, its molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here we describe a mutagenic strategy to study the function and essential nature of the various structural features of Cen1 in the ciliate Tetrahymena. We find that the two domains of Cen1 are both essential, and examination of strains containing mutant CEN1 alleles indicates that there are two predominant basal body phenotypes: misorientation of newly assembled basal bodies and stability defects. The results also show that the two domains of Cen1 are able to bind Ca(2+) and that perturbation of Ca(2+) binding affects Cen1 function. In all, the data suggest that the two domains of Cen1 have distinct functions.

Relating form and function of EF-hand calcium binding proteins

The EF hand, a helix-loop-helix structure, is one of the most common motifs found in animal genomes, and EF-hand Ca(2+)-binding proteins (EFCaBPs) are widely distributed throughout the cell. However, researchers remain confounded by a lack of understanding of how peptide sequences code for specific functions and by uncertainty about the molecular mechanisms that enable EFCaBPs to distinguish among many diverse cellular targets. Such knowledge could define the roles of EFCaBPs in health and disease and ultimately enable control or even design of Ca(2+)-dependent functions in medicine and biotechnology. In this Account, we describe our structural and biochemical research designed to understand the sequence-to-function relationship in EFCaBPs. The first structural goal was to define conformational changes induced by binding Ca(2+), and our group and others established that solution NMR spectroscopy is well suited for this task. We pinpointed residues critical to the differences in Ca(2+) response of calbindin D(9k) and calmodulin (CaM), homologous EFCaBPs from different functional classes, by using direct structure determination with site-directed mutagenesis and protein engineering. Structure combined with biochemistry provided the foundation for identifying the fundamental mechanism of cooperativity in the binding of Ca(2+) ions: this cooperativity provides EFCaBPs with the ability to detect the relatively small changes in concentration that constitute Ca(2+) signals. Using calbindin D(9k) as a model system, studies of the structure and fast time scale dynamics of each of the four ion binding states in a typical EF-hand domain provided direct evidence that site-site communication lowers the free energy cost of reorganization for binding the second ion. Our work has also extended models of how EFCaBPs interact with their cellular targets. We determined the unique dimeric architecture of S100 proteins, a specialized subfamily of EFCaBPs found exclusively in vertebrates. We described the implications for how these proteins transduce signals and went on to characterize interactions with peptide fragments of important cellular targets. Studies of the CaM homolog centrin revealed novel characteristics of its binding of Ca(2+) and its interaction with its cellular target Kar1. These results provided clear examples of how subtle differences in sequence fine-tune EFCaBPs to interact with their specific targets. The structural approach stands at a critical crossroad, shifting in emphasis from descriptive structural biochemistry to integrated biology and medicine. We present our dual-molecular-switch model for Ca(2+) regulation of gating functions of voltage-gated sodium channels in which both CaM and an intrinsic EF-hand domain serve as coupled Ca(2+) sensors. A second example involves novel EFCaBP extracellular function, that is, the role of S100A8/S100A9 heterodimer in the innate immune response to bacterial pathogens. A mechanism for the antimicrobial activity of S100A8/S100A9 was discovered. We describe interactions of S100A8/S100A9 and S100B with the cell surface receptor for advanced glycation end products. Biochemical and structural studies are now uncovering the mechanisms by which EFCaBPs work and are helping to define their biological activities, while simultaneously expanding knowledge of the roles of these proteins in normal cellular physiology and the pathology of disease.

Solution NMR structure of the C-terminal DNA binding domain of Mcm10 reveals a conserved MCM motif

The eukaryotic DNA replication protein Mcm10 associates with chromatin in early S-phase and is required for assembly and function of the replication fork protein machinery. Xenopus laevis (X) Mcm10 binds DNA via a highly conserved internal domain (ID) and a C-terminal domain (CTD) that is unique to higher eukaryotes. Although the structural basis of the interactions of the ID with DNA and polymerase alpha is known, little information is available for the CTD. We have identified the minimal DNA binding region of the XMcm10-CTD and determined its three-dimensional structure by solution NMR. The CTD contains a globular domain composed of two zinc binding motifs. NMR chemical shift perturbation and mutational analysis show that ssDNA binds only to the N-terminal (CCCH-type) zinc motif, whose structure is unique to Mcm10. The second (CCCC-type) zinc motif is not involved in DNA binding. However, it is structurally similar to the CCCC zinc ribbon in the N-terminal oligomerization domain of eukaryotic and archaeal MCM helicases. NMR analysis of a construct spanning both the ID and CTD reveals that the two DNA binding domains are structurally independent in solution, supporting a modular architecture for vertebrate Mcm10. Our results provide insight in the action of Mcm10 in the replisome and support a model in which it serves as a central scaffold through coupling of interactions with partner proteins and the DNA.

Specific coiled-coil interactions contribute to a global model of the structure of the spindle pole body

As the microtubule-organizing center of yeast, the spindle pole body (SPB) is essential for cell viability. Structural studies of the SPB are limited by its low copy number in the cell, its large size and heterogeneous composition, and its association with the nuclear membrane. However, low-resolution or indirect structural information about the SPB may be deciphered through a variety of techniques. Interestingly, a large proportion of SPB proteins are predicted to contain one or more coiled coils, a common protein interaction motif. The high frequency of coiled coils suggests that this structure is important for establishing the overall architecture of the complex. Support for this hypothesis was reported previously for coiled coils from some SPB proteins. Here, we extend this approach of isolating and characterizing additional SPB coiled coils to improve our understanding of SPB structure and organization. Self-associating coiled coils from Bbp1, Mps2, and Nbp1 were observed to form stable parallel homodimers in solution. Coiled-coil peptides from Bbp1 and Mps2 were also observed to hetero-associate. Experimental coiled-coil interaction data from this work and previous studies, as well as predicted and experimental structures for other SPB protein fragments and domains, were integrated to generate a model of the SPB structure.

Dictyostelium discoideum CenB is a bona fide centrin essential for nuclear architecture and centrosome stability

Centrins are a family of proteins within the calcium-binding EF-hand superfamily. In addition to their archetypical role at the microtubule organizing center (MTOC), centrins have acquired multiple functionalities throughout the course of evolution. For example, centrins have been linked to different nuclear activities, including mRNA export and DNA repair. Dictyostelium discoideum centrin B is a divergent member of the centrin family. At the amino acid level, DdCenB shows 51% identity with its closest relative and only paralog, DdCenA. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that DdCenB and DdCenA form a well-supported monophyletic and divergent group within the centrin family of proteins. Interestingly, fluorescently tagged versions of DdCenB were not found at the centrosome (in whole cells or in isolated centrosomes). Instead, DdCenB localized to the nuclei of interphase cells. This localization disappeared as the cells entered mitosis, although Dictyostelium cells undergo a closed mitosis in which the nuclear envelope (NE) does not break down. DdCenB knockout cells exhibited aberrant nuclear architecture, characterized by enlarged and deformed nuclei and loss of proper centrosome-nucleus anchoring (observed as NE protrusions). At the centrosome, loss of DdCenB resulted in defects in the organization and morphology of the MTOC and supernumerary centrosomes and centrosome-related bodies. The multiple defects that the loss of DdCenB generated at the centrosome can be explained by its atypical division cycle, transitioning into the NE as it divides at mitosis. On the basis of these findings, we propose that DdCenB is required at interphase to maintain proper nuclear architecture, and before delocalizing from the nucleus, DdCenB is part of the centrosome duplication machinery.

Sus1, Cdc31, and the Sac3 CID region form a conserved interaction platform that promotes nuclear pore association and mRNA export

The yeast Sac3:Cdc31:Sus1:Thp1 (TREX-2) complex facilitates the repositioning and association of actively transcribing genes with nuclear pores (NPCs)-"gene gating"-that is central to integrating transcription, processing, and mRNA nuclear export. We present here the crystal structure of Sus1 and Cdc31 bound to a central region of Sac3 (the CID domain) that is crucial for its function. Sac3(CID) forms a long, gently undulating alpha helix around which one Cdc31 and two Sus1 chains are wrapped. Sus1 has an articulated helical hairpin fold that facilitates its wrapping around Sac3. In vivo studies using engineered mutations that selectively disrupted binding of individual chains to Sac3 indicated that Sus1 and Cdc31 function synergistically to promote NPC association of TREX-2 and mRNA nuclear export. These data indicate Sac3(CID) provides a scaffold within TREX-2 to integrate interactions between protein complexes to facilitate the coupling of transcription and mRNA export during gene expression.

Analysis of coiled-coil interactions between core proteins of the spindle pole body

The spindle pole body (SPB) is a multiprotein complex that organizes microtubules in yeast. Due to its large size and association with the nuclear membrane, little is known about its detailed structure. In particular, although many SPB components and some of the interactions between them have been identified, the molecular details of how most of these interactions occur are not known. The prevalence of predicted coiled-coil regions in SPB proteins suggests that some interactions may occur via coiled coils. Here this hypothesis is supported by biochemical characterization of isolated coiled-coil peptides derived from SPB proteins. Formation of four strongly self-associating coiled-coil complexes from Spc29, Spc42, and Spc72 was demonstrated by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy and a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) assay. Many weaker self- and heteroassociations were also detected by CD, FRET, and/or cross-linking. The thermal stabilities of nine candidate homooligomers were assessed; six unfolded cooperatively with melting temperatures ranging from <11 to >50 degrees C. Solution studies established that coiled-coil peptides derived from Spc42 and Spc72 form parallel dimers, and this was confirmed for Spc42 by a high-resolution crystal structure. These data contribute to a growing body of knowledge that will ultimately provide a detailed model of the SPB structure.

Centrin4 coordinates cell and nuclear division in T. brucei

Centrins are Ca2+-binding proteins that have been implicated in a number of biological processes, including organelle duplication, mRNA export, DNA repair and signal transduction. In the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei we have previously described TbCentrin2, which is present on a bi-lobed structure, and involved in the duplication and segregation of the Golgi complex. Recently, another centrin, TbCentrin4, was also found at the bi-lobe and has been implicated in organelle segregation and cytokinesis. We now show that cytokinesis is not inhibited, but that a dysregulation of nuclear and cell division leads to the production of zoids – daughter siblings that contain all organelles except the nucleus. Our results, therefore, suggest that TbCentrin4 is involved in processes that coordinate karyokinesis and cytokinesis.

Crystallization and preliminary X-ray characterization of full-length Chlamydomonas reinhardtii centrin

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii centrin is a member of the EF-hand calcium-binding superfamily. It is found in the basal body complex and is important for flagellar motility. Like other members of the EF-hand family, centrin interacts with and modulates the function of other proteins in a calcium-dependent manner. To understand how C. reinhardtii centrin interacts with its protein targets, it has been crystallized in the presence of the model peptide melittin and X-ray diffraction data have been collected to 2.2 A resolution. The crystals are orthorhombic, with unit-cell parameters a = 52.1, b = 114.4, c = 34.8 A, and are likely to belong to space group P2(1)2(1)2.

Centrins in retinal photoreceptor cells: regulators in the connecting cilium

Changes in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration regulate the visual signal transduction cascade directly or more often indirectly through Ca2+-binding proteins. Here we focus on centrins, which are members of a highly conserved subgroup of the EF-hand superfamily of Ca2+-binding proteins in photoreceptor cells of the vertebrate retina. Centrins are commonly associated with centrosome-related structures. In mammalian retinal photoreceptor cells, four centrin isoforms are expressed as prominent components in the connecting cilium linking the light-sensitive outer segment compartment with the metabolically active inner segment compartment. Our data indicate that Ca2+-activated centrin isoforms assemble into protein complexes with the visual heterotrimeric G-protein transducin. This interaction of centrins with transducin is mediated by binding to the betagamma-dimer of the heterotrimeric G-protein. More recent findings show that these interactions of centrins with transducin are reciprocally regulated via site-specific phosphorylations mediated by the protein kinase CK2. The assembly of centrin/G-protein complexes is a novel aspect of translocation regulation of signalling proteins in sensory cells, and represents a potential link between molecular trafficking and signal transduction in general.

Centrin/Cdc31 is a novel regulator of protein degradation

Rad23 is required for efficient protein degradation and performs an important role in nucleotide excision repair. Saccharomyces cerevisiae Rad23, and its human counterpart (hHR23), are present in a complex containing the DNA repair factor Rad4 (termed XPC, for xeroderma pigmentosum group C, in humans). XPC/hHR23 was also reported to bind centrin-2, a member of the superfamily of calcium-binding EF-hand proteins. We report here that yeast centrin, which is encoded by CDC31, is similarly present in a complex with Rad4/Rad23 (called NEF2). The interaction between Cdc31 and Rad23/Rad4 varied by growth phase and reflected oscillations in Cdc31 levels. Strikingly, a cdc31 mutant that formed a weaker interaction with Rad4 showed sensitivity to UV light. Based on the dual function of Rad23, in both DNA repair and protein degradation, we questioned if Cdc31 also participated in protein degradation. We report here that Cdc31 binds the proteasome and multiubiquitinated proteins through its carboxy-terminal EF-hand motifs. Moreover, cdc31 mutants were highly sensitive to drugs that cause protein damage, failed to efficiently degrade proteolytic substrates, and formed altered interactions with the proteasome. These findings reveal for the first time a new role for centrin/Cdc31 in protein degradation.

Structural, Thermodynamic, and Cellular Characterization of Human Centrin 2 Interaction with Xeroderma Pigmentosum Group C Protein

Human centrin 2 (HsCen2), an EF-hand calcium binding protein, plays a regulatory role in the DNA damage recognition during the first steps of the nucleotide excision repair. This biological action is mediated by the binding to a short fragment (N847-R863) from the C-terminal region of xeroderma pigmentosum group C (XPC) protein. This work presents a detailed structural and energetic characterization of the HsCen2/XPC interaction. Using a truncated form of HsCen2 we obtained a high resolution (1.8 A) X-ray structure of the complex with the peptide N847-R863 from XPC. Structural and thermodynamic analysis of the interface revealed the existence of both electrostatic and apolar inter-molecular interactions, but the binding energy is mainly determined by the burial of apolar bulky side-chains into the hydrophobic pocket of the HsCen2 C-terminal domain. Binding studies with various peptide variants showed that XPC residues W848 and L851 constitute the critical anchoring side-chains. This enabled us to define a minimal centrin binding peptide variant of five residues, which accounts for about 75% of the total free energy of interaction between the two proteins. Immunofluorescence imaging in HeLa cells demonstrated that HsCen2 binding to the integral XPC protein may be observed in living cells, and is determined by the same interface residues identified in the X-ray structure of the complex. Overexpression of XPC perturbs the cellular distribution of HsCen2, by inducing a translocation of centrin molecules from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. The present data confirm that the in vitro structural features of the centrin/XPC peptide complex are highly relevant to the cellular context.

The spectral studies on the effect of Glu 101 to the metal binding characteristic of Euplotes octocarinatus centrin

Glu is highly conserved as the first amino acid of E-helix of the EF-hand protein. In this paper, Glu 101, the first amino acid of E-helix of the third EF-hand motif in Euplotes octocarinatus centrin (EoCen) was mutated to be Lys by the method of site direct mutation. Tb3+ and TNS were used as fluorescence probes in the study of the effect of this mutation to the metal binding characteristic of EoCen by fluorescence spectra. Results indicate that compared with EoCen, the mutation protein (E101K) displays a different Tb3+ binding characteristic and an increased hydrophobic exposure surface. Polyacrylamide gels electrophoresis indicated that the electrophoretic mobilities of EoCen and E101K are distinctly different. It can be deduced that the conformation of EoCen has been altered by this mutation. The general conditional binding constant of Tb3+ to the three loops of EF-hand sites I-III in E101K was calculated to be (5.64+/-0.57)x10(5)M(-1) according to the modified equation of the single binding process.

Metal ions-induced conformational change of P23 by using TNS as fluorescence probe

In 10 mM N-2-hydroxyethylpiperazine-N-2-ethanesulfonic acid (Hepes), pH 7.4, 25 degrees C, the conformational change of the truncated form of ciliate Euplotes Octocarinatus centrin (P23) induced by metal ions were investigated using 2-p-toluidinylnaphthalene-6-sulfonate (TNS) as a probe. The results show that upon metal ions binding, P23 undergo a conformational change and the contributions to the conformational change from the two EF-hands are different, and Tb3+ has more larger influence than Ca2+ with the same concentration metal ions, which provide possible the evidence that the different EF-hands play distinct biological functions. Meanwhile, the conditional binding constants of TNS and Ca2-loaded or Tb2-loaded P23 were obtained, K (Ca2-P23+TNS)=(7.49+/-0.88)x10(5) mol-1 L, K (Tb2-P23+TNS)=(8.24+/-0.49)x10(5) mol-1 L.

A mechanistic view on the evolutionary origin for centrin-based control of centriole duplication

Mounting evidence implicates the protein centrin as a key regulator of centriole duplication, yet it remains to be determined just how centrin functions in this process. Recent studies suggest that centrin exerts both spatial and temporal control over centriole duplication through its role as a component of centriole precursor structures and through periodic cell-cycle specific changes in its abundance. Here, an overview of centrin and its role in centrosome dynamics is presented. Finally, a speculative model for just how centrin may operate to control centriole duplication is proposed with the intention to stimulate future advances in this area. This model provides an evolutionary basis for the preservation of essential features of the yeast spindle pole body (SPB) with the origin of the complex structure of the mammalian centriole.

Insights into functional aspects of centrins from the structure of N-terminally extended mouse centrin 1

Centrins are members of the family of Ca(2+)-binding EF-hand proteins. In photoreceptor cells, centrin isoform 1 is specifically localized in the non-motile cilium. This connecting cilium links the light-sensitive outer segment with the biosynthetic active inner segment of the photoreceptor cell. All intracellular exchanges between these compartments have to occur through this cilium. Three-dimensional structures of centrins from diverse organisms are known, showing that the EF-hand motifs of the N-terminal domains adopt closed conformations, while the C-terminal EF-hand motifs have open conformations. The crystal structure of an N-terminally extended mouse centrin 1 (MmCen1-L) resembles the overall structure of troponin C in its two Ca(2+) bound form. Within the N-terminal extension in MmCen1-L, residues W24 and R25 bind to the C-terminal domain of centrin 1 in a target-protein-like geometry. Here, we discuss this binding mode in connection with putative interaction sites of the target-protein transducin and the self-assembly of centrins.

Structural role of Sfi1p-centrin filaments in budding yeast spindle pole body duplication

Centrins are calmodulin-like proteins present in centrosomes and yeast spindle pole bodies (SPBs) and have essential functions in their duplication. The Saccharomyces cerevisiae centrin, Cdc31p, binds Sfi1p on multiple conserved repeats; both proteins localize to the SPB half-bridge, where the new SPB is assembled. The crystal structures of Sfi1p-centrin complexes containing several repeats show Sfi1p as an alpha helix with centrins wrapped around each repeat and similar centrin-centrin contacts between each repeat. Electron microscopy (EM) shadowing of an Sfi1p-centrin complex with 15 Sfi1 repeats and 15 centrins bound showed filaments 60 nm long, compatible with all the Sfi1 repeats as a continuous alpha helix. Immuno-EM localization of the Sfi1p N and C termini showed Sfi1p-centrin filaments spanning the length of the half-bridge with the Sfi1p N terminus at the SPB. This suggests a model for SPB duplication where the half-bridge doubles in length by association of the Sfi1p C termini, thereby providing a new Sfi1p N terminus to initiate SPB assembly.

The structure of the human centrin 2-xeroderma pigmentosum group C protein complex

Human centrin-2 plays a key role in centrosome function and stimulates nucleotide excision repair by binding to the xeroderma pigmentosum group C protein. To determine the structure of human centrin-2 and to develop an understanding of molecular interactions between centrin and xeroderma pigmentosum group C protein, we characterized the crystal structure of calcium-loaded full-length centrin-2 complexed with a xeroderma pigmentosum group C peptide. Our structure shows that the carboxyl-terminal domain of centrin-2 binds this peptide and two calcium atoms, whereas the amino-terminal lobe is in a closed conformation positioned distantly by an ordered alpha-helical linker. A stretch of the amino-terminal domain unique to centrins appears disordered. Two xeroderma pigmentosum group C peptides both bound to centrin-2 also interact to form an alpha-helical coiled-coil. The interface between centrin-2 and each peptide is predominantly nonpolar, and key hydrophobic residues of XPC have been identified that lead us to propose a novel binding motif for centrin.

The biochemical effect of Ser167 phosphorylation on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii centrin

Centrin is an EF-hand calcium-binding protein found in microtubule organizing centers of organisms ranging from algae and yeast to man. Phosphorylation in the centrin C-terminal domain occurs in mitosis and is associated with alterations in contractile fibers. To obtain insight into the structural basis for the functional effect of phosphorylation, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii centrin C-terminal domain phosphorylated at Ser167 (pCRC-C) has been produced and characterized. The structure of pCRC-C was compared to the unmodified protein by NMR spectroscopy. The effect of phosphorylation on target binding was examined for the complex of pCRC-C and a 19 residue centrin-binding fragment of Kar1. Remarkably, the efficient and selective phosphorylation by PKA was suppressed in the complex. Moreover, comparisons of NMR chemical shift differences induced by phosphorylation reveal a greater effect from phosphorylation in the context of the Kar1 complex than for the free protein. These results directly demonstrate that phosphorylation modulates the structure and biochemical activities of centrin.

Structure of the N-terminal Calcium Sensor Domain of Centrin Reveals the Biochemical Basis for Domain-specific Function

Centrin is an essential component of microtubule-organizing centers in organisms ranging from algae and yeast to humans. It is an EF-hand calcium-binding protein with homology to calmodulin but distinct calcium binding properties. In a previously proposed model, the C-terminal domain of centrin serves as a constitutive anchor to target proteins, and the N-terminal domain serves as the sensor of calcium signals. The three-dimensional structure of the N-terminal domain of Chlamydomonas rheinhardtii centrin has been determined in the presence of calcium by solution NMR spectroscopy. The domain is found to occupy an open conformation typical of EF-hand calcium sensors. Comparison of the N- and C-terminal domains of centrin reveals a structural and biochemical basis for the domain specificity of interactions with its cellular targets and the distinct nature of centrin relative to other EF-hand proteins. An NMR titration of the centrin N-terminal domain with a fragment of the known centrin target Sfi1 reveals binding of the peptide to a discrete site on the protein, which supports the proposal that the N-terminal domain serves as a calcium sensor in centrin.

Structure of the regulatory apparatus of a calcium-dependent protein kinase (CDPK): a novel mode of calmodulin-target recognition

Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) are a class of calcium-binding sensory proteins that are found in plants and certain protozoa, including the causative agent of malaria, Plasmodium falciparum. CDPKs have diverse regulatory functions, including involvement in the triggering of the lytic cycle of malarial infection. CDPKs contain an autoinhibitory junction (J) region whose calcium-dependent interaction with the tethered regulatory calmodulin-like domain (CaM-LD) activates the catalytic kinase domain. We report here the X-ray crystal structure of the J-CaM-LD region of CDPK from Arabidopsis thaliana (AtCPK1), determined to 2.0 A resolution using multiple-wavelength anomalous dispersion (MAD). The structure reveals a symmetric dimer of calcium-bound J-CaM-LD with domain-swap interactions, in which the J region of one protomer interacts extensively with the carboxy-terminal EF-hand domain (C-lobe) of the partner protomer. However, as the J-CaM-LD is monomeric in solution, the activated monomer was modelled to account for the intra-molecular recognition of the two domains. While the J-CaM-LD segment mimics certain aspects of target motif recognition by CaM other features are specific to CDPKs, in particular the combination of the strong interaction between the N and C-lobes of the CaM-LD and the exclusive use of only the C-lobe in the recognition of the covalently tethered target region. Combined with our previous observations showing that there is likely to be strong interactions between this tethered J region and the CaM-LD even at basal Ca(2+) concentrations, the new structural data indicate that the response to calcium of CDPKs is clearly unique among the CaM family.

Centrin scaffold in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii revealed by immunoelectron microscopy

In the flagellate green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii the Ca(2+)-binding EF-hand protein centrin is encoded by a single-copy gene. Previous studies have localized the protein to four distinct structures in the flagellar apparatus: the nucleus-basal body connector, the distal connecting fiber, the flagellar transitional region, and the axoneme. To explain the disjunctive distribution of centrin, the interaction of centrin with as yet unknown specific centrin-binding proteins has been implied. Here, we demonstrate using serial section postembedding immunoelectron microscopy of isolated cytoskeletons that centrin is located in additional structures (transitional fibers and basal body lumen) and that the centrin-containing structures of the basal apparatus are likely part of a continuous filamentous scaffold that extends from the nucleus to the flagellar bases. In addition, we show that centrin is located in the distal lumen of the basal body in a rotationally asymmetric structure, the V-shaped filament system. This novel centrin-containing structure has also been detected near the distal end of the probasal bodies. Taken together, these results suggest a role for a rotationally asymmetric centrin "seed" in the growth and development of the centrin scaffold following replication of the basal apparatus.

Crystallization and preliminary X-ray studies of mouse centrin1

Centrins belong to a family of Ca2+-binding EF-hand proteins that play a fundamental role in centrosome duplication and the function of cilia. To shed light on the structure-function relationship of these proteins, mouse centrin1 has been crystallized. The mouse centrin1 has been expressed in Escherichia coli as a GST-centrin fusion protein containing a thrombin protease cleavage site between the fusion partners. Two constructs with different linking-sequence lengths were expressed and purified. Thrombin cleavage yielded functional centrin1 and N-terminally extended centrin1 containing 25 additional residues upstream of its N-terminus. Only N-terminally extended centrin1 (MW approximately 22 240 Da) could be crystallized at room temperature, using 20-25%(w/v) PEG 1500, 5-10%(v/v) ethylene glycol and 1-2%(v/v) dioxane. Crystals were suitable for X-ray analysis, diffracting to 2.9 A at 295 K using a rotating-anode X-ray source. They belong to space group C2, with unit-cell parameters a = 60.7, b = 59.6, c = 58.3 A, beta = 109.4 degrees. Assuming the asymmetric cell to be occupied by one centrin1 molecule of 22.2 kDa, the unit cell contains 45% solvent with a crystal volume per protein weight, VM, of 2.2 A3 Da(-1).

Target selectivity in EF-hand calcium binding proteins

EF-hand calcium binding proteins have remarkable sequence homology and structural similarity, yet their response to binding of calcium is diverse and they function in a wide range of biological processes. Knowledge of the fine-tuning of EF-hand protein sequences to optimize specific biochemical properties has been significantly advanced over the past 10 years by determination of atomic resolution structures. These data lay the foundation for addressing how functional selectivity is generated from a generic ionic signal. This review presents current ideas about the structural mechanisms that provide the selectivity of different EF-hand proteins for specific cellular targets, using S100 and calmodulin family proteins to demonstrate the critical concepts. Three factors contribute significantly to target selectivity: molecular architecture, response to binding of Ca(2+) ions, and the characteristics of target binding surfaces. Comparisons of calmodulin and S100 proteins provide insights into the role these factors play in facilitating the variety of binding configurations necessary for recognizing a diverse set of targets.

The Mode of Action of Centrin

Centrin is an EF-hand calcium-binding protein closely related to the prototypical calcium sensor protein calmodulin. It is found in microtubule-organizing centers of organisms ranging from algae and yeast to man. In vitro, the C-terminal domain of centrin binds to the yeast centrosomal protein Kar1p in a calcium-dependent manner, whereas the N-terminal domain does not show any appreciable affinity for Kar1p. To obtain deeper insights into the structural basis for centrin's function, we have characterized the affinities of the C-terminal domain of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii centrin for calcium and for a peptide fragment of Kar1p using CD, fluorescence, and NMR spectroscopy. Calcium binding site IV in C. reinhardtii centrin was found to bind Ca2+ approximately 100-fold more strongly than site III. In the absence of Ca2+, the protein occupies a mixture of closed conformations. Binding of a single ion in site IV is sufficient to radically alter the conformational equilibrium, promoting occupancy of an open conformation. However, an exchange between closed and open conformations remains even at saturating levels of Ca2+. The population of the open conformation is substantially stabilized by the presence of the target peptide Kar1p-(239-257) to a point where a single ion bound in site IV is sufficient to completely shift the conformational equilibrium to the open conformation. This is reflected in the enhancement of the Ca2+ affinity in this site by more than an order of magnitude. These data confirm the direct coupling of the Ca2+ binding-induced shift in the equilibrium between the closed and open conformations to the binding of the peptide. Combined with the common localization of the two proteins in the microtubule organizing center, our results suggest that centrin is constitutively bound to Kar1p through its C-terminal domain and that centrin's calcium sensor activities are mediated by the N-terminal domain.