Low-frequency motions in protein molecules. Beta-sheet and beta-barrel

Biophys J. 1985 Aug;48(2):289-97. doi: 10.1016/S0006-3495(85)83782-6.

Abstract

Low-frequency internal motions in protein molecules play a key role in biological functions. Based on previous work with alpha-helical structure, the quasi-continuum model is extended to the beta-structure, another fundamental element in protein molecules. In terms of the equations derived here, one can easily calculate the low-frequency wave number of a beta-sheet in an accordionlike motion, and the low-frequency wave number of a beta-barrel in a breathing motion. The calculated results for immunoglobulin G and concanavalin A agree well with the observations. These findings further verify that the observed low-frequency motion (or the so-called dominant low-frequency mode) in a protein molecule is essentially governed by the collective fluctuations of its weak bonds, especially hydrogen bonds, and the internal displacement of the massive atoms therein, as described by the quasi-continuum model.

MeSH terms

  • Kinetics
  • Mathematics
  • Models, Biological
  • Models, Molecular
  • Protein Conformation*
  • Proteins / metabolism*

Substances

  • Proteins