Symmetry, stability, and dynamics of multidomain and multicomponent protein systems

Symmetry, stability, and dynamics of multidomain and multicomponent protein systems

Tom L. Blundell* and
N. Srinivasan

Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QW, United Kingdom

Abstract

Symmetry is commonly observed in many biological systems. Here we discuss representative examples of the role of symmetry in structural molecular biology. Point group symmetries are observed in many protein oligomers whose three-dimensional atomic structures have been elucidated by x-ray crystallography. Approximate symmetry also occurs in multidomain proteins. Symmetry often confers stability on the molecular system and results in economical usage of basic components to build the macromolecular structure. Symmetry is also associated with cooperativity. Mild perturbation from perfect symmetry may be essential in some systems for dynamic functions.

Footnotes

↵ * To whom reprint requests should be addressed.
This paper was presented at a colloquium entitled “Symmetries Throughout the Sciences,” organized by Ernest M. Henley, held May 11–12, 1996, at the National Academy of Sciences in Irvine, CA.