Comparative structural analysis of IS21 transposition complexes using Cryo-EM and AlphaFold3.

ABSTRACT: Transposition is a fundamental driver of genome evolution, enabling the movement of discrete DNA segments (transposons) within genomes. This process can modulate gene expression and contributes to the spread of antibiotic resistance and virulence factors. We recently determined different cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the IS21 transposon, a widespread mobile genetic element that encodes IstA, a transposase, and IstB, a AAA + ATPase essential for DNA transposition. The reconstructions of these factors in the pre- and post-transposition states revealed key insights into the architecture and conformational dynamics of the transpososome. In parallel, we evaluated one of the newest structure prediction engines, AlphaFold3 (AF3), to help guide the structural work and explore it

SUBMITTER: Spinola-Amilibia M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12486865 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature