TrwD, the hexameric traffic ATPase encoded by plasmid R388, induces membrane destabilization and hemifusion of lipid vesicles.

ABSTRACT: TrwD, a hexameric ATP hydrolase encoded by plasmid R388, is a member of the PulE/VirB11 protein superfamily of traffic ATPases. It is essential for plasmid conjugation, particularly for expression of the conjugative W pilus. In the present study, we analyzed the effects that TrwD produced on unilamellar vesicles consisting of cardiolipin and phosphatidylcholine in equimolar amounts. TrwD induced dose-dependent vesicle aggregation and intervesicular mixing of the lipids located in the outer monolayers in the presence of calcium. It also induced extensive leakage of the vesicular aqueous contents. A point mutant of TrwD with a mutation in the P loop of the nucleotide-binding region (K203Q) that lacks both ATPase activity and the ability to support conjugation showed the same behavior as nati

SUBMITTER: Machon C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC134893 | biostudies-literature | 2002 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature