Nanosecond-timescale conformational dynamics of the human alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor.

ABSTRACT: We explore the conformational dynamics of a homology model of the human alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor using molecular dynamics simulation and analyses of root mean-square fluctuations, block partitioning of segmental motion, and principal component analysis. The results reveal flexible regions and concerted global motions of the subunits encompassing extracellular and transmembrane domains of the subunits. The most relevant motions comprise a bending, hinged at the beta10-M1 region, accompanied by concerted tilting of the M2 helices that widens the intracellular end of the channel. Despite the nanosecond timescale, the observations suggest that tilting of the M2 helices may initiate opening of the pore. The results also reveal direct coupling between a twisting motion of the extr

SUBMITTER: Cheng X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1989720 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature