Structure of protein related to Dan and Cerberus: insights into the mechanism of bone morphogenetic protein antagonism.

ABSTRACT: The bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are secreted ligands largely known for their functional roles in embryogenesis and tissue development. A number of structurally diverse extracellular antagonists inhibit BMP ligands to regulate signaling. The differential screening-selected gene aberrative in neuroblastoma (DAN) family of antagonists represents the largest group of BMP inhibitors; however, little is known of how they mechanistically inhibit BMP ligands. Here, we present the structure of the DAN family member, protein related to Dan and Cerberus (PRDC), solved by X-ray crystallography. The structure reveals a growth factor-like appearance with an unexpected dimerization mechanism that is formed through extensive β strand contacts. Using site-directed mutagenesis coupled with in vitro a

SUBMITTER: Nolan K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3749838 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature