High-resolution mapping of metal ions reveals principles of surface layer assembly in Caulobacter crescentus cells.

ABSTRACT: Surface layers (S-layers) are proteinaceous crystalline coats that constitute the outermost component of most prokaryotic cell envelopes. In this study, we have investigated the role of metal ions in the formation of the Caulobacter crescentus S-layer using high-resolution structural and cell biology techniques, as well as molecular simulations. Utilizing optical microscopy of fluorescently tagged S-layers, we show that calcium ions facilitate S-layer lattice formation and cell-surface binding. We report all-atom molecular dynamics simulations of the S-layer lattice, revealing the importance of bound metal ions. Finally, using electron cryomicroscopy and long-wavelength X-ray diffraction experiments, we mapped the positions of metal ions in the S-layer at near-atomic resolution, supporting

SUBMITTER: Herdman M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8828063 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature