Quantitative cross-linking/mass spectrometry analysis revealed unknown structure of complement iC3

ABSTRACT: We applied quantitative cross-linking/mass spectrometry (QCLMS) to interrogate the structure of iC3 (or C3(H2O)), the activated hydrolytic product of the abundant human complement protein C3. The slow but spontaneous and ubiquitous formation of iC3 from C3 initiates antibody-independent activation of the complement system that is a key first line of antimicrobial defense. QCLMS revealed structural differences and similarities between iC3 and C3, as well as between iC3 and C3b that is a pivotal proteolytic cleavage product of C3 and is functionally similar to iC3. Considered in combination with the crystal structures of C3 and C3b, our data support a model wherein the thioester-containing domain of C3 swings to the other end of the molecule creating, in iC3, a stable C3b-like platform for binding the zymogen, factor B, or the regulator, factor H. The integration of available crystallographic and QCLMS data allowed the determination of a 3D model for iC3. The unique arrangement of domains in iC3, which retains the anaphylatoxin (ANA) domain (while ANA is excised when C3 is enzymatically activated to C3b), is consistent with observed differences in activation and regulation between iC3 and C3b.

INSTRUMENT(S): LTQ Orbitrap Velos

ORGANISM(S): Homo Sapiens (human)

SUBMITTER: Zhuo Chen  

LAB HEAD: Juri Rappsilber

PROVIDER: PXD003486 | Pride | 2016-06-17

REPOSITORIES: Pride