Structural Research of Cation Diffusion Facilitator (CDF) Family
The cation diffusion facilitator (CDF) family is a group of membrane transporters that play a critical role in regulating the levels of metal ions, including zinc, cadmium, and manganese, within cells. Several high-resolution structures of cation diffusion facilitator YiiP, have been determined using X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). These structures have revealed important details about the mechanism of ion transport across cellular membranes by CDF transporters.
One of the key insights gained from structural studies of YiiP transporters is the alternating access mechanism, in which the transporter changes shape to allow ions to move from one side of the membrane to the other. Structural studies have also revealed details about the zinc-binding sites within YiiP transporters and the specific amino acid residues involved in zinc ion transport, which could be targeted for drug development.
Figure 1. Model for the alternating access mechanism. (Lopez-Redondo M L, et al., 2018)
| Protein | Organism | Method | Resolution | PDB Entry ID |
| YiiP Zinc Transporter (expressed in E. coli) | Escherichia coli | X-ray diffraction | 3.80 Å | 2QFI |
| YiiP Zinc Transporter (expressed in E. coli) | Escherichia coli | X-ray diffraction | 2.90 Å | 3H90 |
| YiiP Zinc Transporter (expressed in E. coli) | Shewanella oneidensis | Cryo-EM single particle analysis | 4.10 Å | 5VRF |
Table 1. Structural Research of Cation Diffusion Facilitator (CDF) Family.
At Creative Biostructure, we offer a range of structural analysis services for proteins, including X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. These techniques allow us to determine high-resolution structures of proteins, including CDF transporters, and to gain insights into their mechanisms of action. Our team of experienced scientists and technicians can provide customized solutions for structural analysis, including protein expression, purification, crystallization, and data analysis. We use state-of-the-art equipment and software to ensure the highest quality results and rapid turnaround times. Contact us today to learn more about our structural analysis services and how we can help advance your research in the field of CDF transporters and metal ion regulation. Together, we can work towards a better understanding of the fundamental processes that govern cellular function and develop new therapies for the treatment of a wide range of diseases.
References
- Lu M, Fu D. Structure of the zinc transporter YiiP. Science. 2007, 317(5845): 1746-1748.
- Lu M, Chai J, Fu D. Structural basis for autoregulation of the zinc transporter YiiP. Nature Structural & Molecular Biology. 2009, 16(10): 1063-1067.
- Lopez-Redondo M L, et al. Structural basis for the alternating access mechanism of the cation diffusion facilitator YiiP. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. 2018, 115(12): 3042-3047.
