The IKK-binding domain of NEMO is an irregular coiled coil with a dynamic binding interface.

ABSTRACT: NEMO is an essential component in the activation of the canonical NF-?B pathway and exerts its function by recruiting the I?B kinases (IKK) to the IKK complex. Inhibition of the NEMO/IKKs interaction is an attractive therapeutic paradigm for diseases related to NF-?B mis-regulation, but a difficult endeavor because of the extensive protein-protein interface. Here we report the high-resolution structure of the unbound IKK?-binding domain of NEMO that will greatly facilitate the design of NEMO/IKK inhibitors. The structures of unbound NEMO show a closed conformation that partially occludes the three binding hot-spots and suggest a facile transition to an open state that can accommodate ligand binding. By fusing coiled-coil adaptors to the IKK?-binding domain of NEMO, we succeeded in creating a protein with improved solution behavior, IKK?-binding affinity and crystallization compatibility, which will enable the structural characterization of new NEMO/inhibitor complexes.

SUBMITTER: Barczewski AH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6393490 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature