If Rasmol is not installed on this computer you will need to download Rasmol software
Click here to see TBP. You are now viewing the
C-terminal domain of human TBP bound to the TATA box. This domain
consists of two tandem copies of an approximately 90 amino acid
sequence (one is shown in red, the other in blue). Each 90 amino
acid sequence folds into a globular subdomain containing a five-stranded
beta sheet and two alpha helices.
Select the Cartoons command from the display menu to view
the secondary structure. The two subdomains are related by a dyad
axis. Note the symmetry of the structure.
The overall shape of TBP is that of a saddle. In each subdomain,
a loop between a pair of antiparallel beta strands forms a "stirrup".
The saddle sits atop the DNA. The beta sheets form the concave
surface of the saddle and make extensive contact with the minor
groove of the DNA. By entering the following series of commands
into the command line window you will restrict the view to the
DNA and the beta sheets and then convert the beta sheets to a
spacefilling view. This should allow you to appreciate the beautiful
fit between the DNA and the beta sheets.
restrict sheets or DNA
select sheets
spacefill on
color cpk
Click here to return to the original view. The
fit between the protein and the DNA is clearly an "induced
fit", since the structure of the DNA is severly distorted
in the complex. Restrict the view to the DNA (enter the command
restrict DNA). Then by translating and rotating the DNA
molecule see if you can gain an appreciation for the nature of
the distortion.