Translational tuning optimizes nascent protein folding in cells

Soo Jung Kim, Jae Seok Yoon, Hideki Shishido, Zhongying Yang, Lee Ann A. Rooney, Jose M. Barral, William R. Skach

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

155 Scopus citations

Abstract

In cells, biosynthetic machinery coordinates protein synthesis and folding to optimize efficiency and minimize off-pathway outcomes. However, it has been difficult to delineate experimentally the mechanisms responsible. Using fluorescence resonance energy transfer, we studied cotranslational folding of the first nucleotide-binding domain from the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator. During synthesis, folding occurred discretely via sequential compaction of N-terminal, α-helical, and α/β-core subdomains. Moreover, the timing of these events was critical; premature α-subdomain folding prevented subsequent core formation. This process was facilitated by modulating intrinsic folding propensity in three distinct ways: delaying a-subdomain compaction, facilitating β-strand intercalation, and optimizing translation kinetics via codon usage. Thus, de novo folding is translationally tuned by an integrated cellular response that shapes the cotranslational folding landscape at critical stages of synthesis.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)444-448
Number of pages5
JournalScience
Volume348
Issue number6233
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 24 2015

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

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