Solution structure and dynamics of the DNA-binding domain of the adipocyte-transcription factor FREAC-11

Transcription factors of the forkhead type share a highly conserved DNA-bin ding domain of about 100 amino acid residues. FREAC-11, expressed in adipoc ytes, belongs to this class. Here, we report on NMR studies that establishe d the three-dimensional structure of the FREAC-11, DNA-binding domain. Alth ough apparent similarities to the structures of other members within the fo rkhead family are observed, the structure also reveals some remarkable diff erences. Along with the complementary dynamics, the data provide insight in to the fundamentals of sequence specificity within a highly conserved motif . (C) 2000 Academic Press.