Restriction enzyme BsoBI-DNA complex: A tunnel for recognition of degenerate DNA sequences and potential histidine catalysis

Background: Restriction endonucleases form a diverse family of proteins wit h substantial variation in sequence, structure, and interaction with recogn ition site DNA. BsoBl is a thermophilic restriction endonuclease that exhib its both base-specific and degenerate recognition within the sequence CPyCG PuG. Results: The structure of BsoBI complexed to cognate DNA has been determine d to 1.7 Angstrom resolution, revealing several unprecedented features. Eac h BsoBI monomer is formed by inserting a helical domain into an expanded Ec oRI-type catalytic domain. DNA is completely encircled by a BsoBI dimer. Re cognition sequence DNA lies within a 20 Angstrom long tunnel of protein tha t excludes bulk solvent. Interactions with the specific bases are made in b oth grooves through direct and water-mediated hydrogen bonding. Interaction with the degenerate position is mediated by a purine-specific hydrogen bon d to N7, ensuring specificity, and water-mediated H bonding to the purine N 6/O6 and pyrimidine N4/O4, allowing degeneracy. In addition to the conserve d active site residues of the DXn(E/)ZK restriction enzyme motif, His253 is positioned to act as a general base. Conclusions: A catalytic mechanism employing His253 and two metal ions is p roposed. If confirmed, this would be the first example of histidine-mediate d catalysis in a restriction endonuclease. The structure also provides two novel examples of the role of water in protein-DNA interaction. Degenerate recognition may be mediated by employing water as a hydrogen bond donor or acceptor. The structure of DNA in the tunnel may also be influenced by the absence of bulk solvent.