Development of the first model of a phosphorylated, ATP/Mg2+-containing B-Raf monomer by molecular dynamics simulations: a tool for structure-based design. Issue 46 (15th November 2017) - Previtali, Viola
Abstract : A model of phosphorylated and ATP-containing B-Raf protein kinase is needed as a tool for structure-based design of new allosteric inhibitors, since no crystal structure of such a system has been resolved. Abstract : A model of phosphorylated and ATP-containing B-Raf protein kinase is needed as a tool for the structure-based design of new allosteric inhibitors, since no crystal structure of such a system has been resolved. Here, we present the development of such a model as well as a thorough analysis of its structural features. This model was prepared using a systematic molecular dynamics approach considering the presence or absence of both the phosphate group at the Thr599 site and the ATP molecule. Then, different structural features ( i.e. DFG motif, Mg 2+ binding loop, activation loop, phosphorylation site and αC-helix region) were analysed for each trajectory to validate the aimed2pBRAF_ATP model. Moreover, the structure and activating interactions of this2pBRAF_ATP model were found to be in agreement with previously reported information. Finally, the model was further validated by means of a molecular docking study with our previously developed lead compoundI confirming that this ATP-containing, phosphorylated protein model is suitable for further structure-based design studies.