Study of structural dynamics of LOV2 domain using time-resolved x-ray solution scattering

Abstract

Light is essential for all living things. Phototropins are involved in phototropism, which helps plants perceive light and grow in the direction of light. Phototropin consists of two photo-oxygen voltage (LOV) domains and a serine-threonine kinase (STK). In particular, in the phototropin of Avena sativa, it is known that when the LOV2 domain receives blue light, the J-alpha helical structure located at the C-terminus is released and STK is activated. In this study, the mechanism of the LOV2 domain was investigated using the time-resolved x-ray solution scattering technique. We observed the unfolding of the J-alpha helix and the dimerization reaction of the LOV2 domain. The LOV2 dimerization upon light irradiation means that the LOV2 domain is involved in the dimerization of phototropin.