PMID: 10205052 , Related PDB ids: 1BZ6, 1BZP, 1BZR

Authors:

Kachalova GS, Popov AN, Bartunik HD

Title:

A steric mechanism for inhibition of CO binding to heme proteins.

Journal:

Science. 1999 Apr 16;284(5413):473-6.

Abstract:

The crystal structures of myoglobin in the deoxy- and carbon monoxide-ligated states at a resolution of 1.15 angstroms show that carbon monoxide binding at ambient temperatures requires concerted motions of the heme, the iron, and helices E and F for relief of steric inhibition. These steps constitute the main mechanism by which heme proteins lower the affinity of the heme group for the toxic ligand carbon monoxide.