| Author(s): |
Daniel W. Bearden; Douglas W. Lowman; Lara J. West; Michael F. Wempe; Trevor D. Power; Harry E. Ensley; Ken Haynes; David L. Williams; Michael D. Kruppa; |
| Title: |
Characterization of (1-3,1-6)-β-D-Glucan Side Chain Structure Provides the Basis for a New Model of Fungal Cell Wall Rigidity and Flexibility |
| Published: |
November 11, 2011 |
| Abstract: |
Glucan is a (1-3)-β-linked glucose polymer with (1-6)-β-linked side chains and a major component of fungal cell walls. Glucans provide structural integrity to the fungal cell wall. The nature of the (1-6)-β-linked side chain structure of fungal (1-3,1-6)-β-D-glucans has been very difficult to elucidate. Herein, we report the first detailed structural characterization of the (1-6)-β-linked side chains have an averagelength of 4 to 5 repeat units spaced every 21 repeat units along the (1-3)-linked polymer backbone. Molecular modeling indicates that the side chains have a bent curve structure that allows for a flexible interconnection with parallel (1-3)-β-D-glucan polymers, and/or as a point of attachment for proteins. Based on these observations we propose a new model in which the (1-6)-β-linked side chains interconnect neighboring glucan polymers in a manner that maximizes fungal cell wall strength, while also allowing for flexibility, or plasticity. |
| Citation: |
Nature Structural & Molecular Biology |
| Volume: |
6 |
| Issue: |
11 |
| Pages: |
pp. 1 - 10 |
| Keywords: |
NMR, glucan, fungal cell wall |
| Research Areas: |
NMR |
