Stabilization of the Lambda Capsid Shell

Stabilization of the Lambda Capsid Shell

The 14 N-terminal residues of the bacteriophage lambda cementing protein gpD are disordered in the absence of the capsid substrate. Upon binding to the capsid shell, a trimer of gpD molecules stabilize the capsomers at all quasi-and icosahedral 3-fold vertices. Stabilization occurs through the formation of a 4-stranded beta sheet, which includes gpD’s N-terminus. Shown here is the N-terminal arm of gpD in a molten/disordered state, becoming solid as it is integrated into the lambda capsid.

Graham Johnson/ Gabriel Lander – Alex Evilevitch, Jack Johnson, Bridget Carragher, Clint Potter