Using molecular dynamics simulations to provide new insights into protein structure on the nanosecond timescale: Comparison with experimental data and biological inferences for the hyaluronan-binding link module of TSG-6

Link module domains play an essential role in extracellular matrix assembly and remodeling by binding to the flexible glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan. A high-resolution NMR-structure of the Link module from the protein product of tumor necrosis factor-stimulated gene-6 (Link_TSG6) has been determined, but a fuller appreciation of protein dynamics may be necessary to understand its hyaluronan-binding. Therefore, we have performed a 0.25 μs MD simulation, starting from the lowest-energy NMR-derived solution structure of Link_TSG6, with explicit water and ions, using the CHARMM22 protein force field. The simulation was as good a fit to the NMR data as the ensemble from simulated annealing, except in the ß5-ß6 loop. Furthermore, analysis revealed that secondary structure elements extended further than previously reported and underwent fast picosecond time scale dynamics, whereas nanosecond dynamics was found in certain loops. In particular, surface side chains proposed to interact with glycosaminoglycans were predicted to be highly mobile and be directed away from the protein surface. Furthermore, the hyaluronan-binding ß4-ß5 loop remained in a closed conformation, favoring an allosteric interaction mechanism. This enhanced view of the Link module provides general insight into protein dynamics and may be helpful for understanding the dynamic molecular basis of tissue assembly, remodeling, and disease processes. © 2007 American Chemical Society.