Protein surface recognition of the novel tetra-carboxylphenyl calix[4]arene to cytochrome c

The interaction of the novel tetra-carboxylphenyl calix[4]arene (TCPC) with the bovine heart cytochrome c (Cc) was first investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy and molecular modeling methods. The formation of a stable 1:1 complex was monitored by fluorescence titration, and its binding constant is 1.916 × 107 L mol−1. Molecular modeling reveals the recognition mechanism of TCPC to the Cc surface, that is, the electrostatic interaction drives TCPC to the Cc surface, and the van der Waals interaction orientates TCPC parallel to the cleft of Cc.