Positive selection-guided mutational analysis revealing two key functional sites of scorpion ERG K+ channel toxins

Scorpion γ-KTx toxins are important molecular tools for studying physiological and pharmacological functions of human ether-á-go-go related gene (hERG) K+ channels. To pinpoint functional residues of this class of toxins involved in channel binding, we employed a combined approach that integrates evolutionary information and site-directed mutagenesis. Among three positively selected sites (PSSs) identified here, two (Gln18 and Met35) were found to be associated with the toxin’s function because their changes significantly decreased the potency of ErgTx1 (also called CnErg1) on hERG1 channel. On the contrary, no potency alteration was observed at the third PSS (Ala42) when the mutation was introduced, which could be due to its location far from the functional surface of the toxin. Our strategy will accelerate the research of structure–function relationship of scorpion K+ channel toxins.

► Evolutionary information highlights functional sites of scorpion toxins.
► Three positively selected sites were identified in the subfamily of γ-KTxs.
► Mutations at two positively selected sites decreased the potency of ErgTx1.
► The interacting surfaces between ErgTx1 and hERG1 are identified.