The molecular details of WPD-loop movement differ in the protein-tyrosine phosphatases YopH and PTP1B

The movement of a conserved protein loop (the WPD-loop) is important in catalysis by protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs). Using kinetics, isotope effects, and X-ray crystallography, the different effects arising from mutation of the conserved tryptophan in the WPD-loop were compared in two PTPs, the human PTP1B, and the bacterial YopH from Yersinia. Mutation of the conserved tryptophan in the WPD-loop to phenylalanine has a negligible effect on kcat in PTP1B and full loop movement is maintained. In contrast, the corresponding mutation in YopH reduces kcat by two orders of magnitude and the WPD loop locks in an intermediate position, disabling general acid catalysis. During loop movement the indole moiety of the WPD-loop tryptophan moves in opposite directions in the two enzymes. Comparisons of mammalian and bacterial PTPs reveal differences in the residues forming the hydrophobic pocket surrounding the conserved tryptophan. Thus, although WPD-loop movement is a conserved feature in PTPs, differences exist in the molecular details, and in the tolerance to mutation, in PTP1B compared to YopH. Despite high structural similarity of the active sites in both WPD-loop open and closed conformations, differences are identified in the molecular details associated with loop movement in PTPs from different organisms.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (56 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Differences occur in movement of the WPD loop in two PTPs from different sources. ► These differences arise from the direction in which the indole side chain slides. ► Mammalian and bacterial PTPs differ in this and in neighboring hydrophobic residues. ► Though the loop is conserved, molecular details of its movement differ in mammalian vs. bacterial PTPs.