Optimal Flexibility for Conformational Transitions in Macromolecules

Richard A. Neher, Wolfram Möbius, Erwin Frey, and Ulrich Gerland
Phys. Rev. Lett. 99, 178101 – Published 22 October 2007

Abstract

Conformational transitions in macromolecular complexes often involve the reorientation of leverlike structures. Using a simple theoretical model, we show that the rate of such transitions is drastically enhanced if the lever is bendable, e.g., at a localized hinge. Surprisingly, the transition is fastest with an intermediate flexibility of the hinge. In this intermediate regime, the transition rate is also least sensitive to the amount of “cargo” attached to the lever arm, which could be exploited by molecular motors. To explain this effect, we generalize the Kramers-Langer theory for multidimensional barrier crossing to configuration-dependent mobility matrices.

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  • Received 13 April 2007

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.99.178101

©2007 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

Richard A. Neher1,*, Wolfram Möbius1, Erwin Frey1, and Ulrich Gerland1,2

  • 1Arnold Sommerfeld Center for Theoretical Physics (ASC) and Center for Nanoscience (CeNS), LMU Munich, Theresienstraße 37, 80333 Munich, Germany
  • 2Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of Cologne, 50397 Cologne, Germany

  • *neher@kitp.ucsb.edu

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Issue

Vol. 99, Iss. 17 — 26 October 2007

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