Molecular visualization of the Glucorcorticoid Receptor bound to DNA

This web page uses the open-source Java Applet program Jmol, a proposed platform-independent replacement for Chime and Rasmol, neither of which is available in an OS X native version. You will need a relatively recent Java Virtual Machine to use it.

The buttons below are generally intended to be clicked in order. Currently using v. 11.4.5.

This is 1R4R.pdb, the DNA binding domain of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) bound to DNA with a 3-bp spacer between GR recognition elements. It dimerizes on DNA to form a not-quite-symmetric homodimer. Two zinc-binding modules per subunit are essential for function, and held together by an aromatic cluster. They are quite different from the classic Zif268/TFIIIA zinc finger. DNA recognition is mainly via the classic alpha-helix in the major groove motif. The three central spacer base pairs are not contacted by the protein, even though it demands 3-bp spacing (see 1R4O.pdb).

From B.F. Luisi, W.X. Xu, Z. Otwinowski, L.P. Freedman, K.R. Yamamoto, P.B. Sigler

Crystallographic analysis of the interaction of the glucocorticoid receptor with DNA

Nature (1991), 352, p. 497. Resolution. 3.00 angstroms.

Go to 1R4O.pdb