Examination of the photosystem II reaction centre shows that changes in locally flexible domains allow enzyme adaptation to ambient temperature. Mutations in the packing motif of mesophiles that increase the residue bulkiness and reduce the size of cavities to promote thermophilic behaviour. Similar mechanisms may occur in other systems, including globular proteins that require acclimation to significantly different habitats.
- Oksana Shlyk-Kerner
- Ilan Samish
- Avigdor Scherz
