Azinas et al. report the cryo-EM structure of the MecA/ClpC/ClpP complex from Staphylococcus aureus, revealing how MecA forms a crown-like structure that likely facilitates substrate transfer to ClpC. They uncover asymmetric, activity-dependent interactions between ClpC and ClpP and demonstrate reciprocal allosteric regulation which enhances ATPase and proteolytic activity in bacterial AAA+ proteases.
- Stavros Azinas
- Karin Wallden
- Marta Carroni