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B7-1 and B7-2 are homologous costimulatory ligands expressed on the surfaces of antigen-presenting cells. Their interactions with CD28/CTLA-4 receptors expressed on T cell surfaces are crucial for the proper regulation of T cell activity. B7-1 and B7-2 display distinct roles in immune regulation, although they are usually considered to have redundant functions. Here, we report the crystal structure of the receptor-binding (Ig V-type) domain of human B7-2 at 2.7-A resolution. Structures of unliganded and liganded B7-1 and B7-2 suggest a physical-chemical basis for the observed functional similarities and differences between these two costimulatory ligands. Of particular note, whereas the majority of the residues mediating B7-1 dimerization are hydrophobic, the B7-2 dimer observed in the B7-2/CTLA-4 complex displays a very hydrophilic dimer interface. These differences provide a mechanism for preventing the formation of B7-1/B7-2 heterodimers. The divergence at the putative dimer interface is also consistent with the lower tendency of B7-2 to dimerize, as shown by the monomeric state of unliganded B7-2 both in solution and crystalline form, and may result in detailed differences in signaling mechanisms associated with B7-1 and B7-2.

Crystal structure of the receptor-binding domain of human B7-2: insights into organization and signaling., Zhang X, Schwartz JC, Almo SC, Nathenson SG, Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2003 Mar 4;100(5):2586-91. Epub 2003 Feb 26. PMID:12606712

From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

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Categories: Homo sapiens | Almo, S C. | Nathenson, S G. | Schwartz, J D. | Zhang, X. | Beta strand | Ig v | Immune system