Sandbox11

This sandbox is in use until June 1, 2009 for UMass Chemistry 490a. Others please do not edit this page. Thanks!

K Sniffen 3/3/09, Keith Barbato, Jonathan Rymasz 3/18/09

Name

beta-2-microglobulin

About this Structure

This protein consists of seven Beta-sheets shown here in purple. It also has a small alpha-helix on the surface of the protein shown in teal. Notice also, the ligand, which allows for binding to occur. Beta-2-microglobulin is a serum protein found in association with the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I heavy chain on the surface of nearly all nucleated cells (Gussow et al., 1987 [PubMed 3312414])[1]

Here's a disulfide bond!!

There is a hydrophobic element to B2M. When all of the most hydrophobic residues are selected, it can be clearly seen that there is a Hydrophobic Core between the two Beta sheets. Speculation could say that it has evolved in this manner to protect the disulfide bond.

References

[1]Entrez Gene: B2M