ALBERT

Notes: Investigations have been made on the optical rotatory dispersion properties of E. coli ribosomes and their constituent RNA and proteins. The results indicate that (1) no conformational changes are involved in the formation of a 70S particle from the 50S and 308 subunits, (2) the E. coli ribosomal proteins are similar to most globular proteins with little α-helix content, and (3) the conformation of RNA and proteins inside the ribosome is very similar to that in the free state.

Notes: The iodine which is added to an aqueous amylose solution is bound only partly by the amylose while forming the blue complex and partly remains free. The equilibrium normality of the free and the bound iodine at half-saturation of amylose by iodine is designated as [If]v and [Ib]w, respectively. The stability of the poly iodine chain formed within the axis of amylose helices depends on its length, i.e., indirectly on the DP of the amylose helices: the greater this stability, the lower the [If]v value. The amylose molecule consists of helical segments. Such a molecule may behave as a random coil. The average length of the helical segments in freshly prepared amylose-iodine complexes depends on temperature, pH, iodide concentration, the presence of other complex-forming agents, and the DP of the amylose. This latter factor is investigated in the present paper. By the aid of an automatically recording photometrictitrating device the coherent values of [Ib] and [If] were determined. Plotting these values against DPn for mechanochemically degraded as well as for periodateo-xidized amyloses resulted in curves consisting of two linear sections. The break of the curves occurred between DPn 110 and 130. It was concluded that below DPn = 100 the DP of helical segments (= sDPn) is identical to the DPn of the total molecule, i.e., the molecule consists of only a single, relatively stiff helix. Above this limit the molecule contains several helical segments. The DP of these helical segments can be calculated as follows: sDPn = 141.1 - 10.2 × 105[If]v. This equation is considered to be valid for 0.5-0.6 mg. amylose in 100 ml. 0.1N HCl at 20°C., λ = 650 mμ, euuvet diameter 3.4 cm., the feed rate of the iodate-iodide titrating solution (in acid medium resulting in a 5 × 10-3N I2 solution with a molar iodide to iodine ratio of 1.5) is 0.4ml./min. Amylose molecules of, e.g., DPn = 1380 consist of an average of 11.4 segments having a DP of about 120 and consisting of an average of 15-18 helical turns.

Notes: The electrochemical possibilities for investigation of nucleic acids with high molecular weight are restricted to the determination of the adsorption behavior. According to our experience the alternating current polarography (Breyer-polarography) is mainly appropriate for the characterization of changes in the secondary structure of DNA. The Breyer-polarogram shows the alternating current of the dropping electrode in dependence on their potential which varied from 0-2 v. negative against the normal calomel electrode (NCE). By addition of native DNA to the supporting electrolyte (buffer solution) the current drops down in the range of adsorption between 0 and 1 v. At 1.16 v. against NCE the desorption takes place together with the formation of a rounded desorption peak. The investigation was carried out in phosphate buffer solution 0.1m with 0.075m NaCl or in a phosphate buffer 0.18m with 0.03m NaCl. In the pH range above pH 8 NaOH was added to realize the higher pH values. A calf thymus DNA sample having a mean molecular weight of about 18 million was used. The concentration of DNA was 5 × 10-3-1 × 10-1 wt.-%. The polarographic measurements were performed with an a.c./d.c.-polarograph “GWP 564” from Akademiewerkstätten für Forschungsbedarf der Deutschen Akademie der Wissenschaften zu Berlin (DAW). The denaturation of the double helix causes a sharp desorption peak at negative potentials of the alternating current polarogram. This new criterion for the helix-coil transition is due to formation of unpaired bases. These nearly free bases undergo a specific adsorption and the desorption takes place within a narrow potential range. Nevertheless, at present time an electron transfer to particular bases cannot be excluded at special conditions. The increase of the sharp peak permits to estimate: (a) the melting curve of the double helix in agreement with spectroscopic measurements; (b) the photolysis of the double helix; (c) the strand separation in acid and alkaline solution. In the alkaline range the sharp peak increases and reaches its maximum at pH 〉 12. In the acid range, however, no sharp peak is observed and the rounded desorption peak decreases. Therefore, the best way of following the conformation changes is to measure the current difference between the curves of the solutions with and without DNA at electrocapillary-zero-potential. On the classical d.c.-polarogram one can measure small current steps only, which may be caused mainly by capacity changes. Moreover, the scission of the molecule by ultrasonic action can be followed. In this case the rounded peak of DNA increases but the sharp peak does not appear. Similar alternating current polarograms are obtained with poly-A in the native state, because helical and unordered regions coexist in the same molecule. The very rapid indication of these structure changes allows one to carry out kinetic measurements at a fixed potential with this method.

Notes: The theory of Kirkwood for the translational frictional coefficients of structures composed of subunits has been generalized in two ways in order to consider aggregates of nonidentical subunits. One of these generalizations fails when the sizes of subunits are too disparate; the other, derived from a surface shell distribution of frictional elements, is effective over the whole range of relative sizes. It is shown that, in the limit of a continuous surface distribution, a shell model reproduces Stoke's law for a sphere. Comparison is made between the frictional coefficients of spheres, ellipsoids, and rods modeled by finite numbers of subunits and by continuous shells of frictional elements, and those calculated from other theories. Agreement is generally good, though the shell model for prolate ellipsoids of revolution deviates by a few per cent from the Perrin value.

Notes: The method of matrix rank analysis has been applied to a large body of experimental data to determine and identify the minimum number of independent spectral components that, were contained within it. The optical rotatory dispersion of TMV RNA was measured in the wavelength region 230-350 mμ, for a wide range of temperatures and ionic strengths. Over the whole range of conditions considered, the observed optical rotatory dispersion spectra were found to be a superposition of two basic spectra only. Evidence is put forward relating these spectra to the single-strand and double-strand helical forms of the molecule. A model is proposed to explain the observed spectral changes in terms of an equilibrium between these two conformations, which leads to a direct calculation of the percentage composition of the double strand at any of the conditions considered. This equilibrium, while simple in general description, appears multi-state and complex in detail. This method of analysis is both powerful and of wide applicability, since it is independent of the source of the data.

Notes: An infinite series solution to the Mason-Weaver equation is presented for the case in which a synthetic boundary is formed originally between solution and solvent. Digital computations based on this series, and confirmed independently, have been made for a range of parameters. For given conditions, the maximum rate of change of concentration at the meniscus and the time at which it occurs can be easily estimated by means of the curves presented. In equilibrium experiments which commence with formation of a sharp boundary, this enables the fringes to be identified with certainty.

Notes: The course of the reversible helix formation of poly(γ-benzyl L-glutamate) (PBG) dissolved in a mixture of dichloroacetic acid (DCA) and 1,2-dichloroethane (EDC) was followed by measuring the heat capacity and the optical rotation of the system through the transition region. The results of these measurements indicate that the transition enthalpy ΔH the transition temperature Tc, and the Zimm-Bragg parameter σ depend considerably on the PBG concentration as well as on the composition of the solvent. For the standard state of infinite dilution, however, a linear extrapolation of the measured ΔH if values results in a standard value ΔH° = 950 cal./mole, independent of the solvent composition. The results of the calorimetric measurements are discussed in relationship to changes in optical rotation. Some peculiarities in the measured thermodynamic and optical properties in solutions with relatively high content of dichloroacetic acid are reported.

Notes: Helical conformations of infinite polymer chains may be described by the helical parameters, d and θ (the translation along the helix axis and the angle of rotation about the axis per repeat unit), pi (the distance of the ith atom from the axis), dij, and dij (the translation along the axis and the angle of rotation, respectively, on passing from the ith atom to the jth). A general method has been worked out for calculating all those helical parameters from the bond lengths, bond angles, and internal-rotation angles. The positions of the main chain and side chain atoms with respect to the axis may also be calculated. All the equations are applicable to any helical polymer chain and are readily programmed for electronic computers. A method is also presented for calculating the partial derivatives of helical parameters with respect to molecular parameters.

Notes: A dilatometric technique is employed to measure the volume changes occurring on denaturation of collagen solutions and tendons. Partial specific volumes of tropocollagen are calculated to be 0.686 ml./g. in water and 0.689 ml/g in 0.1M citrate buffer. From data on non-aqueous solutions, it is estimated that most of the volume change arises from changes in polymer configuration rather than from changes in solvation.

Notes: We have generated solutions to the Lamm equation to examine the effects of concentration dependence on velocity experiments. Two forms of c dependence are considered: s/s0 = 1 - kc and s/s0 = (1 + kc)-1. Features of these solutions are discussed. The magnitude of the errors resulting from the usual procedure of measuring the rate of movement of schlieren maxima or of the position at which the concentration is one half the plateau value have been examined. These errors are usually negligible after sufficient centrifugation time. The errors in using the half-plateau concentration are less than those using the movement of the peak. We have also examined a technique due to Fujita for determining D from boundary spreading when s/s0 = (1+kc)-1. This method is satisfactory when s/s0 is actually of this form, or under certain limitations when s/s0 = (1 + kc)-1. Creeth has shown that under certain conditions the concentration gradient, curve remains virtually unchanged in shape after separating from the meniscus. When this occurs it is possible to estimate s/D from the data. The condition for such a steady state is that kc0 be sufficiently large. Numerical confirmation of this method is presented in the final section.

Notes: Preliminary experiments have been carried out which measure the variation in the intensity of the light scattered by DNA solutions under the influence of an electric field. Data have been collected on the length of DNA molecules, their electric polarizability, and their dispersion behavior.

Notes: Information concerning the structures of rA-rU, rA-rU2 rI-rC, rA-rI2, and acid rA helices in solutions is reported. Through the use of diquaternary ammonium salts of the general structure, \documentclass{article}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$ {\rm R}_1 {\rm R}_2 {\rm R}_3 \mathop {\rm N}\limits^ + ({\rm CH}_2 )n\mathop {\rm N}\limits^ + {\rm R}_1 {\rm R}_2 {\rm R}_3 \cdot 2{\rm Br}^ - $\end{document} (I), it is shown that (1) the distances between adjacent negatively charged oxygen atoms on the helix increases in the following order rA-rI2 〈 rI-rC 〈 rA-rU ≤ rA-rU2; (2) the density of the helices increases in the order. rA-rI2 〈 rA-rU 〈 rA-rU2 〈 rI-rC; (3) there is a large hydrophobia site in rA-rI2 and possibly also in rA-rU, rA-rU2, and rI-rC helices; (4) the results of the interactions between the salts of type I and the helices may be formulated in semi-quantitative terms by the use of two parameters, α, and β which are shown to be related to the charge separation and the density of the helices, respectively; (5) the studies in solutions compare favorably with the x-ray studies on the fibers; and (6) the acid rA helix differs significantly from the other helices by the fact that the electrostatic interstrand interactions between the negatively charged oxygen atom of a phosphate group and the positively charged 10-amino group of adenine contribute significantly to the stabilization of the helix, and thus it is found that the presence of the salts, I, leads to a significant destabilization of the acid rA helix.

Notes: The half molecules of 186 DNA have been isolated by the Hg(II)-Cs2SO4 density gradient centrifugal ion technique. The buoyant densities of the two halves in CsCI at 25°C. are 1.713 and 1.709 g./cm.3, corresponding to GC contents of 54% and 50%, respectively. Similarly, 5-bromouracil labeled λ DNA halves were separated. The isolation of the four DNA halves made it possible to test for homology in base sequences between the cohesive ends of λ and those of 186. There was no indication of any significant homology in base sequences between the cohesive ends of the two DNA's, as indicated by the absence of a band with intermediate buoyant density in CsCI when either half of 186 DNA was annealed with either half of 5-bromouracil labeled λ DNA and then centrifuged. The lack of cohesion between the two DNA's made it possible to demonstrate unequivocally the formation of interlocked rings (catenanes) between the two DNA's. The existence of a dimeric catenane is evidenced by the formation of a species of intermediate buoyant density when 5-bromouracil labeled λ DNA is cyclized in the presence of cyclic 186 DNA of a relatively high concentration. The molecular weight of one DNA relative to the other can be calculated from the position of the dimeric catenane in a density gradient by using the method of Baldwin. The result was in complete agreement with our previous measurements from the sedimentation coefficients and by electron microscopy. The probability of dimeric catenane formation when one DNA is cyclized in the presence of another DNA is discussed. The experimental results agree with the theoretical expectation.

Notes: Sterically allowed forms of the poly-N-methyl-L-alanine chain were found by calculation of conformational energies as a function of the rotation angles of its chain bonds. The lowest energy form seems to be a right-handed, approximately threefold helix.

Notes: Oriented amylose fibers in the V form were prepared and subjected to x-ray analysis. Unit cells and the probable space group of P212121 were determined for the V anhydrous and V hydrate forms of amylose; the analysis confirms previous predictions of these structures based on x-ray powder patterns. Chain folding in V amyloses is discussed in view of crystallographic evidence and folding experiments conducted with space-filling models. Reported also is evidence for amylose helices having diameters intermediate between 13.0 and 13.7 A.

Notes: Conformational energies of the poly-N-methyl-L-alanine chain have been calculated as a function of the rotational angles of its skeletal bonds, taking into account torsional potentials, van der Waals repulsions, and London attractions. Four pronounced minima in the energy were found; the relative magnitudes of the energies at these minima suggest that the preferred conformation of this chain is either a right-handed, approximately threefold helix, or a slightly distorted, left-handed α-helix. Inclusion of an estimate of the dipolar contribution to the total conformational energy does not significantly affect this conclusion.

Notes: The equilibrium normality [If] of free iodine in amylose-iodine complex formation is a function of the length of the polyiodine chains. This length depends on the DP of helical segments of amylose (sDPn). Values of [If] and of the concentration of the bound iodine [Ib] were determined by the continuous photometric titration with automatic recording. Plots of [Ib] versus [If] give an integral distribution curve. Since the relation between [If] and sDPn is known, the graphic differentiation of the [Ib] versus [lf] curve furnishes the differential distribution curve, representing the mass distribution of the helical segments according to their DP. The peak of this curve is characteristic of the percentage and DP of those helical segments, which occur in the largest amount. On the basis of the differential distribution curve the polymolecularity of the investigated sample may be judged. The titration of amylose samples degraded by various methods gives different distribution curves. Titrating mixtures of samples with widely differing average DP values results in differential curves having more than one maximum.

Notes: The electronic absorption and circular dichroism spectra of the DNA-acridine orange complex have been measured over a range of ionic strength, pH, and DNA phosphate to dye (P/D) ratios. Three circular dichroism bands associated with the long wavelength absorption band of acridine orange are induced on complex formation with DNA. Two of the dichroism bands, due mainly to dimeric dye molecules, are favored by low ionic strength, low pH (3.2), and a low P/D ratio (∼3), while the third, deriving primarily from monomeric dye, is optimum at high ionic strength, neutral pH, and a larger P/D ratio (9). The data suggest that monomeric acridine orange binds to DNA in the form of a left-handed helical array with four dye molecules per turn, while the bound dimer has a skewed sandwich conformation which is itself dissymmetric. The stereochemical relations between the bound monomer dye and the DNA are consistent with a modified intercalation model for the DNA-acridine complex.

Notes: The degree of helicity θ of a series of homologous polypeptides as a function of solvent composition was investigated. The polypeptides studied were: poly-N5-(3-hydroxypropyl)-L-glutamine (PHPG) as well as the corresponding 2-hydroxyethyl and 4-hydoxybutyl derivatives (PHKG and PHBG, respectively). PHPG, which is nonhelical in formic acid, attains helicity on addition of relatively small amounts of formates, formamide, and urea to its solution in formic acid. This demonstrates that the high acidity of pure formic acid is largely responsible for its helix-breaking power-probably through protonation of the peptide bonds. In formic acid-water mixtures all three polymers show a maximum in degree of helicity at a mole fraction of about 0.3 formic acid. This is interpreted as being due to interaction between the two helix-breaking solvents, which results in the formation of an inactive molecular species. It is shown that solvent-induced transitions with helicity maxima are predicted by the Bixon-Lifson treatment when applied to this system.

Notes: Dielectric properties of human and horse hemoglobin were studied at frequencies ranging from 20 kc./sec. to 7 Mc./sec. The relative errors in the measurements were usually less than 10-3 even for mildly conducting solutions (10-3M KCl). The experimental setup allowed us variation and measurement of the degree of oxygenation of the protein and to determine its dielectric parameters. Our main conclusion is that it was not possible to find any variation of the dielectric increment for hemoglobin oxygenation levels of 25, 50, 75, and 100%, approximately. This result is at variance with some previous reports. We cannot give the reason for this discrepancy but discuss some possible explanations. The specific dielectric increment, Δεs/c, of human hemoglobin was shown to be significantly smaller than that of horse hemoglobin (0.28 against 0.32). This physical property is lowered with increasing ionic strength I: Δεs/c = 0.28 and 0.20 for I = 10-4 and 10-3, respectively (human protein).

Notes: An expression is derived for the melting point of a polymer when in equilibrium with a solution in which binding of low molecular weight compounds to the polymer takes place. Allowance is made for the possibility that the crystalline polymer itself is a complex. The argument is a purely thermodynamic one and is based on a consideration of the change in free energy as a result of a change in binding. Allowance is made also for non-specific polymer-solvent interactions, in which the mixture of low molecular weight solvents is treated as a single solvent. Special attention is paid to “inverted” melting transitions, i.e., cases in which the melting point increases with increasing dilution of the polymer. It is shown that as a rule this is accompanied by a corresponding, inverted effect of the solvent composition on the melting point. It is further shown that-in the absence of binding, “normal” behavior at the critical point (i.e., phase separation is induced by lowering the temperature) is always accompanied by “normal” melting behavior (i.e., a decrease in melting point when the polymer is diluted). Also, “inverted” melting always implies that phase separation at the critical point is induced by heating, but the reverse is not necessarily true.

Notes: The IR data for the R1 CO-O-CHR2-CO-NHR3 derivatives are interpreted in terms of a H…π interaction involving the N—H bond and the π orbitals of the ester function and giving rise to a high ν(C=O) frequency and a low ν frequency. The resulting molecular conformation corresponds to the angular values φ # -90°, ψ # 0°. The H…π interaction in MeCO-L-Lac-NHMe is highly destabilized by water and aprotic solvents but is retained in methanol. Considering the high ν(C=O) ester or amide frequency of the middle function in β-folded depsipeptide or peptide sequences, it may be supposed that the residue indexed i + 2 in β turns experiences a H…π interaction which has a stabilizing effect on β turns. Some examples concerning valinomycin and some model compounds are discussed.

Notes: The difference between the theories of Manning, on the one hand, and of Odijk and Skolnick and Fixman, on the other, for the polyelectrolyte contribution to the persistence length of DNA is shown to arise entirely from a subtle geometrical error in the theory of Manning. The corrected theory of Manning predicts a negligible polyelectrolyte contribution in 1.0M NaCl and only 33 Å in 0.01M NaCl, thus giving a change in total persistence length by a factor of only 1.07 over that range, in agreement with Odijk. Pertinent data in the literature indicate that the persistence length must change by a factor of ≤ 1.6 between 1.0 and 0.01M NaCl, and very likely by less than a factor of 1.4. Evidently, the intrinsic rigidity of the uncharged double-strand filament dominates the bending rigidity at NaCl concentrations above 0.01M.

Notes: The crystal structures of L-3,4-dehydroproline, t-butoxycarbonyl-L-3,4-dehydroproline amide, and acetyl-L-3,4-dehydroproline amide have been determined. L-3,4-Dehydroproline is orthorhombic with a = 16.756, b = 5.870, c = 5.275 Å, and Z = 4; t-butoxycarbonyl-L-3,4-dehydroproline amide is orthorhombic with a = 6.448, b = 8.602, c = 21.710 Å, and Z = 4; acetyl-L-3,4-dehydroproline amide is monoclinic with a = 4.788, b = 10.880, c = 7.785 Å, β = 105.25°, and Z = 2. The final R value for the L-3,4-dehydroproline is 0.046 based on 529 reflections; for t-butoxycarbonyl-L-3,4-dehydroproline amide, 0.050 based on 792 reflections; and for acetyl-L-3,4-dehydroproline amide, 0.058 based on 632 reflections. The structures clearly establish that the free amino acid exists in the zwitterionic form in the crystalline state. The molecular conformations of the t-Boc and acetyl derivatives consist of two planes: one involving the primary amide and the other the remaining atoms of the molecule. The acetyl-L-3,4-dehydroproline amide contains a tertiary amide bond in the cis conformation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of a cis bond in an acetyl derivative of an amino acid or peptide. At variance with the previously reported proline amides, which present φ and ψ values corresponding to those of a right-handed α-helical conformation (conformation A), the t-Boc and acetyl derivatives both have φ and ψ values corresponding to a collagenlike conformation (conformation F).

Notes: The structure of thermally denatured Type I collagen has been studied using laser light scattering. The results indicate that the diffusion coefficients of α-chains and β- and γ-components are 1.550 ± 0.08 × 10-7, 1.000 ± 0.05 × 10-7, and 0.835 ± 0.04 × 10-7 cm2/sec, respectively, at temperatures between 20 and 40°C. It is concluded from diffusion data that these species have hydrodynamic radii of about 13.8 nm (α-chain), 21.5 nm (β-component), and 25.7 nm (γ-component), consistent with previous studies of thermal denaturation by light scattering. It is also concluded, based on volume calculations, that a large volume increase occurs when the triple helix unfolds. Homodyne correlation functions for two component mixtures of α-chains and β-and γ-components appeared to decay exponentially. In all but one case discussed the correlation function could be fitted with a single component having a translational diffusion coefficient which was an intensity weighted average of the diffusion coefficient of each component present.

Notes: Circular dichroic spectra and oscillator strengths of the π-π transition near 190 nm are calculated for helical (Gly)6 and (Ala)6 at 30° intervals of the backbone torsion angles (φ,ψ) over the range -180° ≤ φ ≤ -60°, -60° ≤ ψ ≤ 180°, using the partially dispersive normal mode treatment of the dipole interaction model. Polarizabilities of atoms and the NC′O group are those determined semiempirically in previous studies. Calculations for (Ala)6 at (φ,ψ) angles corresponding to the α-helix, the poly(Pro) II helix, a collagen single helix, a poly-(MeAla) helix, and single β-helices are found to agree well with most of the available experimental data.

Notes: The interaction of the fluorinated antimalarial drug fluoroquine [7-fluoro-4-(diethyl-amino-1-methylbutylamino)quinoline] with DNA, tRNA, and poly(A) has been investigated by optical absorption, fluorescence, and 19F-nmr chemical-shift and relaxation methods. Optical absorption and fluorescence experiments indicate that fluoroquine binds to nucleic acids in a similar manner to that of its well-known analog chloroquine. At low drug-to-base pair ratios, binding of both drugs appears to be random. Fluoroquine and chloroquine also elevate the melting temperature (Tm) of DNA to a comparable extent. Binding of fluoroquine to DNA, tRNA, or poly(A) results in a downfield shift of about 1.5 ppm for the 19F-nmr resonance. The chemical shift of free fluoroquine depends on the isotopic composition of the solvent (D2O vs H2O). The solvent isotope shift is virtually eliminated by fluoroquine binding to any one of the nucleic acids. 19F-nmr relaxation experiments were carried out to measure the spin-lattice relaxation time (T1), 19F{1H} nuclear Overhauser effect (NOE), off-resonance intensity ratio (R), off-resonance rotating-frame spin-lattice relaxation time (T1ρoff), and linewidth for fluoroquine in the nucleic acid complexes. By accounting for intramolecular proton-fluorine dipolar and chemical-shift anisotropy contributions to the fluorine relaxation, all of the relaxation parameters for the fluoroquine-DNA complex can be well described by a motional model incorporating long-range DNA bending on the order of a microsecond and an internal motion of the drug on the order of a nanosecond. Selective NOE experiments indicate that the fluorine in the drug is near the ribose protons in the RNA complexes, but not in the DNA complex. Details of the binding evidently differ for the two types of nucleic acids. This study provides the foundation for an investigation of fluoroquine in intact cells.

Notes: In carbonate buffer at pH 10.5, a transparent solution of poly(L-lysine HBr) was obtained up to fairly high concentration of 3 g/dl at room temperature. The hydrodynamic behavior of the solution has been studied by sedimentation analyses and viscosity measurements. A dimer form for high concentrations and a monomer form for low concentrations were inferred. The dimer and monomer forms were assigned to a β-structure and α-helix, respectively, based on the CD and optical rotary dispersion spectra. Using CD spectroscopy, a reversible transition between α-helix and β-structure was observed as a function of either poly(L-lysine HBr) concentration or temperature. An aggregated form which was assigned to the antiparallel pleated sheet appeared at 50°C on the basis of its ir spectrum.

Notes: Observations of induced circular dichroism (CD) bands in chloroform solution demonstrate the formation of specific, asymmetric complexes of the aromatic ligands 2-pyridone and 2,6-dichlorobenzoic acid with cyclic dipeptides of the general formula cyclo(L-Pro-X). The induced CD changes sign with the configuration of X due to subtle influences of the side chain on the geometry of the complex. Computations of interaction energies suggest that a plausible model for the complex of an aromatic ligand with the -CONH- of the cis secondary amide is a nearly planar arrangement of six heavy atoms in a ring containing two hydrogen bonds. The observed CD is matched by that computed for a tilt of the aromatic ligand toward the side chain of X. Binding constants were determined from the induced CD as a function of ligand concentration. For dichlorobenzoic acid these are about 450m-1 for the secondary amide and 50m-1 for the tertiary amide. For pyridone the binding constant is about 45m-1 for either the secondary or tertiary amide. For comparison self-dimerization constants determined by vapor-pressure osmometry in chloroform solution at 25°C are 870, 350, 50, and 20m-1 for pyridone, benzoic acid, dichlorobenzoic acid, and cyclo(L-Pro-Gly), respectively.

Notes: Proton and phosphorus nmr have been used to investigate the double-helical structures of polyriboadenylic acid [poly(A)] formed in acidic solutions (pH 〈 6). The results obtained at low pH (∼4.5) are consistent with the model for the acid poly(A) double helix proposed by Rich [Rich, A., Davies, D. R., Crick, F. H. C. & Watson, J. D. (1961) J. Mol. Biol. 3, 71-86]. Other models that have been proposed are inconsistent with the nmr data. The nmr measurements have also been used to examine the conformation of poly(A) helix in the half-protonated state. Although the base-stacking arrangement of this state is similar to that observed in the more extensively protonated low-pH state, the phosphate backbone conformation is different from that found in either the neutral or low-pH structures.

Notes: We studied the effects of some organic cosolvents (monohydric alcohols and amides) on the reaction of hemoglobin with oxygen. We present evidence showing that our data can be analyzed within the framework of the Monod-Wyman-Changeux model and that the main effect of cosolvents is to alter the T ⇄ R conformational equilibrium of hemoglobin, without significantly affecting the intrinsic oxygen dissociation constants. Following a previously described phenomenological approach, the overall effects have been separated into effects related to the variation of the bulk dielectric constant of the solvent and effects not related to the variation of this constant.

Notes: The spectroscopic properties (uv, CD, nmr) of histidine, glycylhistidine, histidylglycine, glycylhistidylglycine have been investigated in water and methanol in the temperature range 200-320 K in order to obtain information about their conformational equilibria. This analysis has been carried out for the different ionic forms of the compounds, in order to evaluate the influence of the ionization state of the carboxyl, histidyl, and amino groups on the rotamer distribution of the histidyl side chain (as evaluated from proton nmr analysis) and on the overall molecule (as judged from CD spectra). On the basis of certain approximations and from the temperature dependence of the proton nmr resonance, the thermodynamic parameters (ΔH° and ΔS°) characterizing the conformational equilibrium of the hystidyl side chain have been evaluated for the different structures and ionization states. Relatively large entropy differences between the rotamers are obtained in some cases. The data of the sidechain rotamer population, as determined by nmr, have been analytically correlated with the CD data, and in the case of hystidine and histidylglycine in basic solution, first-approximation values for the ellipticity of the single conformers have been evaluated. Finally, in the example of glycylhistidine and histidylglycine in basic solution, it is shown how the data obtained from the different experimental approaches (nmr and CD), as well as from theoretical energy calculations, converge to characterize the most stable conformation in solution.

Notes: Photon-correlation spectroscopy is a powerful technique for measuring the translational diffusion coefficient of particles and macromolecules in solution. In the study described here, this technique was used to analyze a specific dimerization process involving the association of two tRNA molecules through complementary anticodons. The tRNAs used in the analysis were E. coli tRNA2Glu and yeast tRNAPhe. The experimental data on the concentration dependence of the observed diffusion constants are shown to agree well with theoretical predictions. From these data, the equilibrium constant of the association reaction was determined for dimers formed over a wide range of temperatures and in several different solution conditions. In solutions of 0.1M ionic strength at 22°C, the equilibrium constants vary from 1 × 105M-1 in the absence of magnesium to 1.5 × 106M-1 in 10 mM Mg+2. The enthalpy and entropy changes for dimer formation in the absence and presence, 5 and 10 mM, of magnesium have been obtained from the temperature dependence of the equilibrium constant. The results show that both ΔH and ΔS contribute to the free energy of binding and that their relative contributions are similar for each solution condition evaluated.

Notes: A conformational quantum-mechanical study of (Gly-Phe-Pro) and (Gly-Pro-Phe) repeating tripeptide sequences has been carried out with the PCILO method. Using appropriate molecules as a model, we investigated the conformational possibilities of each in situ residue. Computations have been done taking into account the two typical pyrrolidine ring puckering and the most favorable orientations of the phenylalanyl side chain. Major conclusions drawn from this study are that the phenylalanyl can be accommodated at both second and third positions in the sequence without preventing the formation of triple-helix conformation. However, the analogy observed between the rotational possibilities around the second residue of Gly-Pro-Pro and Gly-Phe-Pro indicates that phenylalanyl in the second position favors the triple-helix formation.

Notes: The structure of the nucleosome core particle in solution has been studied by neutron scattering using the full-contrast variation technique, which reduces the experimental spectra to three fundamental scatter functions holding information on shape and structure. Systematic calculations of the fundamental scatter functions expected from proposed core-particle models have been compared with the observed functions and show that the neutron-scattering criteria severely restrict the number of models which can be valid for the structure in solution. The best model for the core particle in solution has a hydrophobic histone core about which 1.7 ± 0.1 turns of DNA are wrapped at a pitch between 3.0 and 3.5 nm. This core contains most of the histone and has an average thickness of 4 nm and diameter 6.4-7.5 nm. While solution scattering is not able to specify uniquely the actual shape of the core to high resolution, all models which are possible for the shape of the core to a resolution justified by the data have been considered. It is clear that cylindrical or wedge shapes compatible with the above dimensions are valid structures. A hole probably penetrates the histone core, but the data do not allow a diameter greater than 1 nm. Available evidence suggests that about a quarter of the total histone is outside the core.

Notes: The relationship between published vicinal proton-proton coupling constants and the pseudorotation properties of the pyrrolidine ring in L-proline, 4-hydroxy-L-proline, 4-fluoro-L-proline, and several linear and cyclic model proline peptides is investigated. Compared to earlier studies, several important improvements are incorporated: (1) a new empirical generalization of the classical Karplus equation is utilized, which allows a valid correction for the effects of electronegativity and orientation of substitutents on 3JHH; (2) an empirical correlation between proton-proton torsion angles and the pseudorotational parameters P and τm is derived; and (3) the best fit of the conformational parameters to the experimental coupling constants is obtained by means of a computerized iterative least-squares procedure. Two pseudorotation ranges were considered, classified as type N (χ2 positive sign) and type S (χ2 negative sign). The conformational equilibrium is fully described in terms of four geometrical parameters (PN, τN, PS, τS) and the equilibrium constant K. The present results indicate that, in general, the geometrical properties found in x-ray studies of proline and hydroxyproline residues are well preserved in solution. Several novel features are encountered, however. It is demonstrated that the proline ring occurs in a practically 1:1 conformational equilibrium between well-defined N- and S-type forms. Introduction of an amide group at the C-terminal end has no observable effect on this equilibrium, but the formation of a peptide bond at the imino nitrogen site results in a pronounced, but not exclusive, preference for an S-type form which is roughly 1.1 kcal/mol more stable than its N-type counterpart. The hydroxyproline ring system in neutral or acidic medium displays a pure N-type state, but N-acetylation results in the appearance of a minor (S-type) conformation. Cyclic proline dipeptides similarly exist in a biased conformational equilibrium. The major form (77-88%) corresponds to the N-type conformer observed in the solid state; the minor S-form has not been observed before. In contrast, cyclic hydroxyproline dipeptides display complete conformational purity. Ranges of endocyclic torsion angles deduced for the various classes of pyrrolidine derivatives in solution are presented. Each torsion appears confined to a surprisingly narrow range, comprising about 4°-8° in most cases. In all, the proline ring is far less “floppy” than hitherto assumed.

Notes: Measurement of the equilibrium distribution of persistence length fragments of DNA in high concentration in the ultracentrifuge shows that the reduced osmotic pressure rises much faster than linearly. From analysis of the data in terms of the Zimm cluster integral we infer that the net interactions between helices are purely repulsive at all distances. A theoretical equation of state derived from scaled particle theory with one adjustable parameter is in excellent agreement with the experimental data so long as the salt concentration is not excessively low. The parameter represents the hard-core radius in a simplified approximation to the potential function for the electrostatic repulsion between helices. Its value depends on the salt concentration, and it shrinks at high salt to a radius in close agreement with direct structural estimates. At a particular value of the osmotic pressure that is only slightly salt dependent, the solution undergoes a reversible transition to a denser, turbid, optically anisotropic phase. The relation between DNA volume fraction, including the electrostatic radius, at the transition point and the effective asymmetry of the molecules as a function of salt is in approximate correspondence with various theoretical treatments. However, the experimental function extrapolates to the correct limit for spherical particles. The work needed to bring DNA to a high concentration is estimated. The results suggest that the phase transition is first order.

Notes: This report presents a quantitative test of the ability of the counterion condensation theory to describe the proton-induced lowering of DNA melting temperature. From a general approach of Record et al. [Record, M. T., Anderson, C. F. & Lohman, T. H. (1978) Q. Rev. Biophys. 11, 103-178], we have obtained an expression that may be computer-fitted to the experimental data by numerical minimization of χ2. To do this, in addition to the assumptions made by Record et al., it was necessary to suppose that the interchange between protons and sodium is independent of pH and, due to the absence of data, take the enthalpies of protonation as thermally independent over the experimental temperature range. The dependences of the enthalpy of denaturation at neutral pH on sodium concentration and on G + C content were taken from literature. In the fitting process we have used 250 melting temperatures obtained at different pH and sodium concentrations for various natural DNAs. The theoretical expression gives a good quantitative description of the G + C and sodium concentration influences on the phenomenon but is only qualitative with respect to the dependence of dT/d log[Na+] on the pH. The adjusted pK values for the bases in denatured DNA agree with those for isolated deoxynucleosides. Interchange between sodium and protons is found to be less than 1:1. Calculated protonation enthalpies are ill-defined because of their low numerical influence. In short, it appears that the theory gives a good description of most of the aspects of the phenomenon even if it has some shortcomings, perhaps due to the great number of assumptions.

Notes: We studied the kinetics of replacement of O2 by CO in hemoglobin in the presence and absence of organic cosolvents (methanol, ethanol, iso-propanol, n-propanol, formamide, acetamide, N-methyl-formamide) and at 10 and 25°C. Quantitative analysis of the results indicates that these cosolvents do not affect the intrinsic binding constants of ligands to the heme when hemoglobin is in the R conformation. The present results confirm the previously reported suggestion that the effects of the above cosolvents on the oxygen affinity of hemoglobin are related to effects on the T ⇄ R conformational equilibrium.

Notes: Preparations have been made of acid-soluble collagens whose telopeptides have suffered different levels of proteolytic attack. The collagens with more intact telopeptides form fibrils more rapidly than those with degraded telopeptides. In addition, we have shown that a high molecular weight aggregate rich in the carboxyterminal CNBr peptide, α1CB6, can be found in cyanogen bromide digests of fibrils formed from intact collagen. A similar aggregate is found in CNBr digests of native tendons. The aggregate formed in fibrils assembled in vitro can be stabilized by reduction, and its generation is strongly dependent on the presence of intact telopeptides. The latter point is the most objective evidence that to reproduce the characteristics of native fibrils in vitro, the collagen telopeptides must be preserved from proteolysis.

Notes: We present an alternative to the common lattice model for nonspecific DNA-protein interactions by using ligands that translate freely along the polynucleotide instead of binding to distinct lattice sites along the polynucleotide chain. The general model we present corresponds to a one-dimensional continuum gas and is referred to as the “continuum model” to distinguish it from the general lattice model. Explicit expressions are obtained for the binding isotherm equation for two version of the continuum model, including the effects of binding-site exclusion and attractions between bound ligands. Theoretical results are compared to those obtained from the McGhee-von Hippel (1974) analysis of the lattice model with cooperative interactions between ligands occupying more than one lattice site. Practical applications of the continuum model are illustrated by analyzing (i) the noncooperative binding to single-stranded DNA by RNase (Jensen and von Hippel, 1976), and (ii) the highly cooperative binding to poly(rA) by a proteolyzed fragment of the gene 32 protein of phage T4 (Lonberg et al., 1981).

Notes: The structure of water and its interaction energy with a fragment of B-DNA composed of 12 base pairs and of the corresponding 24 sugar and 22 phosphate units and Na+ ions (one at each phosphate group) are analyzed using Monte Carlo simulations. The sample of water molecules, at the simulated temperature of 300 K, is composed of 447 water molecules. The results are discussed either in terms of statistical analyses over the 2,000,000 simulated conformations (after equilibration) or with reference to an “average configuration.” Comparison is made to a simulation previously presented for the same system but without counterions. Isotherm at different relative humidity, hydration, and reactivity scales for different sites, the hydration number at each site, the structure of intraphosphate and interphosphate hydrogen-bonded filaments of water are reported and discussed. The stabilization of the B-conformation induced by the solvent with counterion (“ion-induced compression effect”) is analyzed on the base of the above findings. A preliminary model to predict conformational transition in DNA is presented. The analyses reported are very detailed to allow refined interpretations of spectroscopic (infrared, Raman, and nmr) and scattering (x-ray and neutron beam) data on DNA insolution.

Notes: The conformational response of calf thymus DNA to solvent conditions altered by varying amounts of ethanol and NaCl has been monitored by circular dichroism (CD). These measurements, which extend over a much greater range of conditions than previously examined, reveal (above critical concentrations of ethanol and salt) a condensed form of the macro-molecule with unusually large positive ellipticity in the 250-300-nm region [the Ψ(+) state]. Mere increase in NaCl concentration at constant 35% (v/v) concentration of ethanol suffices to convert such Ψ(+) samples - via a series of intermediate forms with CD spectra resembling those of A-DNA, then B-DNA - into Ψ(-) states having anomalously large negative ellipticity similar to the well-known Ψ(-) forms produced by above-critical concentrations of poly-(ethylene oxide) and salt. These ethanol/salt-induced transitions are all completely reversible and can occur without formation of any visible precipitates. We suggest that they represent predominantly tertiary structural changes of B-form DNA molecules analogous to the changes which occur in several other systems where Ψ(+) ⇌ Ψ(-) interconversion has been reported. A “skein-of-yarn” model for the condensed tertiary (and quaternary, i.e., aggregated) state of the DNA affords one possible explanation for the inversions of ellipticity in all these cases. Such a model accords well with the accepted description of cholesteric liquid crystals.

Notes: 1H-Nmr was used to measure the rate of cis-trans interconversion of X-Pro bonds in linear and cyclic oligopeptides. k(cis → trans) = 2.5 × 10-3 s-1 at 25°C was found for the zwitterionic form of H-Ala-Pro-OH, in good agreement with earlier measurements. Replacement of Ala by Phe, Tyr, or Trp resulted in a 10-fold slower interconversion rate, whereas after substitution of Ala by His or Glu, the rate decreased only slightly. Independent of the residues X, the interconversion rate was increased by a factor of ca. 20 when the peptide chain was elongated by addition of Ala to the C-terminal Pro. An additional increase by a factor of 6 was observed when going from the protected linear peptide CF3CO-Gly-Gly-Pro-Ala-OCH3 to the closely related cyclic compound c[-Gly-Gly-Pro-Gly-Ala-]. These data are evaluated with regard to their possible use in future studies on the role of X-Pro cis-trans isomerization in the kinetics of protein folding.

Notes: As a model compound for the growing chain in the activated-NCA type of polymerization of α-amino acid N-carboxyanhydride (NCA), 3-[ω-acetylglycyl-poly(α-amino acid) acyl]-α-amino acid NCA (called the prepolymer) having various degrees of polymerization (DPs) was synthesized by the polymerization of Phe, Val, Glu(OEt), and Asp(OBzl) NCA in the presence of AcGly NCA by the tertiary amine. Activated (S)-Phe, Val, Glu(OEt), and Asp(OBzl) NCA were added to the terminal cyclic group of the corresponding (S)- or (R)- prepolymer, and the enantiomer selectivity in the reaction was investigated. With prepolymers having DPs ranging from 1 to 15, the addition reaction always took place preferentially between species having the same configuration, and the degree of the enantiomer selection increased with increasing DP of the prepolymer. With prepolymers having DP = 1 and 2, we found contributions from the chiral terminal unit and the chiral penultimate unit to the enantiomer selection, respectively. Prepolymer having DP = 5 was shown to take a β-type conformation, which led to higher enantiomer selection; and prepolymers having DP = 10 and 15 were shown to take an α-helix conformation, which led to much higher enantiomer selection than did the β-type conformation. In the present investigation the mechanisms of terminal-unit control, penultimate-unit control and conformational control of the enantiomer selection in the activated-NCA type of polymerization were clearly observed.

Notes: The helix-coil transition and conformational structure of poly(8-bromoadenylic acid) [poly(8BrA)] have been investigated using 1H- and 13C-nmr, CD, and ir spectroscopy. The results have been compared with the structure of the related 5′-mono- and polynucleotides. The chemical shifts of H(2′), H(3′), C(2′), and C(3′) nmr signals show an interesting correlation with both the puckering of ribose ring and glycosidic bond torsion angle. Poly(8BrA) shows an upfield shift of the C(3′) signal and a downfield shift of the H(3′) signal compared to the chemical shifts in poly(A). These shifts are consistent with a C(3′) endo-syn conformation for poly(8BrA). A similar effect has been reported previously and is also observed here on the C(2′) and H(2′) signals when the preferred conformation is C(2′)endo-syn (e.g., in 5′-8BrAMP). The chemical-shift parameters thus act as a probe for studying syn ⇄ anti and N ⇄ S equilibria in solutions. The three-bond 1H-′13C coupling constants between H(1′) and C(8) and C(4) have been measured in poly(8BrA) and 5′-8BrAMP and their structural implications have been discussed. The observed preference of a C(3′)endo-syn conformation for poly(8BrA), coupled with other evidence, throws doubt on the validity of a correlation previously reported whereby a syn conformation is associated with a C(2′)endo ribose pucker. The backbone conformation of randomly coiled poly(8BrA) is very similar to the structures found in polyribonucleotides: poly(A) and poly(U). All three polymers show strong preferences for the backbone angles found in RNA helices. The CD spectrum of poly(8BrA) has a striking relationship to that of poly(A). The signs of all extrema are inverted, and the magnitudes are related by a constant factor. We suggest that these differences result from a change in the angle between coupled transition moment vectors in the two polymers. Infrared spectra of poly(8BrA) in H2O and D2O solution are reported for the frequency range below 1400 cm-1. The antisymmetric 〉PO2- stretching vibration is observed at an unusually low frequency in the helix (1214 cm-1). The symmetric 〉PO2- stretch occurs at ∼1095 cm-1 but is not resolved from a ring vibration near this frequency. A conformationally sensitive band, characteristic of helical RNA structures, is observed at 817 cm-1 and disappears when the helix is melted. This observation confirms the conclusion that ordered poly(8BrA) has a regular helical structure with an RNA backbone conformation. A stereochemical explanation is provided for the failure of poly(8BrA) (or other syn polymers) to form double helices with anti-polyribonucleotides.

Notes: The arginine and lysine residues of calf thymus histone H1 were modified with large molar excesses of 2,3-butanedione and O-methylisourea, respectively. Kinetic study of the modification reaction of the arginine residue revealed that the reaction is divided into the two pseudo-first-order processes. About a third (1 Arg) of the total arginine residues of the H1 molecule was rapidly modified without causing any detectable structural change of the molecule, and the slow modification of the remaining arginine residues (2 Arg) led to a loss of the folded structure of H1. In the case of lysine residue modification, 93% (56 Lys) of the total lysine residues of the H1 was modified with the same rate constant, while 7% (4 Lys) of lysine residue remained unmodified. When the reaction was performed in the presence of 6M guanidine-HCl, all of lysine residues were modified. It is concluded that the 2 arginine and 4 lysine residues resistant to modification are buried in interior regions of the H1 molecule and play an important role in the formation of the H1 globular structure, while the other 1 arginine and 56 lysine residues are exposed to solvent.

Notes: The molar Kerr constants mK, molar refractions mR, and dipole moments μ are reported for the N-methylacetamides CX3CONHCH3 (X = H, CH3, F. CI, Br) and acetamides CX3CONH2 (X = H, F, Cl, Br). The components of the polarizability tensor α are deduced for N-methylacetamide and acetamide on the basis of the bond additivity approximation. This α is found to be considerably more anisotropic than was indicated in previous determinations by other methods. The data for N-methylacetamide were used to calculate mK, μ, and γ2 (anisotropy squared) of N-acetyl-N′-methylglycine amide and N-acetyl-N′-methyl-alanine amide as functions of the torsional angles (φ,Ψ). The statistical mechanical averages of mK, μ, and γ2 were calculated from conformational energies obtained by the methods of Scheraga.

Notes: The physical properties of single, 5-8-μm diameter, water-swollen elastin fibers have been investigated on a microtest apparatus attached to a polarizing microscope. Analysis of the mechanical and optical properties at extensions below 100% indicate that the elastic modulus (G) has a value of 4.1 × 105 N m-2, the average molecular weight of chains between crosslinks is in the range of 6000-7100, and the stress optical coefficient (C′) is 1 × 10-9 m2 N-1 at 24°C. Analysis of the temperature dependence of the stress optical coefficient indicates that the polarizability of the random link decreases with increasing temperature, with an apparent activation energy for this process of the order of 1.6 kcal/mol. Analysis of the non-Gaussian mechanical and optical properties at extensions above about 100% suggest that the chains between crosslinks contain approximately 10 “effective” random links, with each link consisting of 7-8 amino acid residues. These parameters for the random chains in the elastin network have been used to predict the dimensions of other random proteins. The close correlation of these predictions with published values for the dimensions of a series of proteins in solution in 6M guanidinium hydrochloride provides an independent test of the appropriateness of our analysis.

Notes: Heavy meromyosin binding to F-actin saturated with tropomyosin is studied theoretically. The problem is formulated as a special case of n-mer adsorption to a one-dimensional Ising lattice which is divided into m-site-long blocks.

Notes: A Monte Carlo analysis is presented which establishes a relationship between the rotational diffusion coefficients and the flexibility (persistence length, P) of short, wormlike chains. The results of this analysis are presented in terms of experimentally observable quantities; namely, the rotational relaxation times for the field-free decay of optical anisotropy. The pertinent theoretical quantity is R, defined as the ratio of the longest rotational relaxation time of a wormlike chain to the transverse rotational relaxation time of a rigid cylinder having the same axial length (L) and segmental volume. R, so defined, is essentially independent of the axial ratio of the cylinder for any value of L/P within the range of validity of the present analysis (axial ratio 〉 20; 0.1 〈 L/P 〈 5). It is pointed out that P can be determined with reasonable accuracy even in the absence of a precise knowledge of the local hydrodynamic radius of the chain.

Notes: Solvents which accelerate DNA renaturation rates have been investigated. Addition of NaCl or LiCl to DNA in 2.4M Et4NCl initially increases renaturation rates at 45°C and then leads to a loss of second-order behavior. The greatest accelerations are seen with LiCl and dilute DNA. Volume exclusion by dextran sulfate is the most effective method of accelerating DNA renaturation with concentrated DNA. Addition of dextran sulfate beyond 10-12% in 2.4M Et4NCl fails to increase the acceleration beyond approximately 10-fold. Accelerations of 100-fold may be achieved with 35-40% dextran sulfate in 1M NaCl at 70°C. No other mixed solvent system was found to be more effective, although acceleration may be achieved in solvents containing formamide or other denaturants. The acceleration in 2M NaCl occurs without loss of the normal concentration and temperature dependence of DNA renaturation and is also independent of dextran sulfate concentration if sufficient dextran sulfate is used. Dextran sulfate may be selectively precipitated by use of 1M CsCl.

Notes: In the preceding article, a Monte Carlo analysis was presented which provides a quantitative numerical relationship between the rotational diffusion coefficients, as measured by the decay of optical anisotropy following an electric field pulse, and the flexibility (persistence length) of short, wormlike chains. In the present article, the results of the foregoing analysis are applied to the observed rates of decay of birefringence for a series of sequenced DNA fragments ranging in size from 104 to 910 base pairs. Under the conditions used in this study, the DNA fragments exist as native, duplex molecules. Furthermore, conditions are defined in which the observed relaxation times are not dependent on DNA concentration, field strength, or the duration of the pulse. It is pointed out that the ionic atmosphere associated with a wormlike polyion does not exert any significant (direct) influence on the rotational diffusion of the polyion and, therefore, that the rotational relaxation times are a true measure of the configurations of the DNA molecules in solution. Moreover, excluded-volume effects are shown not to be significant for the moderately short molecules employed in this study. The major conclusion of this study is that there is no strong ionic strength dependence of the persistence length for ionic strengths above 1 mM and that the persistence length, under conditions where electrostatic contributions are negligible, is approximately 500 Å. For ionic strengths significantly lower than 1 mM, electrostatic contributions to the stiffness of DNA become significant.

Notes: The aqueous and hydroalcoholic solutions of the heptenic macrolide amphotericin B display strong and variable signals in CD and absorption spectroscopies in the range of the π* ← π transition. An interpretation of the spectroscopic changes is proposed based on the equilibrium between two forms of the intermolecular organization: the aggregated one (A) with strong excitonic interaction and the nonaggregative one (B) whose spectra are like those of linear conjugated polyenes in true solution with a well-developed vibrational structure. The intermediate spectra are fitted by linear combination of the A- and B-form spectra. A two-level organization of the aggregates is proposed for the A-form: (1) a close packing of few molecules, which is the origin of the absorption maxima hypsochromic shift; and (2) interaction between the preceding small units inside the aggregates, which is spectroscopically expressed by the intense CD couplet.

Notes: Polypeptides of dicarboxylic amino acids having the monomer units linked in α- and ω-peptide bonds contain two kinds of carboxyls of different acidity. How well potentiometric titration can distinguish these two carboxyls and so characterize the nature of the peptide bonds is evaluated critically. An analysis of the equation describing the dependence of pH on the degree of neutralization based on neglecting the polymer effect and a discussion of the dissociation behavior of polyanions show that the method of evaluating experimental data found in the literature is incorrect. Nevertheless, if a conformational transition does not interfere, some useful and reliable information may be gained by this method; namely, an indication of the presence of two different peptide bonds, their mole ratio, and an approximate pK value for the carboxyl of the amino acid linked in the ω-peptide bond. The presence of two types of carboxyls complicates the evaluation of the titration curves in the conformation studies.

Notes: Conformational analysis of antiparallel double-helical polynucleotides with Watson-Crick base pairing was reduced to a four-dimensional problem using original mathematical methods. In the four-dimensional conformational space the family of structures, characterized by the base-pair stacking with the most stable conformations in water solution as well as in the solid state, was localized. For the C′2-endo sugar pucker, both right-handed and left-handed structures were found; right-handed structures only, however, seem to be allowed for the C′3-endo pucker, the only possible one for ribonucleotides with base stacking.

Notes: Angiotensin II and its competitive inhibitor [Sar1, Ile8]-angiotensin II, as well as several analogs of these two compounds specifically chosen for their well-defined pharmacological properties, were studied by circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance methods at various pH values in aqueous solution and in d6-dimethylsulfoxide. The results were compared with their biological activities. This allowed us to establish relationships between conformation and pressor activity, explaining most of the properties of angiotensin II, its inhibitor, and the analogs successively substituted in positions 3 and 5.

Notes: Peptide agonists covalently attached to tobacco mosaic virus exhibit such unusual properties as superpotency, superaffinity, enhanced resistance towards enzymic degradation, and prolonged action at the target cell. These properties can be exploited for the isolation by density-gradient centrifugation of membrane vesicles bearing specific receptors for the peptides and for radioactive and fluorescent labeling of cell-surface receptors. Our observations can be explained by cooperative-affinity phenomena caused by the deployment in space of the agonist molecules.

Notes: The early steps of fibrin aggregation induced by low Reptilase concentrations were studied by means of static and dynamic light scattering. In order to obtain information on the size and shape of the first oligomers, the angular dependence of the scattered intensity and the mean Rayleigh line width were measured. Under physiological pH and ionic strength, oligomer formation was detectable immediately after enzymatic activation. Comparison of the calculated data for different models with experimental results shows that the early fibrin polymerization proceeds as an end-to-end aggregation of elongated and possibly flexible molecules approximately 75 nm long.

Notes: The equivalent conductivity of salt-free solutions of deoxyribonucleates of alkali metals and ammonium obtained by filtering an isoionic DNA solution through a cation exchanger in the corresponding form has been investigated in the concentrations range of 1 × 10-4 to 4 × 10-3M. For all counterions investigated there is a linear dependence of the equivalent conductivity on \documentclass{article}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$ \sqrt {C_p} $\end{document}, where Cp is the nucleic phosphorus concentration. The limiting equivalent conductivity of deoxyribonucleates increases linearly with the limiting mobility of a counterion. By extrapolation to the zero mobility of the counterion, we have obtained the limiting mobility of a macroion, which is equal to 19 × 10-4 Sm m2 equiv.-1, which is in good agreement with the literature data for denatured DNA obtained by the method of a moving boundary. It is shown that the degree of binding of counterions calculated from the conductometric data in diluted DTA solutions in independent of the nature of the univalent counterion. The degree of dissociation of H+-DNA in the isoionic solution calculated with allowance for the fraction of unprotonated bases practically coincides with this value for salts of DNA. The parameter of Manning's theory calculated from the experimental data corresponds to the distance between phosphates along the chain of the macroion, which is equal to 6.7 Å. We attribute the smaller value of this distance as compared with the theoretical one for denatured DNA to the aggregation of macroions.

Notes: A hydrate of cellulose II can be formed by swelling Fortisan fibers in hydrazine and then washing in water. The hydrate is stable at 93% relative humidity and has a monoclinic unit cell with dimensions a = 9.02 Å, b = 9.63 Å, c = 10.34 Å, and γ = 116.0°; the space group is P21. The unit cell contains disaccharide sections of two chains and approximately four water molecules. The structure was refined using the LALS method, based on 10 observed and 10 unobserved reflections. An antiparallel arrangement of adjacent chains was assumed, since this occurs in cellulose II (the starting material), and the hydrate also reverts to cellulose II on dehydration. Refinement of the positions and side-chain conformations of the chains shows that the chains are stacked in the same way as in cellulose II, and the hydrate is formed by insertion of water molecules between the stacks. However, all efforts to arrange the water molecules in crystallographically regular positions led to unsatisfactory agreement between the observed and calculated intensities. These results suggest an irregular arrangement of the water molecules, which was modeled using water-weighted atomic scattering factors. The analysis resulted in two refined models with relative chain staggers of ∼ +c/4 and ∼ -c/4, which are indistinguishable in terms of the x-ray agreement. Our preference is for the +c/4 model, for which the stacks of chains are analogous to those in cellulose II.

Notes: The interaction of calcium ions with α-elastin has been investigated by equilibrium dialysis, CD, and microcalorimetric techniques. Consistent with literature data, it was found that the interaction in water is very poor. In trifluoroethanol (TFE), equilibrium dialysis experiments showed that calcium ions bind to ∼-elastin with an association constant of ∼250 L × mol-1. Such a figure is not consistent with highly specific, highly selective binding. It was also found that the CD response is not directly proportional to the amount of bound calcium but depends on the protein concentration. From microcalorimetric experiments it was found that the heat effect relative to the binding process is of the order of 1.9 kcal/g ion. From this figure and from the binding constant, a positive ΔS value of about 17 e.u. was evaluated, leading to the conclusion that the binding process is entropy driven. From microcalorimetric measurements a ΔH of 1.5 kcal/residue was found for the calcium-induced conformational transition of the protein.

Notes: The helix-coil transition temperature Tc of poly(γ-benzyl L-glutamate) in binary solvent mixtures of dichloroacetic acid and 1,4-dichlorobutane, 1-chlorooctane, or 1-chlorododecane have been measured. A treatment is presented with which the transition enthalpy can be calculated from the observed dependence of Tc on solvent composition. Results are compared with previously obtained calorimetric data. The underlying assumptions of the calculation are discussed.

Notes: A marked molecular weight fractionation accompanies the demixing or phase separation resulting from the complex coacervation of mixtures of aqueous solutions of salt-free isoionic unfractionated gelatins with pI's of 5 and 9. Viscosity studies show that the fractionation is such that the concentrated phase tends to maintain constant, homogeneous composition. A second feature, seen in phase volume and concentration measurements, is a marked self-suppression of coacervation intensity with increasing mixing concentration. These data were interpreted in terms of a dilute-phase aggregate model which assumes nearly equal electrostatic free energies of mixing in dilute aggregate and concentrated random phase. The driving force for phase separation is the entropy increase upon formation of the random phase but demixing also depends upon the polymer-solvent interaction parameter χ, in the same fashion as in simple coacervation. The dilute-phase aggregate model indicates that the sharp molecular weight selection takes place in the aggregate formation step and explains the self-suppression. Phase equilibria studies utilizing fractionated, paucidisperse high molecular weight gelatins, emphasize the requirement for concentrated phase homogeneity and indicate that aggregates of different molecular weight may act as different components, so that χP1Q1,PkQk 〉 0, bringing about a separation of the system into three or more coexisting phases. The formation of several coexisting phases from a homologous polyelectrolyte system and the very marked requirement for phase homogeneity suggest that the phenomenon of complex coacervation is a very good model for some of the essential steps in the pre-biologic organization of polymeric polyions.

Notes: Light scattering of multichain poly-α-amino acids was studied in dimethylformamide (DMF). The polymers consisted of a backbone of poly-L-lysine of degree of polymerization n with side chains of benzyl L-glutamate and benzyl L-aspartate of degree of polymerization, m, on each ε-amino group. The backbone length n is known and m is obtained by amino acid analysis. The results on a series of such materials confirm this structure and show that the molecules are dissolved in highly compacted conformations. It was found that DMF is a poor solvent for these polymers. In the case of the higher molecular weight polymers, the solutions initially were not molecularly disperse. The aggregates were resistant to dilution in the experimental range. Mild heat treatment, however, disaggregated the solutions irreversibly, and the light-scattering data indicated that a structural rearrangement of the molecules had occurred.

Notes: The intrinsic viscosity, sedimentation and diffusion of a series of branched, multichain poly-α-amino acids having a poly(L-lysine) backbone and poly(γ-benzyl L-glutamate) and poly (β-benzyl L-aspartate) side chains was studied at room temperature in dimethylformamide. The molecules were found to be extremely compact structures in which the molecular backbone is either lying along the major axis in a slightly twisted configuration (the longer the side chain the smaller the twist) or is coiled up in the form of a disk with backbone and side chains coplanar. Heat treatment (to 70°C.) introduces only small changes in the hydrodynamic parameters showing that the heat-labile aggregates detected by light scattering are reversibly broken up during the hydrodynamic measurements. The above structural information concerns the initial metastable conformation of the molecules which is irreversibly destroyed by heat treatment.

Notes: The optical rotatory dispersion and ultraviolet absorption spectra of the 64 trinucleoside diphosphates containing the bases A, U, C, and G have been calculated by using a simple semiempirical approach. These calculations accurately predict the optical properties of the nine trimers for which extensive experimental results are available. The computed optical data should be useful in the identification of oligonucleotides obtained in the course of sequence determination of ribonucleic acids and should simplify the determination of the concentration of oligonucleotides in aqueous solution. Additional calculations indicate that it should be possible to analyze most, mixtures of sequence isomers of trinucleoside diphosphates by direct, measurement of the ORD of the mixture at neutral pH.

Notes: The equilibrium binding constants of Cd++ and Cu++ to native and denatured calf thymus DNA were determined polarographically. The binding constants are an exponential function of the potential at the binding site and as such they vary with ionic strength and with the charge on the DNA molecule. The correlation between the fraction of sites occupied by heavy metal ions and between the thermal stability of DNA in solution is discussed.

Notes: Complex shear viscosity η* = η′ - iη″ of poly (L-glutarmic acid) solution was measured by the torsional crystal method at 50 kc./sec. as a function of pH. A sharp peak was found at the midpoint of the helix-coil transition region in both η′ and η″. The relaxation time is calculated from η′ and η″ assuming a single relaxation process and the peak value at the midpoint of transition is estimated at 10-6 sec. Such behavior agrees well with the prediction from the theory of Schwarz. The attenuation of longitudinal sound waves at,3 Me./sec. was measured as a function of pH for solutions of poly(glutamic acid), glutamic acid, and gelatin. A small attenuation peak was observed for the three solutions, the peak height being almost, the same for them. The peak is interpreted in terms of the dissociation reaction of side chains.

Notes: We report the circular dichroism (CD) spectrum of poly-Lacetoxyproline in trifluoroethanol, a solvent in which the form I to form II conformational isomerization occurs slowly enough to permit observation of the spectral changes. A comparison is made to poly-Lproline. As judged by the similarity of the CD spectra, the conformations of the corresponding forms of the two polymers must be nearly the same. Transition assignments are proposed; these are shown to agree with the theoretical calculations of Pysh. There is a serious unexplained discrepancy between our solution data and those of Fasman for poly-Lacetoxyproline.

Notes: The dielectric relaxation of DNA solutions has been investigated with and without extraneous ions covering a wide frequency range. The effect of monovalent ions such as Na, K, and Li as well as divalent ions such as Mg, Ca, and Hg have been included in the study. These ions are found to have a profound effect on the dielectric increment and the relaxation time without affecting the molecular dimension drastically. This dielectric effect is interpreted as indicating the importance of counterion fluctuation on the low frequency dielectric constant of DNA in solution. The effect of an organic ion, tetra-methylammoniun bromide, has also been studied. This ion has no noticeable effect. A simple theory is derived on the basis of a microscopic model to account for the effect of external ions on the dielectric behavior of solutions of DNA.

Notes: Block and random copolymers of γ-benzyl L-glutamate and glycine were studied by optical rotatory dispersion methods in order to ascertain the extent and stability of the α-helix formed by these polymers in appropriate solvent mixtures. Results indicate that when in solution such polymers do contain sections of α-helix. However, it appears that glycine does not readily fit into the α-helix which is largely due to the γ-benzyl L-glutamate segments. Further, there are indications that the helical sections in the random copolymers are due to the nonrandomness of the polymerization.

Notes: It is demonstrated that, poly(A + U) and poly(I + C) are both formed under low ionic strength conditions. Continuous variation studies indicate the formation of copper(II) complexes of poly A, poly C, and poly I, but not of poly U. Copper(II) in a 1:1 ratio to polynucleotide prevents the formation of poly(A + U) and brings about the dissociation of the poly (A + U) complex produced in the absence of the metal. Poly (I + C) is similarly dissociated by copper(II) ions. The addition of sufficient electrolyte reverses the copper(II) induced dissociation of poly(I + C). The effect of copper(II) on ordered synthetic polynucleotides is thus very similar to its effect on DNA.

Notes: The synthesis and some of the physical-chemical properties of tricopolymers of L-glutamic acid, L-lysine, and L-alanine are reported here. The molar ratios of the glutamyl: lysyl: alanyl residues were 1:1:X or 3:2:X, where the alanyl content X was increased in regular steps. The α-helix content calculated from the optical rotatory dispersion of the polypeptides is compared with a predicted helix content estimated from the composition of the polymers and the known behavior of the homopolypeptides at pH 3, 8, and 12. At pH 3 copolypeptides containing 20 mole-% or more alanine exhibit a helix content equal to the sum of their alanyl and glutamyl residue contents. At pH 8 the helix content equals the alanyl content when the latter was 40 mole-% or higher; at lower alanyl contents the electrostatic interaction between charged glutamyl and lysyl residues makes some contribution. At pH 12 the amount of helix observed is proportional to the mole ratio of alanine residues present in the polymer. The helix content of a tricopolymer containing 1:1:3 mole ratios of glutamyl: lysyl: alanyl residues was determined in solutions of lithium bromide and in urea solutions. Both reagents led to a decrease in helix content at pH 3 and 8 to a minimum of approximately 20% helix in 8M urea or 5.5M LiBr. The helix-random chain transition curves at pH 3 and 8 are parallel when the urea concentration is varied, but differ in shape when the lithium bromide concentration is varied at pH 3 and 8. The mode of action of these two “denaturing” reagents may thus be different. Heating the same tricopolypeptide at pH 3 or 8 from 5 to 80°C. also led to a helix-random chain transition centered at approximately 45°C.

Notes: Potentiometric titration curves of the silver(I) complexes of cytidine, adenosine, and uridine show little uptake of base below pH 7, unlike the curve for silver(I)-guanosine, which shows extensive base uptake at neutral pH. This observation is correlated with spectrophotometric data showing little difference between the silver complex spectra of adenosine, cytidine, and uridine and the spectra of uncomplexed nucleosides, except at high pH, but showing a great difference between the silver complex spectra of guanosine and inosine and the corresponding uncomplexed nucleosides even at pH 6. Similar comparisons of the silver complexes of poly A, poly C, poly I, and poly U, both by potentiometric titration and by spectrophotometry, show that poly I behaves like guanosine and inosine as expected, differing from poly A and poly C. However, poly U behaves like poly I and thus does not resemble uridine in its complexing behavior. There is thus a dichotomy between poly A and poly C on the one hand in silver complexing phenomena, compared with poly U and poly I on the other. When silver(I) is added to systems containing zinc(II) and various polynucleotides, the same dichotomy is noted. Silver(I) inhibits the degradation by zinc(II) of all four polynucleotides, but the degradation of poly I and poly U is prevented virtually completely. Silver(I) alone has no degradative effect on RNA and inhibits, the zinc(II) degradation of RNA. Polynucleotide complexes in which silver(I) and zinc(II) are simultaneously bound to different positions on the macromolecules are postulated as intermediates in the inhibited degradation reactions.

Notes: Using classical potential functions, we carried out potential-energy calculations on the complementary deoxydinucleoside phosphate complexes dApdA:dUpdU, dUpdA:dUpdA, and dApdU:dApdU. All dihedral and bond angles, except those of the nitrogen bases, were varied. The resulting minimum-energy conformations of the complexes are close to DNA A- and B-family conformations, with a typical arrangement of the nitrogen bases. The dihedral and bond angles of one of the molecules forming the complex can thereby differ by several degrees from those of the other molecule. For different base sequences, some dihedral and bond angles may vary over a range of several degrees without appreciably changing the total energy of the complex. Some low-energy conformations of the complexes corresponding to other regions of the conformational space are also found. The biological consequences of possible changes in dihedral and bond angles, occurring on interaction with other molecules, are discussed.