Using least median of squares for structural superposition of flexible proteins
2009

A New Method for Comparing Flexible Protein Structures

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Liu Yu-Shen, Fang Yi, Ramani Karthik

Primary Institution: Purdue University

Hypothesis

Can the least median of squares (LMS) method improve the structural superposition of flexible proteins compared to conventional methods?

Conclusion

The LMS method provides a robust alternative for superimposing flexible protein structures, effectively identifying rigid core regions without prior knowledge of flexibility.

Supporting Evidence

  • The LMS method successfully identifies rigid core regions in flexible proteins.
  • Tests on various proteins showed that LMS outperforms traditional RMSD methods.
  • The algorithm can handle large conformational changes effectively.

Takeaway

This study introduces a new way to compare flexible proteins by focusing on their stable parts, making it easier to see how they change shape.

Methodology

The study uses a new algorithm based on least median of squares (LMS) and a forward search technique to superimpose protein structures.

Limitations

The method may not perform well if the flexible regions contain more atoms than the rigid core.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2105-10-29

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