3D Structure of Barley’s HvAACT1 Protein Reveals How Roots Neutralize Toxic Aluminum (IMAGE)

Okayama University

3D Structure of Barley’s HvAACT1 Protein Reveals How Roots Neutralize Toxic Aluminum

Caption

The 3D structure of the barley root protein HvAACT1, shown at about 10 million times its actual size. (A) Ribbon models highlight the overall shape of the protein from two angles. (B) Surface models reveal a central cavity with regions of positive and negative charges. Citrate molecules (red) bind to positive regions, while protons (yellow) bind to negative regions—together powering the transporter to expel citrate into the soil, where it locks away toxic aluminum.

Credit

Professor Michihiro Suga from Okayama University, Japan

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