Mechanism of transmembrane signaling by sensor histidine kinases

International audienceOne of the major and essential classes of transmembrane (TM) receptors, present in all domains of life, is sensor histidine kinases (HKs), parts of two-component signaling systems (TCS). The structural mechanisms of transmembrane signaling by these sensors are poorly understood. We present here crystal structures of the periplasmic sensor domain, the TM domain and the cytoplasmic HAMP domain of the Escherichia coli nitrate/nitrite sensor HK NarQ in the ligand-bound and mutated ligand-free states. The structures reveal that the ligand binding induces significant rearrangements and piston-like shifts of TM helices. The HAMP domain protomers undergo lever-like motions and convert the piston-like motions into helical rotations. Our findings provide the structural framework for complete understanding of TM TCS signaling and for development of antimicrobial treatments targeting TCS