[Left-handed helix of polyproline II type in linker regions of DNA-binding proteins].

Using the databases of proteins and linkers, a search has been undertaken with the aim to find linker segments adopting the polyproline II conformation in DNA-protein complexes. Seventy three linker-DNA complexes were found. It was shown that the mean length of polyproline II segment comprises six residues, praline being not dominant. The symmetry of praline disposition in these regions prevents the formation of the cooperative water net involving amide groups. An example of specific distribution of proline in some proteins of the motility apparatus is presented.