Structure, dynamics, and function of PsDef2 defensin from Pinus sylvestris.

Plant defensins demonstrate high structural stability at extreme temperatures and pH values and, in general, are non-toxic to mammalian cells. These properties make them attractive candidates for use in biotechnology and biomedicine. Knowing the structure-function relationship is desirable to guide the design of plant defensin-based applications. Thus far, the broad range of biological activities was described only for one defensin from gymnosperms, the defensin PsDef1 from Scots pine. Here, we report that closely related defensin from the same taxonomy group, PsDef2, differing from PsDef1 by six amino acids, also possesses antimicrobial, antibacterial, and insect α-amylase inhibitory activities. We also report the solution structure and dynamics properties of PsDef2 assessed using a combination of experimental nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques. Lastly, we perform a comparative analysis of PsDef2 and PsDef1 gaining a molecular-level insight into their structure-dynamics-function relationship.

NMR structure, conformational dynamics, and biological activity of PsDef1 defensin from Pinus sylvestris.

Plants have developed a complex defense response system against pests and pathogens. Defensins, produced by plants as part of their innate immune response, form the family of small, basic, cysteine-rich proteins with activity primarily directed against fungal pathogens. In addition, plant defensins can show antibacterial activity and protease and insect amylase inhibitory activities. However, in gymnosperms, only antifungal activity of defensins has been described thus far. Here, we report antibacterial and insect α-amylase inhibition activities for defensin PsDef1 from P. sylvestris, the first defensin from gymnosperms with a broad range of biological activities described. We also report the solution NMR structure of PsDef1 and its dynamics properties assessed by a combination of experimental NMR and computational techniques. Collectively, our data provide an insight into structure, dynamics, and functional properties of PsDef1 that could be common between defensins from this taxonomic group.