Structural basis for the interaction of TAK1 kinase with its activating protein TAB1
Brown, K., Vial, S.C., Dedi, N., Long, J.M., Dunster, N.J., Cheetham, G.M.(2005) J Mol Biol 354: 1013-1020
- PubMed: 16289117 
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmb.2005.09.098
- Primary Citation of Related Structures:  
2EVA - PubMed Abstract: 
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta)-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) is a member of the MAPKKK family of protein kinases, and is involved in intracellular signalling pathways stimulated by transforming growth factor beta, interleukin-1 and tumour necrosis factor-alpha. TAK1 is known to rely upon an additional protein, TAK1-binding protein 1 (TAB1), for complete activation. However, the molecular basis for this activation has yet to be elucidated. We have solved the crystal structure of a novel TAK1 chimeric protein and these data give insight into how TAK1 is activated by TAB1. Our results reveal a novel binding pocket on the TAK1 kinase domain whose shape complements that of a unique alpha-helix in the TAK1 binding domain of TAB1, providing the basis for an intimate hydrophobic association between the protein activator and its target.
Organizational Affiliation: 
Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Europe) Ltd, 88 Milton Park, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 4RY, UK.