Binding of a high affinity phosphotyrosyl peptide to the Src SH2 domain: Crystal structures of the complexed and peptide-free forms

The crystal structure of the Src SH2 domain complexed with a high affinity 11-residue phosphopeptide has been determined at 2.7 Å resolution by X-ray diffraction. The peptide binds in an extended conformation and makes primary interactions with the SH2 domain at six central residues: PQ(pY)EEI. The phosphotyrosine and the isoleucine are tightly bound by two well-defined pockets on the protein surface, resulting in a complex that resembles a two-pronged plug engaging a two-holed socket. The glutamate residues are in solvent-exposed environments in the vicinity of basic side chains of the SH2 domain, and the two N-terminal residues cap the phosphotyrosine-binding site. The crystal structure of Src SH2 in the absence of peptide has been determined at 2.5 Å resolution, and comparison with the structure of the high affinity complex reveals only localized and relatively small changes.