Multiresolution molecular dynamics simulations reveal the interplay between conformational variability and functional interactions in membrane-bound cytochrome 2B4
Cytochrome P450 2B4 (CYP 2B4) is one of the best characterized CYPs and serves as a key model system for understanding the mechanisms of microsomal class II CYPs, which metabolize most known drugs. The highly flexible nature of CYP 2B4 is apparent from crystal structures that show the active site with either a wide open or a closed heme binding cavity. Here, we investigated the conformational ensemble of the full-length CYP 2B4 in a phospholipid bilayer, using multiresolution molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Coarse-grained MD simulations revealed two predominant orientations of CYP 2B4’s globular domain with respect to the bilayer. Their refinement by atomistic resolution MD showed adaptation of the enzyme’s interaction with the lipid bilayer, leading to open configurations that facilitate ligand access to the heme binding cavity. CAVER analysis of enzyme tunnels, AquaDuct analysis of water routes, and Random Acceleration Molecular Dynamics simulations of ligand dissociation suppor