Lethal factor structure/activity

The recruitment of zinc for a structural role, or to activate an enzyme, has been observed. The zinc ion induces the dimerization of human growth hormone (hGH), with two Zn ions associated per dimer of hGH. This is confirmed by replacement of possible zinc binding residues resulting in weakened binding of the zinc ion. Formation of a zinc-hGH dimeric complex may be important for storage of hGH in secretory granules.975 In a toxic role, anthrax lethal factor is one of the three components of the secreted toxin and is a zinc-dependent protease that cleaves a protein kinase and causes lysis of macrophages.976... 

The lethal factor (LF) of anthrax, which is responsible for the pathogenesis of anthrax, was found to possess highly specific protease acitivities against mitogen-activated protein kinase kinases (MAPKKs) family, leading to inhibition of one or more signaling pathways.The X-ray crystal-structure analysis revealed that the anthrax LF comprises four domains domain I... 

They may be a source of structures for screening. They may possess activity that is applicable to pest control directly or after structural modification of the original structure. Finally, the recognition of their function in nature may suggest new approaches to pest control. However, their practical application may be limited by economics. Resistant plants are important in managing insect pests and their resistance may arise from many factors. Some plants contain insecticidal principles that may be exploited. Compounds that modify Insect behaviour are not directly lethal, but may be valuable in pest control. However, their efficacy may be difficult and costly to determine. 

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