PAS domain S-boxes in Archaea, Bacteria and sensors for oxygen and redox

摘要

PAS domains, previously reported in proteins from mammals, insects, plants, fungi and cyanobacteria, are typically paired with a repeat domain and involved in protein-protein interactions. They have been associated with light reception, light regulation and clock proteins. We have identified highly conserved regions (S_1 and S_2 boxes) that are present in PAS domains and in a large family of sensor proteins of all kingdoms, including Archaea. This family includes many well-known sensory proteins that were not previously recognized as members of the PAS domain family. We also expand the range of signal transduction events that are associated with PAS domains. Of particular interest is the sensing of oxygen and redox potential.