Structural and Biophysical Analysis of the CLCA1 VWA Domain Suggests Mode of TMEM16A Engagement

Abstract

Summary: The secreted protein calcium-activated chloride channel regulator 1 (CLCA1) utilizes a von Willebrand factor type A (VWA) domain to bind to and potentiate the calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A. To gain insight into this unique potentiation mechanism, we determined the 2.0-Å crystal structure of human CLCA1 VWA bound to Ca2+. The structure reveals the metal-ion-dependent adhesion site (MIDAS) in a high-affinity “open” conformation, engaging in crystal contacts that likely mimic how CLCA1 engages TMEM16A. The CLCA1 VWA contains a disulfide bond between α3 and α4 in close proximity to the MIDAS that is invariant in the CLCA family and unique in VWA structures. Further biophysical studies indicate that CLCA1 VWA is preferably stabilized by Mg2+ over Ca2+ and that α6 atypically extends from the VWA core. Finally, an analysis of TMEM16A structures suggests residues likely to mediate interaction with CLCA1 VWA. : CLCA1 is a secreted potentiator of the calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A. Berry et al. report the structure and biophysical analysis of the human CLCA1 VWA domain, which binds to and potentiates TMEM16A. Their results suggest how the VWA MIDAS engages TMEM16A. Keywords: von Willebrand factor A domain, VWA, metal-ion-dependent adhesion site motif, MIDAS, crystal structure, TMEM16A, calcium-activated chloride channel, small-angle X-ray scattering, SAXS, calcium-activated chloride channel regulator, CLCA, cystic fibrosis, airway disease, calcium-activated chloride channel regulator 1, CLCA1