Solution scattering study of the Bacillus subtilis PgdS enzyme involved in poly-γ-glutamic acids degradation

The PgdS enzyme is a poly-gamma-glutamic (gamma-PGA) hydrolase, which has potential application for a controllable degradation of gamma-PGA by enzymatic depolymerization; however, the structure of PgdS is still unknown. Here, to study in detail the full-length PgdS structure, we analyze the low-resolution architecture of PgdS hydrolase from Bacillus subtilis in solution using small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) method. Combining with other methods, like dynamic light scattering and mutagenesis analyses, a model for the full length structure and the possible substrate delivery route of PgdS are proposed. The results will provide useful hints for future investigations into the mechanisms of gamma-PGA degradation by the PgdS hydrolase and may provide valuable practical information.