Non-classical hydrogen bonds in interleukins: The role of C-H•••O interactions

The role of classical hydrogen bonds in the structural stability of biological macro-molecules is well understood. In the present study, we explore the influence of C-H center dot center dot center dot O interactions in relation to other environmental preferences in interleukins. Main chain-main chain interactions are predominant. Pro residues might stabilize helices and strands by C-H center dot center dot center dot OH-bonds in interleukins. Majority of the C-H center dot center dot center dot O interacting residues were solvent exposed. 62% of C-H center dot center dot center dot O interactions was long-range interactions. The results presented in this study might be useful for structural stability studies in interleukins. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.