Mg2+-induced conformational changes in the btuB riboswitch from E. coli

Mg2+ has been shown to modulate the function of riboswitches by facilitating the ligand-riboswitch interactions. The btuB riboswitch from Escherichia coli undergoes a conformational change upon binding to its ligand, coenzyme B-12 (adenosylcobalamine, AdoCbl), and down-regulates the expression of the B-12 transporter protein BtuB in order to control the cellular levels of AdoCbl. Here, we discuss the structural folding attained by the btuB riboswitch from E. coli in response to Mg2+ and how it affects the ligand binding competent conformation of the RNA. The btuB riboswitch notably adopts different conformational states depending upon the concentration of Mg2+. With the help of in-line probing, we show the existence of at least two specific conformations, one being achieved in the complete absence of Mg2+ (or low Mg2+ concentration) and the other appearing above similar to 0.5 mM Mg2+. Distinct regions of the riboswitch exhibit different dissociation constants toward Mg2+, indicating a stepwise folding of the btuB RNA. Increasing the Mg2+ concentration drives the transition from one conformation toward the other. The conformational state existing above 0.5 mM Mg2+ defines the binding competent conformation of the btuB riboswitch which can productively interact with the ligand, coenzyme B-12, and switch the RNA conformation. Moreover, raising the Mg2+ concentration enhances the ratio of switched RNA in the presence of AdoCbl. The lack of a AdoCbl-induced conformational switch experienced by the btuB riboswitch in the absence of Mg2+ indicates a crucial role played by Mg2+ for defining an active conformation of the riboswitch.