Dynamics-modulated biological activity of transforming growth factor β3

Transforming growth factor beta3 (TGF-beta3) is an important mediator of growth, maintenance, and repair processes in human cells. Internal dynamic properties have been derived from N-15 NMR relaxation data and mapped onto the spatial structure of TGF-beta3. The pattern of internal dynamics in the structure identifies potential hot spots of binding free energy and reveals the importance of conformational entropy in the interaction of TGF-beta3 with the receptors. The observed internal dynamics set TGF-beta3 apart from other TGF-beta isoforms, with which it shares the same fold. These findings may explain functional differences among the various TGF-beta isoforms and thus prove essential in the search for related therapeutic agents.