Nucleotide recognition by the cytoplasmic domain of the human chloride transporter ClC-5

The ubiquitous CBS domains, which are found as part of cytoplasmic domains in the CIC family of chloride channels and transporters, have previously been identified as building blocks for regulatory nucleotide-binding sites. Here we report the structures of the cytoplasmic domain of the human transporter CIC-5 in complex with ATP and ADP. The nucleotides bind to a specific site in the protein. As determined by equilibrium dialysis, the affinities for ATP, ADP and AMP are in the high micromolar range. Point mutations that interfere with nucleotide binding change the transport behavior of a CIC-5 mutant expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes. Our results establish the structural and energetic basis for the interaction of CIC-5 with nucleotides and provide a framework for future investigations.