zaro

What is NBS in biology?

Published in Molecular Biology 1 min read

In biology, NBS stands for nucleotide-binding site. It is a domain found in certain proteins, particularly plant disease resistance proteins.

Nucleotide-Binding Site (NBS) Explained

The nucleotide-binding site (NBS) is a protein domain responsible for binding nucleotides such as ATP or GTP. It is a crucial component of several proteins involved in various cellular processes.

NBS in Plant Disease Resistance

  • Role: In the context of plant disease resistance, NBS domains are often found within a class of proteins known as NBS-LRR proteins.
  • NBS-LRR Proteins: These proteins play a vital role in plant immunity by recognizing pathogen-derived molecules and triggering defense responses. The reference states that "Most plant disease resistance (R) proteins contain a series of leucine-rich repeats (LRRs), a nucleotide-binding site (NBS), and a putative amino-terminal signaling domain. They are termed NBS-LRR proteins."
  • Structure: NBS-LRR proteins typically contain:
    • Leucine-rich repeats (LRRs): Involved in pathogen recognition.
    • Nucleotide-binding site (NBS): Regulates protein activity.
    • Amino-terminal signaling domain: Triggers downstream signaling pathways.

Function of NBS domain

The NBS domain regulates protein activity. This regulation is crucial for the proper functioning of these resistance proteins.