Nanosecond-timescale conformational dynamics of the human α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor

We explore the conformational dynamics of a homology model of the human α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor using molecular dynamics simulation and analyses of root mean-square fluctuations, block partitioning of segmental motion, and principal component analysis. The results reveal flexible regions and concerted global motions of the subunits encompassing extracellular and transmembrane domains of the subunits. The most relevant motions comprise a bending, hinged at the β10-M1 region, accompanied by concerted tilting of the M2 helices that widens the intracellular end of the channel. Despite the nanosecond timescale, the observations suggest that tilting of the M2 helices may initiate opening of the pore. The results also reveal direct coupling between a twisting motion of the extracellular domain and dynamic changes of M2. Covariance analysis of interresidue motions shows that this coupling arises through a network of residues within the Cys and M2-M3 loops where Phe ¹³⁵ is stabilized within a hydrophobic pocket formed by Leu ²⁷⁰ and Ile²⁷¹. The resulting concerted motion causes a downward shift of the M2 helices that disrupts a hydrophobic girdle formed by 9′ and 13′ residues.