Structural basis for the differential recognition of integrin αvβ3 by rhodostomin and trimucrin

Abstract Rhodostomin (Rho) and Trimucrin (Tmu) are RGD-containing disintegrins that inhibit integrins more effectively than short RGD peptides. They differ in their linker, RGD loop, and C-terminal sequences. We determined the X-ray structure of Tmu and the cryo-EM structures of integrin αvβ3 in complex with both disintegrins. Structural analysis revealed subtle differences in binding, with both adopting a rigid backbone conformation and interacting with integrin through three cooperative binding sites. Besides the conserved RGD interface, Tmu features a cluster of basic residues in its linker, while Rho has distinct C-terminal interactions. Disintegrin binding stabilizes αvβ3 in an extended-open conformation, while the β3-Y110 residue is essential for maintaining the bent state without ligands. These findings enhance our understanding of integrin recognition and inform the development of integrin-targeted therapeutics for anti-angiogenic, anti-tumor, and anti-inflammatory applications.