The stabilizing influence of divalent ions and Na+ on the di-decameric structure of Yoldia limatula hemocyanin.

The stabilizing influence of Ca2+, Mg2+, Ba2+ and Na+ on the di-decameric structure of the hemocyanin of the bivalve, Yoldia limatula has been investigated by light-scattering molecular weight measurements and by analytical ultracentrifugation. The molecular weight (Mw) data, examined as a function of decreasing divalent ion and sodium ion concentrations at pH 8.0 and at a constant hemocyanin concentration of 0.10 g.l-1, show biphasic transition profiles, with a sharp initial decline in Mw as the concentration of the stabilizing cations is reduced. The analysis of the molecular weight data is best described in terms of the four-species, di-decamer-decamer-dimer-monomer scheme of association-dissociation equilibria. About 25 to 35 bound divalent ions and about 10 bound Na+ ions per half-molecule or decamer are required in order to account for the initial step of the observed transitions. The subsequent transitions representing the decamer to dimer and the dimer to monomer steps of the reaction account for the additional binding of three to four and two to four cations per dimer and per monomer, respectively. The relatively large number of divalent ions per decamer suggests strong ionic stabilization of the decamer to decamer contacts within the parent di-decameric assembly of Yoldia hemocyanin. This is consistent with earlier observations showing relatively few hydrophobic groups at the decamer to decamer contact areas.