Structural Basis of Smad2 Recognition by the Smad Anchor for Receptor Activation

The Smad proteins mediate transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) signaling from the transmembrane serine-threonine receptor kinases to the nucleus. The Smad anchor for receptor activation (SARA) recruits Smad2 to the TGFβ receptors for phosphorylation. The crystal structure of a Smad2 MH2 domain in complex with the Smad-binding domain (SBD) of SARA has been determined at 2.2 angstrom resolution. SARA SBD, in an extended conformation comprising a rigid coil, an α helix, and a β strand, interacts with the β sheet and the three-helix bundle of Smad2. Recognition between the SARA rigid coil and the Smad2 β sheet is essential for specificity, whereas interactions between the SARA β strand and the Smad2 three-helix bundle contribute significantly to binding affinity. Comparison of the structures between Smad2 and a comediator Smad suggests a model for how receptor-regulated Smads are recognized by the type I receptors.