Dynamic interplay between a TonB-dependent transporter and a TonB-like protein in a membrane environment

Bacteria import scarce nutrients such as metal sources byan energized mechanism involving an outer membrane TonB-dependent transporter (TBDT) and an inner membrane TonB protein. Despite the interest of this system for the development of new antibacterial strategies, the molecular mechanism of the energy transfer between these two membrane proteins is not well understood. Data on the structure and dynamics of all the proteins and ligands involved, as well as the influence of the two membranes which differ in their lipid compositions and mechanical properties are needed to decipher the trans-envelope mechanism of this complex.