Theoretical conformational analysis of the Gramicidin a transmembrane channel. I. Helix sense and energetics of head-to-head dimerization

Conformational energy calculations are presented for the head-to-head dimerized β helices for Gramicidin A transmembrane channel structures. The calculations take into account both left- and right-handed β helices, and various side-chain conformations. The energetics of the dimerization is studied by considering various docking geometries. It is concluded from these vacuum-energy calculations that the lowest energy conformation for the channel dimer is that comprised of left-handed β helices.