Direct structural information for the copper site of dopamine β-mono-oxygenase obtained by using extended X-ray-absorption fine structure

Abstract

Copper K-edge e.x.a.f.s (extended X-ray-absorption fine structure) was measured for dopamine beta-mono-oxygenase in aqueous solution. Comparison with the Cu K-edge e.x.a.f.s. of bovine erythrocyte superoxide dismutase shows a close resemblance. Detailed analysis of the e.x.a.f.s. indicates that the copper atom is bound to four imidazole groups at 0.201 nm with one or two oxygen atoms at 0.23 nm.