A: Domain structure and function of Mx proteins. Red stripes indicate the tripartite GTP-binding consensus elements, whereas the pink square indicates the ‘dynamin family signature’ consensus sequence that is present in all members of the dynamin family. GED stands for GTPase effector domain. B: Sequence alignment of the GED domain in selected Mx proteins. Red dots indicate conserved leucine residues participating in leucine-zipper domains. Sequences were aligned using the Clustal V program and the presence of seven of nine identical residues was highlighted using theBoxshade program. Essential residues for Mx activity identified in the GED domain are numbered 1 to 7.
