Architecture of native human alpha 2-macroglobulin studied by cryoelectron microscopy and three-dimensional reconstruction.

The architecture of the native human alpha 2-macroglobulin was studied by cryoelectron microscopy and image processing techniques. The lip, padlock, doughnut, and four-petaled flower views of this homotetrameric proteinase inhibitor were observed in the frozen-hydrated specimen, and a new view, termed eye view, was also characterized. The present three-dimensional reconstruction demonstrates that all these electron microscope views derive from a single three-dimensional structure. The molecule is composed of two horizontal bodies and of two oblique arches, which border a large central cavity. The polymorphism and the flexibility of the native alpha 2-macroglobulin are discussed.