Structural architecture of TolQ-TolR inner membrane protein complex from opportunistic pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii

Gram-negative bacteria harness the proton motive force (PMF) within their inner membrane (IM) to uphold the integrity of their cell envelope, an indispensable aspect for both division and survival. The IM TolQ-TolR complex is the essential part of the Tol-Pal system, serving as a conduit for PMF energy transfer to the outer membrane. Here we present cryo-EM reconstructions of Acinetobacter baumannii TolQ in apo and TolR- bound forms at atomic resolution. The apo TolQ configuration manifests as a symmetric pentameric pore, featuring a trans-membrane funnel leading towards a cytoplasmic chamber. In contrast, the TolQ-TolR complex assumes a proton non-permeable stance, characterized by the TolQ pentamers flexure to accommodate the TolR dimer, where two protomers undergo a translation-based relationship. Our structure-guided analysis and simulations support the rotor-stator mechanism of action, wherein the rotation of the TolQ pentamer harmonizes with the TolR protomers interplay. These findings broaden our mechanistic comprehension of molecular stator units empowering critical functions within the Gram-negative bacterial cell envelope. TeaserApo TolQ and TolQ-TolR structures depict structural rearrangements required for cell envelope organization in bacterial cell division.