The Polymorphism of Globin and Virus RdRP and Protein Space

The divergence of protein sequences, structures, and functions reveals Nature’s exploration of evolutionary possibilities within a given structural fold. Globins are ubiquitous across bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals; RNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RdRPs) are responsible for the replication of RNA viruses. These proteins provide excellent models for the study of protein evolution. In this study we analyzed the polymorhpisms of globins and viruses RdRPs with structure and function. We found that the protein polymorphisms are positively correlated with residue solvent accessibility (RSA). From our analysis of protein space of globins and virus RdRPs, we proposed that purifying selection is the predominant force of protein evolution. We also discuss the theory of last universal common ancestor (LUCA), proposed that it may be put to test.