Recognition of Actinides by Siderocalin

Plain simulations and enhanced sampling unveil a novel siderocalin (Scn) recognition mode for An–Ent (where An = actinides and Ent = enterobactin) complexes and identify a “seesaw” relationship between actinide affinity to Ent and Scn recognition to an An–Ent complex. Electrostatic interactions predominantly govern competitive binding in both processes. Additionally, hydrolysis-induced negative charge, water expulsion-driven entropy, and Ent’s conformational adaptability collectively enhance high-affinity recognition.