Is a Greek Key a Motif

The Greek key is a very common structural motif in proteins. It has been traditionally defined as four β-strands with ‘ +3,–1,–1’ topology. This definition encompasses motifs with several different three-dimensional structures.

What does the Greek key motif consist of?

The Greek Key was the most important symbol in the eyes of the ancient Greeks and Romans. The pattern, also known as the Greek Fret, consists of interlocking spirals with right angles and represents unity and infinity.

Why is it called Greek key motif?

The Greek key motif describes a particular topology for arranging four b-strands into an antiparallel b-sheet in protein structures (Fig. 1). The name comes from the similarity between this b-strand topology and a decorative pattern used in ancient Greece (also called the Greek key).