Regulation of α-synuclein by chaperones in mammalian cells

Mutant mice with rod-specific VPS35 deletion exhibit retinal α-synuclein pathology-associated degeneration

Vacuolar protein sorting 35 (VPS35), the core component of the retromer complex which regulates endosomal trafficking, is genetically linked with Parkinson's disease (PD). Impaired vision is a common non-motor manifestation of PD. Here, we show mouse retinas with VPS35-deficient rods exhibit synapse loss and visual deficit, followed by progressive degeneration concomitant with the emergence of Lewy body-like inclusions and phospho-α-synuclein (P-αSyn) aggregation. Ultrastructural analyses reveal VPS35-deficient rods accumulate aggregates in late endosomes, deposited as lipofuscins bound to P-αSyn. Mechanistically, we uncover a protein network of VPS35 and its interaction with HSC70. VPS35 deficiency promotes sequestration of HSC70 and P-αSyn aggregation in late endosomes. Microglia which engulf lipofuscins and P-αSyn aggregates are activated, displaying autofluorescence, observed as bright dots in fundus imaging of live animals, coinciding with pathology onset and progression. The Rod∆Vps35 mouse line is a valuable tool for further mechanistic investigation of αSyn lesions and retinal degenerative diseases.

Nuclear structure opportunities with GeV radioactive beams at FAIR

The Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research (FAIR) is in its final construction stage next to the campus of the Gesellschaft für Schwerionenforschung Helmholtzzentrum for heavy-ion research in Darmstadt, Germany. Once it starts its operation, it will be the main nuclear physics research facility in many basic sciences and their applications in Europe for the coming decades. Owing to the ability of the new fragment separator, Super-FRagment Separator, to produce high-intensity radioactive ion beams in the energy range up to about 2 GeV/nucleon, these can be used in various nuclear reactions. This opens a unique opportunity for various nuclear structure studies across a range of fields and scales: from low-energy physics via the investigation of multi-neutron systems and halos to high-density nuclear matter and the equation of state, following heavy-ion collisions, fission and study of short-range correlations in nuclei and hypernuclei. The newly developed reactions with relativistic radioactive beams (R3B) set up at FAIR would be the most suitable and versatile for such studies. An overview of highlighted physics cases foreseen at R3B is given, along with possible future opportunities, at FAIR. This article is part of the theme issue 'The liminal position of Nuclear Physics: from hadrons to neutron stars'.

α-Synuclein pathology in Drosophila melanogaster is exacerbated by haploinsufficiency of Rop: connecting STXBP1 encephalopathy with α-synucleinopathies

Syntaxin-binding protein 1 (STXBP1) is a presynaptic protein that plays important roles in synaptic vesicle docking and fusion. STXBP1 haploinsufficiency causes STXBP1 encephalopathy (STXBP1-E), which encompasses neurological disturbances including epilepsy, neurodevelopmental disorders, and movement disorders. Most patients with STXBP1-E present with regression and movement disorders in adulthood, highlighting the importance of a deeper understanding of the neurodegenerative aspects of STXBP1-E. An in vitro study proposed an interesting new role of STXBP1 as a molecular chaperone for α-Synuclein (αSyn), a key molecule in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. However, no studies have shown αSyn pathology in model organisms or patients with STXBP1-E. In this study, we used Drosophila models to examine the effects of STXBP1 haploinsufficiency on αSyn-induced neurotoxicity in vivo. We demonstrated that haploinsufficiency of Ras opposite (Rop), the Drosophila ortholog of STXBP1, exacerbates compound eye degeneration, locomotor dysfunction, and dopaminergic neurodegeneration in αSyn-expressing flies. This phenotypic aggravation was associated with a significant increase in detergent-insoluble αSyn levels in the head. Furthermore, we tested whether trehalose, which has neuroprotective effects in various models of neurodegenerative disorders, mitigates αSyn-induced neurotoxicity exacerbated by Rop haploinsufficiency. In flies expressing αSyn and carrying a heterozygous Rop null variant, trehalose supplementation effectively alleviates neuronal phenotypes, accompanied by a decrease in detergent-insoluble αSyn in the head. In conclusion, this study revealed that Rop haploinsufficiency exacerbates αSyn-induced neurotoxicity by altering the αSyn aggregation propensity. This study not only contributes to understanding the mechanisms of neurodegeneration in STXBP1-E patients, but also provides new insights into the pathogenesis of α-synucleinopathies.

Establishing Order Through Disorder by the Hsp90 Molecular Chaperone

The Heat Shock Protein 90 (Hsp90) molecular chaperone is a key driver of protein homeostasis (proteostasis) under physiologically normal and stress conditions. In eukaryotes, Hsp90 is essential and is one of the most abundant proteins in a cell where the chaperone shuttles between the cytoplasm and nucleus to fold, stabilize, and regulate client proteins and protein complexes. Numerous high-throughput screens have mapped the Hsp90 interactome, building a vast network comprising ∼25% of the proteome in budding yeast. How Hsp90 is able to associate with this diverse and large cadre of targets is critical to comprehending how the proteostatic process works. Here, we review recent progress on our understanding of the molecular underpinnings driving Hsp90-client interactions from both the perspective of the targets and Hsp90. In addition to considering the available Hsp90-client structures, we also assessed recently identified Hsp90-client peptide complexes to build a model that justifies how Hsp90 might recognize a wide spectrum of target proteins. In brief, Hsp90 either directly recognizes a site within an intrinsically disordered region (IDR) of a client protein to transiently regulate that client or it associates with an unstructured polypeptide section created by the concerted efforts of multiple chaperones and cochaperones to stably associate with a client. Overall, Hsp90 exploits a common recognition property (i.e., IDR) within diverse clients to support chaperone-actionthereby enabling its central role in proteostasis.

Visualizing alpha-synuclein and iron deposition in M83 mouse model of Parkinson's disease in vivo

Abnormal alpha-synuclein (αSyn) and iron accumulation in the brain play an important role in Parkinson's disease (PD). Herein, we aim to visualize αSyn inclusions and iron deposition in the brains of M83 (A53T) mouse models of PD in vivo. The fluorescent pyrimidoindole derivative THK-565 probe was characterized by means of recombinant fibrils and brains from 10- to 11-month-old M83 mice. Concurrent wide-field fluorescence and volumetric multispectral optoacoustic tomography (vMSOT) imaging were subsequently performed in vivo. Structural and susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 9.4 T as well as scanning transmission x-ray microscopy (STXM) were performed to characterize the iron deposits in the perfused brains. Immunofluorescence and Prussian blue staining were further performed on brain slices to validate the detection of αSyn inclusions and iron deposition. THK-565 showed increased fluorescence upon binding to recombinant αSyn fibrils and αSyn inclusions in post-mortem brain slices from patients with PD and M83 mice. Administration of THK-565 in M83 mice showed higher cerebral retention at 20 and 40 min post-intravenous injection by wide-field fluorescence compared to nontransgenic littermate mice, in congruence with the vMSOT findings. SWI/phase images and Prussian blue indicated the accumulation of iron deposits in the brains of M83 mice, presumably in the Fe3+ form, as evinced by the STXM results. In conclusion, we demonstrated in vivo mapping of αSyn by means of noninvasive epifluorescence and vMSOT imaging and validated the results by targeting the THK-565 label and SWI/STXM identification of iron deposits in M83 mouse brains ex vivo.

Efficient characterization of multiple binding sites of small molecule imaging ligands on amyloid-beta, tau and alpha-synuclein

PURPOSE

There is an unmet need for compounds to detect fibrillar forms of alpha-synuclein (αSyn) and 4-repeat tau, which are critical in many neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we aim to develop an efficient surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based assay to facilitate the characterization of small molecules that can bind these fibrils.

METHODS

SPR measurements were conducted to characterize the binding properties of fluorescent ligands/compounds toward recombinant amyloid-beta (Aβ)42, K18-tau, full-length 2N4R-tau and αSyn fibrils. In silico modeling was performed to examine the binding pockets of ligands on αSyn fibrils. Immunofluorescence staining of postmortem brain tissue slices from Parkinson's disease patients and mouse models was performed with fluorescence ligands and specific antibodies.

RESULTS

We optimized the protocol for the immobilization of Aβ42, K18-tau, full-length 2N4R-tau and αSyn fibrils in a controlled aggregation state on SPR-sensor chips and for assessing their binding to ligands. The SPR results from the analysis of binding kinetics suggested the presence of at least two binding sites for all fibrils, including luminescent conjugated oligothiophenes, benzothiazole derivatives, nonfluorescent methylene blue and lansoprazole. In silico modeling studies for αSyn (6H6B) revealed four binding sites with a preference for one site on the surface. Immunofluorescence staining validated the detection of pS129-αSyn positivity in the brains of Parkinson's disease patients and αSyn preformed-fibril injected mice, 6E10-positive Aβ in arcAβ mice, and AT-8/AT-100-positivity in pR5 mice.

CONCLUSION

SPR measurements of small molecules binding to Aβ42, K18/full-length 2N4R-tau and αSyn fibrils suggested the existence of multiple binding sites. This approach may provide efficient characterization of compounds for neurodegenerative disease-relevant proteinopathies.

Structural basis for the dynamic chaperoning of disordered clients by Hsp90

Molecular chaperone heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is a ubiquitous regulator that fine-tunes and remodels diverse client proteins, exerting profound effects on normal biology and diseases. Unraveling the mechanistic details of Hsp90's function requires atomic-level insights into its client interactions throughout the adenosine triphosphate-coupled functional cycle. However, the structural details of the initial encounter complex in the chaperone cycle, wherein Hsp90 adopts an open conformation while engaging with the client, remain elusive. Here, using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, we determined the solution structure of Hsp90 in its open state, bound to a disordered client. Our findings reveal that Hsp90 uses two distinct binding sites, collaborating synergistically to capture discrete hydrophobic segments within client proteins. This bipartite interaction generates a versatile complex that facilitates rapid conformational sampling. Moreover, our investigations spanning various clients and Hsp90 orthologs demonstrate a pervasive mechanism used by Hsp90 orthologs to accommodate the vast array of client proteins. Collectively, our work contributes to establish a unified conceptual and mechanistic framework, elucidating the intricate interplay between Hsp90 and its clients.

DNP-assisted solid-state NMR enables detection of proteins at nanomolar concentrations in fully protonated cellular milieu

With the sensitivity enhancements conferred by dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP), magic angle spinning (MAS) solid state NMR spectroscopy experiments can attain the necessary sensitivity to detect very low concentrations of proteins. This potentially enables structural investigations of proteins at their endogenous levels in their biological contexts where their native stoichiometries with potential interactors is maintained. Yet, even with DNP, experiments are still sensitivity limited. Moreover, when an isotopically-enriched target protein is present at physiological levels, which typically range from low micromolar to nanomolar concentrations, the isotope content from the natural abundance isotopes in the cellular milieu can outnumber the isotope content of the target protein. Using isotopically enriched yeast prion protein, Sup35NM, diluted into natural abundance yeast lysates, we optimized sample composition. We found that modest cryoprotectant concentrations and fully protonated environments support efficient DNP. We experimentally validated theoretical calculations of the limit of specificity for an isotopically enriched protein in natural abundance cellular milieu. We establish that, using pulse sequences that are selective for adjacent NMR-active nuclei, proteins can be specifically detected in cellular milieu at concentrations in the hundreds of nanomolar. Finally, we find that maintaining native stoichiometries of the protein of interest to the components of the cellular environment may be important for proteins that make specific interactions with cellular constituents.

Key genes and convergent pathogenic mechanisms in Parkinson disease

Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder marked by the preferential dysfunction and death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. The onset and progression of PD is influenced by a diversity of genetic variants, many of which lack functional characterization. To identify the most high-yield targets for therapeutic intervention, it is important to consider the core cellular compartments and functional pathways upon which the varied forms of pathogenic dysfunction may converge. Here, we review several key PD-linked proteins and pathways, focusing on the mechanisms of their potential convergence in disease pathogenesis. These dysfunctions primarily localize to a subset of subcellular compartments, including mitochondria, lysosomes and synapses. We discuss how these pathogenic mechanisms that originate in different cellular compartments may coordinately lead to cellular dysfunction and neurodegeneration in PD.

Cellular Applications of DNP Solid-State NMR - State of the Art and a Look to the Future

Sensitivity enhanced dynamic nuclear polarization solid-state NMR is emerging as a powerful technique for probing the structural properties of conformationally homogenous and heterogenous biomolecular species irrespective of size at atomic resolution within their native environments. Herein we detail advancements that have made acquiring such data, specifically within the confines of intact bacterial and eukaryotic cell a reality and further discuss the type of structural information that can presently be garnered by the technique's exploitation. Subsequently, we discuss bottlenecks that have thus far curbed cellular DNP-ssNMR's broader adoption namely due a lack of sensitivity and spectral resolution. We also explore possible solutions ranging from utilization of new pulse sequences, design of better performing polarizing agents, and application of additional biochemical/ cell biological methodologies.

Mitochondrial dysfunction: mechanisms and advances in therapy

Mitochondria, with their intricate networks of functions and information processing, are pivotal in both health regulation and disease progression. Particularly, mitochondrial dysfunctions are identified in many common pathologies, including cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration, metabolic syndrome, and cancer. However, the multifaceted nature and elusive phenotypic threshold of mitochondrial dysfunction complicate our understanding of their contributions to diseases. Nonetheless, these complexities do not prevent mitochondria from being among the most important therapeutic targets. In recent years, strategies targeting mitochondrial dysfunction have continuously emerged and transitioned to clinical trials. Advanced intervention such as using healthy mitochondria to replenish or replace damaged mitochondria, has shown promise in preclinical trials of various diseases. Mitochondrial components, including mtDNA, mitochondria-located microRNA, and associated proteins can be potential therapeutic agents to augment mitochondrial function in immunometabolic diseases and tissue injuries. Here, we review current knowledge of mitochondrial pathophysiology in concrete examples of common diseases. We also summarize current strategies to treat mitochondrial dysfunction from the perspective of dietary supplements and targeted therapies, as well as the clinical translational situation of related pharmacology agents. Finally, this review discusses the innovations and potential applications of mitochondrial transplantation as an advanced and promising treatment.

A Targetable N-Terminal Motif Orchestrates α-Synuclein Oligomer-to-Fibril Conversion

Oligomeric species populated during α-synuclein aggregation are considered key drivers of neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease. However, the development of oligomer-targeting therapeutics is constrained by our limited knowledge of their structure and the molecular determinants driving their conversion to fibrils. Phenol-soluble modulin α3 (PSMα3) is a nanomolar peptide binder of α-synuclein oligomers that inhibits aggregation by blocking oligomer-to-fibril conversion. Here, we investigate the binding of PSMα3 to α-synuclein oligomers to discover the mechanistic basis of this protective activity. We find that PSMα3 selectively targets an α-synuclein N-terminal motif (residues 36-61) that populates a distinct conformation in the mono- and oligomeric states. This α-synuclein region plays a pivotal role in oligomer-to-fibril conversion as its absence renders the central NAC domain insufficient to prompt this structural transition. The hereditary mutation G51D, associated with early onset Parkinson's disease, causes a conformational fluctuation in this region, leading to delayed oligomer-to-fibril conversion and an accumulation of oligomers that are resistant to remodeling by molecular chaperones. Overall, our findings unveil a new targetable region in α-synuclein oligomers, advance our comprehension of oligomer-to-amyloid fibril conversion, and reveal a new facet of α-synuclein pathogenic mutations.

Intrinsically disordered Pseudomonas chaperone FapA slows down the fibrillation of major biofilm-forming functional amyloid FapC

Functional bacterial amyloids play a crucial role in the formation of biofilms, which mediate chronic infections and contribute to antimicrobial resistance. This study focuses on the FapC amyloid fibrillar protein from Pseudomonas, a major contributor to biofilm formation. We investigate the initial steps of FapC amyloid formation and the impact of the chaperone-like protein FapA on this process. Using solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), we recently showed that both FapC and FapA are intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs). Here, the secondary structure propensities (SSPs) are compared to alphafold (DeepMind, protein structure prediction tool/algorithm: https://alphafold.ebi.ac.uk/) models. We further demonstrate that the FapA chaperone interacts with FapC and significantly slows down the formation of FapC fibrils. Our NMR titrations reveal ~ 18% of the resonances show FapA-induced chemical shift perturbations (CSPs), which has not been previously observed, the largest being for A82, N201, C237, C240, A241, and G245. These sites may suggest a specific interaction site and/or hotspots of fibrillation inhibition/control interface at the repeat-1 (R1)/loop-2 (L2) and L2/R3 transition areas and at the C-terminus of FapC. Remarkably, ~ 90% of FapA NMR signals exhibit substantial CSPs upon titration with FapC, the largest being for S63, A69, A80, and I92. A temperature-dependent effect of FapA was observed on FapC by thioflavin T (ThT) and NMR experiments. This study provides a detailed understanding of the interaction between the FapA and FapC, shedding light on the regulation and slowing down of amyloid formation, and has important implications for the development of therapeutic strategies targeting biofilms and associated infections.

Inhibition of toxic metal-alpha synuclein interactions by human serum albumin

Human serum albumin (HSA), the most abundant protein in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid, not only serves as a crucial carrier of various exogenous and endogenous ligands but also modulates the aggregation of amyloidogenic proteins, including alpha synuclein (αSyn), which is associated with Parkinson's disease and other α-synucleinopathies. HSA decreases αSyn toxicity through the direct binding to monomeric and oligomeric αSyn species. However, it is possible that HSA also sequesters metal ions that otherwise promote aggregation. Cu(ii) ions, for example, enhance αSyn fibrillization in vitro, while also leading to neurotoxicity by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, it is currently unclear if and how HSA affects Cu(ii)-binding to αSyn. Using an integrated set of NMR experiments, we show that HSA is able to chelate Cu(ii) ions from αSyn more efficiently than standard chelators such as EDTA, revealing an unexpected cooperativity between the HSA metal-binding sites. Notably, fatty acid binding to HSA perturbs this cooperativity, thus interfering with the sequestration of Cu(ii) ions from αSyn. We also observed that glycation of HSA diminished Cu(ii)-binding affinity, while largely preserving the degree of cooperativity between the HSA metal-binding sites. Additionally, our results show that Cu(ii)-binding to HSA stabilizes the interactions of HSA with αSyn primarily at two different regions, i.e. the N-terminus, Tyr 39 and the majority of the C-terminus. Our study not only unveils the effect of fatty acid binding and age-related posttranslational modifications, such as glycation, on the neuroprotective mechanisms of HSA, but also highlights the potential of αSyn as a viable NMR-based sensor to investigate HSA-metal interactions.

In situ single-molecule investigations of the impacts of biochemical perturbations on conformational intermediates of monomeric α-synuclein

α-Synuclein aggregation is a common trait in synucleinopathies, including Parkinson's disease. Being an unstructured protein, α-synuclein exists in several distinct conformational intermediates, contributing to both its function and pathogenesis. However, the regulation of these monomer conformations by biochemical factors and potential drugs has remained elusive. In this study, we devised an in situ single-molecule manipulation approach to pinpoint kinetically stable conformational intermediates of monomeric α-synuclein and explore the effects of various biochemical factors and drugs. We uncovered a partially folded conformation located in the non-amyloid-β component (NAC) region of monomeric α-synuclein, which is regulated by a preNAC region. This conformational intermediate is sensitive to biochemical perturbations and small-molecule drugs that influencing α-synuclein's aggregation tendency. Our findings reveal that this partially folded intermediate may play a role in α-synuclein aggregation, offering fresh perspectives for potential treatments aimed at the initial stage of higher-order α-synuclein aggregation. The single-molecule approach developed here can be broadly applied to the study of disease-related intrinsically disordered proteins.

Progress, Challenges and Opportunities of NMR and XL-MS for Cellular Structural Biology

The validity of protein structures and interactions, whether determined under ideal laboratory conditions or predicted by AI tools such as Alphafold2, to precisely reflect those found in living cells remains to be examined. Moreover, understanding the changes in protein structures and interactions in response to stimuli within living cells, under both normal and disease conditions, is key to grasping proteins' functionality and cellular processes. Nevertheless, achieving high-resolution identification of these protein structures and interactions within living cells presents a technical challenge. In this Perspective, we summarize the recent advancements in in-cell nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and in vivo cross-linking mass spectrometry (XL-MS) for studying protein structures and interactions within a cellular context. Additionally, we discuss the challenges, opportunities, and potential benefits of integrating in-cell NMR and in vivo XL-MS in future research to offer an exhaustive approach to studying proteins in their natural habitat.

Phase separation-mediated biomolecular condensates and their relationship to tumor

Phase separation is a cellular phenomenon where macromolecules aggregate or segregate, giving rise to biomolecular condensates resembling "droplets" and forming distinct, membrane-free compartments. This process is pervasive in biological cells, contributing to various essential cellular functions. However, when phase separation goes awry, leading to abnormal molecular aggregation, it can become a driving factor in the development of diseases, including tumor. Recent investigations have unveiled the intricate connection between dysregulated phase separation and tumor pathogenesis, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic target. This article provides an overview of recent phase separation research, with a particular emphasis on its role in tumor, its therapeutic implications, and outlines avenues for further exploration in this intriguing field.

Heat Shock Protein 90 in Parkinson's Disease: Profile of a Serial Killer

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, characterized by abnormal α-synuclein misfolding and aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, as well as progressive death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Molecular chaperones play a role in stabilizing proteins and helping them achieve their proper structure. Previous studies have shown that overexpression of heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) can lead to the death of dopaminergic neurons associated with PD. Inhibiting HSP90 is considered a potential treatment approach for neurodegenerative disorders, as it may reduce protein aggregation and related toxicity, as well as suppress various forms of regulated cell death (RCD). This review provides an overview of HSP90 and its role in PD, focusing on its modulation of proteostasis and quality control of LRRK2. The review also explores the effects of HSP90 on different types of RCD, such as apoptosis, chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA), necroptosis, and ferroptosis. Additionally, it discusses HSP90 inhibitors that have been tested in PD models. We will highlight the under-investigated neuroprotective effects of HSP90 inhibition, including modulation of oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, PINK/PARKIN, heat shock factor 1 (HSF1), histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6), and the PHD2-HSP90 complex-mediated mitochondrial stress pathway. By examining previous literature, this review uncovers overlooked neuroprotective mechanisms and emphasizes the need for further research on HSP90 inhibitors as potential therapeutic strategies for PD. Finally, the review discusses the potential limitations and possibilities of using HSP90 inhibitors in PD therapy.

Mechanisms and pathology of protein misfolding and aggregation

Despite advances in machine learning-based protein structure prediction, we are still far from fully understanding how proteins fold into their native conformation. The conventional notion that polypeptides fold spontaneously to their biologically active states has gradually been replaced by our understanding that cellular protein folding often requires context-dependent guidance from molecular chaperones in order to avoid misfolding. Misfolded proteins can aggregate into larger structures, such as amyloid fibrils, which perpetuate the misfolding process, creating a self-reinforcing cascade. A surge in amyloid fibril structures has deepened our comprehension of how a single polypeptide sequence can exhibit multiple amyloid conformations, known as polymorphism. The assembly of these polymorphs is not a random process but is influenced by the specific conditions and tissues in which they originate. This observation suggests that, similar to the folding of native proteins, the kinetics of pathological amyloid assembly are modulated by interactions specific to cells and tissues. Here, we review the current understanding of how intrinsic protein conformational propensities are modulated by physiological and pathological interactions in the cell to shape protein misfolding and aggregation pathology.

The interplay between α-Synuclein and NLRP3 inflammasome in Parkinson's disease

α-Synuclein is a member of a protein of synucleins, which is a presynaptic neuron protein. It is usually highly expressed in the brain and participates in the formation and transmission of nerve synapses. It has been reported that abnormal aggregation of α-Syn can induce the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in microglia, increase the production of IL-1β, and aggravate neuroinflammation. Therefore, it is recognized as one of the important factors leading to neuroinflammation in Parkinson's disease. In this paper, we aimed to explore the influence of post-translational modification of α-Syn on its pathological aggregation and summarize various pathways that activate NLRP3 triggered by α-Syn and targeted therapeutic strategies, which provided new insights for further exploring the origin and targeted therapy of Parkinson's disease.

USP19 deubiquitinase inactivation regulates α-synuclein ubiquitination and inhibits accumulation of Lewy body-like aggregates in mice

The USP19 deubiquitinase is found in a locus associated with Parkinson's Disease (PD), interacts with chaperonins, and promotes secretion of α-synuclein (α-syn) through the misfolding-associated protein secretion (MAPS) pathway. Since these processes might modulate the processing of α-syn aggregates in PD, we inactivated USP19 (KO) in mice expressing the A53T mutation of α-syn and in whom α-syn preformed fibrils (PFF) had been injected in the striatum. Compared to WT, KO brains showed decreased accumulation of phospho-synuclein (pSyn) positive aggregates. This improvement was associated with less activation of microglia and improved performance in a tail-suspension test. Exposure of primary neurons from WT and KO mice to PFF in vitro also led to decreased accumulation of pSyn aggregates. KO did not affect uptake of PFF nor propagation of aggregates in the cultured neurons. We conclude that USP19 instead modulates intracellular dynamics of aggregates. At an early time following PFF injection when the number of pSyn-positive neurons were similar in WT and KO brains, the KO neurons contained less aggregates. KO brain aggregates stained more intensely with anti-ubiquitin antibodies. Immunoprecipitation of soluble proteins from WT and KO brains with antibodies to pSyn showed higher levels of ubiquitinated oligomeric species in the KO samples. We propose that the improved pathology in USP19 KO brains may arise from decreased formation or enhanced clearance of the more ubiquitinated aggregates and/or enhanced disassembly towards more soluble oligomeric species. USP19 inhibition may represent a novel therapeutic approach that targets the intracellular dynamics of α-syn complexes.

Polymorphic USP8 allele promotes Parkinson's disease by inducing the accumulation of α-synuclein through deubiquitination

Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neuro-degenerative diseases characterized by α-synuclein accumulation and degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. Employing genome-wide sequencing, we identified a polymorphic USP8 allele (USP8D442G) significantly enriched in Chinese PD patients. To test the involvement of this polymorphism in PD pathogenesis, we derived dopaminergic neurons (DAn) from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) reprogrammed from fibroblasts of PD patients harboring USP8D442G allele and their healthy siblings. In addition, we knock-in D442G polymorphic site into the endogenous USP8 gene of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and derived DAn from these knock-in hESCs to explore their cellular phenotypes and molecular mechanism. We found that expression of USP8D442G in DAn induces the accumulation and abnormal subcellular localization of α-Synuclein (α-Syn). Mechanistically, we demonstrate that D442G polymorphism enhances the interaction between α-Syn and USP8 and thus increases the K63-specific deubiquitination and stability of α-Syn . We discover a pathogenic polymorphism for PD that represent a promising therapeutic and diagnostic target for PD.

Fibril core regions in engineered α-synuclein dimer are crucial for blocking of fibril elongation

Synucleinopathies like Parkinson's disease are neurodegenerative diseases which are associated with the deposition of fibrillar aggregates of the endogenous protein α-synuclein (α-syn). The inhibition of the elongation of α-syn fibrils is of great scientific interest and an option in the design of therapeutic strategies. Previously, we developed a disulfide-containing mutant of α-syn, called CC48, which inhibits fibril elongation by blocking of fibril ends. Surprisingly, wildtype (WT) α-syn molecules supported the blocked state, and a fusion of CC48 with WT α-syn, denoted WT-CC48, exhibited increased inhibitory potential. Here, we studied which regions of WT-CC48 are responsible for the strong inhibitory effect. To this end, we investigated a set of truncated versions of WT-CC48 by kinetic elongation assays, density gradient centrifugation, and atomic force microscopy. We show that in both the WT and the CC48 part of the fusion construct the hairpin region (residue 32-60) and NAC region (61-95), but not N- and C-terminal regions, are required for strong inhibition of fibril elongation. The required regions correspond to the segments forming the β-sheet core of α-syn fibrils. As α-syn fibrils typically consist of two protofilaments, the dimeric construct WT-CC48 provides the critical regions sufficient to cover the full β-sheetcore interface exposed at the fibril end, which can explain its high inhibitory efficiency. We suggest a mechanistic model of CC48-mediated inhibition of fibril elongation in which CC48 and WT α-syn cooperatively form an oligomer-like cap at the amyloid fibril end.

Advanced Techniques for Detecting Protein Misfolding and Aggregation in Cellular Environments

Protein misfolding and aggregation, a key contributor to the progression of numerous neurodegenerative diseases, results in functional deficiencies and the creation of harmful intermediates. Detailed visualization of this misfolding process is of paramount importance for improving our understanding of disease mechanisms and for the development of potential therapeutic strategies. While in vitro studies using purified proteins have been instrumental in delivering significant insights into protein misfolding, the behavior of these proteins in the complex milieu of living cells often diverges significantly from such simplified environments. Biomedical imaging performed in cell provides cellular-level information with high physiological and pathological relevance, often surpassing the depth of information attainable through in vitro methods. This review highlights a variety of methodologies used to scrutinize protein misfolding within biological systems. This includes optical-based methods, strategies leaning on mass spectrometry, in-cell nuclear magnetic resonance, and cryo-electron microscopy. Recent advancements in these techniques have notably deepened our understanding of protein misfolding processes and the features of the resulting misfolded species within living cells. The progression in these fields promises to catalyze further breakthroughs in our comprehension of neurodegenerative disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions.

27-Hydroxycholesterol Drives the Spread of α-Synuclein Pathology in Parkinson's Disease

BACKGROUND

The accumulation and aggregation of α-synuclein (α-Syn) are characteristic of Parkinson's disease (PD). Epidemiological evidence indicates that hyperlipidemia is associated with an increased risk of PD. The levels of 27-hydroxycholesterol (27-OHC), a cholesterol oxidation derivative, are increased in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid of patients with PD. However, whether 27-OHC plays a role in α-Syn aggregation and propagation remains elusive.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether 27-OHC regulates α-Syn aggregation and propagation.

METHODS

Purified recombinant α-Syn, neuronal cultures, and α-Syn fibril-injected mouse model of PD were treated with 27-OHC. In addition, CYP27A1 knockout mice were used to investigate the effect of lowering 27-OHC on α-Syn pathology in vivo.

RESULTS

27-OHC accelerates the aggregation of α-Syn and enhances the seeding activity of α-Syn fibrils. Furthermore, the 27-OHC-modified α-Syn fibrils localize to the mitochondria and induce mitochondrial dysfunction and neurotoxicity. Injection of 27-OHC-modified α-Syn fibrils induces enhanced spread of α-Syn pathology and dopaminergic neurodegeneration compared with pure α-Syn fibrils. Similarly, subcutaneous administration of 27-OHC facilitates the seeding of α-Syn pathology. Genetic deletion of cytochrome P450 27A1 (CYP27A1), the enzyme that converts cholesterol to 27-OHC, ameliorates the spread of pathologic α-Syn, degeneration of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathway, and motor impairments. These results indicate that the cholesterol metabolite 27-OHC plays an important role in the pathogenesis of PD.

CONCLUSIONS

27-OHC promotes the aggregation and spread of α-Syn. Strategies aimed at inhibiting the CYP27A1-27-OHC axis may hold promise as a disease-modifying therapy to halt the progression of α-Syn pathology in PD. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

Spatially resolved DNP-assisted NMR illuminates the conformational ensemble of α-synuclein in intact viable cells

The protein α-syn adopts a wide variety of conformations including an intrinsically disordered monomeric form and an α-helical rich membrane-associated form that is thought to play an important role in cellular membrane processes. However, despite the high affinity of α-syn for membranes, evidence that the α-helical form of α-syn is adopted inside cells has thus far been indirect. In cell DNP-assisted solid state NMR on frozen samples has the potential to report directly on the entire conformational ensemble. Moreover, because the DNP polarization agent can be dispersed both homogenously and inhomogenously throughout the cellular biomass, in cell DNP-assisted solid state NMR experiments can report either quantitatively upon the structural ensemble or can preferentially report upon the structural ensemble with a spatial bias. Using DNP-assisted MAS NMR we establish that the spectra of purified α-syn in the membrane-associated and intrinsically disordered forms have distinguishable spectra. When the polarization agent is introduced into cells by electroporation and dispersed homogenously, a minority of the α-syn inside HEK293 cells adopts a highly α-helical rich conformation. Alteration of the spatial distribution of the polarization agent preferentially enhances the signal from molecules nearer to the cellular periphery, thus the α-helical rich population is preferentially adopted toward the cellular periphery. This demonstrates how selectively altering the spatial distribution of the DNP polarization agent can be a powerful tool for preferential reporting on specific structural ensembles, paving the way for more nuanced investigations into the conformations that proteins adopt in different areas of the cell.

Chaperone-mediated autophagy in neurodegenerative diseases: mechanisms and therapy

Chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA) is the selective degradation process of intracellular components by lysosomes, which is required for the degradation of aggregate-prone proteins and contributes to proteostasis maintenance. Proteostasis is essential for normal cell function and survival, and it is determined by the balance of protein synthesis and degradation. Because postmitotic neurons are highly susceptible to proteostasis disruption, CMA is vital for the nervous system. Since Parkinson's disease (PD) was first linked to CMA dysfunction, an increasing number of studies have shown that CMA loss, as seen during aging, occurs in the pathogenetic process of neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we review the molecular mechanisms of CMA, as well as the physiological function and regulation of this autophagy pathway. Following, we highlight its potential role in neurodegenerative diseases, and the latest advances and challenges in targeting CMA in therapy of neurodegenerative diseases.

Alpha synuclein modulates mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake from ER during cell stimulation and under stress conditions

Alpha synuclein (a-syn) is an intrinsically disordered protein prevalent in neurons, and aggregated forms are associated with synucleinopathies including Parkinson's disease (PD). Despite the biomedical importance and extensive studies, the physiological role of a-syn and its participation in etiology of PD remain uncertain. We showed previously in model RBL cells that a-syn colocalizes with mitochondrial membranes, depending on formation of N-terminal helices and increasing with mitochondrial stress1. We have now characterized this colocalization and functional correlates in RBL, HEK293, and N2a cells. We find that expression of a-syn enhances stimulated mitochondrial uptake of Ca2+ from the ER, depending on formation of its N-terminal helices but not on its disordered C-terminal tail. Our results are consistent with a-syn acting as a tether between mitochondria and ER, and we show increased contacts between these two organelles using structured illumination microscopy. We tested mitochondrial stress caused by toxins related to PD, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP/MPP+) and carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenyl hydrazone (CCCP) and found that a-syn prevents recovery of stimulated mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake. The C-terminal tail, and not N-terminal helices, is involved in this inhibitory activity, which is abrogated when phosphorylation site serine-129 is mutated (S129A). Correspondingly, we find that MPTP/MPP+ and CCCP stress is accompanied by both phosphorylation (pS129) and aggregation of a-syn. Overall, our results indicate that a-syn can participate as a tethering protein to modulate Ca2+ flux between ER and mitochondria, with potential physiological significance. A-syn can also prevent cellular recovery from toxin-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, which may represent a pathological role of a-syn in the etiology of PD.

A high-field cellular DNP-supported solid-state NMR approach to study proteins with sub-cellular specificity

Studying the structural aspects of proteins within sub-cellular compartments is of growing interest. Dynamic nuclear polarization supported solid-state NMR (DNP-ssNMR) is uniquely suited to provide such information, but critically lacks the desired sensitivity and resolution. Here we utilize SNAPol-1, a novel biradical, to conduct DNP-ssNMR at high-magnetic fields (800 MHz/527 GHz) inside HeLa cells and isolated cell nuclei electroporated with [13C,15N] labeled ubiquitin. We report that SNAPol-1 passively diffuses and homogenously distributes within whole cells and cell nuclei providing ubiquitin spectra of high sensitivity and remarkably improved spectral resolution. For cell nuclei, physical enrichment facilitates a further 4-fold decrease in measurement time and provides an exclusive structural view of the nuclear ubiquitin pool. Taken together, these advancements enable atomic interrogation of protein conformational plasticity at atomic resolution and with sub-cellular specificity.

Structure and dynamics of the mitochondrial DNA-compaction factor Abf2 from S. cerevisiae

Mitochondria are essential organelles that produce most of the energy via the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system in all eukaryotic cells. Several essential subunits of the OXPHOS system are encoded by the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) despite its small size. Defects in mtDNA maintenance and expression can lead to severe OXPHOS deficiencies and are amongst the most common causes of mitochondrial disease. The mtDNA is packaged as nucleoprotein structures, referred to as nucleoids. The conserved mitochondrial proteins, ARS-binding factor 2 (Abf2) in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) in mammals, are nucleoid associated proteins (NAPs) acting as condensing factors needed for packaging and maintenance of the mtDNA. Interestingly, gene knockout of Abf2 leads, in yeast, to the loss of mtDNA and respiratory growth, providing evidence for its crucial role. On a structural level, the condensing factors usually contain two DNA binding domains called high-mobility group boxes (HMG boxes). The co-operating mechanical activities of these domains are crucial in establishing the nucleoid architecture by bending the DNA strands. Here we used advanced solution NMR spectroscopy methods to characterize the dynamical properties of Abf2 together with its interaction with DNA. We find that the two HMG-domains react notably different to external cues like temperature and salt, indicating distinct functional properties. Biophysical characterizations show the pronounced difference of these domains upon DNA-binding, suggesting a refined picture of the Abf2 functional cycle.

Truncation or proteolysis of α-synuclein in Parkinsonism

Posttranslational modifications of α-synuclein, such as truncation or abnormal proteolysis, are implicated in Parkinson's disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and multiple system atrophy (MSA). A key focus of this article includes the proteases responsible for inducing truncation, the specific sites susceptible to truncation, and the resultant influence of these truncated species on the seeding and aggregation of endogenous α-synuclein. We also shed light on the unique structural attributes of these truncated species, and how these modifications can lead to distinctive forms of synucleinopathies. In addition, we explore the comparative toxic potentials of various α-synuclein species. An extensive analysis of available evidence of truncated α-synuclein species in human-synucleinopathy brains is also provided. Lastly, we delve into the detrimental impact of truncated species on key cellular structures such as the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. Our article discusses enzymes involved in α-synuclein truncation, including 20 S proteasome, cathepsins, asparagine endopeptidase, caspase-1, calpain-1, neurosin/kallikrein-6, matrix metalloproteinase-1/-3, and plasmin. Truncation patterns impact α-synuclein aggregation - C-terminal truncation accelerates aggregation with larger truncations correlated with shortened aggregation lag times. N-terminal truncation affects aggregation differently based on the truncation location. C-terminally truncated α-synuclein forms compact, shorter fibrils compared to the full-length (FL) protein. N-terminally truncated monomers form fibrils similar in length to FL α-synuclein. Truncated forms show distinct fibril morphologies, increased β-sheet structures, and greater protease resistance. Misfolded α-synuclein can adopt various conformations, leading to unique aggregates and distinct synucleinopathies. Fibrils, with prion-like transmission, are potentially more toxic than oligomers, though this is still debated. Different α-synuclein variants with N- and C-terminal truncations, namely 5-140, 39-140, 65-140, 66-140, 68-140, 71-140, 1-139, 1-135, 1-133, 1-122, 1-119, 1-115, 1-110, and 1-103 have been found in PD, DLB, and MSA patients' brains. In Parkinsonism, excess misfolded α-synuclein overwhelms the proteasome degradation system, resulting in truncated protein production and accumulation in the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum.

Understanding chaperone specificity: evidence for a 'client code'

The interactions of molecular chaperones with clients can be regulated by chaperone post-translational modification (PTMs) collectively known as the 'chaperone code'. What is less understood is how PTMs on client proteins may impact chaperone-client interactions. In this forum, we discuss the possibility of a 'client code'.

α-Synuclein Strains and Their Relevance to Parkinson's Disease, Multiple System Atrophy, and Dementia with Lewy Bodies

Like many neurodegenerative diseases, Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the formation of proteinaceous aggregates in brain cells. In PD, those proteinaceous aggregates are formed by the α-synuclein (αSyn) and are considered the trademark of this neurodegenerative disease. In addition to PD, αSyn pathological aggregation is also detected in atypical Parkinsonism, including Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB), Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), as well as neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation, some cases of traumatic brain injuries, and variants of Alzheimer's disease. Collectively, these (and other) disorders are referred to as synucleinopathies, highlighting the relation between disease type and protein misfolding/aggregation. Despite these pathological relationships, however, synucleinopathies cover a wide range of pathologies, present with a multiplicity of symptoms, and arise from dysfunctions in different neuroanatomical regions and cell populations. Strikingly, αSyn deposition occurs in different types of cells, with oligodendrocytes being mainly affected in MSA, while aggregates are found in neurons in PD. If multiple factors contribute to the development of a pathology, especially in the cases of slow-developing neurodegenerative disorders, the common presence of αSyn aggregation, as both a marker and potential driver of disease, is puzzling. In this review, we will focus on comparing PD, DLB, and MSA, from symptomatology to molecular description, highlighting the role and contribution of αSyn aggregates in each disorder. We will particularly present recent evidence for the involvement of conformational strains of αSyn aggregates and discuss the reciprocal relationship between αSyn strains and the cellular milieu. Moreover, we will highlight the need for effective methodologies for the strainotyping of aggregates to ameliorate diagnosing capabilities and therapeutic treatments.

Intramolecular interaction kinetically regulates fibril formation by human and mouse α-synuclein

Regulation of α-synuclein (αS) fibril formation is a potent therapeutic strategy for αS-related neurodegenerative disorders. αS, an intrinsically disordered 140-residue intraneural protein, comprises positively charged N-terminal, hydrophobic non-amyloid β component (NAC), and negatively charged C-terminal regions. Although mouse and human αS share 95% sequence identity, mouse αS forms amyloid fibrils faster than human αS. To evaluate the kinetic regulation of αS fibrillation, we examined the effects of mismatched residues in human and mouse αS on fibril formation and intramolecular interactions. Thioflavin T fluorescence assay using domain-swapped or C-terminal-truncated αS variants revealed that mouse αS exhibited higher nucleation and fibril elongation than human αS. In mouse αS, S87N substitution in the NAC region rather than A53T substitution is dominant for enhanced fibril formation. Fӧrester resonance energy transfer analysis demonstrated that the intramolecular interaction of the C-terminal region with the N-terminal and NAC regions observed in human αS is perturbed in mouse αS. In mouse αS, S87N substitution is responsible for the perturbed interaction. These results indicate that the interaction of the C-terminal region with the N-terminal and NAC regions suppresses αS fibril formation and that the human-to-mouse S87N substitution in the NAC region accelerates αS fibril formation by perturbing intramolecular interaction.

Visualizing alpha-synuclein and iron deposition in M83 mouse model of Parkinson's disease in vivo

Background

Abnormal alpha-synuclein and iron accumulation in the brain play an important role in Parkinson's disease (PD). Herein, we aim at visualizing alpha-synuclein inclusions and iron deposition in the brains of M83 (A53T) mouse models of PD in vivo.

Methods

Fluorescently labelled pyrimidoindole-derivative THK-565 was characterized by using recombinant fibrils and brains from 10-11 months old M83 mice, which subsequently underwent in vivo concurrent wide-field fluorescence and volumetric multispectral optoacoustic tomography (vMSOT) imaging. The in vivo results were verified against structural and susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 9.4 Tesla and scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) of perfused brains. Brain slice immunofluorescence and Prussian blue staining were further performed to validate the detection of alpha-synuclein inclusions and iron deposition in the brain, respectively.

Results

THK-565 showed increased fluorescence upon binding to recombinant alpha-synuclein fibrils and alpha-synuclein inclusions in post-mortem brain slices from patients with Parkinson's disease and M83 mice. i.v. administration of THK-565 in M83 mice showed higher cerebral retention at 20 and 40 minutes post-injection by wide-field fluorescence compared to non-transgenic littermate mice, in congruence with the vMSOT findings. SWI/phase images and Prussian blue indicated the accumulation of iron deposits in the brains of M83 mice, presumably in the Fe3+ form, as evinced by the STXM results.

Conclusion

We demonstrated in vivo mapping of alpha-synuclein by means of non-invasive epifluorescence and vMSOT imaging assisted with a targeted THK-565 label and SWI/STXM identification of iron deposits in M83 mouse brains ex vivo.

MAPT rs17649553 T allele is associated with better verbal memory and higher small-world properties in Parkinson's disease

Currently, over 90 genetic loci have been found to be associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) in genome-wide association studies, nevertheless, the effects of these genetic variants on the clinical features and brain structure of PD patients are largely unknown. This study investigated the effects of microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) rs17649553 (C>T), a genetic variant associated with reduced PD risk, on the clinical manifestations and brain networks of PD patients. We found MAPT rs17649553 T allele was associated with better verbal memory in PD patients. In addition, MAPT rs17649553 significantly shaped the topology of gray matter covariance network and white matter network. Both the network metrics in gray matter covariance network and white matter network were correlated with verbal memory, however, the mediation analysis showed that it was the small-world properties in white matter network that mediated the effects of MAPT rs17649553 on verbal memory. These results suggest that MAPT rs17649553 T allele is associated with higher small-world properties in structural network and better verbal memory in PD.

UBL3 Interacts with Alpha-Synuclein in Cells and the Interaction Is Downregulated by the EGFR Pathway Inhibitor Osimertinib

Ubiquitin-like 3 (UBL3) acts as a post-translational modification (PTM) factor and regulates protein sorting into small extracellular vesicles (sEVs). sEVs have been reported as vectors for the pathology propagation of neurodegenerative diseases, such as α-synucleinopathies. Alpha-synuclein (α-syn) has been widely studied for its involvement in α-synucleinopathies. However, it is still unknown whether UBL3 interacts with α-syn, and is influenced by drugs or compounds. In this study, we investigated the interaction between UBL3 and α-syn, and any ensuing possible functional and pathological implications. We found that UBL3 can interact with α-syn by the Gaussia princeps based split luciferase complementation assay in cells and immunoprecipitation, while cysteine residues at its C-terminal, which are considered important as PTM factors for UBL3, were not essential for the interaction. The interaction was upregulated by 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium exposure. In drug screen results, the interaction was significantly downregulated by the treatment of osimertinib. These results suggest that UBL3 interacts with α-syn in cells and is significantly downregulated by epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway inhibitor osimertinib. Therefore, the UBL3 pathway may be a new therapeutic target for α-synucleinopathies in the future.

Multifaceted interactions mediated by intrinsically disordered regions play key roles in alpha synuclein aggregation

The aggregation of Alpha Synuclein (α-Syn) into fibrils is associated with the pathology of several neurodegenerative diseases. Pathologic aggregates of α-Syn adopt multiple fibril topologies and are known to be transferred between cells via templated seeding. Monomeric α-Syn is an intrinsically disordered protein (IDP) with amphiphilic N-terminal, hydrophobic-central, and negatively charged C-terminal domains. Here, we review recent work elucidating the mechanism of α-Syn aggregation and identify the key and multifaceted roles played by the N- and C-terminal domains in the initiation and growth of aggregates as well as in the templated seeding involved in cell-to-cell propagation. The charge content of the C-terminal domain, which is sensitive to environmental conditions like organelle pH, is a key regulator of intermolecular interactions involved in fibril growth and templated propagation. An appreciation of the complex and multifaceted roles played by the intrinsically disordered terminal domains suggests novel opportunities for the development of potent inhibitors against synucleinopathies.

Stabilization of 14-3-3 protein-protein interactions with Fusicoccin-A decreases alpha-synuclein dependent cell-autonomous death in neuronal and mouse models

Synucleinopathies are a group of neurodegenerative diseases without effective treatment characterized by the abnormal aggregation of alpha-synuclein (aSyn) protein. Changes in levels or in the amino acid sequence of aSyn (by duplication/triplication of the aSyn gene or point mutations in the encoding region) cause familial cases of synucleinopathies. However, the specific molecular mechanisms of aSyn-dependent toxicity remain unclear. Increased aSyn protein levels or pathological mutations may favor abnormal protein-protein interactions (PPIs) that could either promote neuronal death or belong to a coping response program against neurotoxicity. Therefore, the identification and modulation of aSyn-dependent PPIs can provide new therapeutic targets for these diseases. To identify aSyn-dependent PPIs we performed a proximity biotinylation assay based on the promiscuous biotinylase BioID2. When expressed as a fusion protein, BioID2 biotinylates by proximity stable and transient interacting partners, allowing their identification by streptavidin affinity purification and mass spectrometry. The aSyn interactome was analyzed using BioID2-tagged wild-type (WT) and pathological mutant E46K aSyn versions in HEK293 cells. We found the 14-3-3 epsilon isoform as a common protein interactor for WT and E46K aSyn. 14-3-3 epsilon correlates with aSyn protein levels in brain regions of a transgenic mouse model overexpressing WT human aSyn. Using a neuronal model in which aSyn cell-autonomous toxicity is quantitatively scored by longitudinal survival analysis, we found that stabilization of 14-3-3 protein-proteins interactions with Fusicoccin-A (FC-A) decreases aSyn-dependent toxicity. Furthermore, FC-A treatment protects dopaminergic neuronal somas in the substantia nigra of a Parkinson's disease mouse model. Based on these results, we propose that the stabilization of 14-3-3 epsilon interaction with aSyn might reduce aSyn toxicity, and highlight FC-A as a potential therapeutic compound for synucleinopathies.

Intrinsic Disorder in α-Synuclein Regulates the Exocytotic Fusion Pore Transition

Today, it is widely accepted that intrinsic disorder is strongly related to the cell cycle, during mitosis, differentiation, and apoptosis. Of particular interest are hybrid proteins possessing both structured and unstructured domains that are critical in human health and disease, such as α-synuclein. In this work, we describe how α-synuclein interacts with the nascent fusion pore as it evolves toward expansion. We unveil the key role played by its intrinsically disordered region as a thermodynamic regulator of the nucleation-expansion energy barrier. By analyzing a truncated variant of α-synuclein that lacks the disordered region, we find that the landscape of protein interactions with PIP₂ and POPS lipids is highly altered, ultimately increasing the energy cost for the fusion pore to transit from nucleation to expansion. We conclude that the intrinsically disordered region in full-length α-synuclein recognizes and allocates pivotal protein:lipid interactions during membrane remodeling in the first stages of the fusion pore.

Alpha Synuclein Modulates Mitochondrial Ca 2+ Uptake from ER During Cell Stimulation and Under Stress Conditions

Alpha synuclein (a-syn) is an intrinsically disordered protein prevalent in neurons, and aggregated forms are associated with synucleinopathies including Parkinson' disease (PD). Despite the biomedical importance and extensive studies, the physiological role of a-syn and its participation in etiology of PD remain uncertain. We showed previously in model RBL cells that a-syn colocalizes with mitochondrial membranes, depending on formation of N-terminal helices and increasing with mitochondrial stress. 1 We have now characterized this colocalization and functional correlates in RBL, HEK293, and N2a cells. We find that expression of a-syn enhances stimulated mitochondrial uptake of Ca 2+ from the ER, depending on formation of its N-terminal helices but not on its disordered C-terminal tail. Our results are consistent with a-syn acting as a tether between mitochondria and ER, and we show increased contacts between these two organelles using structured illumination microscopy. We tested mitochondrial stress caused by toxins related to PD, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP/MPP+) and carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenyl hydrazone (CCCP), and found that a-syn prevents recovery of stimulated mitochondrial Ca 2+ uptake. The C-terminal tail, and not N-terminal helices, is involved in this inhibitory activity, which is abrogated when phosphorylation site serine-129 is mutated (S129A). Correspondingly, we find that MPTP/MPP+ and CCCP stress is accompanied by both phosphorylation (pS129) and aggregation of a-syn. Overall, our results indicate that a-syn can participate as a tethering protein to modulate Ca 2+ flux between ER and mitochondria, with potential physiological significance. A-syn can also prevent cellular recovery from toxin-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, which may represent a pathological role of a-syn in the etiology of PD.

Molecular-level interplay between intrinsically disordered clients and Hsp90

Proteostasis is maintained by a network of molecular chaperones, a prominent member of which is the 90-kilodalton heat shock protein Hsp90. The chaperone function of Hsp90 has been extensively reviewed previously, emphasizing its ATPase activity and remodeling of folded client proteins. Experimental evidence implicating Hsp90 in neurodegenerative diseases has bolstered interest in the noncanonical chaperoning of intrinsically disordered protein (IDPs), however the interplay between Hsp90 and its disordered clients remains poorly understood. In this review we describe recent advances that have contributed to our understanding of the intricate mechanisms characterizing Hsp90-mediated chaperoning of the IDPs tau and α-synuclein and survey emerging insights into the modulation of the chaperone-client interplay in the context of neurodegeneration.

Calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase exacerbates mitochondrial calcium uniporter-related mitochondrial calcium overload by phosphorylating α-synuclein in Parkinson's disease

α-Synuclein phosphorylation and mitochondrial calcium homeostasis are important mechanisms underlying mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's disease, but the network regulating these mechanisms remains unclear. We identified the role of key phosphokinases and the pathological effects of α-synuclein phosphorylation on mitochondrial calcium influx and mitochondrial function in Parkinson's disease. The function of the key phosphokinase, calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase, was investigated through loss- and gain-of-function experiments using a cell model of Parkinson's disease. The regulation of mitochondrial calcium uniporter-mediated mitochondrial calcium influx by calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase was explored using a cellular model of Parkinson's disease. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments and α-synuclein mutation were used to explore the mechanism through which calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase regulates mitochondrial calcium uniporter-mediated mitochondrial calcium influx and exacerbates mitochondrial damage in Parkinson's disease. Here, we show the pathogenic role of calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase in Parkinson's disease progression. Calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase phosphorylated α-synuclein to activate mitochondrial calcium uniporter and thus increase mitochondrial calcium influx, and these effects were blocked by α-synuclein S129A mutant expression. Furthermore, the calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase inhibitor CASK-IN-1 exerted neuroprotective effects in Parkinson's disease. Collectively, our results suggest that calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase phosphorylates α-synuclein to activate the mitochondrial calcium uniporter and thereby causes mitochondrial calcium overload and mitochondrial damage in Parkinson's disease. We elucidated a new role of calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase in Parkinson's disease and revealed the potential therapeutic value of targeting calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine protein kinase in Parkinson's disease treatment.

Genetic modifiers of synucleinopathies-lessons from experimental models

α-Synuclein is a pleiotropic protein underlying a group of progressive neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. Together, these are known as synucleinopathies. Like all neurological diseases, understanding of disease mechanisms is hampered by the lack of access to biopsy tissues, precluding a real-time view of disease progression in the human body. This has driven researchers to devise various experimental models ranging from yeast to flies to human brain organoids, aiming to recapitulate aspects of synucleinopathies. Studies of these models have uncovered numerous genetic modifiers of α-synuclein, most of which are evolutionarily conserved. This review discusses what we have learned about disease mechanisms from these modifiers, and ways in which the study of modifiers have supported ongoing efforts to engineer disease-modifying interventions for synucleinopathies.

Taking Charge: Metal Ions Accelerate Amyloid Aggregation in Sequence Variants of α-Synuclein

Αlpha-synuclein (αS) is an intrinsically disordered protein which exhibits a high degree of conformational heterogeneity. In vivo, αS experiences various environments which cause adaptation of its structural ensemble. Divalent metal ions are prominent in synaptic terminals where αS is located and are thought to bind to the αS C-terminal region. Herein, we used native nanoelectrospray ionization ion mobility-mass spectrometry to investigate changes in the charge state distribution and collision cross sections of wild-type N-terminally acetylated (NTA) αS, along with a deletion variant (ΔΔNTA) which inhibits amyloid formation and a C-terminal truncated variant (119NTA) which increases the rate of amyloid formation. We also examine the effect of the addition of divalent metal ions, Ca²⁺, Mn²⁺, and Zn²⁺, and correlate the conformational properties of the αS monomer with the ability to aggregate into amyloid, measured using Thioflavin T fluorescence and negative stain transmission electron microscopy. We find a correlation between the population of species with a low collision cross section and accelerated amyloid assembly kinetics, with the presence of metal ions resulting in protein compaction and causing ΔΔ to regain its ability to form an amyloid. The results portray how the αS conformational ensemble is governed by specific intramolecular interactions that influence its amyloidogenic behavior.

UBA52 Attunes VDAC1-Mediated Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Dopaminergic Neuronal Death

Mitochondrial homeostasis regulates energy metabolism, calcium buffering, cell function, and apoptosis. The present study has been conducted to investigate the implications of the ubiquitin-encoding gene UBA52 in mitochondrial physiology. Transient expression of Myc-UBA52 in neurons significantly inhibited the rotenone-induced increase in reactive oxygen species generation, nitrite level, and depleted glutathione level. Mass spectrometric and coimmunoprecipitation data suggested the profound interaction of UBA52 with mitochondrial outer membrane channel protein, VDAC1 in both the wild-type and Myc-α-synuclein overexpressed neuronal cells and in the Parkinson's disease (PD)-specific substantia nigra and striatal region of the rat brain. In vitro ubiquitylation assay revealed that UBA52 participates in the ubiquitylation of VDAC1 through E3 ligase CHIP. Myc-UBA52 overexpression in neurons further improved the mitochondrial functionality and cell viability by preventing the alteration in mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial complex I activity, and translocation of cytochrome c and p-Nrf2 along with the effect on intracellular calcium uptake, thus collectively inhibiting the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Additionally, Myc-UBA52 expression in neuronal cells offered protection against apoptotic and autophagic cell death. Altogether, our findings delineate a functional association between UBA52 and mitochondrial homeostasis, providing new insights into the deterrence of dopaminergic cell death during acute PD pathogenesis.

High-affinity binding of celastrol to monomeric α-synuclein mitigates in vitro aggregation

α-Synuclein (αSyn) aggregation is associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). The region αSyn36-42 acts as the nucleation 'master controller' and αSyn1-12 as a 'secondary nucleation site'. They drive monomeric αSyn to aggregation. Small molecules targeting these motifs are promising for disease-modifying therapy. Using computational techniques, we screened thirty phytochemicals for αSyn binding. The top three compounds were experimentally validated for their binding affinity. Amongst them, celastrol showed high binding affinity. NMR analysis confirmed stable αSyn-celastrol interactions involving several residues in the N-terminus and NAC regions but not in the C-terminal tail. Importantly, celastrol interacted extensively with the key motifs that drive αSyn aggregation. Thioflavin-T assay indicated that celastrol reduced αSyn aggregation. Thus, celastrol holds promise as a potent drug candidate for PD.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Metamorphism in TDP-43 prion-like domain determines chaperone recognition

The RNA binding protein TDP-43 forms cytoplasmic inclusions via its C-terminal prion-like domain in several neurodegenerative diseases. Aberrant TDP-43 aggregation arises upon phase de-mixing and transitions from liquid to solid states, following still unknown structural conversions which are primed by oxidative stress and chaperone inhibition. Despite the well-established protective roles for molecular chaperones against protein aggregation pathologies, knowledge on the determinants of chaperone recognition in disease-related prions is scarce. Here we show that chaperones and co-chaperones primarily recognize the structured elements in TDP-43´s prion-like domain. Significantly, while HSP70 and HSP90 chaperones promote TDP-43 phase separation, co-chaperones from the three classes of the large human HSP40 family (namely DNAJA2, DNAJB1, DNAJB4 and DNAJC7) show strikingly different effects on TDP-43 de-mixing. Dismantling of the second helical element in TDP-43 prion-like domain by methionine sulfoxidation impacts phase separation and amyloid formation, abrogates chaperone recognition and alters phosphorylation by casein kinase-1δ. Our results show that metamorphism in the post-translationally modified TDP-43 prion-like domain encodes determinants that command mechanisms with major relevance in disease.

Multi-Dimensional Structure and Dynamics Landscape of Proteins in Mammalian Cells Revealed by In-Cell NMR

Governing function, half-life and subcellular localization, the 3D structure and dynamics of proteins are in nature constantly changing in a tightly regulated manner to fulfill the physiological and adaptive requirements of the cells. To find evidence for this hypothesis, we applied in-cell NMR to three folded model proteins and propose that the splitting of cross peaks constitutes an atomic fingerprint of distinct structural states that arise from multiple target binding co-existing inside mammalian cells. These structural states change upon protein loss of function or subcellular localisation into distinct cell compartments. In addition to peak splitting, we observed NMR signal intensity attenuations indicative of transient interactions with other molecules and dynamics on the microsecond to millisecond time scale.

Effects of the Polyphenols Delphinidin and Rosmarinic Acid on the Inducible Intra-cellular Aggregation of Alpha-Synuclein in Model Neuron Cells

Intracellular aggregation of α-synuclein is a major pathological feature of Parkinson's disease. In this study, we show that the polyphenols delphinidin and rosmarinic acid suppress intracellular aggregation of α-synuclein in a mouse neuron cell model when added under oxidative stress conditions. To enhance the detection threshold of this preventive effect of the two polyphenols, we generated a new strain of "aggregation prone model cells" that tended to show prominent α-synuclein aggregation even under normal conditions. Using this new highly sensitive cell line, we demonstrate that addition of delphinidin to model cell cultures effectively suppresses the formation of intracellular α-synuclein aggregates. Flow cytometric analysis shows that adding delphinidin decreases the fraction of "dying cells," cells that were alive but in a damaged state. Our findings suggest the possibility of using polyphenols to prevent and treat the symptoms correlated with the onset of Parkinson's disease. Additionally, our aggregation-prone cell model may be used in future studies to probe numerous neurodegenerative diseases with high sensitivity.