Determination of amino acid compositions and NH2-terminal sequences of peptides electroblotted onto PVDF membranes from tricine-sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis: application to peptide mapping of human complement component C3

Ultraviolet matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-mass spectrometry of electroblotted proteins

Direct mass spectrometric analysis of proteins electroblotted onto polyvinylidene fluoride membranes after sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis is demonstrated by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) with a linear time-of-flight instrument, equipped with a nitrogen laser (337 nm). The blotted proteins were desorbed directly from the blotting membrane after incubation with sinapinic acid as matrix. Different commercially available membranes resulted in high quality protein signals for hydrophobic membranes exhibiting high specific surface areas (Immobilon PSQ or Trans-Blot) or for charged membranes (Immobilon CD). Systematic investigations with standard proteins were performed to compare standard preparation procedures for ultraviolet (UV) MALDI-MS on stainless steel sample stages and preparation of proteins immobilized onto membranes either by direct application from protein solutions (spotting) or by electrotransfer from gels (electroblotting). Aspects such as mass resolution reproducibility from shot to shot and spot to spot, mass accuracy, and preservation of protein localization are addressed in this paper.

Proteins of crustacean exoskeleton: IV. Partial amino acid sequences of exoskeletal proteins from the Bermuda land crab, Gecarcinus lateralis, and comparisons to certain insect proteins

As in all decapod Crustacea, the exoskeleton of the land crab Gecarcinus lateralis consists of four layers. Prior electrophoretic analysis of proteins extracted from these layers revealed an abundance of small M(r) proteins with acidic pIs are found in insect cuticle (O'Brien et al. [1991 Biol. Bull., 181:427-441). Further, immunological cross-reactivity between crab exoskeletal proteins and insect cuticular proteins has been demonstrated (Kumari and Skinner [1993] J. Exp. Zool., 265:195-210). Partial amino acid sequences of a number of proteins from the four exoskeletal layers are described here. Proteins were electrophoresed on two-dimensional (2D) gels, transferred to polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) membranes, and stained; individual spots were recovered and their N-termini were sequenced. In addition, a 14-kDa protein (pI = 5.4) from membranous layer (ML14) was eluted from 2D gels and digested with endoproteinase Lys-C; N-termini of its constituent peptides were sequenced. The two epicuticular proteins differed from each other. Three proteins with identical electrophoretic mobility isolated from exocuticle, endocuticle, and membranous layer appeared to have identical N termini, while another electrophoretically identical set from the three layers appeared identical with each other but differed in three positions from the first set. Two proteins from the membranous layer both had a mass of 25 kDa but different isoelectric points. Their sequences were indistinguishable from each other but clearly distinct from another membranous layer protein. Another distinct sequence was found in a 14-kDa protein from endocuticle, while a less acidic pair of 14-kDa proteins from endocuticle and membranous layer were quite similar to one another. The three internal peptide fragments from ML14 were distinct, but one had regions similar to the ML14 N terminus. One crab exoskeletal protein sequence was similar to some structural proteins of vertebrates, whereas others had motifs found in insect cuticular proteins. The sequence similarities identified did not account for the antibody cross-reactivity.

A transferrin-like GPI-linked iron-binding protein in detergent-insoluble noncaveolar microdomains at the apical surface of fetal intestinal epithelial cells

A GPI-anchored 80-kD protein was found to be the major component of detergent-insoluble complexes, prepared from fetal porcine small intestine, constituting about 25% of the total amount of protein. An antibody was raised to the 80-kD protein, and by immunogold electron microscopy of ultracryosections of mucosal tissue, the protein was localized to the apical surface of the enterocytes, whereas it was absent from the basolateral plasma membrane. Interestingly, it was mainly found in patches of flat or invaginated apical membrane domains rather than at the surface of microvilli. Caveolae were not found in association with these labeled microdomains. In addition, the 80-kD protein was seen in apical endocytic vacuoles and in tubulo-vesicular structures, suggesting that the apical microdomains are involved in endocytosis of the 80-kD protein. By its NH2-terminal amino acid sequence, iron-binding capacity and partial immunological cross-reactivity with serum transferrin, the 80-kD protein was shown to belong to the transferrin family, and it is probably homologous to melanotransferrin, a human melanoma-associated antigen. The 80-kD iron-binding protein was fully detergent-soluble immediately after synthesis and only became insoluble after gaining resistance to endo H, supporting a mechanism for exocytic delivery to the apical cell surface by way of detergent-insoluble glycolipid "rafts" that fuse with the plasmalemma at restricted sites devoid of microvilli.

The photoactivatable NAD+ analogue [32P]2-azido-NAD+ defines intra- and inter-molecular interactions of the C-terminal domain of the G-protein G alpha t

Recently, we reported the synthesis and use of [32P]2-azido-NAD+ as a probe to study the structural organization of G-proteins. Pertussis toxin was used to 'tether' [32P]2-azido-ADP-ribose of [32P]2-azido-NAD+ to Cys347 of the alpha subunit of the G-protein Gt. Light activation of the azide moiety covalently cross-linked the domain containing Cys347 at the C-terminus of alpha t with neighbouring intra- and inter-molecular domains of holo-transducin. The radiolabel from [32P]2-azido-ADP-ribose was then transferred to the 'acceptor' domain by cleaving the thioglycosidic bond between Cys347 and [32P]2-azido-ADP- ribose with mercuric acetate. ADP-ribosylation followed by photocross-linking of holo-transducin indicated intramolecular interactions of the C-terminal domain with other alpha t domains and intermolecular interactions with holotransducin alpha and gamma subunits. The radiolabelled peptides, which were radiolabelled because of the transfer of the photoactive moiety, were identified by utilizing 2-(2'-nitrophenylsulphenyl)-3-methyl-3'- bromoindolenine ('BNPS-skatole') and CNBr. The results indicate that the C-terminus of alpha t interacts with both N-terminal and C-terminal domains within the alpha t molecular. Mapping the interacting sites between cross-linked alpha dimers and alpha trimers indicates that the C-terminal domain of alpha t is involved in the formation of alpha t homopolymers in solution. In addition, our studies place the beta gamma subunit in close proximity to Cys347 of alpha t, as indicated by the transfer of [32P]2-azido-ADP-ribose from Cys347 to the gamma subunit, which was further localized to the C-terminal half of gamma t. The studies presented here identify the C-terminal intra- and inter-molecular interactions of the alpha subunit of holo-transducin.

Crystallisation and preliminary X-ray analysis of the receptor-binding domain of human and bovine alpha 2-macroglobulin

The receptor-binding domains (RBDs) of human and bovine alpha 2-macroglobulin (alpha 2M) have been isolated after limited proteolysis of methylamine-treated alpha 2M with papain. Single crystals of the RBDs have been grown by vapour diffusion. Crystals of human RBD are very thin plates unsuited for data collection. However, crystals of RBD from bovine alpha 2M give diffraction patterns suitable for X-ray analysis, and a complete dataset with a maximum resolution of 2.3 A has been collected with synchrotron radiation at cryogenic temperature. The crystals belong to spacegroup P3(1)21 or P3(2)21 with cell parameters a = b = 106.8 A, c = 72.2 A.

Isolation and characterization of the lysozyme-encoding gene from the silkworm Bombyx mori

We have isolated and characterized a Bombyx mori (Bm) cDNA encoding a lysozyme (Lyz). A 90-bp DNA fragment was amplified by PCR using degenerate oligodeoxyribonucleotide primers derived from the known amino acid (aa) sequence of the Bm Lyz. These PCR fragments were used to screen a fat body cDNA library. A clone containing the complete lys cDNA (1294 bp) was isolated and completely sequenced. The deduced 137-aa sequence showed high homology with other chicken-type Lyz. Bm lys gene expression was constitutive in fat body, cuticular epidermal tissue and at a very low level in hemocytes. This gene expression was up-regulated in fat body, hemocytes and cuticular epidermal tissue following the injection of Gram+ bacteria.

Two-dimensional electrophoresis of proteins: an updated protocol and implications for a functional analysis of the genome

The two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) technique developed by Klose in 1975 (Humangenetik 1975, 26, 211-234), independently of the technique developed by O'Farrell (J. Biol. Chem. 1975, 250, 4007-4021), has been revised in our laboratory and an updated protocol is presented. This protocol is the result of our experience in using this method since its introduction. Many modifications and suggestions found in the literature were also tested and then integrated into our original method if advantageous. Gel and buffer composition, size of gels, use of stacking gels or not, necessity of isoelectric focusing (IEF) gel incubation, freezing of IEF gels or immediate use, carrier ampholytes versus Immobilines, regulation of electric current, conditions for staining and drying the gels - these and other problems were the subject of our concern. Among the technical details and special equipment which constitute our 2-DE method presented here, a few features are of particular significance: (i) sample loading onto the acid side of the IEF gel with the result that both acidic and basic proteins are well resolved in the same gel; (ii) use of large (46 x 30 cm) gels to achieve high resolution, but without the need of unusually large, flat gel equipment; (iii) preparation of ready-made gel solutions which can be stored frozen, a prerequisite, among others, for high reproducibility. Using the 2-DE method described we demonstrate that protein patterns revealing more than 10 000 polypeptide spots can be obtained from mouse tissues. This is by far the highest resolution so far reported in the literature for 2-DE of complex protein mixtures. The 2-DE patterns were of high quality with regard to spot shape and background. The reproducibility of the protein patterns is demonstrated and shown to be thoroughly satisfactory. An example is given to show how effectively 2-DE of high resolution and reproducibility can be used to study the genetic variability of proteins in an interspecific mouse backcross (Mus musculus x Mus spretus) established by the European Backcross Collaborative Group for mapping the mouse genome. We outline our opinion that the structural analysis of the human genome, currently pursued most intensively on a worldwide scale, should be accompanied by a functional analysis of the genome that starts from the proteins of the organism.

The major protein of guayule rubber particles is a cytochrome P450. Characterization based on cDNA cloning and spectroscopic analysis of the solubilized enzyme and its reaction products

Guayule plants accumulate large quantities of rubber within parenchyma cells of their stembark tissues. This rubber is packed within discrete organelles called rubber particles composed primarily of a lipophilic, cis-polyisoprene core, small amounts of lipids, and several proteins, the most abundant of which is the M(r) 53,000 rubber particle protein (RPP). We have cloned and sequenced a full-length cDNA for RPP and show that it has 65% amino acid identity and 85% similarity to a cytochrome P450 known as allene oxide synthase (AOS), recently identified from flaxseed. RPP contains the same unusual heme-binding region and possesses a similar defective I-helix region as AOS, suggesting an equivalent biochemical function. Spectral analysis of solubilized RPP verifies it as a P450, and enzymatic assays reveal that it also metabolizes 13(S)-hydroperoxy-(9Z,11E)-octadecadienoic acid into the expected ketol fatty acids at rates comparable with flaxseed AOS. RPP is unusual in that it lacks the amino-terminal membrane anchor and the established organelle targeting sequences found on other conventional P450s. Together, these factors place RPP in the CYP74 family of P450s and establish it as the first P450 localized in rubber particles and the first eukaryotic P450 to be identified outside endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, or plastids.

Cloning and characterization of the gsk gene encoding guanosine kinase of Escherichia coli

The Escherichia coli gsk gene encoding guanosine kinase was cloned from the Kohara gene library by complementation of the E. coli gsk-1 mutant allele. The cloned DNA fragment was sequenced and shown to encode a putative polypeptide of 433 amino acids with a molecular mass of 48,113 Da. Minicell analysis established the subunit M(r) as 43,500. Primer extension analysis indicated the presence of an adequate Pribnow box and suggested that the transcript contained a 110-base leader sequence. Strains harboring the gsk gene on multicopy plasmids overexpressed both guanosine and inosine kinase activities. N-terminal sequence and amino acid composition analyses of the 43,500-M(r) polypeptide band confirmed the correct reading frame assignment and the identity of this band as the gsk gene product. Comparison of the amino acid sequence with the protein database revealed similarity to regions of other mononucleotide-utilizing enzymes.

Purification and characterization of NADP-dependent glutamate dehydrogenase from the commercial mushroom Agaricus bisporus

The nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP)-dependent glutamate dehydrogenase (NADP-GDH) of Agaricus bisporus, a key enzyme in ammonia assimilation, was purified to apparent electrophoretic homogeneity with 27% recovery of the initial activity. The molecular weight of the native enzyme was 330 kDa. The enzyme is probably a hexamer, composed of identical subunits of 48 kDa. The isoelectric point of the enzyme was found at pH 4.8. The N-terminus appeared to be blocked. The enzyme was specific for NADP(H). The Km-values were 2.1, 3.2, 0.074, 27.0, and 0.117 mM for ammonia, 2-oxoglutarate, NADPH, L-glutamate, and NADP respectively. The pH optima for the amination and deamination reactions were found to be 7.6 and 9.0, respectively. The temperature optimum was 33 degrees C. The effect of several metabolites on the enzyme's activity was tested. Pyruvate, oxaloacetate, ADP, and ATP showed some inhibitory effect. Divalent cations slightly stimulated the aminating reaction. Antibodies raised against the purified enzyme were able to precipitate NADP-GDH activity from a cell-free extract in an anticatalytic immunoprecipitation test. Analysis of a Western blot showed the antibodies to be specific for NADP-GDH.

The phosphorylated ribosomal protein S7 in Tetrahymena is homologous with mammalian S4 and the phosphorylated residues are located in the C-terminal region. Structural characterization of proteins separated by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis

A single basic ribosomal protein, protein S7, can be multiply phosphorylated in the ciliated protozoan Tetrahymena. Induction of phosphorylation is highly regulated, and the phosphorylation proceeds in a strictly sequential manner. The first site to be phosphorylated is a serine residue and the second a threonine. In this paper we report the complete primary structure of Tetrahymena thermophila ribosomal protein S7 including identification of the phosphorylated serine and threonine residues. Most of the sequence information was obtained from peptides generated by in situ digestion of S7 in two-dimensional gels using an approach that combined traditional protein chemistry with mass spectrometry. T. thermophila ribosomal protein S7 has a molecular mass of 29,459 Da and contains 259 amino acid residues. Phosphorylation takes place on Ser258 and Thr248 in the C-terminal region of the protein. Alignment of T. thermophila ribosomal protein S7 with known ribosomal proteins yielded the surprising result that T. thermophila S7 is homologous, not with mammalian ribosomal protein S6, but with mammalian ribosomal protein S4. These findings clearly distinguish the pattern of phosphorylation of ribosomal proteins in Tetrahymena from all other eukaryotes analyzed to date.

Characterization of FP21, a cytosolic glycoprotein from Dictyostelium

FP21 is a glycoprotein which, when tracked by radioactivity in its fucosyl moiety, was previously detected in the cytosol of Dictyostelium cells after cell fractionation. This compartmentalization is confirmed by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis/Western blotting of cell fractions using three different antibodies. Although a substantial fraction of FP21 is also detected in the particulate fraction using these new antibodies, particulate FP21 is released by disrupting protein-protein interactions, but not membrane disruption. Since purified FP21 is susceptible to aggregation, and purified nuclei do not contain FP21, particulate FP21 is also part of the cytosol. Additional compositional and structural information provides strong evidence that FP21 does not at any time traverse the rough endoplasmic reticulum. First, cDNAs spanning the entire coding region of the FP21 gene predict no hydrophobic motifs expected to promote membrane insertion, but do predict an NH2-terminal coiled coil domain which could explain aggregation. Second, monosaccharide composition analysis of the predominant glycoform of FP21 yields 2 mol of galactose, 1 mol of xylose, and 1 mol of fucose/mol of polypeptide; FP21 from a fucosylation-defective mutant contains 1 additional mol of xylose in place of fucose. Thus the N-glycosylation sequon present in FP21 is not utilized by oligosaccharyl transferase, which resides in the rough endoplasmic reticulum. These findings indicate that nascent FP21 remains in the cytosol after synthesis and is therefore glycosylated by unusual cytosolic xylosyl-, galactosyl-, and fucosyltransferases.

A preparative method for sequencing proteins and peptides: in situ gel staining with subsequent passive elution onto polyvinylidine difluoride membranes

A preparative method for obtaining both N-terminal and internal peptide amino acid sequences from purified proteins is reported. The methodology reliably yields high fidelity signal from between 14 to 30 residues per purified protein or peptide, with low backgrounds on amino acid analysis. The procedure relies on the use of in situ staining of proteins during preparative sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and the utilisation of microconcentrators to repeatedly concentrate small amounts of proteins onto a small polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) disc until sufficient amounts have been adsorbed so as to give a strong sequencing signal. The protein elution and subsequent adsorption can be monitored visually with a dye and the final product, a PVDF disc with the adsorbed protein or peptide, can be directly inserted into the automated amino acid sequencer.

Microheterogeneity of mouse antidextran monoclonal antibodies

Mouse antidextran monoclonal antibodies showed microheterogeneity which was analyzed by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2-D PAGE). Not only the heavy (H) chains but also the light (L) chains were heterogeneous in terms of isoelectric point (pI). The higher the pI, the more prominent the H chain spots. To demonstrate the cause of the microheterogeneity an IgG1 monoclonal antibody (mAb 35.8.2H) was examined especially for involvement of the sugar moiety in the microheterogeneity. The glycosylated region was determined in the Fc portion from serine 239 to methionine 309 by a glycan detection method using mild periodate oxidation, which confirms that the sugar chain is attached to the conserved glycosylation site of asparagine 297. However, charge heterogeneity of the H chain was not entirely attributed to the Fc because the papain digest of the antibody was separated into two Fc spots, a few Fd spots and two L chain spots by 2-D PAGE. This indicates that factors other than the sugar moiety are responsible for charge heterogeneity of IgG monoclonal antibody. On the other hand, the H chain isoforms of lower pI were shown to be more susceptible to V8 protease by peptide mapping. This result strongly suggests the occurrence of deamidation at glutamine or asparagine residues.

The human pre-B cell receptor: structural constraints for a tentative model of the pseudo-light (psi L) chain

In human pre-B cells, the mu chain is associated with a surrogate light chain composed of the lambda-like and Vpre-B gene products. This pre-B cell receptor presumably triggers early steps of B cell differentiation, We have determined the NH2-terminal amino acid sequence of the lambda-like chain, showing that the mature chain results from the cleavage of a leader segment of 44 residues, leaving a polypeptide of 169 amino acids having partial features of the Ig light chain domains, with the exception of the first 50 amino acid NH2-terminal region. We have completed the nucleotide sequence of the Vpre-B gene, which appears to contain 126 residues in its mature form of which the 24 COOH-terminal portion was not Ig-related. Analysis of transfectants has provided direct evidence that lambda-like and Vpre-B chains assemble together even in the absence of heavy chain, prompting the search for a structural basis of this interaction. Comparison with the domain organization of the regular Ig lambda chain suggests that most of the psi L chain can be accommodated within a CL-VL-like structure, with an extra "subdomain" contributed by the non-Ig-like portions of both the lambda-like and Vpre-B polypeptides.

Iron-sulfur centers in the photosynthetic reaction center complex fromChlorobium vibrioforme. Differences from and similarities to the iron-sulfur centers in Photosystem I

The photosynthetic reaction center complex from the green sulfur bacteriumChlorobium vibrioforme has been isolated under anaerobic conditions. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis reveals polypeptides with apparent molecular masses of 80, 40, 30, 18, 15, and 9 kDa. The 80- and 18-kDa polypeptides are identified as the reaction center polypeptide and the secondary donor cytochromec 551 encoded by thepscA andpscC genes, respectively. N-terminal amino acid sequences identify the 40-kDa polypeptide as the bacteriochlorophylla-protein of the baseplate (the Fenna-Matthews-Olson protein) and the 30-kDa polypeptide as the putative 2[4Fe-4S] protein encoded bypscB. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis shows the presence of an iron-sulfur cluster which is irreversibly photoreduced at 9K. Photoaccumulation at higher temperature shows the presence of an additional photoreduced cluster. The EPR spectra of the two iron-sulfur clusters resemble those of FA and FB of Photosystem I, but also show significantly differentg-values, lineshapes, and temperature and power dependencies. We suggest that the two centers are designated Center I (with calculatedg-values of 2.085, 1.898, 1.841), and Center II (with calculatedg-values of 2.083, 1.941, 1.878). The data suggest that Centers I and II are bound to thepscB polypeptide.

Recombinant expression of the fdxD gene of Rhodobacter capsulatus and characterization of its product, a [2Fe-2S] ferredoxin

A gene called fdxD that could potentially code for a ferredoxin has recently been identified upstream of the nitrogenase structural genes in Rhodobacter capsulatus [Willison, Pierrard and Hübner (1993) Gene 133, 39-46]. In the present study, the fdxD gene product has been overproduced in Escherichia coli in a soluble form. The recombinant protein, pink in colour, was purified to homogeneity, and biochemically characterized as a new ferredoxin. It represents the fifth ferredoxin so far identified in R. capsulatus and was designated FdV. Its N-terminal sequence is identical with that of the native ferredoxin isolated from R. capsulatus. U.v-visible-absorption spectra as well as results of c.d. and e.p.r. spectroscopy demonstrated that the fdxD product contained a [2Fe-2S] cluster correctly assembled and incorporated into the polypeptide. Although similar to plant-type ferredoxins, FdV appeared poorly competent in the photo-reduction of NADP+. On the basis of in vitro assays, FdV cannot serve as an electron donor for nitrogenase. The lack of reactivity of FdV in either of these assays may primarily be due to its relatively high mid-point redox potential (E'o = -220 mV, pH 7.5).

Identification of proteins in polyacrylamide gels by mass spectrometric peptide mapping combined with database search

Mass spectrometric peptide mapping of proteins separated by one-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis has been investigated. The best results are obtained after blotting of the proteins onto polyvinylidene difluoride membranes followed by enzymatic digestion of the protein on the membrane. The peptide maps were investigated in terms of completeness and applicability for protein identification using a previously developed database search program as well as for the possibility for full characterization of covalent modifications in the proteins. The most complete peptide maps were obtained when the proteins were reduced and alkylated on the membrane prior to enzymatic digestion followed by separation of the resulting mixture by high performance liquid chromatography prior to mass spectrometric analysis. Such peptide maps cover up to 98% of the sequence and consequently may allow complete characterization of post-translational modifications in proteins for which the amino acid sequence is known. The fastest and most sensitive procedure to obtain peptide maps sufficient for protein identification was direct analysis of the extracted peptide mixture by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry. The use of external and internal calibration of MALDI spectra for database searches is evaluated as well as the possibility of including a post-calibration routine within the search program.

Serpins from wheat grain

Wheat serpin genes have been identified by Southern blot hybridization with three distinct barley protein Z probes. Immunoblot analysis with a monoclonal antibody towards barley protein Z confirmed expression of related M(r) approximately 40 kDa proteins in wheat grain. The wheat serpins were extracted under reducing conditions and separated from beta-amylase and other seed proteins by thiophilic adsorption and anion-exchange chromatography. One molecular form possessing chymotrypsin inhibitory activity was isolated in a reactive site cleaved form on a chymotrypsin affinity column. N-terminal amino acid sequences of a CNBr fragment and of the C-terminal peptide from the cleaved inhibitor (M(r) 4574 +/- 4 Da) verified homology with barley protein Z and mammalian serpins. The native inhibitory serpin was demonstrated to form an SDS-stable complex with alpha-chymotrypsin.

MEK-1 phosphorylation by MEK kinase, Raf, and mitogen-activated protein kinase: analysis of phosphopeptides and regulation of activity

MEK-1 is a dual threonine and tyrosine recognition kinase that phosphorylates and activates mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). MEK-1 is in turn activated by phosphorylation. Raf and MAPK/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase (MEKK) independently phosphorylate and activate MEK-1. Recombinant MEK-1 is also capable of autoactivation. Purified recombinant wild type MEK-1 and a mutant kinase inactive MEK-1 were used as substrates for MEKK, Raf, and autophosphorylation. MEK-1 phosphorylation catalyzed by Raf, MEKK, or autophosphorylation resulted in activation of MEK-1 kinase activity measured by phosphorylation of a mutant kinase inactive MAPK. Phosphoamino acid analysis and peptide mapping identified similar MEK-1 tryptic phosphopeptides after phosphorylation by MEK kinase, Raf, or MEK-1 autophosphorylation. MEK-1 is phosphorylated by MAPK at sites different from that for Raf and MEKK. Phosphorylation of MEK-1 by MAPK does not affect MEK-1 kinase activity. Several phosphorylation sites present in MEK-1 immunoprecipitated from 32P-labeled cells after stimulation with epidermal growth factor were common to the in vitro phosphorylated enzyme. The major site of MAPK phosphorylation in MEK-1 is threonine 292. Mutation of threonine 292 to alanine eliminates 90% of MAPK catalyzed phosphorylation of MEK-1 but does not influence MEK-1 activity. The results demonstrate that MEKK and Raf regulate MEK-1 activity by phosphorylation of common residues and thus, two independent protein kinases converge at MEK-1 to regulate the activity of MAPK.

Characterization of cluster 13: the epithelial/carcinoma antigen recognized by MAb RS7

Cluster 13 was defined by 2 independently derived murine monoclonal antibodies (MAbs), RS7 (IgG1) and MR54 (IgG2a), which were raised against human squamous-cell carcinoma of the lung and a human ovarian-carcinoma cell line, respectively. Immunologic and biochemical evidence demonstrated that RS7 and MR54, as well as 2 additional MAbs, MR6 (IgG2a) and MR23 (IgG1), generated in the same fusion as MR54, recognize the same antigen, a 46- to 48-kDa glycoprotein. Evaluation of the expression of antigen on the surface of tumor cell lines, Western blotting analyses, competitive binding studies, and double-determinant ELISA assays, support this conclusion. Two distinct epitopes are defined by these MAbs. In order to further characterize this antigen, amino-acid-sequence analyses were performed on peptides derived from antigen purified by affinity chromatography with MAb RS7. The sequence data obtained from 2 peptides, which were independently generated by CNBr cleavage and trypsin digestion respectively indicated identity to GA733-1. The GA733-1 genomic DNA sequence predicted a type-1 membrane protein of 35 kDa, with 4 potential N-linked glycosylation sites. The GA733-1 protein product has not been identified previously, and MAbs to this tumor-associated antigen were not previously known.

Yeast mitochondrial NAD(+)-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase is an RNA-binding protein

We have previously described the characterisation of an abundant mitochondrial protein (p40) that binds specifically to 5'-untranslated leaders of mitochondrial mRNAs in yeast. p40 consists of two polypeptides with M(r) of 40 and 39 kDa. Limited sequence analysis of p40 identifies it as the Krebs cycle enzyme NAD(+)-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase (Idh). Both enzyme and RNA-binding activities are specifically lost in cells containing disruptions in either IDH1 or IDH2, the nuclear genes encoding the two subunits of the enzyme, thus conclusively identifying p40 as Idh and showing that both activities are dependent on the simultaneous presence of both subunits. Although we still must ascertain whether and how either function of Idh is regulated and whether the two functions are compatible or mutually exclusive, this combination of dehydrogenase activity and RNA-binding in a single protein may be part of a general regulatory circuit linking the need for mitochondrial function to mitochondrial biogenesis.

Cloning, characterization and import studies on protochlorophyllide reductase from wheat (Triticum aestivum)

A full-length protochlorophyllide reductase clone (pWR5) has been isolated from a dark-grown wheat (Triticum aestivum) cDNA library generated in the phage vector lambda gt10. Comparison of the sequence of pWR5 with published sequences indicates a high degree of conservation of the structure of the mature protein amongst species but with the structure of the transit peptide less highly conserved. Within the cereals, the structure of the complete preprotein shows a remarkable degree of sequence homology (98% between barley and wheat). In vitro expression of pWR5 generates a preprotein of the expected molecular mass, approx. 41 kDa. Isolated pea chloroplasts can import, process and locate the mature reductase to the thylakoid membranes. From analysis of the CNBr-cleavage fragments of the N-[3H]phenylmaleimide-treated enzyme, the substrate-protected cysteine group in the enzyme is tentatively identified as Cys-296.

Microsequence analysis of the N-terminally blocked proteins immobilized on polyvinylidene difluoride membrane by western blotting

A technique has been developed for efficient deblocking and subsequent microsequencing of N-terminally blocked proteins immobilized on a polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) membrane at the picomole levels. In this technique, proteins were first separated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and then transferred onto a PVDF membrane by Western blotting. The electroblotted proteins with N-terminal acetylserine or acetylthreonine could be deblocked on-membrane by treatment with trifluoroacetic acid vapor and sequenced by a gas-phase protein sequencer. Similarly, N-formylated proteins could be deblocked on-membrane in HC1 solution and then directly sequenced from the N-terminal amino acid. Proteins with N-terminal pyroglutamic acid were enzymatically deblocked by in situ pyroglutamyl peptidase digestion, and N-acetylated proteins were also enzymatically deblocked with acylamino acid-releasing enzyme (AARE) after on-membrane digestion with trypsin to generate the N-terminal peptide fragment. This tryptic digestion was required since AARE can remove the acetylamino acid only from a short peptide. Based on these four deblocking methods, we present a strategy for sequential deblocking and subsequent N-terminal sequence analysis of N-blocked protein immobilized on PVDF membrane.

Structural characterization of blotting membranes and the influence of membrane parameters for electroblotting and subsequent amino acid sequence analysis of proteins

Various blotting membranes were evaluated and correlated with the efficiency of electroblotting and the performance in the sequencing process. Structural parameters including specific surface area, pore size distribution, pore volumes, and permeabilities of different solvents lead to discrimination of the membranes relative to their accessible surfaces and membrane densities. Protein binding capacities as well as protein recoveries in electroblotting correlate with the specific surface areas. Almost quantitative retention of proteins during electroblotting from gels was obtained for membranes with a high specific surface area and narrow pores (Trans-Blot, Immobilon PSQ, Fluorotrans), whereas membranes with a relatively low specific surface area (Immobilon P, Glassybond) showed reduced recoveries of between 10-20% for the tested proteins. Initial yields and repetitive yields were compared for radioiodinated standard proteins that have been either electroblotted or loaded by direct adsorption. The results showed that the different permeabilities for solutions of the Edman chemistry have a major influence on initial yields. The glass fiber-based membranes with an extremely low flow restriction produce consistently high initial yields independent of the application mode of the protein (spotted or electroblotted) or the application of the membranes into the cartridge (discs or small pieces). In contrast, the polymeric membranes showed decreasing initial yields with increasing membrane density for spotted and electroblotted proteins. Yields varied considerably when the membranes were applied as discs into the cartridge. This effect could be minimized by cutting the membranes into pieces as small as possible, as demonstrated for electroblotted proteins.

Identification of a cross-linked double-peptide from the catalytic site of the Ca(2+)-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum formed by the Ca(2+)- and pH-dependent reaction with ATP gamma P-imidazolidate

The Ca(2+)-ATPase from sarcoplasmic reticulum can be inhibited by the Ca(2+)- and pH-dependent reaction with ATP gamma P-imidazolidate. The chemically and monofunctionally activated inhibitor introduces an intramolecular cross-link between two neighbouring peptides of the active site. This can be followed by the reduced mobility of the ATPase upon SDS-PAGE analysis which becomes even more pronounced after limited trypsinolysis. After cleavage of the cross-linked ATPase molecule by cyanogen bromide and separation of the peptides a double-peptide can be detected which upon sequencing can be identified as part of the phosphorylation and the nucleotide binding site, respectively.

Production, purification and characterization of the catalytic domain of glucoamylase from Aspergillus niger

The catalytic domain of glucoamylases G1 and G2 from Aspergillus niger is produced in vitro in high yield by limited proteolysis using either subtilisin Novo or subtilisin Carlsberg. Purification by affinity chromatography on an acarbose-Sepharose column followed by ion-exchange chromatography on HiLoad Q-Sepharose leads to separation of a number of structurally closely related forms of domain. The cleavage occurs primarily between Val-470 and Ala-471 as indicated by C-terminal sequencing, whereas the N-terminus is intact. Subtilisin Carlsberg, in addition, produces a type of domain which is hydrolysed before Ser-444, an O-glycosylated residue. This leaves the fragment Ser-444-Val-470 disulphide-bonded to the large N-terminal part of the catalytic domain. Subtilisin Novo, in contrast, tends to yield a minor fraction of forms extending approx. 30-40 amino-acid residues beyond Val-470. The thermostability is essentially the same for the single-chain catalytic domain and the original glucoamylases G1 and G2, whereas the catalytic domain cut between Ser-443 and Ser-444 is less thermostable. For both types of domain the kinetic parameters, Km and kcat., for hydrolysis of maltose are very close to the values found for glucoamylases G1 and G2.

High yield fermentation and purification of Tendamistat disulphide analogues secreted by Streptomyces lividans

In our studies of structure-function correlation of polypeptides we used Tendamistat (TM), an alpha-amylase-inhibitor of Streptomyces tendae, as a model to investigate the influence of different mutants on the expression and secretion of the protein. In addition, we examined the influence of replacing the two disulphide-bridges that stabilize the two-loop structure of the whole protein. The single mutants C27S, C27T, C45A, the double mutants C11A/C27A, C11A/C27S, C11A/C27T, C11A/C27L, C45/C73A and the fourfold mutant C11A/C27A/C45A/C73A were prepared. The mutated TM gene was expressed in S. lividans TK 24, which secretes the active form of the inhibitor into the culture medium. Compared with the wild-type, the double-mutated TM derivatives show an increase in secreted protein by a factor of two to ten. In contrast, the single-mutated inhibitor analogues show the reverse effect. In order to examine the influence of temperature and culture media on the production of protein derivative we used the most unstable C11A analogue. Our expression studies at 10, 19, 28 and 37 degrees C established 19 degrees C as the optimal temperature for production of the protein derivatives. The correlation between the stability and secretion of TM is discussed in the context of our knowledge of protein translocation in bacteria. Based on these experiments we optimized the fermentation parameters, isolated TM analogous on a large scale, and verified them.

Assembly of the Rieske iron-sulfur subunit of the cytochrome bc1 complex in the Escherichia coli and Rhodobacter sphaeroides membranes independent of the cytochrome b and c1 subunits

The Rieske iron-sulfur subunit of the cytochrome bc1 complex from Rhodobacter sphaeroides has been expressed in Escherichia coli and also in a strain of Rb. sphaeroides lacking the other subunits of the bc1 complex. PCR products encoding the full-length subunit were introduced into expression vectors to produce the subunit alone or the subunit fused behind the mature portion of the E. coli maltose binding protein (MBP), but lacking the MBP signal sequence. These proteins are both located in the cytoplasmic membrane. The unfused Rieske subunit assembles a Rieske-like iron-sulfur cluster, but with EPR characteristics which differ from the normal rhombic signal observed in the cytochrome bc1 complex. The overproduced MBP fusion protein, on the other hand, does not contain an EPR-detectable iron-sulfur cluster. Subfragments of the Rieske subunit lacking the amino-terminal hydrophobic anchor also lack the iron-sulfur cluster were expressed in E. coli. When expressed in Rb. sphaeroides in the absence of the cytochrome b and c1 subunits, the fully metalated Rieske subunit with the diagnostic gy = 1.90 EPR signal is observed in the cytoplasmic membrane. The fact that the Rieske subunit has an assembled iron-sulfur cluster and is bound to either the E. coli or the Rb. sphaeroides membrane in the absence of the other subunits of the bc1 complex demonstrates a mode of membrane attachment independent of the other components of the complex. These data are consistent with models in which the Rieske subunit is bound to the membrane via a single membrane-spanning helix located near the amino terminus.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

FimC, a chaperone-like periplasmic protein of Escherichia coli involved in biogenesis of type 1 fimbriae

The product of the fimC gene of Escherichia coli K12 is required for the biogenesis of type 1 fimbriae. Mutations within the fimC gene abolish fimbrial synthesis. The FimC protein was found to be processed and the mature version was located in the periplasm. Unlike similar fimbrial systems, the major type 1 fimbriae structural protein FimA was found to be significantly resistant to proteolytic degradation when present in the periplasm in a fimC- host background. The fimC gene was sequenced, and the deduced primary structure of the FimC protein was compared to other similar known proteins involved in the biogenesis of various fimbriae.

Isolation and characterization of the tubular basement membrane antigen associated with human tubulo-interstitial nephritis

The target antigen, a 54-kD glycoprotein (gp54), reactive with sera from patients with anti-tubular basement membrane (anti-TBM) nephritis, was isolated from collagenase-digested (CD) bovine TBM. The purified gp54 was shown to be non-collagenous by amino acid analysis, and to be a unique basement membrane component by amino-terminal sequencing. The nephritogenicity of gp54 was demonstrated by immunizing strain XIII guineapigs with purified gp54, and producing anti-gp54 antibody and tubulo-interstitial nephritis. Anti-gp54 antibody, affinity-purified from sera of patients with anti-TBM nephritis, bound by immunoblotting to 54-kD and, to a lesser extent, 48-kD components of partially purified human CD-TBM. Indirect immunofluorescence showed that gp54 was present in the basement membrane of proximal tubules of the kidneys of normal human, cow, rabbit, guineapig and Brown-Norway rat but not in Lewis rat. Immunoelectron microscopy revealed localization of gp54 along the interstitial side of the TBM and its association with interstitial collagen fibres. These results indicate that gp54 is the nephritogenic antigen involved in tubulo-interstitial nephritis, and is unique in chemical characteristics and localization in the kidney.

Identification of the sites in the eukaryotic elongation factor 1 alpha involved in the binding of elongation factor 1 beta and aminoacyl-tRNA

In this article we report the identification of the sites which are involved in the binding of the GDP-exchange factor EF-1 beta and aminoacyl tRNA to the alpha-subunit of the eukaryotic elongation factor 1 (EF-1) from Artemia. For this purpose the polypeptide chain of EF-1 alpha, having 461 amino acid residues, was proteolytically cleaved into large fragments by distinct proteases. Under well defined conditions, a mixture of two large fragments, free from intact EF-1 alpha and with molecular masses of 37 kDa and 43 kDa, was obtained. The 37-kDa and 43-kDa fragments comprise the residues 129-461 and 69-461, respectively. However, in aqueous solution and under non-denaturing conditions, the mixture still contained a short amino-terminal peptide, encompassing the residues 1-36, that remained tightly bound. The ability of the mixture of the 37+43-kDa fragments, including this amino-terminal peptide 1-36, to bind GDP or to facilitate aminoacyl tRNA binding to salt-washed ribosomes was severely reduced, compared to intact EF-1 alpha. However, both of these complexes were able to bind to the GDP-exchange-stimulating subunit EF-1 beta. A 30-kDa fragment, comprising the residues 1-287, was generated after treatment of the protein with endoproteinase Glu-C. This fragment contained the complete guanine nucleotide binding pocket. Although it was able to bind GDP and to transport aminoacyl tRNA to the ribosome, no affinity towards EF-1 beta was observed. We propose that the guanine-nucleotide-exchange stimulation by EF-1 beta is induced through binding of this factor to the carboxy-terminal part of EF-1 alpha. As a result, a decreased susceptibility towards trypsin of the guanine-nucleotide-binding pocket of EF-1 alpha, especially in the region of its presumed effector loop is induced.

Mapping of the active site of T7 RNA polymerase with 8-azidoATP

The photoaffinity analog of ATP, 8-azidoATP, labels T7 RNA polymerase. Photoincorporation exhibits saturation behavior and is protected against by the substrate ATP. 8-AzidoATP is a competitive inhibitor of ATP incorporation with Ki approximately 40 microM. The photolabeled T7 RNA polymerase, following cyanogen bromide digestion, was analyzed by phenylboronate agarose column chromatography followed by reverse-phase high pressure liquid chromatography. Sequencing of the peptides labeled with radioactive photoprobe allowed the identification of three peptides, P314-M362 (I), L550-M666 (II), and F751-M861 (III). These peptides are in the proximity of the photoprobe 8-azidoATP and, therefore, expected to contain functionally significant residues and define an active site domain. These peptides (I and II) contain residues previously implicated in T7 RNA polymerase activity or show homology to active site regions of the Klenow fragment of DNA polymerase I (II and III).

Characterization of two dipeptidases purified from hepatic schistosome egg granulomas in mice. Leukotriene D4 hydrolases of granulomatous tissue

Extracts prepared from tissue with granulomatous inflammation experimentally produced in liver of CBA-strain mice showed increased hydrolysis of leukotriene D4 (LTD4), Leu-Leu and Ala-Gly as compared with normal hepatic cells. Two dipeptidases, Leu-Leu dipeptidase and Ala-Gly dipeptidase, were purified from hepatic granulomas, and quantitative conversion of LTD4 into leukotriene E4 (LTE4) by both enzymes was demonstrated. M(r) values of the purified enzymes were 178,000 for Leu-Leu dipeptidase and 183,000 for Ala-Gly dipeptidase. The enzymes showed homogeneity, appearing as a single band on SDS/PAGE, and the M(r) values of the subunits were 56,000 and 57,000 for Leu-Leu and Ala-Gly dipeptidase respectively. The amino acid compositions of the two enzymes differed considerably from each other. The activity of Leu-Leu dipeptidase was inhibited by bestatin and captopril and stabilized with MnCl2. The Km for LTD4 was 25 microM with a V(max.) of 49.0 mumols/min per mg. In contrast, the activity of Ala-Gly dipeptidase was inhibited by cilastatin, cytinylglycine, EDTA and dithiothreitol, and also by captopril. The Km for LTD4 was 5.3 microM with a V(max.) of 50.4 mumols/min per mg. The findings indicate that the conversion of LTD4 into LTE4 by microsomal dipeptidases is elevated during granulomatous tissue reaction. This enzyme activity may become useful for biochemical quantification of the pathological tissue reaction that occurs in organized granulomas.

Comparison of structure and activities of peroxidases from Coprinus cinereus, Coprinus macrorhizus and Arthromyces ramosus

Initial structural and kinetic data suggested that peroxidases from Coprinus cinereus, Coprinus macrorhizus and Arthromyces ramosus were similar. Therefore they were characterized more fully. The three peroxidases were purified to RZ 2.5 and showed immunochemical identity as well as an identical M(r) of 38,000, pI about 3.5 and similar amino acid compositions. The N-termini were blocked for amino acid sequencing. The peroxidases had similar retention volumes by anion-exchange and gel-filtration chromatography. All peroxidases showed multiple peaks by Concanavalin A-Sepharose chromatography. The Concanavalin A-Sepharose profiles were different and depended furthermore on a fermentation batch. Tryptic peptide maps were very similar except for one peptide. This peptide contained an N-linked glycan composed of varying ratios of glucosamine and mannose for the three peroxidases. Rate constants and their pH dependence were the same for the three peroxidases using guaiacol or iodide as reducing substrates. We conclude that peroxidases from Coprinus cinereus, Coprinus macrorhizus and Arthromyces ramosus are most likely identical in their amino acid sequences, but deviate in glycosylation which, apparently, has no influence on the reaction rates of the enzyme. We suggest, that the Coprinus fungi express one peroxidase only in contrast to the lignin-degrading white-rot Basidiomycetes, which produce multiple peroxidase isozymes.

High-yield recovery of electroblotted proteins and cleavage fragments from a cationic polyvinylidene fluoride-based membrane

In this report we describe the use of a novel, experimental, polyvinylidene fluoride-based membrane with a cationic surface for the isolation by electroblotting of small amounts of proteins separated by gel electrophoresis for further characterization by protein fragmentation for internal sequence analysis. The membrane is characterized by a surface that mediates primarily ionic protein/membrane interactions and that allows the recovery of adsorbed proteins at high yields under relatively mild conditions. In electroblotting experiments, the novel membrane has a binding capacity that is at least equivalent to that of standard polyvinylidene fluoride membranes and is compatible with both chemical and enzymatic fragmentation of blotted proteins in situ. Intact electroblotted proteins, or fragments thereof, were eluted at high yields. Further structural analysis is demonstrated using reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography or gel electrophoresis to separate cleavage fragments for either pulsed-liquid- or solid-phase automated sequence analysis.

Partial amino acid sequence of potato solanidine UDP-glucose glucosyltransferase purified by new anion-exchange and size exclusion media

Solanidine UDP-glucose glucosyltransferase (SGT) is involved in the biosynthesis of steroidal glycoalkaloids in potatoes. This enzyme is present at an extremely low level, is inherently unstable, and copurifies with the major storage protein patatin during isolation. We describe an improved method for isolating SGT from greening potato peel using two new chromatographic supports, Macro-Prep 50 Q anion-exchange and Superdex 75HR size exclusion media, under medium-pressure conditions at room temperature. The enzyme preparation was further resolved by SDS-PAGE and the proteins transferred to PVDF membrane (Immobilon-P). Two protein bands corresponding to active forms of SGT (36 and 37 kDa) were excised and cleaved with cyanogen bromide in trifluoroacetic acid. The resultant peptide mixtures were then separated by Tricine-SDS-PAGE and transferred to a PVDF membrane (Pro-Blott). The two major peptide bands observed in both digests (17 and 19 kDa) were sequenced. Identical N-terminal sequences were obtained from the 19-kDa peptides from both digests.

Group V allergens in grass pollens: IV. Similarities in amino acid compositions and NH2-terminal sequences of the group V allergens from Lolium perenne, Poa pratensis and Dactylis glomerata

Monoclonal antibodies (PpV4) raised against Phleum pratense group V allergen were used for immuno-affinity chromatography of cross-reacting group V allergens from related grass species. Fractions enriched in group V allergen were obtained from Lolium perenne, Poa pratense and Dactylis glomerata extracts. The major components in these fractions were found in the Mwr range 25-28 kD. IgE binding to these components was shown using a pool of grass allergic sera, by SDS-PAGE immunoblotting. These fractions were electroblotted from tricine SDS-PAGE gels onto a polyvinylidene-difluoride membrane and selected group V bands were directly cut out and used for amino acid analysis and NH2-terminal sequencing. Both the amino acid compositions and the NH2-terminal sequences obtained for each group V allergen were almost similar to each other and to the sequence and composition of the previously described allergen Phl p V from Phleum pratense. A common trait of the investigated allergens, is the very high contents of alanine (25-32%) and the presence of the modified amino acid, hydroxyproline.

Different glycosylation in acetylcholinesterases from mammalian brain and erythrocytes

Acetylcholinesterases (EC 3.1.1.7, AChE) have varying amounts of carbohydrates attached to the core protein. Sequence analysis of the known primary structures gives evidence for several asparagine-linked carbohydrates. From the differences in molecular mass determined on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel before and after deglycosylation with N-glycosidase F (EC 3.2.2.18), it is seen that dimeric AChE from red cell membranes is more heavily glycosylated than the tetrameric brain enzyme. Furthermore, dimeric and tetrameric forms of bovine AChE are more heavily glycosylated than the corresponding human enzymes. Monoclonal antibodies 2E6, 1H11, and 2G8 raised against detergent-soluble AChE from electric organs of Torpedo nacline timilei as well as Elec-39 raised against AChE from Electrophorus electricus cross-reacted with AChE from bovine and human brain but not with AChE from erythrocytes. Treatment of the enzyme with N-glycosidase F abolished binding of monoclonal antibodies, suggesting that the epitope, or part of it, consists of N-linked carbohydrates. Analysis of N-acetylglucosamine sugars revealed the presence of N-acetylglucosamine in all forms of cholinesterases investigated, giving evidence for N-linked glycosylation. On the other hand, N-acetylgalactosamine was not found in AChE from human and bovine brain or in butyrylcholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.8) from human serum, indicating that these forms of cholinesterase did not contain O-linked carbohydrates. Despite the notion that within one species, the different forms of AChE arise from one gene by different splicing, our present results show that dimeric erythrocyte and tetrameric brain AChE must undergo different postsynthetic modifications leading to differences in their glycosylation patterns.

In situ alkylation of cysteine residues in a hydrophobic membrane protein immobilized on polyvinylidene difluoride membranes by electroblotting prior to microsequence and amino acid analysis

For identification of cysteine residues on microsequence analysis it is crucial to derivatize the sulfhydryl groups. This reaction requires a desalting step which often represents a major obstacle, especially if the sample consists of limited amounts of a hydrophobic membrane protein. An alkylation procedure is described, allowing efficient derivatization (greater than 90%) of cysteines and cystines even in low microgram quantities, as revealed by test analyses with lysozyme and a hydrophobic membrane protein. The modified protein is recovered in high yields in a form suitable for both microsequence analysis and amino acid analysis. The method involves electrophoretic desalting by miniaturized Tricine-sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and in situ alkylation after electro-transfer onto polyvinylidene difluoride membranes. Precautions against NH2-terminal blocking during sample preparations are provided. The general applicability of the method is illustrated by the structural characterization of the low abundance membrane receptor for human urokinase plasminogen activator.

Comparison of different staining methods for polyvinylidene difluoride membranes

Several new staining methods for polyvinylidene difluoride membranes, including mercurochrome, silver and dimethylaminoazobenzene isothiocyanate staining were compared with Coomassie Brilliant Blue and gold staining. Of these, Coomassie was most versatile and completely compatible with ensuing microsequencing, immunostaining or other visualization methods, while gold and silver staining were more sensitive. Mercurochrome allows selective detection of sulfhydryl-containing proteins while dimethylaminoazobenzene isothiocyanate staining may allow quantitation of sequenceable protein.

Internal protein sequence analysis: enzymatic digestion for less than 10 micrograms of protein bound to polyvinylidene difluoride or nitrocellulose membranes

A procedure for the generation and isolation of internal peptide fragments for less than 10 micrograms of protein bound to either polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) or nitrocellulose membranes after electrophoretic transfer from sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels (SDS-PAGE) is presented. This technique has produced internal sequence data for 120 peptides, with an average initial yield of 20 pmol. Membrane-bound proteins were enzymatically digested with either trypsin or endoproteinase Lys-C in the presence of 1% hydrogenated Triton X-100/10% acetonitrile/100 mM Tris-HCl, pH 8.0, for 24 h at 37 degrees C. The eluted peptides were then directly isolated by microbore HPLC for subsequent sequence analysis. One percent hydrogenated Triton X-100 did not inhibit enzymatic activity, distort HPLC resolution of peptides, or contain uv-absorbing contaminants that could interfere with peptide identification. Reproducible peptide maps and consistent recoveries are presented for standard proteins (3.5-8.0 micrograms) bound to either membrane, with higher recoveries for PVDF-bound proteins. Ninety percent of the proteins analyzed by this technique have produced results; representative peptide maps and sequence data are presented. This technique has a wide range of applications, particularly for proteins with blocked amino termini or those that can only be purified by SDS-PAGE or 2D isoelectric focusing SDS-PAGE.

The sequence location of the actin metal

We have incorporated Fe2+ into the high-affinity metal-ion-binding site of actin. By supplying the system with oxygen from air and a reductant (dithiothreitol or ascorbate), we have induced free-radical generation, with the intent of causing peptide cleavage at the metal-ion-binding site. By analysis of the resulting fragments from actin in the F-form, we have deduced that cuts occurred at positions 159-160 and 301-302 (at the latter location we could not be sure if more than one cut occurred). We considered that these two cuts occurred in the chain strand coursing from the outer to the inner domain and vice-versa. Our results harmonize very well with the recently reported atomic structure of actin [Kabsch, W., Mannherz, H.G., Suck, D., Pai, E.F. & Holmes, K.C. (1990) Nature 347, 37-44] and remove ambiguities that had remained in the structure. The results partly bear out the homology-based prediction of Strzelecka-Golaszewska et al. [Strzelecka-Golaszewska, H., Boguta, G., Zmorzynshi, S. & Moraczcwska, J. (1989) Eur. J. Biochem. 182, 299-305].