Crystal structure of the N-terminal domain of sialoadhesin in complex with 3' sialyllactose at 1.85 A resolution

Pseudaminic acid on Campylobacter jejuni flagella modulates dendritic cell IL-10 expression via Siglec-10 receptor: a novel flagellin-host interaction

Introduction. Campylobacter jejuni is a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide. At present the identity of host-pathogen interactions that promote successful bacterial colonisation remain ill defined. Herein, we aimed to investigate C. jejuni-mediated effects on dendritic cell (DC) immunity.

Results. We found C. jejuni to be a potent inducer of human and murine DC interleukin 10 (IL-10) in vitro, a cellular event that was MyD88- and p38 MAPK-signalling dependent. Utilizing a series of C. jejuni isogenic mutants we found the major flagellin protein, FlaA, modulated IL-10 expression, an intriguing observation as C. jejuni FlaA is not a TLR5 agonist. Further analysis revealed pseudaminic acid residues on the flagella contributed to DC IL-10 expression. We identified the ability of both viable C. jejuni and purified flagellum to bind to Siglec-10, an immune-modulatory receptor. In vitro infection of Siglec-10 overexpressing cells resulted in increased IL-10 expression in a p38-dependent manner. Detection of Siglec-10 on intestinal CD11c⁺ CD103⁺ DCs added further credence to the notion that this novel interaction may contribute to immune outcome during human infection.

Conclusions. We propose that unlike the Salmonella Typhimurium flagella-TLR5 driven pro-inflammatory axis, C. jejuni flagella instead promote an anti-inflammatory axis via glycan-Siglec-10 engagement.

Preclinical characterization of AMG 330, a CD3/CD33-bispecific T-cell-engaging antibody with potential for treatment of acute myelogenous leukemia

There is high demand for novel therapeutic options for patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). One possible approach is the bispecific T-cell-engaging (BiTE, a registered trademark of Amgen) antibody AMG 330 with dual specificity for CD3 and the sialic acid-binding lectin CD33 (SIGLEC-3), which is frequently expressed on the surface of AML blasts and leukemic stem cells. AMG 330 binds with low nanomolar affinity to CD33 and CD3ε of both human and cynomolgus monkey origin. Eleven human AML cell lines expressing between 14,400 and 56,700 CD33 molecules per cell were all potently lysed with EC(50) values ranging between 0.4 pmol/L and 3 pmol/L (18-149 pg/mL) by previously resting, AMG 330-redirected T cells. Complete lysis was achieved after 40 hours of incubation. In the presence of AML cells, AMG 330 specifically induced expression of CD69 and CD25 as well as release of IFN-γ, TNF, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-10, and IL-6. Ex vivo, AMG 330 mediated autologous depletion of CD33-positive cells from cynomolgous monkey bone marrow aspirates. Soluble CD33 at concentrations found in bone marrow of patients with AML did not significantly affect activities of AMG 330. Neoexpression of CD33 on newly activated T cells was negligible as it was limited to 6% of T cells in only three out of ten human donors tested. Daily intravenous administration with as low as 0.002 mg/kg AMG 330 significantly prolonged survival of immunodeficient mice adoptively transferred with human MOLM-13 AML cells and human T cells. AMG 330 warrants further development as a potential therapy for AML.

Lectin structures: classification based on the 3-D structures

Recent progress in structural biology has elucidated the three-dimensional structures and carbohydrate-binding mechanisms of most lectin families. Lectins are classified into 48 families based on their three-dimensional structures. A ribbon drawing gallery of the crystal and solution structures of representative lectins or lectin-like proteins is appended and may help to convey the diversity of lectin families, the similarity and differences between lectin families, as well as the carbohydrate-binding architectures of lectins.

Analysis of the binding sites of porcine sialoadhesin receptor with PRRSV

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) can infect pigs and cause enormous economic losses to the pig industry worldwide. Porcine sialoadhesin (pSN) and CD163 have been identified as key viral receptors on porcine alveolar macrophages (PAM), a main target cell infected by PRRSV. In this study, the protein structures of amino acids 1-119 from the pSN and cSN (cattle sialoadhesin) N-termini (excluding the 19-amino acid signal peptide) were modeled via homology modeling based on mSN (mouse sialoadhesin) template structures using bioinformatics tools. Subsequently, pSN and cSN homology structures were superposed onto the mSN protein structure to predict the binding sites of pSN. As a validation experiment, the SN N-terminus (including the wild-type and site-directed-mutant-types of pSN and cSN) was cloned and expressed as a SN-GFP chimera protein. The binding activity between SN and PRRSV was confirmed by WB (Western blotting), FAR-WB (far Western blotting), ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and immunofluorescence assay. We found that the S107 amino acid residue in the pSN N-terminal played a crucial role in forming a special cavity, as well as a hydrogen bond for enhancing PRRSV binding during PRRSV infection. S107 may be glycosylated during PRRSV infection and may also be involved in forming the cavity for binding PRRSV along with other sites, including W2, Y44, S45, R97, R105, W106 and V109. Additionally, S107 might also be important for pSN binding with PRRSV. However, the function of these binding sites must be confirmed by further studies.

CD169 mediates the capture of exosomes in spleen and lymph node

Exosomes are lipid nanovesicles released following fusion of the endosoma limiting membrane with the plasma membrane; however, their fate in lymphoid organs after their release remains controversial. We determined that sialoadhesin (CD169; Siglec-1) is required for the capture of B cell-derived exosomes via their surface-expressed α2,3-linked sialic acids. Exosome-capturing macrophages were present in the marginal zone of the spleen and in the subcapsular sinus of the lymph node. In vitro assays performed on spleen and lymph node sections confirmed that exosome binding to CD169 was not solely due to preferential fluid flow to these areas. Although the circulation half-life of exosomes in blood of wild-type and CD169(-/-) mice was similar, exosomes displayed altered distribution in CD169(-/-) mice, with exosomes freely accessing the outer marginal zone rim of SIGN-R1(+) macrophages and F4/80(+) red pulp macrophages. In the lymph node, exosomes were not retained in the subcapsular sinus of CD169(-/-) mice but penetrated deeper into the paracortex. Interestingly, CD169(-/-) mice demonstrated an enhanced response to antigen-pulsed exosomes. This is the first report of a role for CD169 in the capture of exosomes and its potential to mediate the immune response to exosomal antigen.

Class A β-lactamases as versatile scaffolds to create hybrid enzymes: applications from basic research to medicine

Designing hybrid proteins is a major aspect of protein engineering and covers a very wide range of applications from basic research to medical applications. This review focuses on the use of class A β-lactamases as versatile scaffolds to design hybrid enzymes (referred to as β-lactamase hybrid proteins, BHPs) in which an exogenous peptide, protein or fragment thereof is inserted at various permissive positions. We discuss how BHPs can be specifically designed to create bifunctional proteins, to produce and to characterize proteins that are otherwise difficult to express, to determine the epitope of specific antibodies, to generate antibodies against nonimmunogenic epitopes, and to better understand the structure/function relationship of proteins.

Structural basis for diverse N-glycan recognition by HIV-1-neutralizing V1-V2-directed antibody PG16

HIV-1 uses a diverse N-linked-glycan shield to evade recognition by antibody. Select human antibodies, such as the clonally related PG9 and PG16, recognize glycopeptide epitopes in the HIV-1 V1-V2 region and penetrate this shield, but their ability to accommodate diverse glycans is unclear. Here we report the structure of antibody PG16 bound to a scaffolded V1-V2, showing an epitope comprising both high mannose-type and complex-type N-linked glycans. We combined structure, NMR and mutagenesis analyses to characterize glycan recognition by PG9 and PG16. Three PG16-specific residues, arginine, serine and histidine (RSH), were critical for binding sialic acid on complex-type glycans, and introduction of these residues into PG9 produced a chimeric antibody with enhanced HIV-1 neutralization. Although HIV-1-glycan diversity facilitates evasion, antibody somatic diversity can overcome this and can provide clues to guide the design of modified antibodies with enhanced neutralization.

Structural insight into the giant Ca²⁺-binding adhesin SiiE: implications for the adhesion of Salmonella enterica to polarized epithelial cells

SiiE from Salmonella enterica is a giant 5,559-residue-long nonfimbrial adhesin that is secreted by a type 1 secretion system (T1SS) and initiates bacterial adhesion to polarized host cells. Structural insight has been gained into the 53 bacterial Ig-like (BIg) domains of SiiE, which account for 94% of the entire SiiE sequence. The crystal structure of a fragment comprising BIg domains 50 to 52 of SiiE reveals the BIg domain architecture and highlights two types of SiiE-specific Ca²⁺-binding sites. Sequence homology considerations suggest that full-length SiiE interacts with more than 100 Ca²⁺ ions. Molecular dynamics simulations and single-molecule imaging indicate that Ca²⁺ binding confers SiiE with a rigid 200 nm rod-like habitus that is required to reach out beyond the Salmonella lipopolysaccharide layer and to promote adhesion to host cells. The crystal structure suggests plausible routes for the establishment of the initial contact between Salmonella and host cells.

Disulfide bonding in protein biophysics

It has been known for many decades that cell surface, soluble-secreted, and extracellular matrix proteins are generally rich in disulfide bonds, but only more recently has the functional diversity of disulfide bonding in extracellular proteins been appreciated. In addition to the classic mechanisms by which disulfide bonds enhance protein thermodynamic stability, disulfides in certain configurations contribute particular mechanical properties to proteins that sense and respond to tensile forces. Disulfides may help warp protein folds for the evolution of new functions, or they may fasten aggregation-prone flaps of polypeptide to protein surfaces to prevent fibrilization or oligomerization. Disulfides can also be used to package and secure macromolecular cargo for intercellular transport. A series of case studies illustrating diverse biophysical roles of disulfide bonding are reviewed, with a focus on proteins functioning in the extracellular environment.

Sialoadhesin - a macrophage-restricted marker of immunoregulation and inflammation

Sialoadhesin (Sn, also known as Siglec-1 and CD169) is a macrophage-restricted cell surface receptor that is conserved across mammals. Sn is a member of the sialic acid-binding IgG-like lectin (Siglec) family of proteins characterized by affinity to specifically sialylated ligands, and under normal conditions is expressed on subsets of macrophages in secondary lymphoid tissues, such as lymph node and spleen. However, Sn-positive macrophages can also be found in a variety of pathological conditions, including (autoimmune) inflammatory infiltrates and tumours. Sn has been shown to contribute to sialylated pathogen uptake, antigen presentation and lymphocyte proliferation, and to influence both immunity and tolerance. This review presents Sn as a macrophage-specific marker of inflammation and immunoregulation with the potential to becoming an important biomarker for immunologically active macrophages and a target for therapy.

The epitope of monoclonal antibodies blocking erythrocyte invasion by Plasmodium falciparum map to the dimerization and receptor glycan binding sites of EBA-175

The malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, and related parasites use a variety of proteins with Duffy-Binding Like (DBL) domains to bind glycoproteins on the surface of host cells. Among these proteins, the 175 kDa erythrocyte binding antigen, EBA-175, specifically binds to glycophorin A on the surface of human erythrocytes during the process of merozoite invasion. The domain responsible for glycophorin A binding was identified as region II (RII) which contains two DBL domains, F1 and F2. The crystal structure of this region revealed a dimer that is presumed to represent the glycophorin A binding conformation as sialic acid binding sites and large cavities are observed at the dimer interface. The dimer interface is largely composed of two loops from within each monomer, identified as the F1 and F2 β-fingers that contact depressions in the opposing monomers in a similar manner. Previous studies have identified a panel of five monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) termed R215 to R218 and R256 that bind to RII and inhibit invasion of erythrocytes to varying extents. In this study, we predict the F2 β-finger region as the conformational epitope for mAbs, R215, R217, and R256, and confirm binding for the most effective blocking mAb R217 and R215 to a synthetic peptide mimic of the F2 β-finger. Localization of the epitope to the dimerization and glycan binding sites of EBA-175 RII and site-directed mutagenesis within the predicted epitope are consistent with R215 and R217 blocking erythrocyte invasion by Plasmodium falciparum by preventing formation of the EBA-175– glycophorin A complex.

Porcine sialoadhesin: a newly identified xenogeneic innate immune receptor

Extracorporeal porcine liver perfusion is being developed as a bridge to liver allotransplantation for patients with fulminant hepatic failure. This strategy is limited by porcine Kupffer cell destruction of human erythrocytes, mediated by lectin binding of a sialic acid motif in the absence of antibody and complement. Sialoadhesin, a macrophage restricted lectin that binds sialic acid, was originally described as a sheep erythrocyte binding receptor. Given similarities between sialoadhesin and the unidentified macrophage lectin in our model, we hypothesized porcine sialoadhesin contributed to recognition of human erythrocytes. Two additional types of macrophages were identified to bind human erythrocytes-spleen and alveolar. Expression of sialoadhesin was confirmed by immunofluorescence in porcine tissues and by flow cytometry on primary macrophages. A stable transgenic cell line expressing porcine sialoadhesin (pSn CHO) bound human erythrocytes, while a sialoadhesin mutant cell line did not. Porcine macrophage and pSn CHO recognition of human erythrocytes was inhibited approximately 90% by an antiporcine sialoadhesin monoclonal antibody and by human erythrocyte glycoproteins. Furthermore, this binding was substantially reduced by sialidase treatment of erythrocytes. These data support the hypothesis that porcine sialoadhesin is a xenogeneic receptor that mediates porcine macrophage binding of human erythrocytes in a sialic acid-dependent manner.

SIGLEC1 and SIGLEC7 expression in circulating monocytes of patients with multiple sclerosis

Background:

Sialic acid binding immunoglobulin-like lectins (Siglecs) are cell surface receptors that recognize sialic acids and may attenuate immune responses and reduce inflammation.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of two members of the Siglec family, SIGLEC1 and SIGLEC7, in the clinical course and disease activity of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods:

SIGLEC1 and SIGLEC7 expression was determined by flow cytometry in the blood monocytes of 16 healthy controls and 55 untreated MS patients (13 primary progressive MS (PPMS) patients, 13 secondary progressive MS (SPMS) patients and 29 relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) patients (18 during clinical remission and 11 during relapse)).

Results:

SIGLEC1 expression by CD14+ monocytes was significantly increased in MS patients compared with controls ( p=0.025 for percentage of positive cells; p=0.007 for mean fluorescence intensity (MFI)). Stratification of patients into different clinical forms revealed increased SIGLEC1 expression in patients with progressive forms of the disease, particularly in those with PPMS ( p=0.003 for percentage of positive cells and p=0.001 for MFI when compared with controls; p=0.031 for percentage of positive cells when compared with RRMS patients). Both inflammatory and resident monocytes contributed to the increase in SIGLEC1 expression observed in PPMS patients. SIGLEC7 expression was significantly up-regulated in blood monocytes from RRMS during relapse compared with patients during clinical remission ( p=0.001 for MFI).

Conclusions:

These findings suggest roles for SIGLEC1 in the chronic progressive phases of MS and for SIGLEC7 in acute disease activity.

Unlike natural killer (NK) p30, natural cytotoxicity receptor NKp44 binds to multimeric α2,3-NeuNAc-containing N-glycans

Natural cytotoxicity receptor 2 (NCR2 or natural killer (NK)p44) and NCR3 (NKp30) bind to heparin and heparin sulfate; however, other natural ligands have yet to be identified. We previously reported that NCR1 (NKp46) can bind to multimeric NeuNAc-containing N-glycans and sulfated glycans. In this study, we investigated whether NKp44 and NKp30 can bind to NeuNAc-containing glycans using their common recombinant extracellular domain tagged with 6×His (NKp44-H6 and NKp30-H6). NKp44-H6, but not NKp30-H6, bound multimeric sialyl Lewis X expressing transferrin secreted by HepG2 cells (HepTF) with a K(d) of 420 nM. Competitive and direct binding assays revealed that NKp44-H6 mainly recognizes α2,3-NeuNAc residues on non-reducing ends of N-glycans on HepTF. Moreover, site-directed mutants of NKp44-H6, such as R47Q, R55Q, R92Q, R95Q, K103Q, and R106Q, had reduced binding to α2,3-sialylated N-glycans. These results suggest that NKp44 binds to α2,3-sialylated N-glycans through ionic interactions, and that these binding sites might have some overlap with heparin binding sites.

Photoaffinity probes for studying carbohydrate biology

Carbohydrates and carbohydrate-containing biomolecules engage in binding events that underlie many essential biological processes. Yet these carbohydrate-mediated interactions are often poorly characterized, due to their low affinities and heterogenous natures. The use of photocrosslinking functional groups offers a way to photochemically capture carbohydrate-containing complexes, which can be isolated for further analysis. Here we survey progress in the synthesis and use of carbohydrate-based photoprobes, reagents that incorporate carbohydrates or their analogs, photocrosslinking moieties, and affinity purification handles. Carbohydrate photoprobes, used in combination with modern mass spectrometry methods, can provide important new insights into the cellular roles of carbohydrates and glycosylated molecules.

Cloning and transcriptional analysis of two sialic acid-binding lectins (SABLs) from razor clam Solen grandis

Sialic acid-binding lectin (SABL) plays crucial role in both innate and adaptive immune responses benefiting from its predominant affinity toward glycan. In the present study, two SABLs from razor clam Solen grandis (designated as SgSABL-1 and SgSABL-2) were identified, and their expression patterns, both in tissues and towards microorganism glycan stimulation, were then characterized. The cDNA of SgSABL-1 and SgSABL-2 was 988 and 1281 bp, containing an open reading frame (ORF) of 744 and 570 bp, respectively, and deduced amino acid sequences showed high similarity to other invertebrates SABLs. Both SgSABL-1 and SgSABL-2 encoded a C1q domain. SgSABL-1 and SgSABL-2 were found to be constitutively expressed in a wide range of tissues with different levels, including mantle, gill, gonad, hemocyte, muscle, and hepatopancreas, and both of them were highly expressed in hepatopancreas. SgSABL-1 and SgSABL-2 could be significantly induced after razor clams were stimulated by acetylated subunits-containing glycan LPS and PGN, suggesting the two SgSABLs might perform potential function of glycan recognition. In addition, SgSABL-2 could also be induced by β-1,3-glucan. All these results indicated that SgSABL-1 and SgSABL-2 might be involved in the immune response against microbe infection and contributed to the pathogens recognition.

Sialoadhesin in recognition of self and non-self

The immune system is tightly regulated to maintain an appropriate balance between immune activation and tolerance. Macrophages play a key role in this process since they express many pathogen recognition molecules as well as receptors for 'self'. Sialoadhesin is a major macrophage receptor that specifically recognizes sialic acid, an abundant component of host glycoconjugates but which can also be found on several human pathogens. In recent years, several studies have demonstrated that sialoadhesin can contribute to the uptake and processing of sialylated pathogens as well as playing an important role in regulating inflammatory and autoimmune responses via recognition of self.

Evolutionarily conserved paired immunoglobulin-like receptor α (PILRα) domain mediates its interaction with diverse sialylated ligands

Paired immunoglobulin-like receptor (PILR) α is an inhibitory receptor that recognizes several ligands, including mouse CD99, PILR-associating neural protein, and Herpes simplex virus-1 glycoprotein B. The physiological function(s) of interactions between PILRα and its cellular ligands are not well understood, as are the molecular determinants of PILRα/ligand interactions. To address these uncertainties, we sought to identify additional PILRα ligands and further define the molecular basis for PILRα/ligand interactions. Here, we identify two novel PILRα binding partners, neuronal differentiation and proliferation factor-1 (NPDC1), and collectin-12 (COLEC12). We find that sialylated O-glycans on these novel PILRα ligands, and on known PILRα ligands, are compulsory for PILRα binding. Sialylation-dependent ligand recognition is also a property of SIGLEC1, a member of the sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectins. SIGLEC1 Ig domain shares ∼22% sequence identity with PILRα, an identity that includes a conserved arginine localized to position 97 in mouse and human SIGLEC1, position 133 in mouse PILRα and position 126 in human PILRα. We observe that PILRα/ligand interactions require conserved PILRα Arg-133 (mouse) and Arg-126 (human), in correspondence with a previously reported requirement for SIGLEC1 Arg-197 in SIGLEC1/ligand interactions. Homology modeling identifies striking similarities between PILRα and SIGLEC1 ligand binding pockets as well as at least one set of distinctive interactions in the galactoxyl-binding site. Binding studies suggest that PILRα recognizes a complex ligand domain involving both sialic acid and protein motif(s). Thus, PILRα is evolved to engage multiple ligands with common molecular determinants to modulate myeloid cell functions in anatomical settings where PILRα ligands are expressed.

Siglecs and immune regulation

Sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectins, or Siglecs, vary in their specificity for sialic acid-containing ligands and are mainly expressed by cells of the immune system. Many Siglecs are inhibitory receptors expressed in innate immune cells that regulate inflammation mediated by damage-associated and pathogen-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs and PAMPs). This family also includes molecules involved in adhesion and phagocytosis and receptors that can associate with the ITAM-containing DAP12 adaptor. Siglecs contribute to the inhibition of immune cells both by binding to cis ligands (expressed in the same cells) and by responding to pathogen-derived sialoglycoconjugates. They can help maintain tolerance in B lymphocytes, modulate the activation of conventional and plasmacytoid dendritic cells, and contribute to the regulation of T cell function both directly and indirectly. Siglecs modulate immune responses, influencing almost every cell in the immune system, and are of relevance both in health and disease.

A structural model for binding of the serine-rich repeat adhesin GspB to host carbohydrate receptors

GspB is a serine-rich repeat (SRR) adhesin of Streptococcus gordonii that mediates binding of this organism to human platelets via its interaction with sialyl-T antigen on the receptor GPIbα. This interaction appears to be a major virulence determinant in the pathogenesis of infective endocarditis. To address the mechanism by which GspB recognizes its carbohydrate ligand, we determined the high-resolution x-ray crystal structure of the GspB binding region (GspB(BR)), both alone and in complex with a disaccharide precursor to sialyl-T antigen. Analysis of the GspB(BR) structure revealed that it is comprised of three independently folded subdomains or modules: 1) an Ig-fold resembling a CnaA domain from prokaryotic pathogens; 2) a second Ig-fold resembling the binding region of mammalian Siglecs; 3) a subdomain of unique fold. The disaccharide was found to bind in a pocket within the Siglec subdomain, but at a site distinct from that observed in mammalian Siglecs. Confirming the biological relevance of this binding pocket, we produced three isogenic variants of S. gordonii, each containing a single point mutation of a residue lining this binding pocket. These variants have reduced binding to carbohydrates of GPIbα. Further examination of purified GspB(BR)-R484E showed reduced binding to sialyl-T antigen while S. gordonii harboring this mutation did not efficiently bind platelets and showed a significant reduction in virulence, as measured by an animal model of endocarditis. Analysis of other SRR proteins revealed that the predicted binding regions of these adhesins also had a modular organization, with those known to bind carbohydrate receptors having modules homologous to the Siglec and Unique subdomains of GspB(BR). This suggests that the binding specificity of the SRR family of adhesins is determined by the type and organization of discrete modules within the binding domains, which may affect the tropism of organisms for different tissues.

SIGLEC12, a human-specific segregating (pseudo)gene, encodes a signaling molecule expressed in prostate carcinomas

The primate SIGLEC12 gene encodes one of the CD33-related Siglec family of signaling molecules in immune cells. We had previously reported that this gene harbors a human-specific missense mutation of the codon for an Arg residue required for sialic acid recognition. Here we show that this R122C mutation of the Siglec-XII protein is fixed in the human population, i.e. it occurred prior to the origin of modern humans. Additional mutations have since completely inactivated the SIGLEC12 gene in some but not all humans. The most common inactivating mutation with a global allele frequency of 58% is a single nucleotide frameshift that markedly shortens the open reading frame. Unlike other CD33-related Siglecs that are primarily found on immune cells, we found that Siglec-XII protein is expressed not only on some macrophages but also on various epithelial cell surfaces in humans and chimpanzees. We also found expression on certain human prostate epithelial carcinomas and carcinoma cell lines. This expression correlates with the presence of the nonframeshifted, intact SIGLEC12 allele. Although SIGLEC12 allele status did not predict prostate carcinoma incidence, restoration of expression in a prostate carcinoma cell line homozygous for the frameshift mutation induced altered regulation of several genes associated with carcinoma progression. These stably transfected Siglec-XII-expressing prostate cancer cells also showed enhanced growth in nude mice. Finally, monoclonal antibodies against the protein were internalized by Siglec-XII-expressing prostate carcinoma cells, allowing targeting of a toxin to such cells. Polymorphic expression of Siglec-XII in humans thus has implications for prostate cancer biology and therapeutics.

Structure and Dynamics of Glycosphingolipids in Lipid Bilayers: Insights from Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Glycolipids are important constituents of biological membranes, and understanding their structure and dynamics in lipid bilayers provides insights into their physiological and pathological roles. Experimental techniques have provided details into their behavior at model and biological membranes; however, computer simulations are needed to gain atomic level insights. This paper summarizes the insights obtained from MD simulations into the conformational and orientational dynamics of glycosphingolipids and their exposure, hydration, and hydrogen-bonding interactions in membrane environment. The organization of glycosphingolipids in raft-like membranes and their modulation of lipid membrane structure are also reviewed.

Crystal structure of human natural cytotoxicity receptor NKp30 and identification of its ligand binding site

Natural killer (NK) cells are a group of innate immune cells that carry out continuous surveillance for the presence of virally infected or cancerous cells. The natural cytotoxicity receptor (NCR) NKp30 is critical for the elimination of a large group of tumor cell types. Although several ligands have been proposed for NKp30, the lack of a conserved structural feature among these ligands and their uncertain physiological relevance has contributed to confusion in the field and hampered a full understanding of the receptor. To gain insights into NKp30 ligand recognition, we have determined the crystal structure of the extracellular domain of human NKp30. The structure displays an I-type Ig-like fold structurally distinct from the other natural cytotoxicity receptors NKp44 and NKp46. Using cytolytic killing assays against a range of tumor cell lines and subsequent peptide epitope mapping of a NKp30 blocking antibody, we have identified a critical ligand binding region on NKp30 involving its F strand. Using different solution binding studies, we show that the N-terminal domain of B7-H6 is sufficient for NKp30 recognition. Mutations on NKp30 further confirm that residues in the vicinity of the F strand, including part of the C strand and the CD loop, affect binding to B7-H6. The structural comparison of NKp30 with CD28 family receptor and ligand complexes also supports the identified ligand binding site. This study provides insights into NKp30 ligand recognition and a framework for a potential family of unidentified ligands.

Epitope mapping, expression and post-translational modifications of two isoforms of CD33 (CD33M and CD33m) on lymphoid and myeloid human cells

We have tested the usefulness of several commercial anti-CD33 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) to determine the expression and localization of the two CD33 isoforms on several hematopoietic cell lines. The expression of the isoform CD33m, a CD33 transmembrane splice variant lacking the ligand-binding V immunoglobulin (Ig)-like domain, was detected by RT-polymerase chain reaction, western blot, confocal microscopy and flow cytometry on the membrane of several human cell types. CD33m was only detected by the anti-CD33 mAb HIM3-4 on the cell surface, whereas WM53, P67.6, 4D3, HIM3-4, WM54, D3HL60.251 or MY9 detected the CD33M isoform, indicating that HIM3-4 is the only mAb recognizing CD33 C(2) Ig domain. Accordingly, HIM3-4 binding to CD33 did not interfere with the binding of other antibodies against the CD33 V-domain. P67.6 mAb interfered with recognition by the rest of antibodies specific for the V domain. HIM3-4 staining could be increased after the sialidase treatment of all CD33(+) cells. However, this increase was stronger in activated T cells, suggesting a CD33 masking state in this cell population. Confocal microscopy analysis of CD33m HEK 293T-transfected cells revealed that this protein is expressed on the cell membrane and also detected in the Golgi compartment. CD33 is constitutively located outside the lipid raft domains, whereas cross-linked CD33 is highly recruited to this signaling platform. The unique ability of HIM3-4 mAb to detect the masking state of CD33 on different cell lineages makes it a good tool to improve the knowledge of the biological role of this sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin.

Epitope mapping and key amino acid identification of anti-CD22 immunotoxin CAT-8015 using hybrid β-lactamase display

Monoclonal antibodies are a commercially successful class of drug molecules and there are now a growing number of antibodies coupled to toxic payloads, which demonstrate clinical efficacy. Determining the precise epitope of therapeutic antibodies is beneficial in understanding the structure-activity relationship of the drug, but in many cases is not done due to the structural complexity of, in particular, conformational protein epitopes. Using the immunotoxin CAT-8015 as a test case, this study demonstrates that a new methodology, hybrid β-lactamase display, can be employed to elucidate a complex epitope on CD22. Following insertion of random CD22 gene fragments into a permissive site within β-lactamase, proteins expressed in Escherichia coli were first screened for correct folding by resistance to ampicillin and then selected by phage display for affinity to CAT-8015. The optimal protein region recognised by CAT-8015 could then be used as a tool for fine epitope mapping, using alanine-scanning analysis, demonstrating that this technology is well suited to the rapid characterisation of antibody epitopes.

Motor-substrate interactions in mycoplasma motility explains non-Arrhenius temperature dependence

Mycoplasmas exhibit a novel, substrate-dependent gliding motility that is driven by approximately 400 "leg" proteins. The legs interact with the substrate and transmit the forces generated by an assembly of ATPase motors. The velocity of the cell increases linearly by nearly 10-fold over a narrow temperature range of 10-40 degrees C. This corresponds to an Arrhenius factor that decreases from approximately 45 k(B)T at 10 degrees C to approximately 10 k(B)T at 40 degrees C. On the other hand, load-velocity curves at different temperatures extrapolate to nearly the same stall force, suggesting a temperature-insensitive force-generation mechanism near stall. In this article, we propose a leg-substrate interaction mechanism that explains the intriguing temperature sensitivity of this motility. The large Arrhenius factor at low temperature comes about from the addition of many smaller energy barriers arising from many substrate-binding sites at the distal end of the leg protein. The Arrhenius dependence attenuates at high temperature due to two factors: 1), the reduced effective multiplicity of energy barriers intrinsic to the multiple-site binding mechanism; and 2), the temperature-sensitive weakly facilitated leg release that curtails the power stroke. The model suggests an explanation for the similar steep, sub-Arrhenius temperature-velocity curves observed in many molecular motors, such as kinesin and myosin, wherein the temperature behavior is dominated not by the catalytic biochemistry, but by the motor-substrate interaction.

Detailed insights from microarray and crystallographic studies into carbohydrate recognition by microneme protein 1 (MIC1) of Toxoplasma gondii

The intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii is among the most widespread parasites. The broad host cell range of the parasite can be explained by carbohydrate microarray screening analyses that have demonstrated the ability of the T. gondii adhesive protein, TgMIC1, to bind to a wide spectrum of sialyl oligosaccharide ligands. Here, we investigate by further microarray analyses in a dose-response format the differential binding of TgMIC1 to 2-3- and 2-6-linked sialyl carbohydrates. Interestingly, two novel synthetic fluorinated analogs of 3'SiaLacNAc(1-4) and 3'SiaLacNAc(1-3) were identified as highly potent ligands. To understand the structural basis of the carbohydrate binding specificity of TgMIC1, we have determined the crystal structures of TgMIC1 micronemal adhesive repeat (MAR)-region (TgMIC1-MARR) in complex with five sialyl-N-acetyllactosamine analogs. These crystal structures have revealed a specific, water-mediated hydrogen bond network that accounts for the preferential binding of TgMIC1-MARR to arrayed 2-3-linked sialyl oligosaccharides and the high potency of the fluorinated analogs. Furthermore, we provide strong evidence for the first observation of a C--F...H--O hydrogen bond within a lectin-carbohydrate complex. Finally, detailed comparison with other oligosaccharide-protein complexes in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) reveals a new family of sialic-acid binding sites from lectins in parasites, bacteria, and viruses.

From carbohydrate leads to glycomimetic drugs

Carbohydrates are the most abundant natural products. Besides their role in metabolism and as structural building blocks, they are fundamental constituents of every cell surface, where they are involved in vital cellular recognition processes. Carbohydrates are a relatively untapped source of new drugs and therefore offer exciting new therapeutic opportunities. Advances in the functional understanding of carbohydrate-protein interactions have enabled the development of a new class of small-molecule drugs, known as glycomimetics. These compounds mimic the bioactive function of carbohydrates and address the drawbacks of carbohydrate leads, namely their low activity and insufficient drug-like properties. Here, we examine examples of approved carbohydrate-derived drugs, discuss the potential of carbohydrate-binding proteins as new drug targets (focusing on the lectin families) and consider ways to overcome the challenges of developing this unique class of novel therapeutics.

Molecular basis of binding of the Plasmodium falciparum receptor BAEBL to erythrocyte receptor glycophorin C

Plasmodium falciparum invades human erythrocytes by redundant pathways. Unlike Plasmodium vivax that has one Duffy Binding-Like (DBL) receptor, P. falciparum has four members of the DBL receptor family. Furthermore, one of these DBL genes, BAEBL, has polymorphisms at four amino acids in region II; each polymorphism binds to a different erythrocyte receptor. One BAEBL variant (VSTK) binds specifically to erythrocyte glycophorin C and binds poorly to neuraminidase-treated erythrocytes. When the amino acid threonine (T121) in BAEBL (VSTK) is changed to a lysine (VSKK), it no longer requires sialic acid as a receptor. To explore the molecular basis of sialic acid binding, we modeled the structure of region II of BAEBL (VSTK) on the crystal structure of a related DBL receptor, region II of erythrocyte binding antigen-175 (EBA-175). Four charged amino acids, R52, R114, E54 and D125, are predicted to surround T121 in BAEBL (VSTK). They were individually mutated to alanine (R52A, R114A, E54A, and D125A) or lysine (R52K, R114K) and expressed on the surface of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells. BAEBL (VSTK) with mutations in R52 or R114 of BAEBL (VSTK) bound neuraminidase-treated erythrocytes. Unlike the arginine mutations, E54A and D125A still bound poorly to neuraminidase-treated erythrocytes. These findings suggest that the two arginine residues surrounding T121 are critical for the binding specificity of BAEBL (VSTK) to sialic acid and suggest a role for arginine in sialic acid binding independent of its negative charge.

Human natural killer receptors, co-receptors, and their ligands

In the last 20 years, the study of human natural killer (NK) cells has moved from the first molecular characterizations of very few receptor molecules to the identification of a plethora of receptors displaying surprisingly divergent functions. Our laboratory has contributed to the description of inhibitory receptors and their signaling pathways, important in fine regulation in many cell types, but unknown until their discovery in the NK cells. Inhibitory function is central to regulating NK-mediated cytolysis, with different molecular structures evolving during speciation to assure its persistence. Only in the last ten years has it become possible to characterize the NK triggering receptors mediating natural cytotoxicity, leading to an appreciation of the existence of a cellular interaction network between effectors of both natural and adaptive immunity. This report reviews the contemporary history of molecular studies of receptors and ligands involved in NK cell function, characterizing the ligands of the triggering receptor and the mechanisms for finely regulating their expression in pathogen-infected or tumor cells.

Atomic-resolution conformational analysis of the GM3 ganglioside in a lipid bilayer and its implications for ganglioside-protein recognition at membrane surfaces

Eukaryotic cells depend on external surface markers, such as gangliosides, to recognize and bind various other molecules as part of normal growth and maturation. The localization of gangliosides in the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane, also make them targets for pathogens trying to invade the host cells. Since ganglioside-mediated interactions are critical to both beneficial and pathological processes, much effort has been directed at determining the 3D structures of their carbohydrate head groups; however, technical difficulties have generally prevented the characterization of the head group in intact membrane-bound gangliosides. Determining the 3D structure and presentation of gangliosides at the surface of membranes is important in understanding how cells interact with their local environment. Here, we employ all-atom explicit solvent molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, using the GLYCAM06 force field, to model the conformation and dynamics of ganglioside G(M3) (alpha-Neu5Ac-(2-3)-beta-Gal-(1-4)-beta-Glc-ceramide) in a DMPC lipid bilayer. By comparison with MD simulations of the carbohydrate head-group fragment of G(M3) alone, it was possible to quantify and characterize the extent of changes in head-group presentation and dynamics associated with membrane anchoring. The accuracy of data from the MD simulations was determined by comparison to NMR and crystallographic data for the head group in solution and for G(M3) in membrane-mimicking environments. The experimentally consistent model of G(M3), in a lipid bilayer, was then used to model the recognition of G(M3) at the cell surface by known protein receptors.

beta1-integrin mediates myelin-associated glycoprotein signaling in neuronal growth cones

Several myelin-associated factors that inhibit axon growth of mature neurons, including Nogo66, myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) and oligodendrocyte myelin glycoprotein (OMgp), can associate with a common GPI-linked protein Nogo-66 receptor (NgR). Accumulating evidence suggests that myelin inhibitors also signal through unknown NgR-independent mechanisms. Here we show that MAG, a RGD tri-peptide containing protein, forms a complex with β1-integrin to mediate axonal growth cone turning responses of several neuronal types. Mutations that alter the RGD motif in MAG or inhibition of β1-integrin function, but not removal of NgRs, abolish these MAG-dependent events. In contrast, OMgp-induced repulsion is not affected by inhibition of b1-integrin function. We further show that MAG stimulates tyrosine phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), which in turn is required for MAG-induced growth cone turning. These studies identify β1-integrin as a specific mediator for MAG in growth cone turning responses, acting through FAK activation.

Design, synthesis, and structure-affinity relationships of novel series of sialosides as CD22-specific inhibitors

Sialosides incorporating substituted amides or amines at 9-position of sialic acid moiety have been synthesized and evaluated as CD22 inhibitors. Several derivatives exhibited inhibitory potency in sub- to low micromolar range (e. g., 8o, 9d, 9g, and 9k showed IC 50 values 0.40, 0.47, 0.24, and 0.23 microM, respectively, for hCD22, while 8p, 8q, and 9f, showed IC 50 values 1.70, 2.90, and 4.10 microM, respectively, for mCD22). The most significant result was the strongly enhanced affinity of 9g and 9k containing 9-(2' or 4'-hydroxy-4-biphenyl) methylamino substituents (600-fold more potent for hCD22 than the corresponding 9-hydroxy derivative; 7a). Molecular modeling study was carried out to get some insights into the molecular basis of CD22 inhibition. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic structure-affinity relationship study on inhibition of CD22.

The inhibitory potencies of monoclonal antibodies to the macrophage adhesion molecule sialoadhesin are greatly increased following PEGylation

PEGylation of antibodies is known to increase their half-life in systemic circulation, but nothing is known regarding whether PEGylation can improve the inhibitory potency of antibodies against target receptors. In this paper, we have examined this question using antibodies directed to Sialoadhesin (Sn), a macrophage-restricted adhesion molecule that mediates sialic acid dependent binding to different cells. Anti-Sn monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), SER-4 and 3D6, were conjugated to PEG 5 kDa or and PEG 20 kDa, resulting in the incorporation of up to 3 molecules of PEG per mAb molecule. Following purification of PEGylated mAbs by anion exchange chromatography, it was shown that PEGylation had little or no effect on antigen binding activity but led to a dramatic increase in inhibitory potency that was proportional to both the size of the PEG and the degree of derivatization. Thus, PEGylation of antibodies directed to cell surface receptors could be a powerful approach to improve the therapeutic efficacy of antibodies, not only by increasing their half-life in vivo, but also by increasing their inhibitory potency for blocking receptor-ligand interactions.