51
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Lin H, Riching K, Lai MP, Lu D, Cheng R, Qi X, Wang J. Lysineless HiBiT and NanoLuc Tagging Systems as Alternative Tools for Monitoring Targeted Protein Degradation. ACS Med Chem Lett 2024; 15:1367-1375. [PMID: 39140070 PMCID: PMC11318018 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.4c00271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Target protein degradation (TPD) has emerged as a revolutionary approach in drug discovery, leveraging the cell's intrinsic machinery to selectively degrade disease-associated proteins. Nanoluciferase (nLuc) fusion proteins and the NanoBiT technology offer two robust and sensitive screening platforms to monitor the subtle changes in protein abundance induced by TPD molecules. Despite these advantages, concerns have arisen regarding potential degradation artifacts introduced by tagging systems due to the presence of lysine residues on them, prompting the development of alternative tools. In this study, we introduce HiBiT-RR and nLucK0, variants devoid of lysine residues, to mitigate such artifacts. Our findings demonstrate that HiBiT-RR maintains a similar sensitivity and binding affinity with the original HiBiT. Moreover, the comparison between nLucWT and nLucK0 constructs reveals variations in degradation patterns induced by certain TPD molecules, emphasizing the importance of choosing appropriate tagging systems to ensure the reliability of experimental outcomes in studying protein degradation processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanfeng Lin
- The
Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
- Center
for NextGen Therapeutics, Baylor College
of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United
States
| | - Kristin Riching
- Promega
Corporation, 2800 Woods Hollow Road, Madison, Wisconsin 53711, United States
| | - May Poh Lai
- Malvern
Panalytical Inc., 2400
Computer Drive, Westborough, Massachusetts 01581, United States
| | - Dong Lu
- The
Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Ran Cheng
- The
Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
- Center
for NextGen Therapeutics, Baylor College
of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United
States
| | - Xiaoli Qi
- The
Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
- Center
for NextGen Therapeutics, Baylor College
of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United
States
| | - Jin Wang
- The
Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
- Department
of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor
College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
- Center
for NextGen Therapeutics, Baylor College
of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United
States
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52
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DiCesare SM, Ortega AJ, Collier GE, Daniel S, Thompson KN, McCoy MK, Posner BA, Hulleman JD. GSK3 inhibition reduces ECM production and prevents age-related macular degeneration-like pathology. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e178050. [PMID: 39114980 PMCID: PMC11383595 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.178050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Malattia Leventinese/Doyne honeycomb retinal dystrophy (ML/DHRD) is an age-related macular degeneration-like (AMD-like) retinal dystrophy caused by an autosomal dominant R345W mutation in the secreted glycoprotein, fibulin-3 (F3). To identify new small molecules that reduce F3 production in retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) cells, we knocked-in a luminescent peptide tag (HiBiT) into the endogenous F3 locus that enabled simple, sensitive, and high-throughput detection of the protein. The GSK3 inhibitor, CHIR99021 (CHIR), significantly reduced F3 burden (expression, secretion, and intracellular levels) in immortalized RPE and non-RPE cells. Low-level, long-term CHIR treatment promoted remodeling of the RPE extracellular matrix, reducing sub-RPE deposit-associated proteins (e.g., amelotin, complement component 3, collagen IV, and fibronectin), while increasing RPE differentiation factors (e.g., tyrosinase, and pigment epithelium-derived factor). In vivo, treatment of 8-month-old R345W+/+ knockin mice with CHIR (25 mg/kg i.p., 1 mo) was well tolerated and significantly reduced R345W F3-associated AMD-like basal laminar deposit number and size, thereby preventing the main pathological feature in these mice. This is an important demonstration of small molecule-based prevention of AMD-like pathology in ML/DHRD mice and may herald a rejuvenation of interest in GSK3 inhibition for the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases, including potentially AMD itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia M DiCesare
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Antonio J Ortega
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gracen E Collier
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Steffi Daniel
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Krista N Thompson
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Melissa K McCoy
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Bruce A Posner
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - John D Hulleman
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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53
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Yuan S, Bremmer A, Yang X, Li J, Hu Q. Splittable systems in biomedical applications. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:4103-4116. [PMID: 39012216 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00709c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Splittable systems have emerged as a powerful approach for the precise spatiotemporal control of biological processes. This concept relies on splitting a functional molecule into inactive fragments, which can be reassembled under specific conditions or stimuli to regain activity. Several binding pairs and orthogonal split fragments are introduced by fusing with other modalities to develop more complex and robust designs. One of the pillars of these splittable systems is modularity, which involves decoupling targeting, activation, and effector functions. Challenges, such as off-target effects and overactivation, can be addressed through precise control. This review provides an overview of the design principles, strategies, and applications of splittable systems across diverse fields including immunotherapy, gene editing, prodrug activation, biosensing, and synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sichen Yuan
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison (UW-Madison), Madison, Wisconsin 53705, USA.
- Wisconsin Center for NanoBioSystems, University of Wisconsin, Madison (UW-Madison), Madison, Wisconsin 53705, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison (UW-Madison), Madison, Wisconsin 53705, USA
| | - Alexa Bremmer
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison (UW-Madison), Madison, Wisconsin 53705, USA.
| | - Xicheng Yang
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison (UW-Madison), Madison, Wisconsin 53705, USA.
| | - Jiayue Li
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison (UW-Madison), Madison, Wisconsin 53705, USA.
| | - Quanyin Hu
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison (UW-Madison), Madison, Wisconsin 53705, USA.
- Wisconsin Center for NanoBioSystems, University of Wisconsin, Madison (UW-Madison), Madison, Wisconsin 53705, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison (UW-Madison), Madison, Wisconsin 53705, USA
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54
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Wang Y, Xu X, Que J, Wang X, Ni W, Wu Y, Yang L, Li Y. Ratiometric Readout of Bacterial Infections via a Lyophilized CRISPR-Cas12a Sensor with Color-Changeable Bioluminescence. Anal Chem 2024; 96:12776-12783. [PMID: 39047235 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c02114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The healthcare burden imposed by bacterial infections demands robust and accessible diagnostic methods that can be performed outside hospitals and centralized laboratories. Here, we report Pathogen Assay with Ratiometric Luminescence (PEARL), a sensitive and easy-to-operate platform for detecting pathogenic bacteria. The PEARL leveraged a color-changeable CRISPR-Cas12a sensor and recombinase polymerase amplification to elicit ratiometric bioluminescence responses to target inputs. This platform enabled robust and visualized identification of attomolar bacteria genome deoxyribonucleic acid according to the color changes of the reactions. In addition, the components of the color-changeable Cas12a sensor could be lyophilized for 3 month storage at ambient temperature and then be fully activated with the amplicons derived from crude bacterial lysates, reducing the requirements for cold-chain storage and tedious handling steps. We demonstrated that the PEARL assay is applicable for identifying the infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in different clinical specimens, including sputa, urines, and swabs derived from wounds. These results revealed the potential of PEARL to be used by untrained personnel, which will facilitate decentralized pathogen diagnosis in community- and resource-limited regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- College of Life Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoning Xu
- College of Life Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Jinqi Que
- College of Life Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- College of Life Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Wei Ni
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430061, P. R. China
| | - Yunhua Wu
- College of Life Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Liu Yang
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430061, P. R. China
| | - Yong Li
- College of Life Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
- Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory, Wuhan 430200, P. R. China
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55
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Pillai A, Idris A, Philomin A, Weidle C, Skotheim R, Leung PJY, Broerman A, Demakis C, Borst AJ, Praetorius F, Baker D. De novo design of allosterically switchable protein assemblies. Nature 2024; 632:911-920. [PMID: 39143214 PMCID: PMC11338832 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07813-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Allosteric modulation of protein function, wherein the binding of an effector to a protein triggers conformational changes at distant functional sites, plays a central part in the control of metabolism and cell signalling1-3. There has been considerable interest in designing allosteric systems, both to gain insight into the mechanisms underlying such 'action at a distance' modulation and to create synthetic proteins whose functions can be regulated by effectors4-7. However, emulating the subtle conformational changes distributed across many residues, characteristic of natural allosteric proteins, is a significant challenge8,9. Here, inspired by the classic Monod-Wyman-Changeux model of cooperativity10, we investigate the de novo design of allostery through rigid-body coupling of peptide-switchable hinge modules11 to protein interfaces12 that direct the formation of alternative oligomeric states. We find that this approach can be used to generate a wide variety of allosterically switchable systems, including cyclic rings that incorporate or eject subunits in response to peptide binding and dihedral cages that undergo effector-induced disassembly. Size-exclusion chromatography, mass photometry13 and electron microscopy reveal that these designed allosteric protein assemblies closely resemble the design models in both the presence and absence of peptide effectors and can have ligand-binding cooperativity comparable to classic natural systems such as haemoglobin14. Our results indicate that allostery can arise from global coupling of the energetics of protein substructures without optimized side-chain-side-chain allosteric communication pathways and provide a roadmap for generating allosterically triggerable delivery systems, protein nanomachines and cellular feedback control circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Pillai
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Abbas Idris
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Annika Philomin
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Connor Weidle
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Rebecca Skotheim
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Philip J Y Leung
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Program in Molecular Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Adam Broerman
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Cullen Demakis
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Graduate Program in Biological Physics, Structure, and Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Andrew J Borst
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Florian Praetorius
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Klosterneuburg, Austria.
| | - David Baker
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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56
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Batistatou N, Kritzer JA. Recent advances in methods for quantifying the cell penetration of macromolecules. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2024; 81:102501. [PMID: 39024686 PMCID: PMC11323051 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2024.102501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
As the landscape of macromolecule therapeutics advances, drug developers are continuing to aim at intracellular targets. To activate, inhibit, or degrade these targets, the macromolecule must be delivered efficiently to intracellular compartments. Quite often, there is a discrepancy between binding affinity in biochemical assays and activity in cell-based assays. Identifying the bottleneck for cell-based activity requires robust assays that quantify total cellular uptake and/or cytosolic delivery. Recognizing this need, chemical biologists have designed a plethora of assays to make this measurement, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. In this review, we describe the latest and most promising developments in the last 3 to 4 years.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joshua A Kritzer
- Department of Chemistry, Tufts University, Medford MA 02155, USA.
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57
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Schwalm MP, Saxena K, Müller S, Knapp S. Luciferase- and HaloTag-based reporter assays to measure small-molecule-induced degradation pathway in living cells. Nat Protoc 2024; 19:2317-2357. [PMID: 38637703 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-024-00979-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
The rational development of small-molecule degraders (e.g., proteolysis targeting chimeras) remains a challenge as the rate-limiting steps that determine degrader efficiency are largely unknown. Standard methods in the field of targeted protein degradation mostly rely on classical, low-throughput endpoint assays such as western blots or quantitative proteomics. Here we applied NanoLuciferase- and HaloTag-based screening technologies to determine the kinetics and stability of small-molecule-induced ternary complex formation between a protein of interest and a selected E3 ligase. A collection of live-cell assays were designed to probe the most critical steps of the degradation process while minimizing the number of required expression constructs, making the proposed assay pipeline flexible and adaptable to the requirements of the users. This approach evaluates the underlying mechanism of selective target degraders and reveals the exact characteristics of the developed degrader molecules in living cells. The protocol allows scientists trained in basic cell culture and molecular biology to carry out small-molecule proximity-inducer screening via tracking of the ternary complex formation within 2 weeks of establishment, while degrader screening using the HiBiT system requires a CRISPR-Cas9 engineered cell line whose generation can take up to 3 months. After cell-line generation, degrader screening and validation can be carried out in high-throughput manner within days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin P Schwalm
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC), Buchmann Institute for Life Sciences, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK)/German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), DTKT Site Frankfurt-Mainz, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Krishna Saxena
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC), Buchmann Institute for Life Sciences, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Susanne Müller
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC), Buchmann Institute for Life Sciences, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stefan Knapp
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC), Buchmann Institute for Life Sciences, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK)/German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), DTKT Site Frankfurt-Mainz, Heidelberg, Germany.
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58
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Feng F, Gao Y, Zhao Q, Luo T, Yang Q, Zhao N, Xiao Y, Han Y, Pan J, Feng S, Zhang L, Wu M. Single-electron transfer between sulfonium and tryptophan enables site-selective photo crosslinking of methyllysine reader proteins. Nat Chem 2024; 16:1267-1277. [PMID: 39079947 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-024-01577-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
The identification of readers, an important class of proteins that recognize modified residues at specific sites, is essential to uncover the biological roles of post-translational modifications. Photoreactive crosslinkers are powerful tools for investigating readers. However, existing methods usually employ synthetically challenging photoreactive warheads, and their high-energy intermediates generated upon irradiation, such as nitrene and carbene, may cause substantial non-specific crosslinking. Here we report dimethylsulfonium as a methyllysine mimic that binds to specific readers and subsequently crosslinks to a conserved tryptophan inside the binding pocket through single-electron transfer under ultraviolet irradiation. The crosslinking relies on a protein-templated σ-π electron donor-acceptor interaction between sulfonium and indole, ensuring excellent site selectivity for tryptophan in the active site and orthogonality to other methyllysine readers. This method could escalate the discovery of methyllysine readers from complex cell samples. Furthermore, this photo crosslinking strategy could be extended to develop other types of microenvironment-dependent conjugations to site-specific tryptophan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Feng
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingxiao Gao
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Chromatographic R. & A. Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Ting Luo
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qingyun Yang
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Nan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Chromatographic R. & A. Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Yihang Xiao
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yusong Han
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinheng Pan
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Mass Spectrometry & Metabolomics Core Facility, The Biomedical Research Core Facility, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shan Feng
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Mass Spectrometry & Metabolomics Core Facility, The Biomedical Research Core Facility, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lihua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Chromatographic R. & A. Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Mingxuan Wu
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China.
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China.
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China.
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59
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Gaspar N, Handula M, Stroet MCM, Marella-Panth K, Haeck J, Kirkland TA, Hall MP, Encell LP, Dalm S, Lowik C, Seimbille Y, Mezzanotte L. A Novel Luciferase-Based Reporter Gene Technology for Simultaneous Optical and Radionuclide Imaging of Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8206. [PMID: 39125775 PMCID: PMC11312113 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Multimodality reporter gene imaging combines the sensitivity, resolution and translational potential of two or more signals. The approach has not been widely adopted by the animal imaging community, mainly because its utility in this area is unproven. We developed a new complementation-based reporter gene system where the large component of split NanoLuc luciferase (LgBiT) presented on the surface of cells (TM-LgBiT) interacts with a radiotracer consisting of the high-affinity complementary HiBiT peptide labeled with a radionuclide. Radiotracer uptake could be imaged in mice using SPECT/CT and bioluminescence within two hours of implanting reporter-gene-expressing cells. Imaging data were validated by ex vivo biodistribution studies. Following the demonstration of complementation between the TM-LgBiT protein and HiBiT radiotracer, we validated the use of the technology in the highly specific in vivo multimodal imaging of cells. These findings highlight the potential of this new approach to facilitate the advancement of cell and gene therapies from bench to clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasa Gaspar
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maryana Handula
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marcus C. M. Stroet
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kranthi Marella-Panth
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Haeck
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Simone Dalm
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Clemens Lowik
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yann Seimbille
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Mezzanotte
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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60
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Zhong BL, Elliot JM, Wang P, Li H, Hall RN, Wang B, Prakash M, Dunn AR. Split Luciferase Molecular Tension Sensors for Bioluminescent Readout of Mechanical Forces in Biological Systems. ACS Sens 2024; 9:3489-3495. [PMID: 38973210 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.3c02664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
The ability of proteins to sense and transmit mechanical forces underlies many biological processes, but characterizing these forces in biological systems remains a challenge. Existing genetically encoded force sensors typically rely on fluorescence or bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (FRET or BRET) to visualize tension. However, these force sensing modules are relatively large, and interpreting measurements requires specialized image analysis and careful control experiments. Here, we report a compact molecular tension sensor that generates a bioluminescent signal in response to tension. This sensor (termed PILATeS) makes use of the split NanoLuc luciferase and consists of the H. sapiens titin I10 domain with the insertion of a 10-15 amino acid tag derived from the C-terminal β-strand of NanoLuc. Mechanical load across PILATeS mediates exposure of this tag to recruit the complementary split NanoLuc fragment, resulting in force-dependent bioluminescence. We demonstrate the ability of PILATeS to report biologically meaningful forces by visualizing forces at the interface between integrins and extracellular matrix substrates. We further use PILATeS as a genetically encoded sensor of tension experienced by the mechanosensing protein vinculin. We anticipate that PILATeS will provide an accessible means of visualizing molecular-scale forces in biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian L Zhong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Jeandele M Elliot
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Pengli Wang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Hongquan Li
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - R Nelson Hall
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Manu Prakash
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Alexander R Dunn
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
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61
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Comeo E, Goulding J, Lin CY, Groenen M, Woolard J, Kindon ND, Harwood CR, Platt S, Briddon SJ, Kilpatrick LE, Scammells PJ, Hill SJ, Kellam B. Ligand-Directed Labeling of the Adenosine A 1 Receptor in Living Cells. J Med Chem 2024; 67:12099-12117. [PMID: 38994645 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
The study of protein function and dynamics in their native cellular environment is essential for progressing fundamental science. To overcome the requirement of genetic modification of the protein or the limitations of dissociable fluorescent ligands, ligand-directed (LD) chemistry has most recently emerged as a complementary, bioorthogonal approach for labeling native proteins. Here, we describe the rational design, development, and application of the first ligand-directed chemistry approach for labeling the A1AR in living cells. We pharmacologically demonstrate covalent labeling of A1AR expressed in living cells while the orthosteric binding site remains available. The probes were imaged using confocal microscopy and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy to study A1AR localization and dynamics in living cells. Additionally, the probes allowed visualization of the specific localization of A1ARs endogenously expressed in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. LD probes developed here hold promise for illuminating ligand-binding, receptor signaling, and trafficking of the A1AR in more physiologically relevant environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Comeo
- Division of Biomolecular Sciences and Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Joëlle Goulding
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
| | - Chia-Yang Lin
- Division of Biomolecular Sciences and Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
| | - Marleen Groenen
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
| | - Jeanette Woolard
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
| | - Nicholas D Kindon
- Division of Biomolecular Sciences and Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
| | - Clare R Harwood
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
| | - Simon Platt
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
| | - Stephen J Briddon
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
| | - Laura E Kilpatrick
- Division of Biomolecular Sciences and Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
| | - Peter J Scammells
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Stephen J Hill
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
| | - Barrie Kellam
- Division of Biomolecular Sciences and Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands NG7 2UH, U.K
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62
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Liu A, Liu Y, Zhang W, Ye RD. Structural insights into ligand recognition and activation of the succinate receptor SUCNR1. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114381. [PMID: 38923454 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Succinate, a citric acid cycle intermediate, serves important functions in energy homeostasis and metabolic regulation. Extracellular succinate acts as a stress signal through succinate receptor (SUCNR1), a class A G protein-coupled receptor. Research on succinate signaling is hampered by the lack of high-resolution structures of the agonist-bound receptor. We present cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of SUCNR1-Gi complexes bound to succinate and its non-metabolite derivative cis-epoxysuccinate. Key determinants for the recognition of succinate in cis conformation include R2817.39 and Y832.64, while Y301.39 and R993.29 participate in the binding of both succinate and cis-epoxysuccinate. Extracellular loop 2, through F175ECL2 in its β-hairpin, forms a hydrogen bond with succinate and caps the binding pocket. At the receptor-Gi interface, agonist binding induces the rearrangement of a hydrophobic network on transmembrane (TM)5 and TM6, leading to TM signaling through TM3 and TM7. These findings extend our understanding of succinate recognition by SUCNR1, aiding the development of therapeutics for the succinate receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aijun Liu
- Dongguan Songshan Lake Central Hospital, Dongguan Third People's Hospital, The Affiliated Dongguan Songshan Lake Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523326, China; Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China; The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Futian Biomedical Innovation R&D Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China.
| | - Yezhou Liu
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China; The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Futian Biomedical Innovation R&D Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
| | - Weijia Zhang
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
| | - Richard D Ye
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China; The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Futian Biomedical Innovation R&D Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China.
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63
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Sellars E, Savguira M, Wu J, Cancelliere S, Jen M, Krishnan R, Hakem A, Barsyte-Lovejoy D, Hakem R, Narod SA, Kotsopoulos J, Salmena L. A high-throughput approach to identify BRCA1-downregulating compounds to enhance PARP inhibitor sensitivity. iScience 2024; 27:110180. [PMID: 38993666 PMCID: PMC11238136 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
PARP inhibitors (PARPi) are efficacious in BRCA1-null tumors; however, their utility is limited in tumors with functional BRCA1. We hypothesized that pharmacologically reducing BRCA1 protein levels could enhance PARPi effectiveness in BRCA1 wild-type tumors. To identify BRCA1 downregulating agents, we generated reporter cell lines using CRISPR-mediated editing to tag endogenous BRCA1 protein with HiBiT. These reporter lines enable the sensitive measurement of BRCA1 protein levels by luminescence. Validated reporter cells were used in a pilot screen of epigenetic-modifying probes and a larger screen of more than 6,000 compounds. We identified 7 compounds that could downregulate BRCA1-HiBiT expression and synergize with olaparib. Three compounds, N-acetyl-N-acetoxy chlorobenzenesulfonamide (NANAC), A-443654, and CHIR-124, were validated to reduce BRCA1 protein levels and sensitize breast cancer cells to the toxic effects of olaparib. These results suggest that BRCA1-HiBiT reporter cells hold promise in developing agents to improve the clinical utility of PARPi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Sellars
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON M5S 1B2, Canada
| | - Margarita Savguira
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Jie Wu
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Sabrina Cancelliere
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Mark Jen
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Network Biology Collaborative Centre, High-Throughput Screening, Mt. Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Rehna Krishnan
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Anne Hakem
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Dalia Barsyte-Lovejoy
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Razqallah Hakem
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Steven A Narod
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON M5S 1B2, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Joanne Kotsopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON M5S 1B2, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Leonardo Salmena
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON M5S 1B2, Canada
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64
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Okon A, Yang J, Giancola JB, Molina OJ, Sayers J, Cheah KM, Li Y, Strieter ER, Raines RT. Facile Access to Branched Multispecific Proteins. Bioconjug Chem 2024; 35:954-962. [PMID: 38879814 PMCID: PMC11254548 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.4c00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
Approaches that leverage orthogonal chemical reactions to generate protein-protein conjugates have expanded access to bespoke chimeras. Although the literature is replete with examples of the semisynthesis of bispecific proteins, few methods exist for the semisynthesis of protein conjugates of higher complexity (i.e., greater than two-protein fusions). The recent emergence of trispecific cell engagers for immune cell redirection therapies necessitates the development of chemical methods for the construction of trispecific proteins that would otherwise be inaccessible via natural protein synthesis. Here, we demonstrate that 3-bromo-5-methylene pyrrolone (3Br-5MP) can be used to effect the facile chemical synthesis of trispecific peptides and proteins with exquisite control over the addition of each monomer. The multimeric complexes maintain epitope functionality both in human cells and upon immobilization. We anticipate that facile access to trispecific proteins using this 3Br-5MP will have broad utility in basic science research and will quicken the pace of research to establish novel, multimeric immune cell redirection therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniekan Okon
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Jinyi Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - JoLynn B. Giancola
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Oscar J. Molina
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Jessica Sayers
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Keith M. Cheah
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Yanfeng Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Eric R. Strieter
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Ronald T. Raines
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
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65
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Nguyen D, Osterlund E, Kale J, Andrews DW. The C-terminal sequences of Bcl-2 family proteins mediate interactions that regulate cell death. Biochem J 2024; 481:903-922. [PMID: 38985308 PMCID: PMC11346437 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Programmed cell death via the both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways is regulated by interactions of the Bcl-2 family protein members that determine whether the cell commits to apoptosis via mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP). Recently the conserved C-terminal sequences (CTSs) that mediate localization of Bcl-2 family proteins to intracellular membranes, have been shown to have additional protein-protein binding functions that contribute to the functions of these proteins in regulating MOMP. Here we review the pivotal role of CTSs in Bcl-2 family interactions including: (1) homotypic interactions between the pro-apoptotic executioner proteins that cause MOMP, (2) heterotypic interactions between pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins that prevent MOMP, and (3) heterotypic interactions between the pro-apoptotic executioner proteins and the pro-apoptotic direct activator proteins that promote MOMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dang Nguyen
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Biological Sciences Platform, Odette Cancer Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Osterlund
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Justin Kale
- Biological Sciences Platform, Odette Cancer Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
| | - David W. Andrews
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Biological Sciences Platform, Odette Cancer Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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66
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Tosh D, Pavan M, Cronin C, Pottie E, Wan TC, Chen E, Lewicki SA, Campbell RG, Gao ZG, Auchampach JA, Stove CP, Liang BT, Jacobson KA. 2-Substituted (N)-Methanocarba A 3 Adenosine Receptor Agonists: In Silico, In Vitro, and In Vivo Characterization. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:2154-2173. [PMID: 39022354 PMCID: PMC11249627 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
2-Arylethynyl (N)-methanocarba adenosine 5'-methylamides are selective A3 adenosine receptor (AR) agonists containing a preestablished receptor-preferred pseudoribose conformation. Here, we compare analogues having bulky 2-substitution, either containing or lacking an ethynyl spacer between adenine and a cyclic group. 2-Aryl compounds 9-11, 13, 14, 19, 22, 23, 27, 29, 31, and 34, lacking a spacer, had human (h) A3AR K i values of 2-30 nM, and others displayed lower affinity. Mouse (m) A3AR affinity varied, with 2-arylethynyl having a higher affinity than 2-aryl analogues (7, 8 > 3c, 3d > 3b). However, 2-aryl-4'-truncated derivatives had greatly reduced hA3AR affinity, even containing affinity-enhancing N 6-dopamine-derived substituents. Molecular modeling, including molecular dynamics simulation, predicted stable poses in the canonical A3AR agonist binding site, but 2-aryl (ECL2 interactions) and 2-arylethynyl (TM2 interactions) substituents have different conformations and environments. In a hA3AR miniGαi recruitment assay, 31 (MRS8062) was (slightly) more potent compared to a β-arrestin2 recruitment assay, both in engineered HEK293T cells, and its maximal efficacy (E max) was much higher (165%) than reference agonist NECA's. Thus, in the 2-aryl series, A3AR affinity and selectivity were variable and generally reduced compared to the 2-arylethynyl series, with a greater dependence on the specific aryl group present. Selected compounds were studied in vivo in an ischemic model of peripheral artery disease (PAD). Rigidified 2-arylethynyl analogues 3a-3c were protective in this model of skeletal muscle ischemia-reperfusion injury/claudication, as previously shown only for moderately A3AR-selective ribosides or (N)-methanocarba derivatives. Thus, we have expanded the A3AR agonist SAR for (N)-methanocarba adenosines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilip
K. Tosh
- Laboratory
of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute
of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, National Institutes
of Health, 9000 Rockville
Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Matteo Pavan
- Laboratory
of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute
of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, National Institutes
of Health, 9000 Rockville
Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Chunxia Cronin
- Pat
and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center, University
of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, United States
| | - Eline Pottie
- Laboratory
of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Ghent University, Campus Heymans, Ottergemsesteenweg
460, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tina C. Wan
- Department
of Pharmacology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226, United States
| | - Eric Chen
- Laboratory
of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute
of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, National Institutes
of Health, 9000 Rockville
Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Sarah A. Lewicki
- Laboratory
of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute
of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, National Institutes
of Health, 9000 Rockville
Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Ryan G. Campbell
- Laboratory
of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute
of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, National Institutes
of Health, 9000 Rockville
Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Zhan-Guo Gao
- Laboratory
of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute
of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, National Institutes
of Health, 9000 Rockville
Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - John A. Auchampach
- Department
of Pharmacology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226, United States
| | - Christophe P. Stove
- Laboratory
of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Ghent University, Campus Heymans, Ottergemsesteenweg
460, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bruce T. Liang
- Pat
and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center, University
of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, United States
| | - Kenneth A. Jacobson
- Laboratory
of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute
of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, National Institutes
of Health, 9000 Rockville
Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
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67
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Labouesse MA, Wilhelm M, Kagiampaki Z, Yee AG, Denis R, Harada M, Gresch A, Marinescu AM, Otomo K, Curreli S, Serratosa Capdevila L, Zhou X, Cola RB, Ravotto L, Glück C, Cherepanov S, Weber B, Zhou X, Katner J, Svensson KA, Fellin T, Trudeau LE, Ford CP, Sych Y, Patriarchi T. A chemogenetic approach for dopamine imaging with tunable sensitivity. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5551. [PMID: 38956067 PMCID: PMC11219860 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49442-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Genetically-encoded dopamine (DA) sensors enable high-resolution imaging of DA release, but their ability to detect a wide range of extracellular DA levels, especially tonic versus phasic DA release, is limited by their intrinsic affinity. Here we show that a human-selective dopamine receptor positive allosteric modulator (PAM) can be used to boost sensor affinity on-demand. The PAM enhances DA detection sensitivity across experimental preparations (in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo) via one-photon or two-photon imaging. In vivo photometry-based detection of optogenetically-evoked DA release revealed that DETQ administration produces a stable 31 minutes window of potentiation without effects on animal behavior. The use of the PAM revealed region-specific and metabolic state-dependent differences in tonic DA levels and enhanced single-trial detection of behavior-evoked phasic DA release in cortex and striatum. Our chemogenetic strategy can potently and flexibly tune DA imaging sensitivity and reveal multi-modal (tonic/phasic) DA signaling across preparations and imaging approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie A Labouesse
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Maria Wilhelm
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Institute for Neuroscience, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Andrew G Yee
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Raphaelle Denis
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, SNC and CIRCA Research groups, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, SNC and CIRCA Research groups, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Masaya Harada
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Gresch
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Kanako Otomo
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Sebastiano Curreli
- Optical Approaches to Brain Function Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Xuehan Zhou
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Reto B Cola
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Luca Ravotto
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Chaim Glück
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Stanislav Cherepanov
- Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neuroscience, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Bruno Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Xin Zhou
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | | | - Tommaso Fellin
- Optical Approaches to Brain Function Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Louis-Eric Trudeau
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, SNC and CIRCA Research groups, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, SNC and CIRCA Research groups, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Christopher P Ford
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Yaroslav Sych
- Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neuroscience, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Tommaso Patriarchi
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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68
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Shihoya W, Iwama A, Sano FK, Nureki O. Cryo-EM advances in GPCR structure determination. J Biochem 2024; 176:1-10. [PMID: 38498911 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvae029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a prominent superfamily in humans and are categorized into six classes (A-F) that play indispensable roles in cellular communication and therapeutics. Nonetheless, their structural comprehension has been limited by challenges in high-resolution data acquisition. This review highlights the transformative impact of cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) on the structural determinations of GPCR-G-protein complexes. Specific technologies, such as nanobodies and mini-G-proteins, stabilize complexes and facilitate structural determination. We discuss the structural alterations upon receptor activation in different GPCR classes, revealing their diverse mechanisms. This review highlights the robust foundation for comprehending GPCR function and pave the way for future breakthroughs in drug discovery and therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Shihoya
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Aika Iwama
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Fumiya K Sano
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Osamu Nureki
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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69
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Timmerman A, Balcaen M, Coopman V, Degreef M, Pottie E, Stove CP. Activity-based detection of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists in plant materials. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:127. [PMID: 38951904 PMCID: PMC11218095 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01044-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since late 2019, fortification of 'regular' cannabis plant material with synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) has become a notable phenomenon on the drug market. As many SCRAs pose a higher health risk than genuine cannabis, recognizing SCRA-adulterated cannabis is important from a harm reduction perspective. However, this is not always an easy task as adulterated cannabis may only be distinguished from genuine cannabis by dedicated, often expensive and time-consuming analytical techniques. In addition, the dynamic nature of the SCRA market renders identification of fortified samples a challenging task. Therefore, we established and applied an in vitro cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) activity-based procedure to screen plant material for the presence of SCRAs. METHODS The assay principle relies on the functional complementation of a split-nanoluciferase following recruitment of β-arrestin 2 to activated CB1. A straightforward sample preparation, encompassing methanolic extraction and dilution, was optimized for plant matrices, including cannabis, spiked with 5 µg/mg of the SCRA CP55,940. RESULTS The bioassay successfully detected all samples of a set (n = 24) of analytically confirmed authentic Spice products, additionally providing relevant information on the 'strength' of a preparation and whether different samples may have originated from separate batches or possibly the same production batch. Finally, the methodology was applied to assess the occurrence of SCRA adulteration in a large set (n = 252) of herbal materials collected at an international dance festival. This did not reveal any positives, i.e. there were no samples that yielded a relevant CB1 activation. CONCLUSION In summary, we established SCRA screening of herbal materials as a new application for the activity-based CB1 bioassay. The simplicity of the sample preparation, the rapid results and the universal character of the bioassay render it an effective and future-proof tool for evaluating herbal materials for the presence of SCRAs, which is relevant in the context of harm reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axelle Timmerman
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Margot Balcaen
- Belgian Early Warning System on Drugs, Unit Illicit drugs, Health information, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Maarten Degreef
- Belgian Early Warning System on Drugs, Unit Illicit drugs, Health information, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Eline Pottie
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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70
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Wang R, Senay TE, Luo TT, Liu W, Regan JM, Salisbury NJH, Galloway DA, You J. Merkel cell polyomavirus protein ALTO modulates TBK1 activity to support persistent infection. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012170. [PMID: 39074144 PMCID: PMC11285941 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
While Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV or MCV) is an abundant virus frequently shed from healthy skin, it is one of the most lethal tumor viruses in immunocompromised individuals, highlighting the crucial role of host immunity in controlling MCPyV oncogenic potential. Despite its prevalence, very little is known about how MCPyV interfaces with the host immune response to maintain asymptomatic persistent infection and how inadequate control of MCPyV infection triggers MCC tumorigenesis. In this study, we discovered that the MCPyV protein, known as the Alternative Large Tumor Open Reading Frame (ALTO), also referred to as middle T, effectively primes and activates the STING signaling pathway. It recruits Src kinase into the complex of STING downstream kinase TBK1 to trigger its autophosphorylation, which ultimately activates the subsequent antiviral immune response. Combining single-cell analysis with both loss- and gain-of-function studies of MCPyV infection, we demonstrated that the activity of ALTO leads to a decrease in MCPyV replication. Thus, we have identified ALTO as a crucial viral factor that modulates the STING-TBK1 pathway, creating a negative feedback loop that limits viral infection and maintains a delicate balance with the host immune system. Our study reveals a novel mechanism by which a tumorigenic virus-encoded protein can link Src function in cell proliferation to the activation of innate immune signaling, thereby controlling viral spread, and sustaining persistent infection. Our previous findings suggest that STING also functions as a tumor suppressor in MCPyV-driven oncogenesis. This research provides a foundation for investigating how disruptions in the finely tuned virus-host balance, maintained by STING, could alter the fate of MCPyV infection, potentially encouraging malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranran Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Taylor E. Senay
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Tiana T. Luo
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - James M. Regan
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Nicholas J. H. Salisbury
- Pathogen-Associated Malignancies Integrated Research Center (PAM IRC), Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Denise A. Galloway
- Pathogen-Associated Malignancies Integrated Research Center (PAM IRC), Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Jianxin You
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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71
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Hu X, Ao W, Gao M, Wu L, Pei Y, Liu S, Wu Y, Zhao F, Sun Q, Liu J, Jiang L, Wang X, Li Y, Tan Q, Cheng J, Yang F, Yang C, Sun J, Hua T, Liu ZJ. Bitter taste TAS2R14 activation by intracellular tastants and cholesterol. Nature 2024; 631:459-466. [PMID: 38776963 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07569-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Bitter taste receptors, particularly TAS2R14, play central roles in discerning a wide array of bitter substances, ranging from dietary components to pharmaceutical agents1,2. TAS2R14 is also widely expressed in extragustatory tissues, suggesting its extra roles in diverse physiological processes and potential therapeutic applications3. Here we present cryogenic electron microscopy structures of TAS2R14 in complex with aristolochic acid, flufenamic acid and compound 28.1, coupling with different G-protein subtypes. Uniquely, a cholesterol molecule is observed occupying what is typically an orthosteric site in class A G-protein-coupled receptors. The three potent agonists bind, individually, to the intracellular pockets, suggesting a distinct activation mechanism for this receptor. Comprehensive structural analysis, combined with mutagenesis and molecular dynamic simulation studies, elucidate the broad-spectrum ligand recognition and activation of the receptor by means of intricate multiple ligand-binding sites. Our study also uncovers the specific coupling modes of TAS2R14 with gustducin and Gi1 proteins. These findings should be instrumental in advancing knowledge of bitter taste perception and its broader implications in sensory biology and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Hu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weizhen Ao
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingxin Gao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu hospital and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lijie Wu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Pei
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shenhui Liu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiran Wu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Zhao
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qianqian Sun
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junlin Liu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Longquan Jiang
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Wang
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital and College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiwen Tan
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Cheng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu hospital and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Fan Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu hospital and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chi Yang
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital and College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- National Center for Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jinpeng Sun
- NHC Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu hospital and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
| | - Tian Hua
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhi-Jie Liu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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72
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Kamada Y, Ohnishi Y, Nakashima C, Fujii A, Terakawa M, Hamano I, Nakayamada U, Katoh S, Hirata N, Tateishi H, Fukuda R, Takahashi H, Lukacs GL, Okiyoneda T. HERC3 facilitates ERAD of select membrane proteins by recognizing membrane-spanning domains. J Cell Biol 2024; 223:e202308003. [PMID: 38722278 PMCID: PMC11082371 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202308003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Aberrant proteins located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) undergo rapid ubiquitination by multiple ubiquitin (Ub) E3 ligases and are retrotranslocated to the cytosol as part of the ER-associated degradation (ERAD). Despite several ERAD branches involving different Ub E3 ligases, the molecular machinery responsible for these ERAD branches in mammalian cells remains not fully understood. Through a series of multiplex knockdown/knockout experiments with real-time kinetic measurements, we demonstrate that HERC3 operates independently of the ER-embedded ubiquitin ligases RNF5 and RNF185 (RNF5/185) to mediate the retrotranslocation and ERAD of misfolded CFTR. While RNF5/185 participates in the ERAD process of both misfolded ABCB1 and CFTR, HERC3 uniquely promotes CFTR ERAD. In vitro assay revealed that HERC3 directly interacts with the exposed membrane-spanning domains (MSDs) of CFTR but not with the MSDs embedded in liposomes. Therefore, HERC3 could play a role in the quality control of MSDs in the cytoplasm and might be crucial for the ERAD pathway of select membrane proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Kamada
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
| | - Yuko Ohnishi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
| | - Chikako Nakashima
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
| | - Aika Fujii
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
| | - Mana Terakawa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
| | - Ikuto Hamano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
| | - Uta Nakayamada
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
| | - Saori Katoh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
| | - Noriaki Hirata
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
| | - Hazuki Tateishi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Fukuda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Takahashi
- Division of Cell-Free Sciences, Proteo-Science Center (PROS), Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Gergely L. Lukacs
- Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Tsukasa Okiyoneda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Japan
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Cho G, Kim H, Kim DW, Hwang SY, Hwang JH, Chae YR, Lee YH, Jeong OM, Park JW, Park SH, Park JH. Establishment of the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Type Asia1 Expressing the HiBiT Protein: A Useful Tool for a NanoBiT Split Luciferase Assay. Viruses 2024; 16:1002. [PMID: 39066165 PMCID: PMC11281472 DOI: 10.3390/v16071002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) is a highly contagious virus that affects cloven-hoofed animals and causes severe economic losses in the livestock industry. Given that this high-risk pathogen has to be handled in a biosafety level (BSL)-3 facility for safety reasons and the limited availability of BSL-3 laboratories, experiments on FMDV call for more attention. Therefore, we aimed to develop an FMDV experimental model that can be handled in BSL-2 laboratories. The NanoBiT luciferase (Nano-luc) assay is a well-known assay for studying protein-protein interactions. To apply the NanoBiT split luciferase assay to the diagnosis and evaluation of FMD, we developed an inactivated HiBiT-tagged Asia1 Shamir FMDV (AS-HiBiT), a recombinant Asia1 shamir FMDV with HiBiT attached to the VP1 region of Asia1 shamir FMDV. In addition, we established LgBiT-expressing LF-BK cell lines, termed LgBit-LF-BK cells. It was confirmed that inactivated AS-HiBiT infected LgBiT-LF-BK cells and produced a luminescence signal by binding to the intracellular LgBiT of LgBiT-LF-BK cells. In addition, the luminescence signal became stronger as the number of LgBiT-LF-BK cells increased or the concentration of inactivated AS-HiBiT increased. Moreover, we confirmed that inactivated AS-HiBiT can detect seroconversion in sera positive for FMDV-neutralizing antibodies. This NanoBiT split luciferase assay system can be used for the diagnosis and evaluation of FMD and expanded to FMD-like virus models to facilitate the evaluation of FMDV vaccines and antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sung-Han Park
- Center for Foot-and-Mouth Disease Vaccine Research, Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency, 177, Hyeoksin 8-ro, Gimcheon-si 39660, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea; (G.C.); (H.K.); (D.-W.K.); (S.Y.H.); (J.-H.H.); (Y.R.C.); (Y.-H.L.); (O.-M.J.); (J.-W.P.)
| | - Jong-Hyeon Park
- Center for Foot-and-Mouth Disease Vaccine Research, Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency, 177, Hyeoksin 8-ro, Gimcheon-si 39660, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea; (G.C.); (H.K.); (D.-W.K.); (S.Y.H.); (J.-H.H.); (Y.R.C.); (Y.-H.L.); (O.-M.J.); (J.-W.P.)
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74
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Lan T, Slezak T, Pu J, Zinkus-Boltz J, Adhikari S, Pekow JR, Taneja V, Zuniga J, Gómez-García IA, Regino-Zamarripa N, Ahmed M, Khader SA, Rubin DT, Kossiakoff AA, Dickinson BC. Development of Luminescent Biosensors for Calprotectin. ACS Chem Biol 2024; 19:1250-1259. [PMID: 38843544 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.4c00265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Calprotectin, a metal ion-binding protein complex, plays a crucial role in the innate immune system and has gained prominence as a biomarker for various intestinal and systemic inflammatory and infectious diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and tuberculosis (TB). Current clinical testing methods rely on enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), limiting accessibility and convenience. In this study, we introduce the Fab-Enabled Split-luciferase Calprotectin Assay (FESCA), a novel quantitative method for calprotectin measurement. FESCA utilizes two new fragment antigen binding proteins (Fabs), CP16 and CP17, that bind to different epitopes of the calprotectin complex. These Fabs are fused with split NanoLuc luciferase fragments, enabling the reconstitution of active luciferase upon binding to calprotectin either in solution or in varied immobilized assay formats. FESCA's output luminescence can be measured with standard laboratory equipment as well as consumer-grade cell phone cameras. FESCA can detect physiologically relevant calprotectin levels across various sample types, including serum, plasma, and whole blood. Notably, FESCA can detect abnormally elevated native calprotectin from TB patients. In summary, FESCA presents a convenient, low-cost, and quantitative method for assessing calprotectin levels in various biological samples, with the potential to improve the diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory diseases, especially in at-home or point-of-care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Lan
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Tomasz Slezak
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Jinyue Pu
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Julia Zinkus-Boltz
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Sarbani Adhikari
- Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, University of Chicago Medicine Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, Chicago, Illinois 60637 United States
| | - Joel R Pekow
- Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, University of Chicago Medicine Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, Chicago, Illinois 60637 United States
| | - Vibha Taneja
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Joaquin Zuniga
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Genetics, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mexico City 01389, Mexico
| | - Itzel A Gómez-García
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Genetics, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Quimicobiológicas, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 07320, Mexico
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mexico City 01389, Mexico
| | - Nora Regino-Zamarripa
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Genetics, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mexico City 01389, Mexico
| | - Mushtaq Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Shabaana A Khader
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - David T Rubin
- Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, University of Chicago Medicine Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, Chicago, Illinois 60637 United States
| | - Anthony A Kossiakoff
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Bryan C Dickinson
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
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75
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Lankford KP, Hulleman JD. Protocol for HiBiT tagging endogenous proteins using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. STAR Protoc 2024; 5:103000. [PMID: 38598333 PMCID: PMC11022101 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2024.103000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
We present a method of in vitro/in vivo protein detection by pairing CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing with the NanoBiT system. We describe steps for cell culturing, in vitro CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoprotein delivery, cell monitoring, efficiency assessments, and edit analysis through HiBiT assays. We then detail procedures to determine edit specificity through genomic DNA analysis, small interfering RNA reverse transfection, and HiBiT blotting. This protocol is simple to execute and multifunctional, and it enables high-throughput screens on endogenous proteins to be conducted with ease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylee P Lankford
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - John D Hulleman
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, 2001 6(th) St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Guo X, Luo Z, Qi Y, Hei X, Zhang X, Cao X, Qian M, Zhao S, Hou Y, Chen X. Structure optimization of Cmpd-15 as negative allosteric modulators for the β 2-adrenergic receptor. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 108:117787. [PMID: 38838580 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
19 derivatives of 1-benzyl-3-arylpyrazole-5-carboxamides (H1-H19) and 5 derivatives of 1-benzyl-5-arylpyrazole-3-carboxamides (J1-J5) have been designed and synthesized as potential negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) for the β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR). The new pyrazole derivatives were screened on the classic G-protein dependent signaling pathway at β2AR. The majority of 1-benzyl-3-aryl-pyrazole-5-carboxamide derivatives show more potent allosteric antagonistic activity against β2AR than Cmpd-15, the first reported β2AR NAM. However, the 1-benzyl-5-arylpyrazole-3-carboxamide derivatives exhibit very poor or even no allosteric antagonistic activity for β2AR. Furthermore, the active pyrazole derivatives have relative better drug-like profiles than Cmpd-15. Taken together, we discovered a series of derivatives of 1-benzyl-3-arylpyrazole-5-carboxamides as a novel scaffold of β2AR NAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Zhijie Luo
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Ying Qi
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Hei
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Xuli Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Mingcheng Qian
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Shuai Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Yanan Hou
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Xin Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Jiangsu 213164, China.
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77
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Sasaki M, Kato D, Murakami K, Yoshida H, Takase S, Otsubo T, Ogiwara H. Targeting dependency on a paralog pair of CBP/p300 against de-repression of KREMEN2 in SMARCB1-deficient cancers. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4770. [PMID: 38839769 PMCID: PMC11153594 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49063-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
SMARCB1, a subunit of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, is the causative gene of rhabdoid tumors and epithelioid sarcomas. Here, we identify a paralog pair of CBP and p300 as a synthetic lethal target in SMARCB1-deficient cancers by using a dual siRNA screening method based on the "simultaneous inhibition of a paralog pair" concept. Treatment with CBP/p300 dual inhibitors suppresses growth of cell lines and tumor xenografts derived from SMARCB1-deficient cells but not from SMARCB1-proficient cells. SMARCB1-containing SWI/SNF complexes localize with H3K27me3 and its methyltransferase EZH2 at the promotor region of the KREMEN2 locus, resulting in transcriptional downregulation of KREMEN2. By contrast, SMARCB1 deficiency leads to localization of H3K27ac, and recruitment of its acetyltransferases CBP and p300, at the KREMEN2 locus, resulting in transcriptional upregulation of KREMEN2, which cooperates with the SMARCA1 chromatin remodeling complex. Simultaneous inhibition of CBP/p300 leads to transcriptional downregulation of KREMEN2, followed by apoptosis induction via monomerization of KREMEN1 due to a failure to interact with KREMEN2, which suppresses anti-apoptotic signaling pathways. Taken together, our findings indicate that simultaneous inhibitors of CBP/p300 could be promising therapeutic agents for SMARCB1-deficient cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariko Sasaki
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Daiki Kato
- Cancer Research Unit, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd, 3-1-98 Kasugade-naka, Konohana-ku, Osaka, 554-0022, Japan
| | - Karin Murakami
- Cancer Research Unit, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd, 3-1-98 Kasugade-naka, Konohana-ku, Osaka, 554-0022, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yoshida
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Shohei Takase
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Tsuguteru Otsubo
- Cancer Research Unit, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd, 3-1-98 Kasugade-naka, Konohana-ku, Osaka, 554-0022, Japan
| | - Hideaki Ogiwara
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan.
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78
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Jin S, Guo S, Xu Y, Li X, Wu C, He X, Pan B, Xin W, Zhang H, Hu W, Yin Y, Zhang T, Wu K, Yuan Q, Xu HE, Xie X, Jiang Y. Structural basis for recognition of 26RFa by the pyroglutamylated RFamide peptide receptor. Cell Discov 2024; 10:58. [PMID: 38830850 PMCID: PMC11148045 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-024-00670-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The neuropeptide 26RFa, a member of the RF-amide peptide family, activates the pyroglutamylated RF-amide peptide receptor (QRFPR), a class A GPCR. The 26RFa/QRFPR system plays critical roles in energy homeostasis, making QRFPR an attractive drug target for treating obesity, diabetes, and eating disorders. However, the lack of structural information has hindered our understanding of the peptide recognition and regulatory mechanism of QRFPR, impeding drug design efforts. In this study, we determined the cryo-EM structure of the Gq-coupled QRFPR bound to 26RFa. The structure reveals a unique assembly mode of the extracellular region of the receptor and the N-terminus of the peptide, and elucidates the recognition mechanism of the C-terminal heptapeptide of 26RFa by the transmembrane binding pocket of QRFPR. The study also clarifies the similarities and distinctions in the binding pattern of the RF-amide moiety in five RF-amide peptides and the RY-amide segment in neuropeptide Y. These findings deepen our understanding of the RF-amide peptide recognition, aiding in the rational design of drugs targeting QRFPR and other RF-amide peptide receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shimeng Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Youwei Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Canrong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinheng He
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Wenwen Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Heng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- The Shanghai Advanced Electron Microscope Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Tianwei Zhang
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- The Shanghai Advanced Electron Microscope Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingning Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- The Shanghai Advanced Electron Microscope Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - H Eric Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- The Shanghai Advanced Electron Microscope Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xin Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong, China.
| | - Yi Jiang
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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79
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Liang S, Liu A, Liu Y, Wang F, Zhou Y, Long Y, Wang T, Liu Z, Ren R, Ye RD. Structural basis for EROS binding to human phagocyte NADPH oxidase NOX2. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2320388121. [PMID: 38805284 PMCID: PMC11161758 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2320388121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Essential for reactive oxygen species (EROS) protein is a recently identified molecular chaperone of NOX2 (gp91phox), the catalytic subunit of phagocyte NADPH oxidase. Deficiency in EROS is a recently identified cause for chronic granulomatous disease, a genetic disorder with recurrent bacterial and fungal infections. Here, we report a cryo-EM structure of the EROS-NOX2-p22phox heterotrimeric complex at an overall resolution of 3.56Å. EROS and p22phox are situated on the opposite sides of NOX2, and there is no direct contact between them. EROS associates with NOX2 through two antiparallel transmembrane (TM) α-helices and multiple β-strands that form hydrogen bonds with the cytoplasmic domain of NOX2. EROS binding induces a 79° upward bend of TM2 and a 48° backward rotation of the lower part of TM6 in NOX2, resulting in an increase in the distance between the two hemes and a shift of the binding site for flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD). These conformational changes are expected to compromise superoxide production by NOX2, suggesting that the EROS-bound NOX2 is in a protected state against activation. Phorbol myristate acetate, an activator of NOX2 in vitro, is able to induce dissociation of NOX2 from EROS with concurrent increase in FAD binding and superoxide production in a transfected COS-7 model. In differentiated neutrophil-like HL-60, the majority of NOX2 on the cell surface is dissociated with EROS. Further studies are required to delineate how EROS dissociates from NOX2 during its transport to cell surface, which may be a potential mechanism for regulation of NOX2 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyu Liang
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong518172, China
| | - Aijun Liu
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong518172, China
- Dongguan Songshan Lake Central Hospital, Dongguan Third People’s Hospital, Dongguan, Guangdong523326, China
| | - Yezhou Liu
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong518172, China
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Guangming District, Shenzhen518132, China
| | - Fuxing Wang
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong518172, China
| | - Youli Zhou
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong518172, China
| | - Yuanzhengyang Long
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong518172, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Guangming District, Shenzhen518132, China
- Key Laboratory of Computational Chemistry and Drug Design, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Nanshan District, Shenzhen518055, China
| | - Zheng Liu
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong518172, China
| | - Ruobing Ren
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai200438, China
| | - Richard D. Ye
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong518172, China
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Futian Biomedical Innovation R&D Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong518000, China
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80
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Droppelmann CA, Campos-Melo D, Noches V, McLellan C, Szabla R, Lyons TA, Amzil H, Withers B, Kaplanis B, Sonkar KS, Simon A, Buratti E, Junop M, Kramer JM, Strong MJ. Mitigation of TDP-43 toxic phenotype by an RGNEF fragment in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis models. Brain 2024; 147:2053-2068. [PMID: 38739752 PMCID: PMC11146434 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Aggregation of the RNA-binding protein TAR DNA binding protein (TDP-43) is a hallmark of TDP-proteinopathies including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). As TDP-43 aggregation and dysregulation are causative of neuronal death, there is a special interest in targeting this protein as a therapeutic approach. Previously, we found that TDP-43 extensively co-aggregated with the dual function protein GEF (guanine exchange factor) and RNA-binding protein rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor (RGNEF) in ALS patients. Here, we show that an N-terminal fragment of RGNEF (NF242) interacts directly with the RNA recognition motifs of TDP-43 competing with RNA and that the IPT/TIG domain of NF242 is essential for this interaction. Genetic expression of NF242 in a fruit fly ALS model overexpressing TDP-43 suppressed the neuropathological phenotype increasing lifespan, abolishing motor defects and preventing neurodegeneration. Intracerebroventricular injections of AAV9/NF242 in a severe TDP-43 murine model (rNLS8) improved lifespan and motor phenotype, and decreased neuroinflammation markers. Our results demonstrate an innovative way to target TDP-43 proteinopathies using a protein fragment with a strong affinity for TDP-43 aggregates and a mechanism that includes competition with RNA sequestration, suggesting a promising therapeutic strategy for TDP-43 proteinopathies such as ALS and FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian A Droppelmann
- Molecular Medicine Group, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Danae Campos-Melo
- Molecular Medicine Group, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Veronica Noches
- Molecular Medicine Group, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Crystal McLellan
- Molecular Medicine Group, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Robert Szabla
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Taylor A Lyons
- Molecular Medicine Group, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Hind Amzil
- Molecular Medicine Group, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Benjamin Withers
- Molecular Medicine Group, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Brianna Kaplanis
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Kirti S Sonkar
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), AREA Science Park, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Anne Simon
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Emanuele Buratti
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), AREA Science Park, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Murray Junop
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Jamie M Kramer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Michael J Strong
- Molecular Medicine Group, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
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81
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Deventer MH, Persson M, Norman C, Liu H, Connolly MJ, Daéid NN, McKenzie C, Gréen H, Stove CP. In vitro cannabinoid activity profiling of generic ban-evading brominated synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists and their analogs. Drug Test Anal 2024; 16:616-628. [PMID: 37903509 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Following the enactment of a generic ban in China in 2021, the synthetic cannabinoid market has been evolving, now encompassing even wider structural diversity. Compounds carrying a brominated core such as ADB-5'Br-BUTINACA (ADMB-B-5Br-INACA) and tail-less analogs, such as ADB-5'Br-INACA (ADMB-5Br-INACA), MDMB-5'Br-INACA, and ADB-INACA (ADMB-INACA), have been detected since late 2021. This study investigated the cannabinoid receptor (CB) activation potential of synthesized (S)-enantiomers of these substances, as well as of two predicted analogs MDMB-5'Br-BUTINACA (MDMB-B-5Br-INACA) and ADB-5'F-BUTINACA (ADMB-B-5F-INACA), using CB1 and CB2 β-arrestin 2 recruitment assays and a CB1 intracellular calcium release assay. Surprisingly, the tail-less (S)-ADB-5'Br-INACA and (S)-MDMB-5'Br-INACA retained CB activity, albeit with a decreased potency compared to their tailed counterparts (S)-ADB-5'Br-BUTINACA and (S)-MDMB-5'Br-BUTINACA, respectively, which were potent and efficacious CB1 agonists. Also, at CB2, tail-less analogs showed a lower potency but increased efficacy. Removing the bromine substitution ((S)-ADB-INACA) resulted in a reduced activity at CB1; however, this effect was less prominent at CB2. Looking at tailed analogs, replacing the bromine with a fluorine substitution ((S)-ADB-5'F-BUTINACA) resulted in an increased potency and efficacy at both receptors. Furthermore, as ADB-5'Br-INACA and MDMB-5'Br-INACA have been frequently detected together in Scottish prisons, this study also evaluated the CB1 receptor activation potential of different mixtures of their respective reference standards, showing no unexpected cannabimimetic effect of combining both substances. Lastly, two powders seized by Belgian Customs and confirmed to contain ADB-5'Br-INACA and MDMB-5'Br-INACA, respectively, were assessed for CB activity. Based on the comparison with their reference standards, varying degrees of purity were suspected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie H Deventer
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mattias Persson
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | | | | | - Niamh Nic Daéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Craig McKenzie
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
- Chiron AS, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Henrik Gréen
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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82
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Ahmed WS, Geethakumari AM, Sultana A, Fatima A, Philip AM, Uddin SMN, Biswas KH. A slow but steady nanoLuc: R162A mutation results in a decreased, but stable, nanoLuc activity. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 269:131864. [PMID: 38692549 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
NanoLuc (NLuc) luciferase has found extensive application in designing a range of biological assays, including gene expression analysis, protein-protein interaction, and protein conformational changes due to its enhanced brightness and small size. However, questions related to its mechanism of interaction with the substrate, furimazine, as well as bioluminescence activity remain elusive. Here, we combined molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and mutational analysis to show that the R162A mutation results in a decreased but stable bioluminescence activity of NLuc in living cells and in vitro. Specifically, we performed multiple, all-atom, explicit solvent MD simulations of the apo and furimazine-docked (holo) NLuc structures revealing differential dynamics of the protein in the absence and presence of the ligand. Further, analysis of trajectories for hydrogen bonds (H-bonds) formed between NLuc and furimazine revealed substantial H-bond interaction between R162 and Q32 residues. Mutation of the two residues in NLuc revealed a decreased but stable activity of the R162A, but not Q32A, mutant NLuc in live cell and in vitro assays performed using lysates prepared from cells expressing the proteins and with the furimazine substrate. In addition to highlighting the role of the R162 residue in NLuc activity, we believe that the mutant NLuc will find wide application in designing in vitro assays requiring extended monitoring of NLuc bioluminescence activity. SIGNIFICANCE: Bioluminescence has been extensively utilized in developing a variety of biological and biomedical assays. In this regard, engineering of brighter bioluminescent proteins, i.e. luciferases, has played a significant role. This is acutely exemplified by the engineering of the NLuc luciferase, which is small in size and displays much enhanced bioluminescence and thermal stability compared to previously available luciferases. While enhanced bioluminescent activity is desirable in a multitude of biological and biomedical assays, it would also be useful to develop variants of the protein that display a prolonged bioluminescence activity. This is specifically relevant in designing assays that require bioluminescence for extended periods, such as in the case of biosensors designed for monitoring slow enzymatic or cellular signaling reactions, without necessitating multiple rounds of luciferase substrate addition or any specialized reagents that result in increased assay costs. In the current manuscript, we report a mutant NLuc that possesses a stable and prolonged bioluminescence activity, albeit lower than the wild-type NLuc, and envisage a wider application of the mutant NLuc in designing biosensors for monitoring slower biological and biomedical events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesam S Ahmed
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Anupriya M Geethakumari
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Asfia Sultana
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Asma Fatima
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Angelin M Philip
- Division of Genomics and Translational Biomedicine, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - S M Nasir Uddin
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Kabir H Biswas
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha 34110, Qatar.
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83
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Zubčić K, Franić D, Pravica M, Hof PR, Šimić G, Boban M. Effects of heterologous human tau protein expression in yeast models of proteotoxic stress response. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14304. [PMID: 37341072 PMCID: PMC11163194 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary histological characteristic of Alzheimer's disease is the presence of neurofibrillary tangles, which are large aggregates of tau protein. Aging is the primary risk factor for the development of Alzheimer's disease, however, the underlying causes of tau protein aggregation and toxicity are unclear. AIMS Here we investigated tau aggregation and toxicity under the conditions of compromised protein homeostasis. METHODS We used heterologous expression of human tau protein in the unicellular eukaryote yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae with evolutionarily conserved protein quality control pathways and examined tau-dependent toxicity and aggregation using growth assays, fluorescence microscopy, and a split luciferase-based reporter NanoBiT. RESULTS Tau protein expressed in yeast under mild proteotoxic stress, or in mutants with impaired pathways for proteotoxic stress response, did not lead to synthetic toxicity or the formation of obvious aggregates. Chronologically old cells also did not develop observable tau aggregates. Our examination of tau oligomerization in living cells using NanoBiT reporter suggests that tau does not form significant levels of oligomers under basal conditions or under mild proteotoxic stress. CONCLUSION Together our data suggest that human tau protein does not represent a major burden to the protein quality control system in yeast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Zubčić
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of MedicineZagrebCroatia
| | - Dina Franić
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of MedicineZagrebCroatia
| | - Mihaela Pravica
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of MedicineZagrebCroatia
| | - Patrick R. Hof
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's DiseaseFriedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Goran Šimić
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of MedicineZagrebCroatia
| | - Mirta Boban
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of MedicineZagrebCroatia
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84
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Kes MB, Wang B, van Ulsen P, Hamoen LW, Luirink J. Development of a split-luciferase assay to establish optimal protein secretion conditions for protein production by Bacillus subtilis. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2024; 170:001460. [PMID: 38847798 PMCID: PMC11261832 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Bacillus subtilis is a Gram-positive bacterium that is frequently used in the bioindustry for the production of various proteins, because of its superior protein secretion capacities. To determine optimal conditions for protein secretion by B. subtilis, a quick and sensitive method for measuring protein secretion is crucial. A fast and universal assay is most useful for detecting diverse proteins in a high-throughput manner. In this study, we introduce a split-luciferase-based method for measuring protein secretion by B. subtilis. The NanoBiT system was used to monitor secretion of four different proteins: xylanase A, amylase M, protein glutaminase A, and GFP nanobody. Our findings underscore the split-luciferase system as a quick, sensitive, and user-friendly method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariah B.M.J. Kes
- Molecular Microbiology, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Biwen Wang
- Bacterial Cell Biology, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter van Ulsen
- Molecular Microbiology, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leendert W. Hamoen
- Bacterial Cell Biology, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joen Luirink
- Molecular Microbiology, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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85
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Wu H, Hoare BL, Handley TNG, Akhter Hossain M, Bathgate RAD. Development of a synthetic relaxin-3/INSL5 chimeric peptide ligand for NanoBiT complementation binding assays. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 224:116238. [PMID: 38677442 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
INSL5 and relaxin-3 are relaxin family peptides with important roles in gut and brain function, respectively. They mediate their actions through the class A GPCRs RXFP4 and RXFP3. RXFP4 has been proposed to be a therapeutic target for colon motility disorders whereas RXFP3 targeting could be effective for neurological conditions such as anxiety. Validation of these targets has been limited by the lack of specific ligands and the availability of robust ligand-binding assays for their development. In this study, we have utilized NanoBiT complementation to develop a SmBiT-conjugated tracer for use with LgBiT-fused RXFP3 and RXFP4. The low affinity between LgBiT:SmBiT should result in a low non-specific luminescence signal and enable the quantification of binding without the tedious separation of non-bound ligands. We used solid-phase peptide synthesis to produce a SmBiT-labelled RXFP3/4 agonist, R3/I5, where SmBiT was conjugated to the B-chain N-terminus via a PEG12 linker. Both SmBiT-R3/I5 and R3/I5 were synthesized and purified in high purity and yield. Stable HEK293T cell lines expressing LgBiT-RXFP3 and LgBiT-RXFP4 were produced and demonstrated normal signaling in response to the synthetic R3/I5 peptide. Binding was first characterized in whole-cell binding kinetic assays validating that the SmBiT-R3/I5 bound to both cell lines with nanomolar affinity with minimal non-specific binding without bound and free SmBiT-R3/I5 separation. We then optimized membrane binding assays, demonstrating easy and robust analysis of both saturation and competition binding from frozen membranes. These assays therefore provide an appropriate rigorous binding assay for the high-throughput analysis of RXFP3 and RXFP4 ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongkang Wu
- The Florey, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Mohammed Akhter Hossain
- The Florey, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Ross A D Bathgate
- The Florey, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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86
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Rosenblum SL, Soueid DM, Giambasu G, Vander Roest S, Pasternak A, DiMauro EF, Simov V, Garner AL. Live cell screening to identify RNA-binding small molecule inhibitors of the pre-let-7-Lin28 RNA-protein interaction. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:1539-1546. [PMID: 38784453 PMCID: PMC11110735 DOI: 10.1039/d4md00123k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of the networking of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and RNAs drives many human diseases, including cancers, and the targeting of RNA-protein interactions (RPIs) has emerged as an exciting area of RNA-targeted drug discovery. Accordingly, methods that enable the discovery of cell-active small molecule modulators of RPIs are needed to propel this emerging field forward. Herein, we describe the application of live-cell assay technology, RNA interaction with protein-mediated complementation assay (RiPCA), for high-throughput screening to identify small molecule inhibitors of the pre-let-7d-Lin28A RPI. Utilizing a combination of RNA-biased small molecules and virtual screening hits, we discovered an RNA-binding small molecule that can disrupt the pre-let-7-Lin28 interaction demonstrating the potential of RiPCA for advancing RPI-targeted drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney L Rosenblum
- Program in Chemical Biology, University of Michigan 210 Washtenaw Avenue Ann Arbor MI 48109 USA
| | - Dalia M Soueid
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan 1600 Huron Parkway, NCRC B520 Ann Arbor MI 48109 USA
| | - George Giambasu
- Computational Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc. Boston MA 02115 USA
| | - Steve Vander Roest
- Center for Chemical Genomics, Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan 210 Washtenaw Avenue Ann Arbor MI 48109 USA
| | | | - Erin F DiMauro
- Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc. Boston MA 02115 USA
| | - Vladimir Simov
- Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc. Boston MA 02115 USA
| | - Amanda L Garner
- Program in Chemical Biology, University of Michigan 210 Washtenaw Avenue Ann Arbor MI 48109 USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan 1600 Huron Parkway, NCRC B520 Ann Arbor MI 48109 USA
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87
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Russo F, Civili B, Winssinger N. Bright Red Bioluminescence from Semisynthetic NanoLuc (sNLuc). ACS Chem Biol 2024; 19:1035-1039. [PMID: 38717306 PMCID: PMC11106743 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.4c00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Red-shifted bioluminescence is highly desirable for diagnostic and imaging applications. Herein, we report a semisynthetic NanoLuc (sNLuc) based on complementation of a split NLuc (LgBiT) with a synthetic peptide (SmBiT) functionalized with a fluorophore for BRET emission. We observed exceptional BRET ratios with diverse fluorophores, notably in the red (I674/I450 > 14), with a brightness that is sufficient for naked eye detection in blood or through tissues. To exemplify its utility, LgBiT was fused to a miniprotein that binds HER2 (affibody, ZHER2), and the selective detection of HER2+ SK-BR-3 cells over HER2- HeLa cells was demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Russo
- Department of Organic Chemistry,
Faculty of Sciences, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Beatrice Civili
- Department of Organic Chemistry,
Faculty of Sciences, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Winssinger
- Department of Organic Chemistry,
Faculty of Sciences, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
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88
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Wu Y, Jensen N, Rossner MJ, Wehr MC. Exploiting Cell-Based Assays to Accelerate Drug Development for G Protein-Coupled Receptors. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5474. [PMID: 38791511 PMCID: PMC11121687 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are relevant targets for health and disease as they regulate various aspects of metabolism, proliferation, differentiation, and immune pathways. They are implicated in several disease areas, including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mental disorders. It is worth noting that about a third of all marketed drugs target GPCRs, making them prime pharmacological targets for drug discovery. Numerous functional assays have been developed to assess GPCR activity and GPCR signaling in living cells. Here, we review the current literature of genetically encoded cell-based assays to measure GPCR activation and downstream signaling at different hierarchical levels of signaling, from the receptor to transcription, via transducers, effectors, and second messengers. Singleplex assay formats provide one data point per experimental condition. Typical examples are bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) assays and protease cleavage assays (e.g., Tango or split TEV). By contrast, multiplex assay formats allow for the parallel measurement of multiple receptors and pathways and typically use molecular barcodes as transcriptional reporters in barcoded assays. This enables the efficient identification of desired on-target and on-pathway effects as well as detrimental off-target and off-pathway effects. Multiplex assays are anticipated to accelerate drug discovery for GPCRs as they provide a comprehensive and broad identification of compound effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Wu
- Research Group Cell Signalling, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Nussbaumstr. 7, 80336 Munich, Germany
- Systasy Bioscience GmbH, Balanstr. 6, 81669 Munich, Germany
| | - Niels Jensen
- Systasy Bioscience GmbH, Balanstr. 6, 81669 Munich, Germany
- Section of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Nussbaumstr. 7, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Moritz J. Rossner
- Systasy Bioscience GmbH, Balanstr. 6, 81669 Munich, Germany
- Section of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Nussbaumstr. 7, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Michael C. Wehr
- Research Group Cell Signalling, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Nussbaumstr. 7, 80336 Munich, Germany
- Systasy Bioscience GmbH, Balanstr. 6, 81669 Munich, Germany
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89
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Bae J, Kim J, Choi J, Lee H, Koh M. Split Proteins and Reassembly Modules for Biological Applications. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202400123. [PMID: 38530024 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202400123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Split systems, modular entities enabling controlled biological processes, have become instrumental in biological research. This review highlights their utility across applications like gene regulation, protein interaction identification, and biosensor development. Covering significant progress over the last decade, it revisits traditional split proteins such as GFP, luciferase, and inteins, and explores advancements in technologies like Cas proteins and base editors. We also examine reassembly modules and their applications in diverse fields, from gene regulation to therapeutic innovation. This review offers a comprehensive perspective on the recent evolution of split systems in biological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieun Bae
- Department of Chemistry and Chemistry Institute for Functional Materials, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonghoon Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Integrative Institute of Basic Science, Soongsil University, Seoul, 06978, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongdoo Choi
- Department of Chemistry and Chemistry Institute for Functional Materials, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Hwiyeong Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Chemistry Institute for Functional Materials, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Minseob Koh
- Department of Chemistry and Chemistry Institute for Functional Materials, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
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90
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Bensaude O, Barbosa I, Morillo L, Dikstein R, Le Hir H. Exon-junction complex association with stalled ribosomes and slow translation-independent disassembly. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4209. [PMID: 38760352 PMCID: PMC11101648 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48371-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Exon junction complexes are deposited at exon-exon junctions during splicing. They are primarily known to activate non-sense mediated degradation of transcripts harbouring premature stop codons before the last intron. According to a popular model, exon-junction complexes accompany mRNAs to the cytoplasm where the first translating ribosome pushes them out. However, they are also removed by uncharacterized, translation-independent mechanisms. Little is known about kinetic and transcript specificity of these processes. Here we tag core subunits of exon-junction complexes with complementary split nanoluciferase fragments to obtain sensitive and quantitative assays for complex formation. Unexpectedly, exon-junction complexes form large stable mRNPs containing stalled ribosomes. Complex assembly and disassembly rates are determined after an arrest in transcription and/or translation. 85% of newly deposited exon-junction complexes are disassembled by a translation-dependent mechanism. However as this process is much faster than the translation-independent one, only 30% of the exon-junction complexes present in cells at steady state require translation for disassembly. Deep RNA sequencing shows a bias of exon-junction complex bound transcripts towards microtubule and centrosome coding ones and demonstrate that the lifetimes of exon-junction complexes are transcript-specific. This study provides a dynamic vision of exon-junction complexes and uncovers their unexpected stable association with ribosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Bensaude
- Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, INSERM, PSL Research University, Paris, France.
| | - Isabelle Barbosa
- Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, INSERM, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Lucia Morillo
- Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, INSERM, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Rivka Dikstein
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Hervé Le Hir
- Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, INSERM, PSL Research University, Paris, France.
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91
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Lin H, Riching K, Lai MP, Lu D, Cheng R, Qi X, Wang J. Lysineless HiBiT and NanoLuc Tagging Systems as Alternative Tools Monitoring Targeted Protein Degradation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.14.594249. [PMID: 38798562 PMCID: PMC11118299 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.14.594249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Target protein degradation (TPD) has emerged as a revolutionary approach in drug discovery, leveraging the cell's intrinsic machinery to selectively degrade disease-associated proteins. Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) exemplify this strategy, exploiting heterobifunctional molecules to induce ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of target proteins. The clinical advancement of PROTACs underscores their potential in therapeutic intervention, with numerous projects progressing through clinical stages. However, monitoring subtle changes in protein abundance induced by TPD molecules demands highly sensitive assays. Nano-luciferase (nLuc) fusion proteins, or the NanoBiT technology derived from it, offer a robust screening platform due to their high sensitivity and stability. Despite these advantages, concerns have arisen regarding potential degradation artifacts introduced by tagging systems due to the presence of lysine residues on them, prompting the development of alternative tools. In this study, we introduce HiBiT-RR and nLuc K0 , variants devoid of lysine residues, to mitigate such artifacts. Our findings demonstrate that HiBiT-RR maintains similar sensitivity and binding affinity with the original HiBiT. Moreover, the comparison between nLuc WT and nLuc K0 constructs reveals variations in degradation patterns induced by certain PROTAC molecules, emphasizing the importance of choosing appropriate tagging systems to ensure the reliability of experimental outcomes in studying protein degradation processes.
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92
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Salinas P, Bibak S, Cantos R, Tremiño L, Jerez C, Mata-Balaguer T, Contreras A. Studies on the PII-PipX-NtcA Regulatory Axis of Cyanobacteria Provide Novel Insights into the Advantages and Limitations of Two-Hybrid Systems for Protein Interactions. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5429. [PMID: 38791467 PMCID: PMC11121479 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Yeast two-hybrid approaches, which are based on fusion proteins that must co-localise to the nucleus to reconstitute the transcriptional activity of GAL4, have greatly contributed to our understanding of the nitrogen interaction network of cyanobacteria, the main hubs of which are the trimeric PII and the monomeric PipX regulators. The bacterial two-hybrid system, based on the reconstitution in the E. coli cytoplasm of the adenylate cyclase of Bordetella pertussis, should provide a relatively faster and presumably more physiological assay for cyanobacterial proteins than the yeast system. Here, we used the bacterial two-hybrid system to gain additional insights into the cyanobacterial PipX interaction network while simultaneously assessing the advantages and limitations of the two most popular two-hybrid systems. A comprehensive mutational analysis of PipX and bacterial two-hybrid assays were performed to compare the outcomes between yeast and bacterial systems. We detected interactions that were previously recorded in the yeast two-hybrid system as negative, as well as a "false positive", the self-interaction of PipX, which is rather an indirect interaction that is dependent on PII homologues from the E. coli host, a result confirmed by Western blot analysis with relevant PipX variants. This is, to our knowledge, the first report of the molecular basis of a false positive in the bacterial two-hybrid system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Asunción Contreras
- Departamento. de Fisiología, Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain; (P.S.); (S.B.); (R.C.); (L.T.); (C.J.); (T.M.-B.)
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93
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Won HI, Zinga S, Kandror O, Akopian T, Wolf ID, Schweber JTP, Schmid EW, Chao MC, Waldor M, Rubin EJ, Zhu J. Targeted protein degradation in mycobacteria uncovers antibacterial effects and potentiates antibiotic efficacy. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4065. [PMID: 38744895 PMCID: PMC11094019 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48506-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) represent a new therapeutic modality involving selectively directing disease-causing proteins for degradation through proteolytic systems. Our ability to exploit targeted protein degradation (TPD) for antibiotic development remains nascent due to our limited understanding of which bacterial proteins are amenable to a TPD strategy. Here, we use a genetic system to model chemically-induced proximity and degradation to screen essential proteins in Mycobacterium smegmatis (Msm), a model for the human pathogen M. tuberculosis (Mtb). By integrating experimental screening of 72 protein candidates and machine learning, we find that drug-induced proximity to the bacterial ClpC1P1P2 proteolytic complex leads to the degradation of many endogenous proteins, especially those with disordered termini. Additionally, TPD of essential Msm proteins inhibits bacterial growth and potentiates the effects of existing antimicrobial compounds. Together, our results provide biological principles to select and evaluate attractive targets for future Mtb PROTAC development, as both standalone antibiotics and potentiators of existing antibiotic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harim I Won
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Samuel Zinga
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Olga Kandror
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Tatos Akopian
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ian D Wolf
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jessica T P Schweber
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ernst W Schmid
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Michael C Chao
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Maya Waldor
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Eric J Rubin
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Junhao Zhu
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogen Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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94
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Chen X, Crawford MC, Xiong Y, Shaik AB, Suazo KF, Penkalapati MS, Williams JH, Andressen T, Swenson RE, Meier JL. Paralogue-selective degradation of the lysine acetyltransferase EP300. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.03.592353. [PMID: 38746397 PMCID: PMC11092752 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.03.592353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The transcriptional coactivators EP300 and CREBBP are critical regulators of gene expression that share high sequence identity but exhibit non-redundant functions in basal and pathological contexts. Here, we report the development of a bifunctional small molecule, MC-1, capable of selectively degrading EP300 over CREBBP. Using a potent aminopyridine-based inhibitor of the EP300/CREBBP catalytic domain in combination with a VHL ligand, we demonstrate that MC-1 preferentially degrades EP300 in a proteasome-dependent manner. Mechanistic studies reveal that selective degradation cannot be predicted solely by target engagement or ternary complex formation, suggesting additional factors govern paralogue-specific degradation. MC-1 inhibits cell proliferation in a subset of cancer cell lines and provides a new tool to investigate the non-catalytic functions of EP300 and CREBBP. Our findings expand the repertoire of EP300/CREBBP-targeting chemical probes and offer insights into the determinants of selective degradation of highly homologous proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemin Chen
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | | | - Ying Xiong
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Anver Basha Shaik
- Chemistry and Synthesis Center, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kiall F. Suazo
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
- Protein Characterization Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Thorkell Andressen
- Protein Characterization Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Rolf E. Swenson
- Chemistry and Synthesis Center, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jordan L. Meier
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
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95
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Dombrowsky CS, Happel D, Habermann J, Hofmann S, Otmi S, Cohen B, Kolmar H. A Conditionally Activated Cytosol-Penetrating Antibody for TME-Dependent Intracellular Cargo Delivery. Antibodies (Basel) 2024; 13:37. [PMID: 38804305 PMCID: PMC11130931 DOI: 10.3390/antib13020037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, therapeutic and diagnostic applications of antibodies are primarily limited to cell surface-exposed and extracellular proteins. However, research has been conducted on cell-penetrating peptides (CPP), as well as cytosol-penetrating antibodies, to overcome these limitations. In this context, a heparin sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG)-binding antibody was serendipitously discovered, which eventually localizes to the cytosol of target cells. Functional characterization revealed that the tested antibody has beneficial cytosol-penetrating capabilities and can deliver cargo proteins (up to 70 kDa) to the cytosol. To achieve tumor-specific cell targeting and cargo delivery through conditional activation of the cell-penetrating antibody in the tumor microenvironment, a single-chain Fc fragment (scFv) and a VL domain were isolated as masking units. Several in vitro assays demonstrated that fusing the masking protein with a cleavable linker to the cell penetration antibody results in the inactivation of antibody cell binding and internalization. Removal of the mask via MMP-9 protease cleavage, a protease that is frequently overexpressed in the tumor microenvironment (TME), led to complete regeneration of binding and cytosol-penetrating capabilities. Masked and conditionally activated cytosol-penetrating antibodies have the potential to serve as a modular platform for delivering protein cargoes addressing intracellular targets in tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Sophie Dombrowsky
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Dominic Happel
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Jan Habermann
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Sarah Hofmann
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Sasi Otmi
- Inter-Lab, a Subsidiary of Merck KGaA, South Industrial Area, Yavne 8122004, Israel
| | - Benny Cohen
- Inter-Lab, a Subsidiary of Merck KGaA, South Industrial Area, Yavne 8122004, Israel
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
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96
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Lefevre TJ, Wei W, Mukhaleva E, Meda Venkata SP, Chandan NR, Abraham S, Li Y, Dessauer CW, Vaidehi N, Smrcka AV. Stabilization of interdomain interactions in G protein α subunits as a determinant of Gα i subtype signaling specificity. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107211. [PMID: 38522511 PMCID: PMC11066577 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Highly homologous members of the Gαi family, Gαi1-3, have distinct tissue distributions and physiological functions, yet their biochemical and functional properties are very similar. We recently identified PDZ-RhoGEF (PRG) as a novel Gαi1 effector that is poorly activated by Gαi2. In a proteomic proximity labeling screen we observed a strong preference for Gαi1 relative to Gαi2 with respect to engagement of a broad range of potential targets. We investigated the mechanistic basis for this selectivity using PRG as a representative target. Substitution of either the helical domain (HD) from Gαi1 into Gαi2 or substitution of a single amino acid, A230 in Gαi2 with the corresponding D in Gαi1, largely rescues PRG activation and interactions with other potential Gαi targets. Molecular dynamics simulations combined with Bayesian network models revealed that in the GTP bound state, separation at the HD-Ras-like domain (RLD) interface is more pronounced in Gαi2 than Gαi1. Mutation of A230 to D in Gαi2 stabilizes HD-RLD interactions via ionic interactions with R145 in the HD which in turn modify the conformation of Switch III. These data support a model where D229 in Gαi1 interacts with R144 and stabilizes a network of interactions between HD and RLD to promote protein target recognition. The corresponding A230 in Gαi2 is unable to stabilize this network leading to an overall lower efficacy with respect to target interactions. This study reveals distinct mechanistic properties that could underly differential biological and physiological consequences of activation of Gαi1 or Gαi2 by G protein-coupled receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler J Lefevre
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Program in Chemical Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Wenyuan Wei
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Elizaveta Mukhaleva
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | | | - Naincy R Chandan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Genentech, South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Saji Abraham
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology McGovern Medical School, UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Carmen W Dessauer
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology McGovern Medical School, UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Nagarajan Vaidehi
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Alan V Smrcka
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
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97
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Suzuki N, Konuma T, Ikegami T, Akashi S. Biophysical insights into the dimer formation of human Sirtuin 2. Protein Sci 2024; 33:e4994. [PMID: 38647411 PMCID: PMC11034489 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Sirtuin 2 (SIRT2) is a class III histone deacetylase that is highly conserved from bacteria to mammals. We prepared and characterized the wild-type (WT) and mutant forms of the histone deacetylase (HDAC) domain of human SIRT2 (hSIRT2) using various biophysical methods and evaluated their deacetylation activity. We found that WT hSIRT2 HDAC (residues 52-357) forms a homodimer in a concentration-dependent manner with a dimer-monomer dissociation constant of 8.3 ± 0.5 μM, which was determined by mass spectrometry. The dimer was disrupted into two monomers by binding to the HDAC inhibitors SirReal1 and SirReal2. We also confirmed dimer formation of hSIRT2 HDAC in living cells using a NanoLuc complementation reporter system. Examination of the relationship between dimer formation and deacetylation activity using several mutants of hSIRT2 HDAC revealed that some non-dimerizing mutants exhibited deacetylation activity for the N-terminal peptide of histone H3, similar to the wild type. The hSIRT2 HDAC mutant Δ292-306, which lacks a SIRT2-specific disordered loop region, was identified to exist as a monomer with slightly reduced deacetylation activity; the X-ray structure of the mutant Δ292-306 was almost identical to that of the WT hSIRT2 HDAC bound to an inhibitor. These results indicate that hSIRT2 HDAC forms a dimer, but this is independent of deacetylation activity. Herein, we discuss insights into the dimer formation of hSIRT2 based on our biophysical experimental results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Suzuki
- Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City UniversityYokohamaKanagawaJapan
| | - Tsuyoshi Konuma
- Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City UniversityYokohamaKanagawaJapan
| | - Takahisa Ikegami
- Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City UniversityYokohamaKanagawaJapan
| | - Satoko Akashi
- Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City UniversityYokohamaKanagawaJapan
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Ando S, Tanaka K, Matsumoto M, Oyama Y, Tomabechi Y, Yamagata A, Shirouzu M, Nakagawa R, Okimoto N, Taiji M, Sato K, Ohama T. The luciferase-based in vivo protein-protein interaction assay revealed that CHK1 promotes PP2A and PME-1 interaction. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107277. [PMID: 38588804 PMCID: PMC11098961 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is an essential serine/threonine protein phosphatase, and its dysfunction is involved in the onset of cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. PP2A functions as a trimeric holoenzyme whose composition is regulated by the methyl-esterification (methylation) of the PP2A catalytic subunit (PP2Ac). Protein phosphatase methylesterase-1 (PME-1) is the sole PP2Ac methylesterase, and the higher PME-1 expression is observed in various cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Apart from serving as a methylesterase, PME-1 acts as a PP2A inhibitory protein, binding directly to PP2Ac and suppressing its activity. The intricate function of PME-1 hinders drug development by targeting the PME-1/PP2Ac axis. This study applied the NanoBiT system, a bioluminescence-based protein interaction assay, to elucidate the molecular mechanism that modulates unknown PME-1/PP2Ac protein-protein interaction (PPI). Compound screening identified that the CHK1 inhibitors inhibited PME-1/PP2Ac association without affecting PP2Ac methylation levels. CHK1 directly phosphorylates PP2Ac to promote PME-1 association. Phospho-mass spectrometry identified multiple phospho-sites on PP2Ac, including the Thr219, that affect PME-1 interaction. An anti-phospho-Thr219 PP2Ac antibody was generated and showed that CHK1 regulates the phosphorylation levels of this site in cells. On the contrary, in vitro phosphatase assay showed that CHK1 is the substrate of PP2A, and PME-1 hindered PP2A-mediated dephosphorylation of CHK1. Our data provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms governing the PME-1/PP2Ac PPI and the triad relationship between PP2A, PME-1, and CHK1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Ando
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Keiko Tanaka
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Maharu Matsumoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Yuki Oyama
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Yuri Tomabechi
- Laboratory for Protein Functional and Structural Biology, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Atsushi Yamagata
- Laboratory for Protein Functional and Structural Biology, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Mikako Shirouzu
- Laboratory for Protein Functional and Structural Biology, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Reiko Nakagawa
- Laboratory for Cell-Free Protein Synthesis, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Noriaki Okimoto
- Laboratory for Computational Molecular Design, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), Osaka, Japan; Drug Discovery Molecular Simulation Platform Unit, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), Osaka, Japan
| | - Makoto Taiji
- Laboratory for Computational Molecular Design, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), Osaka, Japan; Drug Discovery Molecular Simulation Platform Unit, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), Osaka, Japan
| | - Koichi Sato
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan; Research Institute for Cell Design Medical Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Takashi Ohama
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan; Research Institute for Cell Design Medical Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan.
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99
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Tian X, Zhang Y, Ai HW. ATP-Independent Water-Soluble Luciferins Enable Non-Invasive High-Speed Video-Rate Bioluminescence Imaging of Mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.30.591933. [PMID: 38746394 PMCID: PMC11092570 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.30.591933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
NanoLuc luciferase and its derivatives are attractive bioluminescent reporters recognized for their efficient photon production and ATP independence. However, utilizing them for in vivo imaging poses notable challenges. Low substrate solubility has been a prominent problem, limiting in vivo brightness, while substrate instability hampers consistent results and handling. To address these issues, we developed a range of caged PEGylated luciferins with improved stability and water solubility of up to 25 mM, resulting in substantial bioluminescence increases in mouse models. This advancement has created the brightest and most sensitive luciferase-luciferin combination, enabling high-speed video-rate imaging of freely moving mice with brain-expressed luciferase. Furthermore, we developed a bioluminescent Ca 2+ indicator with exceptional sensitivity to physiological Ca 2+ changes and paired it with a new substrate to showcase non-invasive, video-rate imaging of Ca 2+ activity in a defined brain region in awake mice. These innovative substrates and the Ca 2+ indicator are poised to become invaluable resources for biological and biomedical fields.
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100
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Sherman DJ, Liu L, Mamrosh JL, Xie J, Ferbas J, Lomenick B, Ladinsky MS, Verma R, Rulifson IC, Deshaies RJ. The fatty liver disease-causing protein PNPLA3-I148M alters lipid droplet-Golgi dynamics. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2318619121. [PMID: 38657050 PMCID: PMC11067037 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2318619121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, recently renamed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is a progressive metabolic disorder that begins with aberrant triglyceride accumulation in the liver and can lead to cirrhosis and cancer. A common variant in the gene PNPLA3, encoding the protein PNPLA3-I148M, is the strongest known genetic risk factor for MASLD. Despite its discovery 20 y ago, the function of PNPLA3, and now the role of PNPLA3-I148M, remain unclear. In this study, we sought to dissect the biogenesis of PNPLA3 and PNPLA3-I148M and characterize changes induced by endogenous expression of the disease-causing variant. Contrary to bioinformatic predictions and prior studies with overexpressed proteins, we demonstrate here that PNPLA3 and PNPLA3-I148M are not endoplasmic reticulum-resident transmembrane proteins. To identify their intracellular associations, we generated a paired set of isogenic human hepatoma cells expressing PNPLA3 and PNPLA3-I148M at endogenous levels. Both proteins were enriched in lipid droplet, Golgi, and endosomal fractions. Purified PNPLA3 and PNPLA3-I148M proteins associated with phosphoinositides commonly found in these compartments. Despite a similar fractionation pattern as the wild-type variant, PNPLA3-I148M induced morphological changes in the Golgi apparatus, including increased lipid droplet-Golgi contact sites, which were also observed in I148M-expressing primary human patient hepatocytes. In addition to lipid droplet accumulation, PNPLA3-I148M expression caused significant proteomic and transcriptomic changes that resembled all stages of liver disease. Cumulatively, we validate an endogenous human cellular system for investigating PNPLA3-I148M biology and identify the Golgi apparatus as a central hub of PNPLA3-I148M-driven cellular change.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lei Liu
- Amgen Research, South San Francisco, CA94080
| | | | | | | | - Brett Lomenick
- Proteome Exploration Laboratory, Beckman Institute, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA91125
| | - Mark S. Ladinsky
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA91125
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