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Zhang X, Sun D, Wong K, Salkini A, Najafi H, Kim WJ. The astrocyte-enriched gene deathstar plays a crucial role in the development, locomotion, and lifespan of D. melanogaster. Fly (Austin) 2024; 18:2368336. [PMID: 38884422 PMCID: PMC11185185 DOI: 10.1080/19336934.2024.2368336] [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: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The Drosophila melanogaster brain is a complex organ with various cell types, orchestrating the development, physiology, and behaviors of the fly. While each cell type in Drosophila brain is known to express a unique gene set, their complete genetic profile is still unknown. Advances in the RNA sequencing techniques at single-cell resolution facilitate identifying novel cell type markers and/or re-examining the specificity of the available ones. In this study, exploiting a single-cell RNA sequencing data of Drosophila optic lobe, we categorized the cells based on their expression pattern for known markers, then the genes with enriched expression in astrocytes were identified. CG11000 was identified as a gene with a comparable expression profile to the Eaat1 gene, an astrocyte marker, in every individual cell inside the Drosophila optic lobe and midbrain, as well as in the entire Drosophila brain throughout its development. Consistent with our bioinformatics data, immunostaining of the brains dissected from transgenic adult flies showed co-expression of CG11000 with Eaat1 in a set of single cells corresponding to the astrocytes in the Drosophila brain. Physiologically, inhibiting CG11000 through RNA interference disrupted the normal development of male D. melanogaster, while having no impact on females. Expression suppression of CG11000 in adult flies led to decreased locomotion activity and also shortened lifespan specifically in astrocytes, indicating the gene's significance in astrocytes. We designated this gene as 'deathstar' due to its crucial role in maintaining the star-like shape of glial cells, astrocytes, throughout their development into adult stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Zhang
- The HIT Center for Life Sciences, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Dongyu Sun
- The HIT Center for Life Sciences, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Kyle Wong
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ammar Salkini
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Hadi Najafi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Woo Jae Kim
- The HIT Center for Life Sciences, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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102
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Wang H, Li H, Liu Z, Zhu Z, Cao Y. Activity of thonningianin A against Candida albicans in vitro and in vivo. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:96. [PMID: 38212967 PMCID: PMC10784352 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12996-1] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Fungal infections are increasing rapidly, and antifungal agents used in clinics are limited. Therefore, novel antifungal agents with high efficiency are urgently required. In this study, we investigated the antifungal activity of thonningianin A (THA), a natural compound that is widely found in plants. We first determined the activity of THA against Candida albicans, one of the most common fungal pathogens, and found that THA showed antifungal activity against all C. albicans tested, including several fluconazole-resistant isolates. THA also inhibits the growth of non-Candida albicans species. In addition, THA displayed antibiofilm activity and could not only inhibit biofilm formation but also destroy mature biofilms. The in vivo antifungal efficacy of THA was confirmed in a Galleria mellonella infection model. Further studies revealed that THA could enhance intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and regulate the transcription of several redox-related genes. Specifically, caspase activity and expression of CaMCA1, a caspase-encoding gene in C. albicans, were remarkably increased upon THA treatment. Consistent with this, in the presence of THA, the Camca1 null mutant displayed higher survival rates and reduced caspase activity compared to the wild-type or CaMCA1-reintroduced strains, indicating an important role of CaMCA1 in the antifungal activity of THA. Taken together, our results indicate that THA possesses excellent antifungal activity and may be a promising novel antifungal candidate. KEY POINTS: • THA exhibits activity against Candida species, including fluconazole-resistant isolates • THA inhibits biofilm formation and destroys mature biofilm • Elevated ROS production and CaMCA1-mediated caspase activity are involved in the antifungal mechanisms of THA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200443, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Dermatology, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - ZhiWei Liu
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200443, China
| | - ZhenYu Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - YingYing Cao
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200443, China.
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Topical Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200443, China.
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103
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Blazeski A, Floryan MA, Zhang Y, Fajardo Ramírez OR, Meibalan E, Ortiz-Urbina J, Angelidakis E, Shelton SE, Kamm RD, García-Cardeña G. Engineering microvascular networks using a KLF2 reporter to probe flow-dependent endothelial cell function. Biomaterials 2024; 311:122686. [PMID: 38971122 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122686] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Shear stress generated by the flow of blood in the vasculature is a potent regulator of endothelial cell function and vascular structure. While vascular responses to flow are complex and context-dependent, endothelial cell signaling in response to shear stress induced by laminar flows is coordinated by the transcription factor KLF2. The flow-dependent expression of KLF2 in endothelial cells is associated with a quiescent, anti-inflammatory phenotype and has been well characterized in two-dimensional systems but has not been studied in three-dimensional in vitro systems. Here we develop engineered microvascular networks (MVNs) that incorporate a KLF2-based endothelial cell flow sensor within a microfluidic chip, apply continuous flow using an attached microfluidic pump, and study the effects of this flow on vascular structure and function. We found that application of flow to MVNs for 48 h resulted in increased expression of the KLF2 reporter, larger vessel diameters, and decreased vascular branching and resistance. Notably, vessel diameters after the application of flow were independent of initial MVN morphologies. Finally, we found that MVNs exposed to flow have improved vascular barrier function and decreased platelet adhesion. MVNs with KLF2-based flow sensors represent a novel, powerful tool for evaluating the structural and functional effects of flow on engineered three-dimensional vascular systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Blazeski
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Marie A Floryan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Yuzhi Zhang
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Oscar R Fajardo Ramírez
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elamaran Meibalan
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jesús Ortiz-Urbina
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emmanouil Angelidakis
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sarah E Shelton
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Guillermo García-Cardeña
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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104
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Xie H, Su YT, Bu QT, Li YP, Zhao QW, Du YL, Li YQ. Stepwise increase of fidaxomicin in an engineered heterologous host Streptomyces albus through multi-level metabolic engineering. Synth Syst Biotechnol 2024; 9:766-774. [PMID: 39021363 PMCID: PMC11253128 DOI: 10.1016/j.synbio.2024.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The anti-Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) drug fidaxomicin is a natural polyketide metabolite mainly produced by Micromonosporaceae, such as Actinoplanes deccanensis, Dactylosporangium aurantiacum, and Micromonospora echinospora. In the present study, we employed a stepwise strategy by combining heterologous expression, chassis construction, promoter engineering, activator and transporters overexpression, and optimization of fermentation media for high-level production of fidaxomicin. The maximum yield of 384 mg/L fidaxomicin was achieved with engineered Streptomyces albus D7-VHb in 5 L-tank bioreactor, and it was approximately 15-fold higher than the native strain Actinoplanes deccanensis YP-1 with higher strain stability and growth rate. This study developed an enhanced chassis strain, and for the first time, achieved the heterologous synthesis of fidaxomicin through a combinatorial metabolic engineering strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang Xie
- First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Microbial Biochemistry and Metabolic Engineering, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yi-Ting Su
- First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Microbial Biochemistry and Metabolic Engineering, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qing-Ting Bu
- First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Microbial Biochemistry and Metabolic Engineering, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yue-Ping Li
- First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Microbial Biochemistry and Metabolic Engineering, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qing-Wei Zhao
- First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yi-Ling Du
- First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Microbial Biochemistry and Metabolic Engineering, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yong-Quan Li
- First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Microbial Biochemistry and Metabolic Engineering, Hangzhou 310058, China
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105
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McElroy CA, Ihms EC, Kumar Yadav D, Holmquist ML, Wadhwa V, Wysocki VH, Gollnick P, Foster MP. Solution structure, dynamics and tetrahedral assembly of Anti-TRAP, a homo-trimeric triskelion-shaped regulator of tryptophan biosynthesis in Bacillus subtilis. J Struct Biol X 2024; 10:100103. [PMID: 39035014 PMCID: PMC11255114 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjsbx.2024.100103] [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: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellular production of tryptophan is metabolically expensive and tightly regulated. The small Bacillus subtilis zinc binding Anti-TRAP protein (AT), which is the product of the yczA/rtpA gene, is upregulated in response to accumulating levels of uncharged tRNATrp through a T-box antitermination mechanism. AT binds to the undecameric axially symmetric ring-shaped protein TRAP (trp RNA Binding Attenuation Protein), thereby preventing it from binding to the trp leader RNA. This reverses the inhibitory effect of TRAP on transcription and translation of the trp operon. AT principally adopts two symmetric oligomeric states, a trimer (AT3) featuring three-fold axial symmetry or a dodecamer (AT12) comprising a tetrahedral assembly of trimers, whereas only the trimeric form binds and inhibits TRAP. We apply native mass spectrometry (nMS) and small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS), together with analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC) to monitor the pH and concentration-dependent equilibrium between the trimeric and dodecameric structural forms of AT. In addition, we use solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to determine the solution structure of AT3, while heteronuclear 15N relaxation measurements on both oligomeric forms of AT provide insights into the dynamic properties of binding-active AT3 and binding-inactive AT12, with implications for TRAP binding and inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig A. McElroy
- Ohio State Biochemistry Program, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Elihu C. Ihms
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Biophysics Program, USA
| | - Deepak Kumar Yadav
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Melody L. Holmquist
- Ohio State Biochemistry Program, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Vibhuti Wadhwa
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Vicki H. Wysocki
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- National Resource for Native MS-Guided Structural Biology, USA
| | - Paul Gollnick
- Department of Biological Sciences, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
| | - Mark P. Foster
- Ohio State Biochemistry Program, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Biophysics Program, USA
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106
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Daneshnia F, Floyd DJ, Ryan AP, Ghahfarokhy PM, Ebadati A, Jusuf S, Munoz J, Jeffries NE, Elizabeth Yvanovich E, Apostolopoulou A, Perry AM, Lass-Flörl C, Birinci A, Hilmioğlu-Polat S, Ilkit M, Butler G, Nobile CJ, Arastehfar A, Mansour MK. Evaluation of outbreak persistence caused by multidrug-resistant and echinocandin-resistant Candida parapsilosis using multidimensional experimental and epidemiological approaches. Emerg Microbes Infect 2024; 13:2322655. [PMID: 38380673 PMCID: PMC10916928 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2024.2322655] [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: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Candida parapsilosis is known to cause severe and persistent outbreaks in clinical settings. Patients infected with multidrug-resistant C. parapsilosis (MDR Cp) isolates were identified in a large Turkish hospital from 2017-2020. We subsequently identified three additional patients infected with MDR Cp isolates in 2022 from the same hospital and two echinocandin-resistant (ECR) isolates from a single patient in another hospital. The increasing number of MDR and ECR isolates contradicts the general principle that the severe fitness cost associated with these phenotypes could prevent their dominance in clinical settings. Here, we employed a multidimensional approach to systematically assess the fitness costs of MDR and ECR C. parapsilosis isolates. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a novel MDR genotype infecting two patients in 2022. Despite severe in vitro defects, the levels and tolerances of the biofilms of our ECR and MDR isolates were generally comparable to those of susceptible wild-type isolates. Surprisingly, the MDR and ECR isolates showed major alterations in their cell wall components, and some of the MDR isolates consistently displayed increased tolerance to the fungicidal activities of primary human neutrophils and were more immunoevasive during exposure to primary human macrophages. Our systemic infection mouse model showed that MDR and ECR C. parapsilosis isolates had comparable fungal burden in most organs relative to susceptible isolates. Overall, we observed a notable increase in the genotypic diversity and frequency of MDR isolates and identified MDR and ECR isolates potentially capable of causing persistent outbreaks in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Daneshnia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel J. Floyd
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adam P. Ryan
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Pegah Mosharaf Ghahfarokhy
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California – Merced, Merced, CA, USA
- Health Sciences Research Institute, University of California – Merced, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Arefeh Ebadati
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California – Merced, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Sebastian Jusuf
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Julieta Munoz
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California – Merced, Merced, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Anna Apostolopoulou
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Austin M. Perry
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California – Merced, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Cornelia Lass-Flörl
- Medical University Innsbruck, Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Asuman Birinci
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Türkiye
| | | | - Macit Ilkit
- Division of Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Çukurova University, Adana, Türkiye
| | - Geraldine Butler
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Clarissa J. Nobile
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California – Merced, Merced, CA, USA
- Health Sciences Research Institute, University of California – Merced, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Amir Arastehfar
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael K. Mansour
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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107
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Butterfield ER, Obado SO, Scutts SR, Zhang W, Chait BT, Rout MP, Field MC. A lineage-specific protein network at the trypanosome nuclear envelope. Nucleus 2024; 15:2310452. [PMID: 38605598 PMCID: PMC11018031 DOI: 10.1080/19491034.2024.2310452] [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: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The nuclear envelope (NE) separates translation and transcription and is the location of multiple functions, including chromatin organization and nucleocytoplasmic transport. The molecular basis for many of these functions have diverged between eukaryotic lineages. Trypanosoma brucei, a member of the early branching eukaryotic lineage Discoba, highlights many of these, including a distinct lamina and kinetochore composition. Here, we describe a cohort of proteins interacting with both the lamina and NPC, which we term lamina-associated proteins (LAPs). LAPs represent a diverse group of proteins, including two candidate NPC-anchoring pore membrane proteins (POMs) with architecture conserved with S. cerevisiae and H. sapiens, and additional peripheral components of the NPC. While many of the LAPs are Kinetoplastid specific, we also identified broadly conserved proteins, indicating an amalgam of divergence and conservation within the trypanosome NE proteome, highlighting the diversity of nuclear biology across the eukaryotes, increasing our understanding of eukaryotic and NPC evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samson O. Obado
- Laboratory of Cellular and Structural Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Simon R. Scutts
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Wenzhu Zhang
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry and Gaseous Ion Chemistry, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian T. Chait
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry and Gaseous Ion Chemistry, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael P. Rout
- Laboratory of Cellular and Structural Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mark C. Field
- School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
- Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Parasitology, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
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108
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Li C, Azad MAK, Zhu Q, Cheng Y, Gui J, Song B, Zhou Z, Kong X. Differences in intestinal and renal Ca and P uptake in three different breeds of growing-finishing pigs. Vet Q 2024; 44:1-16. [PMID: 38965863 PMCID: PMC11229737 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2024.2371609] [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: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the differences in bone growth and turnover and calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) uptake among three different breeds of growing-finishing pigs. Ninety healthy Duroc, Xiangcun black (XCB), and Taoyuan black (TYB) pigs (30 pigs per breed) at 35 day-old (D) with the average body weight (BW) of their respective breed were assigned and raised to 185 D. The results showed that Duroc pigs had higher bone weight and length than the XCB and TYB pigs at 80, 125, and 185 D and the bone index at 185 D (p < 0.05). Duroc pigs had higher bone mineral densities (femur and tibia) compared with the other two breeds at 80 D and 125 D, whereas TYB pigs had higher mineral content and bone breaking load (rib) compared with the other two breeds at 185 D (p < 0.05). The bone morphogenetic protein-2 and osteocalcin concentrations were higher, and TRACP5b concentration was lower in serum of TYB pigs at 125 D (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, parathyroid hormone, thyroxine, and fibroblast growth factor 23 concentrations were higher in serum of TYB pigs at 185 D (p < 0.05). The TYB pigs had higher apparent total tract digestibility of P at 80 D and 185 D and bone Ca and P contents at 185 D in comparison to the Duroc pigs (p < 0.05). Furthermore, gene expressions related to renal uptake of Ca and P differed among the three breeds of pigs. Collectively, Duroc pigs have higher bone growth, whereas TYB pigs have a higher potential for mineral deposition caused by more active Ca uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenjian Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agriculture University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Md. Abul Kalam Azad
- CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Zhu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yating Cheng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jue Gui
- CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Song
- CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenlei Zhou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agriculture University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiangfeng Kong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agriculture University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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109
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Götz T, Cong X, Rauber S, Angeli M, Lang E, Ramming A, Schmidkonz C. A novel Slide-seq based image processing software to identify gene expression at the single cell level. J Pathol Inform 2024; 15:100384. [PMID: 39027045 PMCID: PMC11254742 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpi.2024.100384] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Analysis of gene expression at the single-cell level could help predict the effectiveness of therapies in the field of chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. Here, we demonstrate an adopted approach for processing images from the Slide-seq method. Using a puck, which consists of about 50,000 DNA barcode beads, an RNA sequence of a cell is to be read. The pucks are repeatedly brought into contact with liquids and then recorded with a conventional epifluorescence microscope. The image analysis initially consists of stitching the partial images of a sequence recording, registering images from different sequences, and finally reading out the bases. The new method enables the use of an inexpensive epifluorescence microscope instead of a confocal microscope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Th.I. Götz
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Health, Technical University of Applied Sciences Amberg-Weiden, Weiden, Germany
| | - X. Cong
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - S. Rauber
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - M. Angeli
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - E.W. Lang
- CIML Group, Biophysics, University of Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
| | - A. Ramming
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - C. Schmidkonz
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Health, Technical University of Applied Sciences Amberg-Weiden, Weiden, Germany
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110
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Wang X, Gao X, Fan X, Huai Z, Zhang G, Yao M, Wang T, Huang X, Lai L. WUREN: Whole-modal union representation for epitope prediction. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2122-2131. [PMID: 38817963 PMCID: PMC11137340 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
B-cell epitope identification plays a vital role in the development of vaccines, therapies, and diagnostic tools. Currently, molecular docking tools in B-cell epitope prediction are heavily influenced by empirical parameters and require significant computational resources, rendering a great challenge to meet large-scale prediction demands. When predicting epitopes from antigen-antibody complex, current artificial intelligence algorithms cannot accurately implement the prediction due to insufficient protein feature representations, indicating novel algorithm is desperately needed for efficient protein information extraction. In this paper, we introduce a multimodal model called WUREN (Whole-modal Union Representation for Epitope predictioN), which effectively combines sequence, graph, and structural features. It achieved AUC-PR scores of 0.213 and 0.193 on the solved structures and AlphaFold-generated structures, respectively, for the independent test proteins selected from DiscoTope3 benchmark. Our findings indicate that WUREN is an efficient feature extraction model for protein complexes, with the generalizable application potential in the development of protein-based drugs. Moreover, the streamlined framework of WUREN could be readily extended to model similar biomolecules, such as nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xuezhe Fan
- XtalPi Innovation Center, Beijing, China
| | - Zhe Huai
- XtalPi Innovation Center, Beijing, China
| | | | | | | | | | - Lipeng Lai
- XtalPi Innovation Center, Beijing, China
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111
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Aalders J, Léger L, Hassannia B, Goossens V, Vanden Berghe T, van Hengel J. Improving cardiac differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells by targeting ferroptosis. Regen Ther 2024; 27:21-31. [PMID: 38496011 PMCID: PMC10940893 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2024.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Generation of cardiomyocytes from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) is of high interest for disease modelling and regenerative medicine. hPSCs can provide an unlimited source of patient-specific cardiomyocytes that are otherwise difficult to obtain from individuals. Moreover, the low proliferation rate of adult cardiomyocytes and low viability ex vivo limits the quantity of study material. Most protocols for the differentiation of cardiomyocytes from hPSCs are based on the temporal modulation of the Wnt pathway. However, during the initial stage of GSK-3 inhibition, a substantial number of cells are lost due to detachment. In this study, we aimed to increase the efficiency of generating cardiomyocytes from hPSCs. We identified cell death as a detrimental factor during this initial stage of in vitro cardiomyocyte differentiation. Through pharmacological targeting of different types of cell death, we discovered that ferroptosis was the main cell death type during the first 48 h of the in vitro differentiation procedure. Inhibiting ferroptosis using ferrostatin-1 during cardiomyocyte differentiation resulted in increased robustness and cell yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Aalders
- Medical Cell Biology Research Group, Department of Human Structure and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Entrance 37a, 2nd floor, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Laurens Léger
- Medical Cell Biology Research Group, Department of Human Structure and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Entrance 37a, 2nd floor, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Behrouz Hassannia
- Cell Death Signalling Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Tom Vanden Berghe
- Cell Death Signalling Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jolanda van Hengel
- Medical Cell Biology Research Group, Department of Human Structure and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Entrance 37a, 2nd floor, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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112
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Carpenter KA, Altman RB. Databases of ligand-binding pockets and protein-ligand interactions. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1320-1338. [PMID: 38585646 PMCID: PMC10997877 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.03.015] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Many research groups and institutions have created a variety of databases curating experimental and predicted data related to protein-ligand binding. The landscape of available databases is dynamic, with new databases emerging and established databases becoming defunct. Here, we review the current state of databases that contain binding pockets and protein-ligand binding interactions. We have compiled a list of such databases, fifty-three of which are currently available for use. We discuss variation in how binding pockets are defined and summarize pocket-finding methods. We organize the fifty-three databases into subgroups based on goals and contents, and describe standard use cases. We also illustrate that pockets within the same protein are characterized differently across different databases. Finally, we assess critical issues of sustainability, accessibility and redundancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy A. Carpenter
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Russ B. Altman
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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113
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Sharma S, Chaurasia S, Dinday S, Srivastava G, Singh A, Chanotiya CS, Ghosh S. High-level biosynthesis of enantiopure germacrene D in yeast. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:50. [PMID: 38183482 PMCID: PMC10789846 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12885-7] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Germacrene D, a sesquiterpenoid compound found mainly in plant essential oils at a low level as (+) and/or (-) enantiomeric forms, is an ingredient for the fragrance industry, but a process for the sustainable supply of enantiopure germacrene D is not yet established. Here, we demonstrate metabolic engineering in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) achieving biosynthesis of enantiopure germacrene D at a high titer. To boost farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) flux for high-level germacrene D biosynthesis, a background yeast chassis (CENses5C) was developed by genomic integration of the expression cassettes for eight ergosterol pathway enzymes that sequentially converted acetyl-CoA to FPP and by replacing squalene synthase promoter with a copper-repressible promoter, which restricted FPP flux to the competing pathway. Galactose-induced expression of codon-optimized plant germacrene D synthases led to 13-30 fold higher titers of (+) or (-)-germacrene D in CENses5C than the parent strain CEN.PK2.1C. Furthermore, genomic integration of germacrene D synthases in GAL80, LPP1 and rDNA loci generated CENses8(+D) and CENses8(-D) strains, which produced 41.36 µg/ml and 728.87 µg/ml of (+) and (-)-germacrene D, respectively, without galactose supplementation. Moreover, coupling of mitochondrial citrate pool to the cytosolic acetyl-CoA, by expressing a codon-optimized ATP-citrate lyase of oleaginous yeast, resulted in 137.71 µg/ml and 815.81 µg/ml of (+) or (-)-germacrene D in CENses8(+D)* and CENses8(-D)* strains, which were 67-120 fold higher titers than in CEN.PK2.1C. In fed-batch fermentation, CENses8(+D)* and CENses8(-D)* produced 290.28 µg/ml and 2519.46 µg/ml (+) and (-)-germacrene D, respectively, the highest titers in shake-flask fermentation achieved so far. KEY POINTS: • Engineered S. cerevisiae produced enantiopure (+) and (-)-germacrene D at high titers • Engineered strain produced up to 120-fold higher germacrene D than the parental strain • Highest titers of enantiopure (+) and (-)-germacrene D achieved so far in shake-flask.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubha Sharma
- Plant Biotechnology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Seema Chaurasia
- Plant Biotechnology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India
| | - Sandeep Dinday
- Plant Biotechnology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India
- School of Agricultural Biotechnology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana 141004, India
| | - Gaurav Srivastava
- Plant Biotechnology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India
| | - Anamika Singh
- Plant Biotechnology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India
| | - Chandan Singh Chanotiya
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
- Phytochemistry Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India
| | - Sumit Ghosh
- Plant Biotechnology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
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Rodríguez JM, Jorge I, Martinez-Val A, Barrero-Rodríguez R, Magni R, Núñez E, Laguillo A, Devesa CA, López JA, Camafeita E, Vázquez J. iSanXoT: A standalone application for the integrative analysis of mass spectrometry-based quantitative proteomics data. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:452-459. [PMID: 38235360 PMCID: PMC10792623 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.12.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Many bioinformatics tools are available for the quantitative analysis of proteomics experiments. Most of these tools use a dedicated statistical model to derive absolute quantitative protein values from mass spectrometry (MS) data. Here, we present iSanXoT, a standalone application that processes relative abundances between MS signals and then integrates them sequentially to upper levels using the previously published Generic Integration Algorithm (GIA). iSanXoT offers unique capabilities that complement conventional quantitative software applications, including statistical weighting and independent modeling of error distributions in each integration, aggregation of technical or biological replicates, quantification of posttranslational modifications, and analysis of coordinated protein behavior. iSanXoT is a standalone, user-friendly application that accepts output from popular proteomics pipelines and enables unrestricted creation of quantification workflows and fully customizable reports that can be reused across projects or shared among users. Numerous publications attest the successful application of diverse integrative workflows constructed using the GIA for the analysis of high-throughput quantitative proteomics experiments. iSanXoT has been tested with the main operating systems. Download links for the corresponding distributions are available at https://github.com/CNIC-Proteomics/iSanXoT/releases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Manuel Rodríguez
- Proteomics Unit, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (CNIC), Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Jorge
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics. Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid 28029, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Martinez-Val
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics. Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Rafael Barrero-Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics. Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Ricardo Magni
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics. Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid 28029, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Estefanía Núñez
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics. Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid 28029, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrea Laguillo
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics. Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Cristina A. Devesa
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics. Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Juan A. López
- Proteomics Unit, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (CNIC), Madrid 28029, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Emilio Camafeita
- Proteomics Unit, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (CNIC), Madrid 28029, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Vázquez
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics. Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid 28029, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
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115
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Zhao J, Wang Y, Feng C, Yin M, Gao Y, Wei L, Song C, Ai B, Wang Q, Zhang J, Zhu J, Li C. SCInter: A comprehensive single-cell transcriptome integration database for human and mouse. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:77-86. [PMID: 38125297 PMCID: PMC10731004 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), which profiles gene expression at the cellular level, has effectively explored cell heterogeneity and reconstructed developmental trajectories. With the increasing research on diseases and biological processes, scRNA-seq datasets are accumulating rapidly, highlighting the urgent need for collecting and processing these data to support comprehensive and effective annotation and analysis. Here, we have developed a comprehensive Single-Cell transcriptome integration database for human and mouse (SCInter, https://bio.liclab.net/SCInter/index.php), which aims to provide a manually curated database that supports the provision of gene expression profiles across various cell types at the sample level. The current version of SCInter includes 115 integrated datasets and 1016 samples, covering nearly 150 tissues/cell lines. It contains 8016,646 cell markers in 457 identified cell types. SCInter enabled comprehensive analysis of cataloged single-cell data encompassing quality control (QC), clustering, cell markers, multi-method cell type automatic annotation, predicting cell differentiation trajectories and so on. At the same time, SCInter provided a user-friendly interface to query, browse, analyze and visualize each integrated dataset and single cell sample, along with comprehensive QC reports and processing results. It will facilitate the identification of cell type in different cell subpopulations and explore developmental trajectories, enhancing the study of cell heterogeneity in the fields of immunology and oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhao
- School of Medical Informatics, Daqing Campus, Harbin Medical University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Yuezhu Wang
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Chenchen Feng
- School of Computer, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Mingxue Yin
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi-omics And Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Yu Gao
- School of Medical Informatics, Daqing Campus, Harbin Medical University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Ling Wei
- Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Cancer Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chao Song
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- School of Computer, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi-omics And Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Bo Ai
- School of Medical Informatics, Daqing Campus, Harbin Medical University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Qiuyu Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- School of Computer, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi-omics And Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Medical Informatics, Daqing Campus, Harbin Medical University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Jiang Zhu
- School of Medical Informatics, Daqing Campus, Harbin Medical University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Chunquan Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- School of Computer, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi-omics And Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Research and Prevention, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
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Montanari Borges B, Gama de Santana M, Willian Preite N, de Lima Kaminski V, Trentin G, Almeida F, Vieira Loures F. Extracellular vesicles from virulent P. brasiliensis induce TLR4 and dectin-1 expression in innate cells and promote enhanced Th1/Th17 response. Virulence 2024; 15:2329573. [PMID: 38511558 PMCID: PMC10962619 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2329573] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-enclosed nanoparticles that transport several biomolecules and are involved in important mechanisms and functions related to the pathophysiology of fungal diseases. EVs from Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, the main causative agent of Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), modulate the immune response of macrophages. In this study, we assessed the EVs proteome from a virulent P. brasiliensis isolated from granulomatous lesions and compared their immunomodulatory ability with EVs isolated from the fungus before the animal passage (control EVs) when challenging macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs). Proteome showed that virulent EVs have a higher abundance of virulence factors such as GP43, protein 14-3-3, GAPDH, as well as virulence factors never described in PCM, such as aspartyl aminopeptidase and a SidJ analogue compared with control EVs. Virulent extracellular vesicles induced higher expression of TLR4 and Dectin-1 than control EVs in macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs). In opposition, a lower TLR2 expression was induced by virulent EVs. Additionally, virulent EVs induced lower expression of CD80, CD86 and TNF-α, but promoted a higher expression of IL-6 and IL-10, suggesting that EVs isolated from virulent P. brasiliensis-yeast promote a milder DCs and macrophage maturation. Herein, we showed that EVs from virulent fungi stimulated a higher frequency of Th1/Tc1, Th17, and Treg cells, which gives new insights into fungal extracellular vesicles. Taken together, our results suggest that P. brasiliensis utilizes its EVs as virulence bags that manipulate the immune system in its favour, creating a milder immune response and helping with fungal evasion from the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Montanari Borges
- Institute of Science and Technology (ICT), Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Monique Gama de Santana
- Institute of Science and Technology (ICT), Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nycolas Willian Preite
- Institute of Science and Technology (ICT), Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Valéria de Lima Kaminski
- Institute of Science and Technology (ICT), Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Trentin
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fausto Almeida
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Flávio Vieira Loures
- Institute of Science and Technology (ICT), Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
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117
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Budhbaware T, Rathored J, Shende S. Molecular methods in cancer diagnostics: a short review. Ann Med 2024; 56:2353893. [PMID: 38753424 PMCID: PMC11100444 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2353893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the ailments with the greatest fatality rates in the 21st century is cancer. Globally, molecular methods are widely employed to treat cancer-related disorders, and the body of research on this subject is growing yearly. A thorough and critical summary of the data supporting molecular methods for illnesses linked to cancer is required. OBJECTIVE In order to guide clinical practice and future research, it is important to examine and summarize the systematic reviews (SRs) that evaluate the efficacy and safety of molecular methods for disorders associated to cancer. METHODS We developed a comprehensive search strategy to find relevant articles from electronic databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science (WoS), or Scopus. We looked through the literature and determined which diagnostic methods in cancer genetics were particularly reliable. We used phrases like 'cancer genetics', genetic susceptibility, Hereditary cancer, cancer risk assessment, 'cancer diagnostic tools', cancer screening', biomarkers, and molecular diagnostics, reviews and meta-analyses evaluating the efficacy and safety of molecular therapies for cancer-related disorders. Research that only consider treatment modalities that don't necessitate genetic or molecular diagnostics fall under the exclusion criteria. RESULTS The results of this comprehensive review clearly demonstrate the transformative impact of molecular methods in the realm of cancer genetics.This review underscores how these technologies have empowered researchers and clinicians to identify and understand key genetic alterations that drive malignancy, ranging from point mutations to structural variations. Such insights are instrumental in pinpointing critical oncogenic drivers and potential therapeutic targets, thus opening the door for methods in precision medicine that can significantly improve patient outcomes. LIMITATION The search does not specify a timeframe for publication inclusion, it may have missed recent advancements or changes in the field's landscape of molecular methods for cancer. As a result, it may not have included the most recent developments in the field. CONCLUSION After conducting an in-depth study on the molecular methods in cancer genetics, it is evident that these cutting-edge technologies have revolutionized the field of oncology, providing researchers and clinicians with powerful tools to unravel the complexities of cancer at the genetic level. The integration of molecular methods techniques has not only enhanced our understanding of cancer etiology, progression, and treatment response but has also opened new avenues for personalized medicine and targeted therapies, leading to improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanushree Budhbaware
- Department of ‘School of Allied Health Sciences’, Central Research Laboratory (CRL) and Molecular Diagnostics, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha, India
| | - Jaishriram Rathored
- Department of ‘School of Allied Health Sciences’, Central Research Laboratory (CRL) and Molecular Diagnostics, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha, India
| | - Sandesh Shende
- Department of ‘School of Allied Health Sciences’, Central Research Laboratory (CRL) and Molecular Diagnostics, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha, India
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118
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Tian Y, Wu X, Luo S, Xiong D, Liu R, Hu L, Yuan Y, Shi G, Yao J, Huang Z, Fu F, Yang X, Tang Z, Zhang J, Hu K. A multi-omic single-cell landscape of cellular diversification in the developing human cerebral cortex. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2173-2189. [PMID: 38827229 PMCID: PMC11141146 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The vast neuronal diversity in the human neocortex is vital for high-order brain functions, necessitating elucidation of the regulatory mechanisms underlying such unparalleled diversity. However, recent studies have yet to comprehensively reveal the diversity of neurons and the molecular logic of neocortical origin in humans at single-cell resolution through profiling transcriptomic or epigenomic landscapes, owing to the application of unimodal data alone to depict exceedingly heterogeneous populations of neurons. In this study, we generated a comprehensive compendium of the developing human neocortex by simultaneously profiling gene expression and open chromatin from the same cell. We computationally reconstructed the differentiation trajectories of excitatory projection neurons of cortical origin and inferred the regulatory logic governing lineage bifurcation decisions for neuronal diversification. We demonstrated that neuronal diversity arises from progenitor cell lineage specificity and postmitotic differentiation at distinct stages. Our data paves the way for understanding the primarily coordinated regulatory logic for neuronal diversification in the neocortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhan Tian
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Xia Wu
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Songhao Luo
- School of Mathematics, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Dan Xiong
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Rong Liu
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Lanqi Hu
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Yuchen Yuan
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Guowei Shi
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Junjie Yao
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Zhiwei Huang
- School of Mathematics, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Fang Fu
- Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Zhonghui Tang
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jiajun Zhang
- School of Mathematics, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Kunhua Hu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
- Public Platform Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
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Yu Y, Liu T, Wang Y, Liu L, He X, Li J, Martin FM, Peng W, Tan H. Comparative analyses of Pleurotus pulmonarius mitochondrial genomes reveal two major lineages of mini oyster mushroom cultivars. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:905-917. [PMID: 38370975 PMCID: PMC10869244 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.01.021] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Pleurotus pulmonarius, commonly known as the mini oyster mushroom, is highly esteemed for its crisp texture and umami flavor. Limited genetic diversity among P. pulmonarius cultivars raises concerns regarding its sustainable industrial production. To delve into the maternal genetic diversity of the principal P. pulmonarius cultivars, 36 cultivars and five wild isolates were subjected to de novo sequencing and assembly to generate high-quality mitogenome sequences. The P. pulmonarius mitogenomes had lengths ranging from 69,096 to 72,905 base pairs. The mitogenome sizes of P. pulmonarius and those of other mushroom species in the Pleurotus genus showed a significant positive correlation with the counts of LAGLIDAG and GIY-YIG homing endonucleases encoded by intronic open reading frames. A comparison of gene arrangements revealed an inversion of a fragment containing atp9-nad3-nad2 between P. pulmonarius and P. ostreatus. The mitogenomes of P. pulmonarius were clustered into three distinct clades, two of which were crowded with commercial cultivars. Clade I, all of which possess an inserted dpo gene, shared a maternal origin linked to an ancestral cultivar from Taiwan. Primers were designed to target the dpo gene, potentially safeguarding intellectual property rights. The wild isolates in Clade III exhibited more divergent mitogenomes, rendering them valuable for breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yu
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Tianhai Liu
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 610000, China
- Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Lixu Liu
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Xiaolan He
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Jianwei Li
- Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Francis M. Martin
- Université de Lorraine, INRAE, UMR Interactions Arbres/Microorganismes, Centre INRAE Grand Est, Nancy, Champenoux 54280, France
| | - Weihong Peng
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Hao Tan
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 610000, China
- Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
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Kobetitsch S, Gierlikowska B, Kunert O, Mazen AM, Raab P, Kretschmer N, Donolo C, Pirker T, Bauer R, Kiss AK, Pferschy-Wenzig EM. Salvadora persica leaves: phytochemical profile and in vitro-inhibitory activity on inflammatory mediators implicated in periodontal disease. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2024; 62:563-576. [PMID: 39021070 PMCID: PMC11259067 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2024.2374801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Virtually all parts of Salvadora persica L. (Salvadoraceae) are used in traditional medicine. The twigs and leaves are used for oral health, but leaves are far less investigated. OBJECTIVE This study assesses the oral health-promoting potential of S. persica leaves with emphasis on anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative effects and provides an in depth-characterization of their metabolite profile. MATERIALS AND METHODS Hot-water and methanolic S. persica leaf extracts (1, 10, and 100 µg/mL) and their major constituents (5, 10, and 50 µM), were subjected to cellular assays on IL-8 and TNFα release in LPS-stimulated human neutrophils, NO-release in LPS/IFNγ stimulated mouse macrophages, and proliferation of HNO97 human tongue carcinoma cells. Metabolite profiling was performed by UHPLC-HRMS analysis. Major constituents were isolated and structurally elucidated. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Both extracts showed pronounced anti-inflammatory activity in LPS-stimulated neutrophils. Major identified compound classes were flavonoid glycosides, the glucosinolate glucotropaeolin, phenyl- and benzylglycoside sulfates, and megastigmane glycosylsulfates, the latter ones identified for the first time in S. persica. Glucotropaeolin strongly inhibited the release of IL-8 and TNF-α (13.3 ± 2.0 and 22.7 ± 2.6% of the release of stimulated control cells at 50 µM), while some flavonoids and 3-(3'-O-sulfo-β-d-glucopyranosyloxy)-7,8-dihydro-β-ionone, a newly isolated megastigmane glycosylsulfate, were moderately active. Benzylisothiocyanate, which is likely formed from glucotropaeolin during traditional application of S. persica, showed considerable antiproliferative activity (IC50 in HNO97 cells: 10.19 ± 0.72 µM) besides strongly inhibiting IL-8 and TNFα release. CONCLUSIONS Glucotropaeolin and benzylisothiocyanate are likely implicated in the oral health-promoting effects of S. persica leaves. The chemistry and pharmacology of the newly identified megastigmane glycosylsulfates should be further evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Kobetitsch
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacognosy, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Barbara Gierlikowska
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics and Clinical Immunology of Developmental Age, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Olaf Kunert
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Ahmed M.A. Mazen
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Pia Raab
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacognosy, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Nadine Kretschmer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacognosy, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Carina Donolo
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacognosy, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Teresa Pirker
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacognosy, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Rudolf Bauer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacognosy, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Anna K. Kiss
- Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Meng F, Zhou N, Hu G, Liu R, Zhang Y, Jing M, Hou Q. A comprehensive overview of recent advances in generative models for antibodies. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2648-2660. [PMID: 39027650 PMCID: PMC11254834 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic antibodies are an important class of biopharmaceuticals. With the rapid development of deep learning methods and the increasing amount of antibody data, antibody generative models have made great progress recently. They aim to solve the antibody space searching problems and are widely incorporated into the antibody development process. Therefore, a comprehensive introduction to the development methods in this field is imperative. Here, we collected 34 representative antibody generative models published recently and all generative models can be divided into three categories: sequence-generating models, structure-generating models, and hybrid models, based on their principles and algorithms. We further studied their performance and contributions to antibody sequence prediction, structure optimization, and affinity enhancement. Our manuscript will provide a comprehensive overview of the status of antibody generative models and also offer guidance for selecting different approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanxu Meng
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Na Zhou
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
- National Institute of Health Data Science of China, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Guangchun Hu
- School of Information Science and Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China
| | - Ruotong Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
- National Institute of Health Data Science of China, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Ming Jing
- Key Laboratory of Computing Power Network and Information Security, Ministry of Education, Shandong Computer Science Center, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Computer Networks, Shandong Fundamental Research Center for Computer Science, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Qingzhen Hou
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
- National Institute of Health Data Science of China, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
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Li S, Luo S, Yin X, Zhao X, Wang X, Gao S, Xu S, Lu J, Zhou J. Screening of ent-copalyl diphosphate synthase and metabolic engineering to achieve de novo biosynthesis of ent-copalol in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Synth Syst Biotechnol 2024; 9:784-792. [PMID: 39021361 PMCID: PMC11253141 DOI: 10.1016/j.synbio.2024.06.005] [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: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The diterpene ent-copalol is an important precursor to the synthesis of andrographolide and is found only in green chiretta (Andrographis paniculata). De novo biosynthesis of ent-copalol has not been reported, because the catalytic activity of ent-copalyl diphosphate synthase (CPS) is very low in microorganisms. In order to achieve the biosynthesis of ent-copalol, Saccharomyces cerevisiae was selected as the chassis strain, because its endogenous mevalonate pathway and dephosphorylases could provide natural promotion for the synthesis of ent-copalol. The strain capable of synthesizing diterpene geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate was constructed by strengthening the mevalonate pathway genes and weakening the competing pathway. Five full-length ApCPSs were screened by transcriptome sequencing of A. paniculata and ApCPS2 had the best activity and produced ent-CPP exclusively. The peak area of ent-copalol was increased after the ApCPS2 saturation mutation and its configuration was determined by NMR and ESI-MS detection. By appropriately optimizing acetyl-CoA supply and fusion-expressing key enzymes, 35.6 mg/L ent-copalol was generated. In this study, de novo biosynthesis and identification of ent-copalol were achieved and the highest titer ever reported. It provides a platform strain for the further pathway analysis of andrographolide and derivatives and provides a reference for the synthesis of other pharmaceutical intermediates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Li
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Shuangshuang Luo
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Xinran Yin
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Xingying Zhao
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Xuyang Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Song Gao
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Sha Xu
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Jian Lu
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Jingwen Zhou
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Rd, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
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McDonnell L, Evans S, Lu Z, Suchoronczak M, Leighton J, Ordeniza E, Ritchie B, Valado N, Walsh N, Antoney J, Wang C, Luna-Flores CH, Scott C, Speight R, Vickers CE, Peng B. Cyanamide-inducible expression of homing nuclease I- SceI for selectable marker removal and promoter characterisation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Synth Syst Biotechnol 2024; 9:820-827. [PMID: 39072146 PMCID: PMC11277796 DOI: 10.1016/j.synbio.2024.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
In synthetic biology, microbial chassis including yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae are iteratively engineered with increasing complexity and scale. Wet-lab genetic engineering tools are developed and optimised to facilitate strain construction but are often incompatible with each other due to shared regulatory elements, such as the galactose-inducible (GAL) promoter in S. cerevisiae. Here, we prototyped the cyanamide-induced I- SceI expression, which triggered double-strand DNA breaks (DSBs) for selectable marker removal. We further combined cyanamide-induced I- SceI-mediated DSB and maltose-induced MazF-mediated negative selection for plasmid-free in situ promoter substitution, which simplified the molecular cloning procedure for promoter characterisation. We then characterised three tetracycline-inducible promoters showing differential strength, a non-leaky β-estradiol-inducible promoter, cyanamide-inducible DDI2 promoter, bidirectional MAL32/MAL31 promoters, and five pairs of bidirectional GAL1/GAL10 promoters. Overall, alternative regulatory controls for genome engineering tools can be developed to facilitate genomic engineering for synthetic biology and metabolic engineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam McDonnell
- Centre of Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Australia
| | - Samuel Evans
- Centre of Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Australia
| | - Zeyu Lu
- Centre of Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Australia
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Mitch Suchoronczak
- Centre of Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Jonah Leighton
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Eugene Ordeniza
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Blake Ritchie
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Nik Valado
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Niamh Walsh
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - James Antoney
- Centre of Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Australia
| | - Chengqiang Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong Province, 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Carlos Horacio Luna-Flores
- Centre of Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Colin Scott
- CSIRO Environment, Black Mountain Science and Innovation Park, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Robert Speight
- Centre of Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Australia
- Advanced Engineering Biology Future Science Platform, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Black Mountain, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Claudia E. Vickers
- Centre of Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Australia
| | - Bingyin Peng
- Centre of Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Australia
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
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Li F, Wang W, Cheng H, Li M. Genome-wide analysis reveals the contributors to fast molecular evolution of the Chinese hook snout carp ( Opsariichthys bidens). Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2465-2477. [PMID: 38882676 PMCID: PMC11179538 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.05.048] [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: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Variations in molecular evolutionary rate have been widely investigated among lineages and genes. However, it remains an open question whether fast rate of molecular evolution is driven by natural selection or random drift, and how the fast rate is linked to metabolic rate. Additionally, previous studies on fast molecular evolution have been largely restricted to concatenated matrix of genes or a few specifically selected genes, but less is known for individual genes at the genome-wide level. Here we addressed these questions using more than 5000 single-copy orthologous (SCO) genes through comparative genomic and phylogenetic analyses among fishes, with a special focus on a newly-sequenced clupeocephalan fish the Chinese hook snout carp Opsariichthys bidens. We showed O. bidens displays significantly higher mean substitution rate and more fast-evolving SCO genes (2172 genes) than most fishes studied here. The rapidly evolving genes are enriched in highly conserved and very basic functions such as translation and ribosome that are critical for biological fitness. We further revealed that ∼25 % of these fast-evolving genes exhibit a constant increase of substitution rate from the common ancestor down to the present, suggesting a neglected but important contribution from ancestral states. Model fitting showed that ∼85 % of fast-evolving genes exclusive to O. bidens and related species follow the adaptive evolutionary model rather than random-drift model, and 7.6 % of fast-evolving genes identified in O. bidens have experienced positive selection, both indicating the reflection of adaptive selection. Finally, metabolic rate was observed to be linked with substitution rate in a gene-specific manner. Overall, our findings reveal fast molecular evolution of SCO genes at genome-wide level in O. bidens, and uncover the evolutionary and ecological contributors to it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengbo Li
- Zhejiang Institute of Freshwater Fisheries, 999 Hangchangqiao South Road, Huzhou 313001, China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Haihua Cheng
- Zhejiang Institute of Freshwater Fisheries, 999 Hangchangqiao South Road, Huzhou 313001, China
| | - Ming Li
- Jinhua Fisheries Technology Extension Center, 828 Shuanglong South Street, Jinhua 321013, China
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Sharma M, Alessandro P, Cheriyamundath S, Lopus M. Therapeutic and diagnostic applications of carbon nanotubes in cancer: recent advances and challenges. J Drug Target 2024; 32:287-299. [PMID: 38252035 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2024.2309575] [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: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are allotropes of carbon, composed of carbon atoms forming a tube-like structure. Their high surface area, chemical stability, and rich electronic polyaromatic structure facilitate their drug-carrying capacity. Therefore, CNTs have been intensively explored for several biomedical applications, including as a potential treatment option for cancer. By incorporating smart fabrication strategies, CNTs can be designed to specifically target cancer cells. This targeted drug delivery approach not only maximizes the therapeutic utility of CNTs but also minimizes any potential side effects of free drug molecules. CNTs can also be utilised for photothermal therapy (PTT) which uses photosensitizers to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) to kill cancer cells, and in immunotherapeutic applications. Regarding the latter, for example, CNT-based formulations can preferentially target intra-tumoural regulatory T-cells. CNTs also act as efficient antigen presenters. With their capabilities for photoacoustic, fluorescent and Raman imaging, CNTs are excellent diagnostic tools as well. Further, metallic nanoparticles, such as gold or silver nanoparticles, are combined with CNTs to create nanobiosensors to measure biological reactions. This review focuses on current knowledge about the theranostic potential of CNT, challenges associated with their large-scale production, their possible side effects and important parameters to consider when exploring their clinical usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muskan Sharma
- School of Biological Sciences, UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of Mumbai, Vidyanagari, Mumbai, India
| | - Parodi Alessandro
- Department of Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Sirius, Russia
| | - Sanith Cheriyamundath
- School of Biological Sciences, UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of Mumbai, Vidyanagari, Mumbai, India
| | - Manu Lopus
- School of Biological Sciences, UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of Mumbai, Vidyanagari, Mumbai, India
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Rigo YR, Benvenutti R, Portela LV, Strogulski NR. Neurogenic potential of NG2 in neurotrauma: a systematic review. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:2673-2683. [PMID: 38595286 PMCID: PMC11168526 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Regenerative approaches towards neuronal loss following traumatic brain or spinal cord injury have long been considered a dogma in neuroscience and remain a cutting-edge area of research. This is reflected in a large disparity between the number of studies investigating primary and secondary injury as therapeutic targets in spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries. Significant advances in biotechnology may have the potential to reshape the current state-of-the-art and bring focus to primary injury neurotrauma research. Recent studies using neural-glial factor/antigen 2 (NG2) cells indicate that they may differentiate into neurons even in the developed brain. As these cells show great potential to play a regenerative role, studies have been conducted to test various manipulations in neurotrauma models aimed at eliciting a neurogenic response from them. In the present study, we systematically reviewed the experimental protocols and findings described in the scientific literature, which were peer-reviewed original research articles (1) describing preclinical experimental studies, (2) investigating NG2 cells, (3) associated with neurogenesis and neurotrauma, and (4) in vitro and/or in vivo, available in PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science or SCOPUS, from 1998 to 2022. Here, we have reviewed a total of 1504 papers, and summarized findings that ultimately suggest that NG2 cells possess an inducible neurogenic potential in animal models and in vitro. We also discriminate findings of NG2 neurogenesis promoted by different pharmacological and genetic approaches over functional and biochemical outcomes of traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury models, and provide mounting evidence for the potential benefits of manipulated NG2 cell ex vivo transplantation in primary injury treatment. These findings indicate the feasibility of NG2 cell neurogenesis strategies and add new players in the development of therapeutic alternatives for neurotrauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri R. Rigo
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Radharani Benvenutti
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Luis V. Portela
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Nathan R. Strogulski
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Telek A, Molnár Z, Takács K, Varga B, Grolmusz V, Tasnádi G, Vértessy BG. Discovery and biocatalytic characterization of opine dehydrogenases by metagenome mining. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:101. [PMID: 38229296 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12871-z] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Enzymatic processes play an increasing role in synthetic organic chemistry which requires the access to a broad and diverse set of enzymes. Metagenome mining is a valuable and efficient way to discover novel enzymes with unique properties for biotechnological applications. Here, we report the discovery and biocatalytic characterization of six novel metagenomic opine dehydrogenases from a hot spring environment (mODHs) (EC 1.5.1.X). These enzymes catalyze the asymmetric reductive amination between an amino acid and a keto acid resulting in opines which have defined biochemical roles and represent promising building blocks for pharmaceutical applications. The newly identified enzymes exhibit unique substrate specificity and higher thermostability compared to known examples. The feature that they preferably utilize negatively charged polar amino acids is so far unprecedented for opine dehydrogenases. We have identified two spatially correlated positions in their active sites that govern this substrate specificity and demonstrated a switch of substrate preference by site-directed mutagenesis. While they still suffer from a relatively narrow substrate scope, their enhanced thermostability and the orthogonality of their substrate preference make them a valuable addition to the toolbox of enzymes for reductive aminations. Importantly, enzymatic reductive aminations with highly polar amines are very rare in the literature. Thus, the preparative-scale enzymatic production, purification, and characterization of three highly functionalized chiral secondary amines lend a special significance to our work in filling this gap. KEY POINTS: • Six new opine dehydrogenases have been discovered from a hot spring metagenome • The newly identified enzymes display a unique substrate scope • Substrate specificity is governed by two correlated active-site residues.
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Grants
- K119493 National Research, Development and Innovation Office
- K135231 National Research, Development and Innovation Office
- VEKOP-2.3.2-16-2017-00013 National Research, Development and Innovation Office
- NKP-2018-1.2.1-NKP-2018-00005 National Research, Development and Innovation Office
- TKP2021-EGA-02 National Research, Development and Innovation Office
- ÚNKP-22-4-II-BME-158 National Research, Development and Innovation Office
- RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-000 15 National Research, Development and Innovation Office
- C1580174 Nemzeti Kutatási, Fejlesztési és Innovaciós Alap
- ELTE TKP 2021-NKTA-62 Nemzeti Kutatási, Fejlesztési és Innovaciós Alap
- 2022-1.2.2-TÉT-IPARI-UZ-2022-00003 Nemzeti Kutatási, Fejlesztési és Innovaciós Alap
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Affiliation(s)
- András Telek
- Department of Applied Biotechnology, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary
- Servier Research Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsófia Molnár
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, HUN-REN, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Organic Chemistry and Technology, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kristóf Takács
- PIT Bioinformatics Group, Institute of Mathematics, Eötvös University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Bálint Varga
- PIT Bioinformatics Group, Institute of Mathematics, Eötvös University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Vince Grolmusz
- PIT Bioinformatics Group, Institute of Mathematics, Eötvös University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gábor Tasnádi
- Servier Research Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Beáta G Vértessy
- Department of Applied Biotechnology, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary.
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, HUN-REN, Budapest, Hungary.
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128
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Tamayo E, Nada B, Hafermann I, Benz JP. Correlating sugar transporter expression and activities to identify transporters for an orphan sugar substrate. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:83. [PMID: 38189952 PMCID: PMC10774165 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12907-4] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Filamentous fungi like Neurospora crassa are able to take up and metabolize important sugars present, for example, in agricultural and human food wastes. However, only a fraction of all putative sugar transporters in filamentous fungi has been characterized to date, and for many sugar substrates, the corresponding transporters are unknown. In N. crassa, only 14 out of the 42 putative major facilitator superfamily (MFS)-type sugar transporters have been characterized so far. To uncover this hidden potential for biotechnology, it is therefore necessary to find new strategies. By correlation of the uptake profile of sugars of interest after different induction conditions with the expression profiles of all 44 genes encoding predicted sugar transporters in N. crassa, together with an exhaustive phylogenetic analysis using sequences of characterized fungal sugar transporters, we aimed to identify transporter candidates for the tested sugars. Following this approach, we found a high correlation of uptake rates and expression strengths for many sugars with dedicated transporters, like galacturonic acid and arabinose, while the correlation is loose for sugars that are transported by several transporters due to functional redundancy. Nevertheless, this combinatorial approach allowed us to elucidate the uptake system for the disaccharide lactose, a by-product of the dairy industry, which consists of the two main cellodextrin transporters CDT-1 and CDT-2 with a minor contribution of the related transporter NCU00809. Moreover, a non-MFS transporter involved in glycerol transport was also identified. Deorphanization of sugar transporters or identification of transporters for orphan sugar substrates by correlation of uptake kinetics with transporter expression and phylogenetic information can thus provide a way to optimize the reuse of food industry by-products and agricultural wastes by filamentous fungi in order to create economic value and reduce their environmental impact. KEY POINTS: • The Neurospora crassa genome contains 30 uncharacterized putative sugar transporter genes. • Correlation of transporter expression and sugar uptake profiles can help to identify transporters for orphan sugar substrates. • CDT-1, CDT-2, and NCU00809 are key players in the transport of the dairy by-product lactose in N. crassa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Tamayo
- Fungal Biotechnology in Wood Science, Holzforschung München, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany.
| | - Basant Nada
- Fungal Biotechnology in Wood Science, Holzforschung München, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Isabell Hafermann
- Fungal Biotechnology in Wood Science, Holzforschung München, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - J Philipp Benz
- Fungal Biotechnology in Wood Science, Holzforschung München, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
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129
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Liu F, Wang ZK, Li MY, Zhang XL, Cai FC, Wang XD, Gao XF, Li W. Characterization of biliary and duodenal microbiota in patients with primary and recurrent choledocholithiasis. Health Inf Sci Syst 2024; 12:29. [PMID: 38584761 PMCID: PMC10994894 DOI: 10.1007/s13755-023-00267-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To explore the biliary and duodenal microbiota features associated with the formation and recurrence of choledocholithiasis (CDL). Methods We prospectively recruited patients with primary (P-CDL, n = 29) and recurrent CDL (R-CDL, n = 27) for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Duodenal mucosa (DM), bile and bile duct stones (BDS) samples were collected in P- and R-CDL patients. DM samples were also collected in 8 healthy controls (HC). The microbiota profile analysis was performed with 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results Short-course antibiotic application before ERCP showed no significant effects in alpha and beta diversities of the biliary and duodenal microbiota in CDL. Alpha diversity showed no difference between DM and bile samples in CDL. The duodenal microbial richness and diversity was lower in both P- and R-CDL than HC. The biliary microbiota composition showed a high similarity between P- and R-CDL. Fusobacterium and Enterococcus were higher abundant in DM, bile, and BDS samples of R-CDL than P-CDL, as well as Escherichia and Klebsiella in bile samples of R-CDL. The enriched duodenal and biliary bacteria in CDL were closely associated with cholecystectomy, inflammation and liver dysfunction. The bile-associated microbiota of R-CDL expressed enhanced capacity of D-glucuronide and D-glucuronate degradation, implicating an elevated level of β-glucuronidase probably produced by enriched Escherichia and Klebsiella in bile. Conclusions The duodenal microbiota was in an imbalance in CDL. The duodenal microbiota was probably the main source of the biliary microbiota and was closely related to CDL formation and recurrence. Enterococcus, Fusobacterium, Escherichia and Klebsiella might contribute to CDL recurrence. Clinical trials The study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (https://www.chictr.org.cn/index.html, ChiCTR2000033940). Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13755-023-00267-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Liu
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, The First Medical Center, No. 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853 China
| | - Zi-Kai Wang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, The First Medical Center, No. 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853 China
| | - Ming-Yang Li
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, The First Medical Center, No. 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853 China
| | - Xiu-li Zhang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, The First Medical Center, No. 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853 China
| | - Feng-Chun Cai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, The First Medical Center, No. 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853 China
| | - Xiang-Dong Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, The First Medical Center, No. 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853 China
| | - Xue-Feng Gao
- Integrative Microecology Clinical Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Microbiota and Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Shenzhen Technology Research Center of Gut Microbiota Transplantation, The Clinical Innovation & Research Center, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000 Guangdong China
| | - Wen Li
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, The First Medical Center, No. 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853 China
- Minimally Invasive Digestive Disease Center, Beijing and Shenzhen United Family Hospital, Beijing, China
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130
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Korhonen PK, Wang T, Young ND, Byrne JJ, Campos TL, Chang BC, Taki AC, Gasser RB. Analysis of Haemonchus embryos at single cell resolution identifies two eukaryotic elongation factors as intervention target candidates. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1026-1035. [PMID: 38435301 PMCID: PMC10907403 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Advances in single cell technologies are allowing investigations of a wide range of biological processes and pathways in animals, such as the multicellular model organism Caenorhabditis elegans - a free-living nematode. However, there has been limited application of such technology to related parasitic nematodes which cause major diseases of humans and animals worldwide. With no vaccines against the vast majority of parasitic nematodes and treatment failures due to drug resistance or inefficacy, new intervention targets are urgently needed, preferably informed by a deep understanding of these nematodes' cellular and molecular biology - which is presently lacking for most worms. Here, we created the first single cell atlas for an early developmental stage of Haemonchus contortus - a highly pathogenic, C. elegans-related parasitic nematode. We obtained and curated RNA sequence (snRNA-seq) data from single nuclei from embryonating eggs of H. contortus (150,000 droplets), and selected high-quality transcriptomic data for > 14,000 single nuclei for analysis, and identified 19 distinct clusters of cells. Guided by comparative analyses with C. elegans, we were able to reproducibly assign seven cell clusters to body wall muscle, hypodermis, neuronal, intestinal or seam cells, and identified eight genes that were transcribed in all cell clusters/types, three of which were inferred to be essential in H. contortus. Two of these genes (i.e. Hc-eef-1A and Hc-eef1G), coding for eukaryotic elongation factors (called Hc-eEF1A and Hc-eEF1G), were also demonstrated to be transcribed and expressed in all key developmental stages of H. contortus. Together with these findings, sequence- and structure-based comparative analyses indicated the potential of Hc-eEF1A and/or Hc-eEF1G as intervention targets within the protein biosynthesis machinery of H. contortus. Future work will focus on single cell studies of all key developmental stages and tissues of H. contortus, and on evaluating the suitability of the two elongation factor proteins as drug targets in H. contortus and related nematodes, with a view to finding new nematocidal drug candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasi K. Korhonen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Neil D. Young
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Joseph J. Byrne
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Tulio L. Campos
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Bill C.H. Chang
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Aya C. Taki
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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131
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Akbaba Y, Kacı FN, Arslan ME, Göksü S, Mardinoğlu A, Türkez H. Novel tetrahydronaphthalen-1-yl-phenethyl ureas: synthesis and dual antibacterial-anticancer activities. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2024; 39:2286925. [PMID: 38062550 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2023.2286925] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer and antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections are significant global health challenges. The resistance developed in cancer treatments intensifies therapeutic difficulties. In addressing these challenges, this study synthesised a series of N,N'-dialkyl urea derivatives containing methoxy substituents on phenethylamines. Using isocyanate for the efficient synthesis yielded target products 14-18 in 73-76% returns. Subsequently, their antibacterial and anticancer potentials were assessed. Cytotoxicity tests on cancer cell lines, bacterial strains, and a healthy fibroblast line revealed promising outcomes. All derivatives demonstrated robust antibacterial activity, with MIC values ranging from 0.97 to 15.82 µM. Notably, compounds 14 and 16 were particularly effective against the HeLa cell line, while compounds 14, 15, and 17 showed significant activity against the SH-SY5Y cell line. Importantly, these compounds had reduced toxicity to healthy fibroblast cells than to cancer cells, suggesting their potential as dual-functioning agents targeting both cancer and bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Akbaba
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Science, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Fatma Necmiye Kacı
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Faculty of Science, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum, Turkey
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, St. James' University Hospital, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Mehmet Enes Arslan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Süleyman Göksü
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Adil Mardinoğlu
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Hasan Türkez
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
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132
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Zhao Y, Zhou C, Guo B, Yang X, Wang H. Pyrococcus furiosus Argonaute-mediated porcine epidemic diarrhea virus detection. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:137. [PMID: 38229331 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12919-0] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), an enteric coronavirus, induces severe vomiting and acute watery diarrhea in unweaned piglets. The pig industry has suffered tremendous financial losses due to the high mortality rate of piglets caused by PEDV. Consequently, a simple and rapid on-site diagnostic technology is crucial for preventing and controlling PEDV. This study established a detection method for PEDV using recombinase-aided amplification (RAA) and Pyrococcus furiosus Argonaute (PfAgo), which can detect 100 copies of PEDV without cross-reactivity with other pathogens. The entire reaction of RAA and PfAgo to detect PEDV does not require sophisticated instruments, and the reaction results can be observed with the naked eye. Overall, this integrated RAA-PfAgo cleavage assay is a practical tool for accurately and quickly detecting PEDV. KEY POINTS: • PfAgo has the potential to serve as a viable molecular diagnostic tool for the detection and diagnosis of viral genomes • The RAA-PfAgo detection technique has a remarkable level of sensitivity and specificity • The RAA-PfAgo detection system can identify PEDV without needing advanced equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhao
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Changyu Zhou
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Boyan Guo
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Hongning Wang
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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133
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Li M, Qing R, Tao F, Xu P, Zhang S. Inhibitory effect of truncated isoforms on GPCR dimerization predicted by combinatorial computational strategy. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:278-286. [PMID: 38173876 PMCID: PMC10762321 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play a pivotal role in fundamental biological processes and disease development. GPCR isoforms, derived from alternative splicing, can exhibit distinct signaling patterns. Some highly-truncated isoforms can impact functional performance of full-length receptors, suggesting their intriguing regulatory roles. However, how these truncated isoforms interact with full-length counterparts remains largely unexplored. Here, we computationally investigated the interaction patterns of three human GPCRs from three different classes, ADORA1 (Class A), mGlu2 (Class C) and SMO (Class F) with their respective truncated isoforms because their homodimer structures have been experimentally determined, and they have truncated isoforms deposited and identified at protein level in Uniprot database. Combining the neural network-based AlphaFold2 and two physics-based protein-protein docking tools, we generated multiple complex structures and assessed the binding affinity in the context of atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. Our computational results suggested all the four studied truncated isoforms showed potent binding to their counterparts and overlapping interfaces with homodimers, indicating their strong potential to block homodimerization of their counterparts. Our study offers insights into functional significance of GPCR truncated isoforms and supports the ubiquity of their regulatory roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengke Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Architecture, Media Lab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Rui Qing
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Fei Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ping Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Shuguang Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Architecture, Media Lab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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Ni Y, Zhang H, Xian Q, Qin W, Su H, Wang L, Li J. RfxCas13d-mediated inhibition of Circ1647 alleviates renal fibrosis via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Ren Fail 2024; 46:2331612. [PMID: 38527916 PMCID: PMC10964833 DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2024.2331612] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circular RNAs (CircRNAs) have been shown to be involved in the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study aimed to investigate the role of Circ1647 in renal fibrosis, which is a hallmark of CKD. METHODS In this study, we established a unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model and delivered Circ1647 RfxCas13d knockdown plasmid into renal parenchymal cells via retrograde injection through the ureter followed by electroporation. After that, the pathological changes were determined by Hematoxylin and Eosin. Meanwhile, Immunohistochemistry, qRT-PCR and Western blot were conducted to assess the degree of fibrosis. In addition, overexpressing of Circ1647 in renal tubular epithelial cells (TCMK1) was performed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of Circ1647. RESULTS Our results displayed that electroporation-mediated knockdown of Circ1647 by RfxCas13d knockdown plasmid significantly inhibited renal fibrosis in UUO mice as evidenced by reduced expression of fibronectin and α-SMA (alpha-smooth muscle actin). Conversely, overexpression of Circ1647 in TCMK1 cells promoted the fibrosis. In terms of mechanism, Circ1647 may mediate the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway as demonstrated by the balance of the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT in vivo and the aggravated phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT in vitro. These observations were corroborated by the effects of the PI3K inhibitor LY294002, which mitigated fibrosis post Circ1647 overexpression. CONCLUSION Our study suggests that Circ1647 plays a significant role in renal fibrosis by mediating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. RfxCas13d-mediated inhibition of Circ1647 may serve as a therapeutic target for renal fibrosis in CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufang Ni
- Research Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Hongmin Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Traditional Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Qianwen Xian
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Wenjie Qin
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Hongwei Su
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Traditional Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Li Wang
- Research Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jianchun Li
- Research Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
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135
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Jin W, Zhou Y, Bartesaghi A. Accurate size-based protein localization from cryo-ET tomograms. J Struct Biol X 2024; 10:100104. [PMID: 39044770 PMCID: PMC11263962 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjsbx.2024.100104] [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] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) combined with sub-tomogram averaging (STA) allows the determination of protein structures imaged within the native context of the cell at near-atomic resolution. Particle picking is an essential step in the cryo-ET/STA image analysis pipeline that consists in locating the position of proteins within crowded cellular tomograms so that they can be aligned and averaged in 3D to improve resolution. While extensive work in 2D particle picking has been done in the context of single-particle cryo-EM, comparatively fewer strategies have been proposed to pick particles from 3D tomograms, in part due to the challenges associated with working with noisy 3D volumes affected by the missing wedge. While strategies based on 3D template-matching and deep learning are commonly used, these methods are computationally expensive and require either an external template or manual labelling which can bias the results and limit their applicability. Here, we propose a size-based method to pick particles from tomograms that is fast, accurate, and does not require external templates or user provided labels. We compare the performance of our approach against a commonly used algorithm based on deep learning, crYOLO, and show that our method: i) has higher detection accuracy, ii) does not require user input for labeling or time-consuming training, and iii) runs efficiently on non-specialized CPU hardware. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach by automatically detecting particles from tomograms representing different types of samples and using these particles to determine the high-resolution structures of ribosomes imaged in vitro and in situ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weisheng Jin
- Department of Computer Science, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | - Ye Zhou
- Department of Computer Science, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | - Alberto Bartesaghi
- Department of Computer Science, Duke University, Durham, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, USA
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136
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Ma W, Tang W, Kwok JS, Tong AH, Lo CW, Chu AT, Chung BH. A review on trends in development and translation of omics signatures in cancer. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:954-971. [PMID: 38385061 PMCID: PMC10879706 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The field of cancer genomics and transcriptomics has evolved from targeted profiling to swift sequencing of individual tumor genome and transcriptome. The steady growth in genome, epigenome, and transcriptome datasets on a genome-wide scale has significantly increased our capability in capturing signatures that represent both the intrinsic and extrinsic biological features of tumors. These biological differences can help in precise molecular subtyping of cancer, predicting tumor progression, metastatic potential, and resistance to therapeutic agents. In this review, we summarized the current development of genomic, methylomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolic signatures in the field of cancer research and highlighted their potentials in clinical applications to improve diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment decision in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ma
- Hong Kong Genome Institute, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wenshu Tang
- Hong Kong Genome Institute, Hong Kong, China
| | | | | | | | | | - Brian H.Y. Chung
- Hong Kong Genome Institute, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hong Kong Genome Project
- Hong Kong Genome Institute, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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137
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Yu HJ, Byun YH, Park CK. Techniques for assessing telomere length: A methodological review. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1489-1498. [PMID: 38633384 PMCID: PMC11021795 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are located at the ends of chromosomes and have specific sequences with a distinctive structure that safeguards genes. They possess capping structures that protect chromosome ends from fusion events and ensure chromosome stability. Telomeres shorten in length during each cycle of cell division. When this length reaches a certain threshold, it can lead to genomic instability, thus being implicated in various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The possibility of telomeres serving as a biomarker for aging and age-related disease is being explored, and their significance is still under study. This is because post-mitotic cells, which are mature cells that do not undergo mitosis, do not experience telomere shortening due to age. Instead, other causes, for example, exposure to oxidative stress, can directly damage the telomeres, causing genomic instability. Nonetheless, a general agreement has been established that measuring telomere length offers valuable insights and forms a crucial foundation for analyzing gene expression and epigenetic data. Numerous approaches have been developed to accurately measure telomere lengths. In this review, we summarize various methods and their advantages and limitations for assessing telomere length.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Jong Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Hwan Byun
- Department of Neurosurgery, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chul-Kee Park
- Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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138
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Kang B, Jia Z, Dong Y, Li W, Zhang W. Recombinant human annexin A5 accelerates diabetic wounds healing by regulating skin inflammation. Regen Ther 2024; 27:342-353. [PMID: 38645281 PMCID: PMC11031805 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2024.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background One of the key obstacles to the healing of diabetic wound is the persistence of active inflammation. We previously demonstrated the potential of cell-free fat extract (CEFFE) to promote the healing of diabetic wounds, and annexin A5 (A5) is a crucial anti-inflammatory protein within CEFFE. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of A5 in diabetic wounds. Methods A5 was loaded into GelMA hydrogels and applied to skin wounds of diabetic mice in vivo. The diabetic wounds with the treatment of GelMA-A5 were observed for 14 days and evaluated by histological analysis. Accessment of inflammation regulation were conducted through anti-CD68 staining, anti-CD86 and anti-CD206 staining, and qRT-PCR of wound tissue. In presence of A5, macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro, and detected through qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, and immunocytofluorescence staining. Besides, epithelial cells were co-cultured with A5 for epithelialization regulation by CCK-8 assay and cell migration assay. Results A5 could promote diabetic wound healing and regulate inflammations by promoting the transition of macrophages from M1 to M2 phenotype. In vitro experiments demonstrated that A5 exerted a significant effect on reducing pro-inflammatory factors and inhibiting the polarization of macrophages from M0 toward M1 phenotype. A5 significantly promoted the migration of epithelial cells. Conclusion Annexin A5 has a significant impact on the regulation of macrophage inflammation and promotion of epithelialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijun Kang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, National Tissue Engineering Center of China, 639 ZhiZaoJu Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Zhuoxuan Jia
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, National Tissue Engineering Center of China, 639 ZhiZaoJu Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yushan Dong
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, National Tissue Engineering Center of China, 639 ZhiZaoJu Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, National Tissue Engineering Center of China, 639 ZhiZaoJu Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Wenjie Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, National Tissue Engineering Center of China, 639 ZhiZaoJu Road, Shanghai 200011, China
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139
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Elbahnsi A, Dudas B, Cisternino S, Declèves X, Miteva MA. Mechanistic insights into P-glycoprotein ligand transport and inhibition revealed by enhanced molecular dynamics simulations. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2548-2564. [PMID: 38989058 PMCID: PMC11233806 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
P-glycoprotein (P-gp) plays a crucial role in cellular detoxification and drug efflux processes, transitioning between inward-facing (IF) open, occluded, and outward-facing (OF) states to facilitate substrate transport. Its role is critical in cancer therapy, where P-gp contributes to the multidrug resistance phenotype. In our study, classical and enhanced molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted to dissect the structural and functional features of the P-gp conformational states. Our advanced MD simulations, including kinetically excited targeted MD (ketMD) and adiabatic biasing MD (ABMD), provided deeper insights into state transition and translocation mechanisms. Our findings suggest that the unkinking of TM4 and TM10 helices is a prerequisite for correctly achieving the outward conformation. Simulations of the IF-occluded conformations, characterized by kinked TM4 and TM10 helices, consistently demonstrated altered communication between the transmembrane domains (TMDs) and nucleotide binding domain 2 (NBD2), suggesting the implication of this interface in inhibiting P-gp's efflux function. A particular emphasis was placed on the unstructured linker segment connecting the NBD1 to TMD2 and its role in the transporter's dynamics. With the linker present, we specifically noticed a potential entrance of cholesterol (CHOL) through the TM4-TM6 portal, shedding light on crucial residues involved in accommodating CHOL. We therefore suggest that this entry mechanism could be employed for some P-gp substrates or inhibitors. Our results provide critical data for understanding P-gp functioning and developing new P-gp inhibitors for establishing more effective strategies against multidrug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Elbahnsi
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 8038 CiTCoM, Inserm U1268 MCTR, Paris, France
| | - Balint Dudas
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 8038 CiTCoM, Inserm U1268 MCTR, Paris, France
| | - Salvatore Cisternino
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm UMRS 1144, Optimisation Thérapeutique en Neuropsychopharmacologie, Paris, France
| | - Xavier Declèves
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm UMRS 1144, Optimisation Thérapeutique en Neuropsychopharmacologie, Paris, France
| | - Maria A. Miteva
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 8038 CiTCoM, Inserm U1268 MCTR, Paris, France
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Long R, Suoangbaji, Ng IOL, Ho DWH. LiverSCA: A comprehensive and user-friendly cell atlas in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2740-2745. [PMID: 39050786 PMCID: PMC11266871 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
We developed a cell atlas named LiverSCA on human liver cancer single-cell RNA sequencing data. It has a user-friendly web interface and comprehensive functionalities aiming to help researchers to make easy access to cellular and molecular landscapes of the tumor microenvironment in liver cancer. LiverSCA includes a complete analytical pipeline that allow mechanistic exploration on a wide variety of functionalities, such as cell clustering, cell annotation, identification of differentially expressed genes, functional enrichment analysis, analysis of cellular crosstalk, and pseudo-time trajectory analysis. Notably, our intuitive web interface allows users, particularly wet-lab researchers, to easily explore and undertake data discovery, without the need to handle any of the raw data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renwen Long
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Suoangbaji
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Irene Oi-Lin Ng
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Daniel Wai-Hung Ho
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Czeczot ADM, Muniz MN, Perelló MA, Silva ÉED, Timmers LFSM, Berger A, Gonzalez LC, Arraché Gonçalves G, Moura S, Machado P, Bizarro CV, Basso LA. Crystal structure of dihydroneopterin aldolase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis associated with 8-mercaptoguanine, and development of novel S8-functionalized analogues as inhibitors: Synthesis, enzyme inhibition, in vitro toxicity and antitubercular activity. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2024; 39:2388207. [PMID: 39140692 PMCID: PMC11328599 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2024.2388207] [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: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The crystallographic structure of the FolB enzyme from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MtFolB), complexed with its inhibitor 8-mercaptoguanine (8-MG), was elucidated at a resolution of 1.95 Å. A novel series of S8-functionalized 8-MG derivatives were synthesised and evaluated as in vitro inhibitors of dihydroneopterin aldolase (DHNA, EC 4.1.2.25) activity of MtFolB. These compounds exhibited IC50 values in the submicromolar range. Evaluation of the activity for five compounds indicated their inhibition mode and inhibition constants. Molecular docking analyses were performed to determine the enzyme-inhibitor intermolecular interactions and ligand conformations upon complex formation. The inhibitory activities of all compounds against the M. tuberculosis H37Rv strain were evaluated. Compound 3e exhibited a minimum inhibitory concentration in the micromolar range. Finally, Compound 3e showed no apparent toxicity in both HepG2 and Vero cells. The findings presented herein will advance the quest for novel, specific inhibitors targeting MtFolB, an attractive molecular target for TB drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia de Matos Czeczot
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Escola de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Mauro Neves Muniz
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Marcia Alberton Perelló
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Éverton Edésio Dinis Silva
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Andresa Berger
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Laura Calle Gonzalez
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Arraché Gonçalves
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Escola de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Sidnei Moura
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Produtos Naturais e Sintéticos, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidade de Caxias do Sul, Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Pablo Machado
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Escola de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Cristiano Valim Bizarro
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Luiz Augusto Basso
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Escola de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Hou D, Liu R, Hao S, Dou Y, Chen G, Liu L, Li T, Cao Y, Huang H, Duan C. Notoginsenoside R1 improves intestinal microvascular functioning in sepsis by targeting Drp1-mediated mitochondrial quality imbalance. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2024; 62:250-260. [PMID: 38389274 PMCID: PMC10896147 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2024.2318349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Sepsis can result in critical organ failure, and notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) offers mitochondrial protection. OBJECTIVE To determine whether NGR1 improves organ function and prognosis after sepsis by protecting mitochondrial quality. MATERIALS AND METHODS A sepsis model was established in C57BL/6 mice using cecum ligation puncture (CLP) and an in vitro model with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 10 µg/mL)-stimulated primary intestinal microvascular endothelial cells (IMVECs) and then determine NGR1's safe dosage. Groups for each model were: in vivo-a control group, a CLP-induced sepsis group, and a CLP + NGR1 treatment group (30 mg/kg/d for 3 d); in vitro-a control group, a LPS-induced sepsis group, and a LPS + NGR1 treatment group (4 μM for 30 min). NGR1's effects on survival, intestinal function, mitochondrial quality, and mitochondrial dynamic-related protein (Drp1) were evaluated. RESULTS Sepsis resulted in approximately 60% mortality within 7 days post-CLP, with significant reductions in intestinal microvascular perfusion and increases in vascular leakage. Severe mitochondrial quality imbalance was observed in IMVECs. NGR1 (IC50 is 854.1 μM at 30 min) targeted Drp1, inhibiting mitochondrial translocation, preventing mitochondrial fragmentation and restoring IMVEC morphology and function, thus protecting against intestinal barrier dysfunction, vascular permeability, microcirculatory flow, and improving sepsis prognosis. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Drp1-mediated mitochondrial quality imbalance is a potential therapeutic target for sepsis. Small molecule natural drugs like NGR1 targeting Drp1 may offer new directions for organ protection following sepsis. Future research should focus on clinical trials to evaluate NGR1's efficacy across various patient populations, potentially leading to novel treatments for sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyao Hou
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Ruixue Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Shuai Hao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
- Research Institute of General Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Yong Dou
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Guizhen Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Liangming Liu
- Department of Shock and Transfusion, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Shock and Transfusion, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Yunxing Cao
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - He Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Chenyang Duan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
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Zheng F, Jiang X, Wen Y, Yang Y, Li M. Systematic investigation of machine learning on limited data: A study on predicting protein-protein binding strength. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:460-472. [PMID: 38235359 PMCID: PMC10792694 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The application of machine learning techniques in biological research, especially when dealing with limited data availability, poses significant challenges. In this study, we leveraged advancements in method development for predicting protein-protein binding strength to conduct a systematic investigation into the application of machine learning on limited data. The binding strength, quantitatively measured as binding affinity, is vital for understanding the processes of recognition, association, and dysfunction that occur within protein complexes. By incorporating transfer learning, integrating domain knowledge, and employing both deep learning and traditional machine learning algorithms, we mitigated the impact of data limitations and made significant advancements in predicting protein-protein binding affinity. In particular, we developed over 20 models, ultimately selecting three representative best-performing ones that belong to distinct categories. The first model is structure-based, consisting of a random forest regression and thirteen handcrafted features. The second model is sequence-based, employing an architecture that combines transferred embedding features with a multilayer perceptron. Finally, we created an ensemble model by averaging the predictions of the two aforementioned models. The comparison with other predictors on three independent datasets confirms the significant improvements achieved by our models in predicting protein-protein binding affinity. The programs for running these three models are available at https://github.com/minghuilab/BindPPI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifan Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215123, China
| | - Xin Jiang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215123, China
| | - Yuhao Wen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215123, China
| | - Yan Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215123, China
| | - Minghui Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215123, China
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Marmion M, Macori G, Barroug S, Soro AB, Bourke P, Tiwari BK, Whyte P, Scannell AGM. Added insult to injury? The response of meat-associated pathogens to proposed antimicrobial interventions. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:87. [PMID: 38189954 PMCID: PMC10774175 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12849-x] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Modern requirements for 'green label' meat products have led to the design of novel antimicrobial innovations which prioritise quality, safety and longevity. Plasma-functionalised water (PFW), ultraviolet light and natural antimicrobial compositions have been investigated and optimised for control of foodborne pathogens like Campylobacter jejuni and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. However, given the adaptive mechanisms present in bacteria under external stresses, it is imperative to understand the effect that sublethal treatment may have on the bacterial transcriptome. In this study, Salmonella Typhimurium and C. jejuni were treated with sublethal doses of ultraviolet light, a citrus juice/essential oil marinade, and 'spark' or 'glow' cold plasma generation system-produced PFW. Immediately after treatment, cells were lysed and RNA was extracted and purified. mRNA was converted to cDNA by reverse transcription-PCR and sequenced by an Illumina MiSeq® system. Sequences were filtered and analysed using the Tuxedo workflow. Sublethal treatment of Campylobacter jejuni and Salmonella Typhimurium led to increased immediate cellular and metabolic activity, as well as diversification in protein and metabolic functioning. There was further expression of pathogenesis and virulence-associated traits associated with spark PFW and marinade treatment of Salmonella Typhimurium. However, similar concerns were not raised with glow PFW or UV-treated samples. This study provides science-based evidence of the efficacy of multi-hurdle antimicrobial system using green-label marinades and PFW or UV to inactivate pathogens without upregulating virulence traits in surviving cells. This study will inform policymakers and food industry stakeholders and reinforces the need to incorporate in-line novel technologies to ensure consumer safety. KEY POINTS: • Salmonella and C. jejuni showed increased cell activity in immediate response to stress. • Virulence genes showed increased expression when treated with natural antimicrobials and sPFW. • Reduced immediate transcriptomic response to gPFW and UV treatment indicates lower risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maitiú Marmion
- UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04V4W8, Ireland.
- UCD Centre for Food Safety, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04V4W8, Ireland.
| | - Guerrino Macori
- UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04V4W8, Ireland
- UCD Centre for Food Safety, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04V4W8, Ireland
| | - Soukaina Barroug
- UCD School of Biosystems and Engineering, School of Public Health, Physiotherapy & Sports Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04V4W8, Ireland
| | - Arturo B Soro
- UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04V4W8, Ireland
- Department of Food Chemistry and Technology, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin 15, D15 KN3K, Ireland
| | - Paula Bourke
- UCD School of Biosystems and Engineering, School of Public Health, Physiotherapy & Sports Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04V4W8, Ireland
| | - Brijesh K Tiwari
- Department of Food Chemistry and Technology, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin 15, D15 KN3K, Ireland
| | - Paul Whyte
- UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04V4W8, Ireland
| | - Amalia G M Scannell
- UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04V4W8, Ireland
- UCD Centre for Food Safety, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04V4W8, Ireland
- UCD Institute of Food and Health, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04V4W8, Ireland
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Li X, Feng R, Luo P, Zhang Y, Lu L. Synergistic effects of putative Ca 2+-binding sites of calmodulin in fungal development, temperature stress and virulence of Aspergillus fumigatus. Virulence 2024; 15:2290757. [PMID: 38085844 PMCID: PMC10761034 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2290757] [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: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In pathogenic fungi, calcium-calmodulin-dependent serine-threonine-specific phosphatase calcineurin is involved in morphogenesis and virulence. Therefore, calcineurin and its tightly related protein complexes are attractive antifungal drug targets. However, there is limited knowledge available on the relationship between in vivo Ca2+-binding sites of calmodulin (CaM) and its functions in regulating stress responses, morphogenesis, and pathogenesis. In the current study, we demonstrated that calmodulin is required for hyphal growth, conidiation, and virulence in the human fungal pathogen, Aspergillus fumigatus. Site-directed mutations of calmodulin revealed that a single Ca2+-binding site mutation had no significant effect on A. fumigatus hyphal development, but multiple Ca2+-binding site mutations exhibited synergistic effects, especially when cultured at 42 °C, indicating that calmodulin function in response to temperature stress depends on its Ca2+-binding sites. Western blotting implied that mutations in Ca2+-binding sites caused highly degraded calmodulin fragments, suggesting that the loss of Ca2+-binding sites results in reduced protein stability. Moreover, normal intracellular calcium homeostasis and the nuclear translocation of the transcriptional factor CrzA are dependent on Ca2+-binding sites of AfCaM, demonstrating that Ca2+-binding sites of calmodulin are required for calcium signalling and its major transcription factor CrzA. Importantly, in situ mutations for four Ca2+-binding sites of calmodulin resulted in an almost complete loss of virulence in the Galleria mellonella wax moth model. This study shed more light on the functional characterization of putative calcium-binding sites of calmodulin in the morphogenesis and virulence of A. fumigatus, which enhances our understanding of calmodulin biological functions in cells of opportunistic fungal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyue Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruoyun Feng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Pan Luo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanwei Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
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146
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Du X, Tang Z, Yan L, Zhang L, Zheng Q, Zeng X, Hu Q, Tian Q, Liang L, Zhao X, Li J, Zhao M, Fu X. Norepinephrine may promote the progression of Fusobacterium nucleatum related colorectal cancer via quorum sensing signalling. Virulence 2024; 15:2350904. [PMID: 38725098 PMCID: PMC11085999 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2350904] [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: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum) is closely correlated with tumorigenesis in colorectal cancer (CRC). We aimed to investigate the effects of host norepinephrine on the carcinogenicity of F. nucleatum in CRC and reveal the underlying mechanism. The results revealed that both norepinephrine and bacterial quorum sensing (QS) molecule auto-inducer-2 (AI-2) were positively associated with the progression of F. nucleatum related CRC (p < 0.01). In vitro studies, norepinephrine induced upregulation of QS-associated genes and promoted the virulence and proliferation of F. nucleatum. Moreover, chronic stress significantly increased the colon tumour burden of ApcMin/+ mice infected with F. nucleatum (p < 0.01), which was decreased by a catecholamine inhibitor (p < 0.001). Our findings suggest that stress-induced norepinephrine may promote the progression of F. nucleatum related CRC via bacterial QS signalling. These preliminary data provide a novel strategy for the management of pathogenic bacteria by targeting host hormones-bacterial QS inter-kingdom signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhao Du
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Medical College and the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Zhenzhen Tang
- Clinical Medical College, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Li Yan
- Clinical Medical College, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Clinical Medical College, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Qiao Zheng
- Clinical Medical College, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Xianghao Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Medical College and the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Qing Hu
- Clinical Medical College, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Qian Tian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Medical College and the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Lanfan Liang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Medical College and the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Xinyu Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Medical College and the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Medical College and the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Ming Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Medical College and the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Xiangsheng Fu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Medical College and the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
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147
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Li S, Mu R, Zhu Y, Zhao F, Qiu Q, Si H, Wright ADG, Li Z. Shifts in the microbial community and metabolome in rumen ecological niches during antler growth. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1608-1618. [PMID: 38680874 PMCID: PMC11047195 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Antlers are hallmark organ of deer, exhibiting a relatively high growth rate among mammals, and requiring large amounts of nutrients to meet its development. The rumen microbiota plays key roles in nutrient metabolism. However, changes in the microbiota and metabolome in the rumen during antler growth are largely unknown. We investigated rumen microbiota (liquid, solid, ventral epithelium, and dorsal epithelium) and metabolic profiles of sika deer at the early (EG), metaphase (MG) and fast growth (FG) stages. Our data showed greater concentrations of acetate and propionate in the rumens of sika deer from the MG and FG groups than in those of the EG group. However, microbial diversity decreased during antler growth, and was negatively correlated with short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels. Prevotella, Ruminococcus, Schaedlerella and Stenotrophomonas were the dominant bacteria in the liquid, solid, ventral epithelium, and dorsal epithelium fractions. The proportions of Stomatobaculum, Succiniclasticum, Comamonas and Anaerotruncus increased significantly in the liquid or dorsal epithelium fractions. Untargeted metabolomics analysis revealed that the metabolites also changed significantly, revealing 237 significantly different metabolites, among which the concentrations of γ-aminobutyrate and creatine increased during antler growth. Arginine and proline metabolism and alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism were enhanced. The co-occurrence network results showed that the associations between the rumen microbiota and metabolites different among the three groups. Our results revealed that the different rumen ecological niches were characterized by distinct microbiota compositions, and the production of SCFAs and the metabolism of specific amino acids were significantly changed during antler growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songze Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Modern Agricultural Technology, Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Ruina Mu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Yuhang Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Fei Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Qiang Qiu
- School of Ecology and Environment, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710100, China
| | - Huazhe Si
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
- Key Lab of Animal Production, Product Quality and Security, Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
- Jilin Provincial Engineering Research Center for Efficient Breeding and Product Development of Sika Deer, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | | | - Zhipeng Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Modern Agricultural Technology, Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
- Key Lab of Animal Production, Product Quality and Security, Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
- Jilin Provincial Engineering Research Center for Efficient Breeding and Product Development of Sika Deer, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
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148
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Lu Y, Xu C, Xie K, Zhao B, Wang M, Qian C, Chen X, Gu L, Wu W, Lu R. The relationship between thiamin, folic acid and cognitive function in a rat model of uremia. Ren Fail 2024; 46:2329257. [PMID: 38482596 PMCID: PMC10946272 DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2024.2329257] [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: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
End-stage renal disease is a worldwide health burden, but the pathogenesis of uremia-associated cognitive impairment (CI) is poorly recognized. We hypothesized that uremia brings about deficiency of thiamin and folic acid and causes CI by inducing oxidative stress. Therefore, 24 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups: a 5/6 nephrectomy group (n = 12) and a sham-operated group (n = 12). The Morris water maze was used to assess the cognitive function eight weeks post-surgery, and serum levels of thiamin, folic acid and homocysteine were detected subsequently. Brain and kidney tissues were collected for pathological examination and 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) immunochemistry staining. Results showed that the escape latency on training days 1-2 was longer, and the time in quadrant IV on experimental day 6 was significantly shorter in 5/6 nephrectomy group. Meanwhile, the uremic rats showed decreased thiamin, folic acid and increased homocysteine. We also found the time in quadrant IV was positively correlated with thiamin and folic acid level, while negatively correlated with the blood urea nitrogen and 8-OHdG positive cell proportion. Furthermore, in 5/6 nephrectomy group, the hippocampal neuron count was significantly reduced, and a greater proportion of 8-OHdG positive cells were detected. Pretreating LPS-stimulated rat microglial cells with thiamin or folic acid in vitro alleviated the inflammatory impairment in terms of cell viability and oxidative stress. In summary, we applied a uremic rat model and proved that uremia causes serum thiamin and folic acid deficiency, homocysteine elevation, along with neuron reduction and severe oxidative stress in hippocampus, finally leading to CI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Chenqi Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kewei Xie
- Department of Nephrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bingru Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Minzhou Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Qian
- Department of Nephrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Leyi Gu
- Department of Nephrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wangshu Wu
- Department of Nephrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Renhua Lu
- Department of Nephrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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149
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Mohamed AH, Alshammari MB, Aly AA, Sadek KU, Ahmad A, Aziz EA, El-Yazbi AF, El-Agroudy EJ, Abdelaziz ME. New imidazole-2-thiones linked to acenaphythylenone as dual DNA intercalators and topoisomerase II inhibitors: structural optimization, docking, and apoptosis studies. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2024; 39:2311818. [PMID: 38488131 PMCID: PMC10946275 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2024.2311818] [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: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In this article, a new series of 2-((3,5-disubstituted-2-thioxo-imidazol-1-yl)imino)acenaphthylen-1(2H)-ones were synthesized. Imidazole-2-thione with acenaphthylen-one gave a hybrid scaffold that integrated key structural elements essential for DNA damage via direct DNA intercalation and inhibition of the topoisomerase II enzyme. All the synthesized compounds were screened to detect their DNA damage using a terbium fluorescent probe. Results demonstrated that 4-phenyl-imidazoles 5b and 5e in addition to 4-(4-chlorophenyl)imidazoles 5h and 5j would induce detectable potent damage in ctDNA. The four most potent compounds as DNA intercalators were further evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against HepG2, MCF-7 and HCT-116 utilizing the MTT assay. The highest anticancer activity was recorded with compounds 5b and 5h against the breast cancer cell line MCF-7 which were 1.5- and 3- folds more active than doxorubicin, respectively. Therefore, imidazole-2-thione tethered acenaphthylenone derivatives can be considered as promising scaffold for the development of effective dual DNA intercalators and topoisomerase II inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa H. Mohamed
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
| | - Mohammed B. Alshammari
- Chemistry Department, College of Sciences and Humanities, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharij, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashraf A. Aly
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
| | - Kamal U. Sadek
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
| | - Akil Ahmad
- Chemistry Department, College of Sciences and Humanities, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharij, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eman A. Aziz
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
| | - Amira F. El-Yazbi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Eman J. El-Agroudy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Marwa E. Abdelaziz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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150
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Li R, Zhu X, Zhang P, Wu X, Jin Q, Pan J. Ser/Thr protein kinase Stk1 phosphorylates the key transcriptional regulator AlgR to modulate virulence and resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Virulence 2024; 15:2367649. [PMID: 38898809 PMCID: PMC11197903 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2367649] [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: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the leading causes of nosocomial infections worldwide and has emerged as a serious public health threat, due in large part to its multiple virulence factors and remarkable resistance capabilities. Stk1, a eukaryotic-type Ser/Thr protein kinase, has been shown in our previous work to be involved in the regulation of several signalling pathways and biological processes. Here, we demonstrate that deletion of stk1 leads to alterations in several virulence- and resistance-related physiological functions, including reduced pyocyanin and pyoverdine production, attenuated twitching motility, and enhanced biofilm production, extracellular polysaccharide secretion, and antibiotic resistance. Moreover, we identified AlgR, an important transcriptional regulator, as a substrate for Stk1, with its phosphorylation at the Ser143 site catalysed by Stk1. Intriguingly, both the deletion of stk1 and the mutation of Ser143 of AlgR to Ala result in similar changes in the above-mentioned physiological functions. Furthermore, assays of algR expression in these strains suggest that changes in the phosphorylation state of AlgR, rather than its expression level, underlie changes in these physiological functions. These findings uncover Stk1-mediated phosphorylation of AlgR as an important mechanism for regulating virulence and resistance in P. aeruginosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuan Zhu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuan Wu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qian Jin
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianyi Pan
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
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