1
|
Louros N, Schymkowitz J, Rousseau F. Mechanisms and pathology of protein misfolding and aggregation. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:912-933. [PMID: 37684425 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00647-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Despite advances in machine learning-based protein structure prediction, we are still far from fully understanding how proteins fold into their native conformation. The conventional notion that polypeptides fold spontaneously to their biologically active states has gradually been replaced by our understanding that cellular protein folding often requires context-dependent guidance from molecular chaperones in order to avoid misfolding. Misfolded proteins can aggregate into larger structures, such as amyloid fibrils, which perpetuate the misfolding process, creating a self-reinforcing cascade. A surge in amyloid fibril structures has deepened our comprehension of how a single polypeptide sequence can exhibit multiple amyloid conformations, known as polymorphism. The assembly of these polymorphs is not a random process but is influenced by the specific conditions and tissues in which they originate. This observation suggests that, similar to the folding of native proteins, the kinetics of pathological amyloid assembly are modulated by interactions specific to cells and tissues. Here, we review the current understanding of how intrinsic protein conformational propensities are modulated by physiological and pathological interactions in the cell to shape protein misfolding and aggregation pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Louros
- Switch Laboratory, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joost Schymkowitz
- Switch Laboratory, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Frederic Rousseau
- Switch Laboratory, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Matiiv AB, Trubitsina NP, Matveenko AG, Barbitoff YA, Zhouravleva GA, Bondarev SA. Amyloid and Amyloid-Like Aggregates: Diversity and the Term Crisis. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2021; 85:1011-1034. [PMID: 33050849 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297920090035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Active accumulation of the data on new amyloids continuing nowadays dissolves boundaries of the term "amyloid". Currently, it is most often used to designate aggregates with cross-β structure. At the same time, amyloids also exhibit a number of other unusual properties, such as: detergent and protease resistance, interaction with specific dyes, and ability to induce transition of some proteins from a soluble form to an aggregated one. The same features have been also demonstrated for the aggregates lacking cross-β structure, which are commonly called "amyloid-like" and combined into one group, although they are very diverse. We have collected and systematized information on the properties of more than two hundred known amyloids and amyloid-like proteins with emphasis on conflicting examples. In particular, a number of proteins in membraneless organelles form aggregates with cross-β structure that are morphologically indistinguishable from the other amyloids, but they can be dissolved in the presence of detergents, which is not typical for amyloids. Such paradoxes signify the need to clarify the existing definition of the term amyloid. On the other hand, the demonstrated structural diversity of the amyloid-like aggregates shows the necessity of their classification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A B Matiiv
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - N P Trubitsina
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - A G Matveenko
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - Y A Barbitoff
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia.,Bioinformatics Institute, St. Petersburg, 197342, Russia
| | - G A Zhouravleva
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia.,Laboratory of Amyloid Biology, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - S A Bondarev
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia. .,Laboratory of Amyloid Biology, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Konstantoulea K, Louros N, Rousseau F, Schymkowitz J. Heterotypic interactions in amyloid function and disease. FEBS J 2021; 289:2025-2046. [PMID: 33460517 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Amyloid aggregation results from the self-assembly of identical aggregation-prone sequences into cross-beta-sheet structures. The process is best known for its association with a wide range of human pathologies but also as a functional mechanism in all kingdoms of life. Less well elucidated is the role of heterotypic interactions between amyloids and other proteins and macromolecules and how this contributes to disease. We here review current data with a focus on neurodegenerative amyloid-associated diseases. Evidence indicates that heterotypic interactions occur in a wide range of amyloid processes and that these interactions modify fundamental aspects of amyloid aggregation including seeding, aggregation rates and toxicity. More work is required to understand the mechanistic origin of these interactions, but current understanding suggests that both supersaturation and sequence-specific binding can contribute to heterotypic amyloid interactions. Further unravelling these mechanisms may help to answer outstanding questions in the field including the selective vulnerability of cells types and tissues and the stereotypical spreading patterns of amyloids in disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Konstantoulea
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Switch Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nikolaos Louros
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Switch Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frederic Rousseau
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Switch Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joost Schymkowitz
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Switch Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Functional amyloids of eukaryotes: criteria, classification, and biological significance. Curr Genet 2020; 66:849-866. [DOI: 10.1007/s00294-020-01079-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
5
|
Kumar V, Kumar PG, Yadav JK. Impact of semen-derived amyloid (SEVI) on sperm viability and motility: its implication in male reproductive fitness. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2019; 48:659-671. [PMID: 31392382 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-019-01391-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Human semen contains a large number of macromolecules, including proteins/enzymes and carbohydrates, regulating and protecting sperm cells. Proteomic analysis of human seminal fluid led to the discovery of semen amyloids derived from short peptide fragments of the proteins prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) and semenogelin (SG) which are known to play a crucial role in enhancing HIV infection. However, the relevance of their existence in human semen and role in maintaining sperm behavior remains unclear. Distinct physiological, biochemical, and biophysical attributes might cause these amyloids to influence sperm behavior positively or negatively, affecting fertilization or other reproductive processes. We assessed the direct effect of amyloids derived from a PAP248-286 fragment, on sperm motility and viability, which are crucial parameters for assessment of sperm quality in semen. Co-incubation of human sperm with PAP248-286 amyloids at normal physiological concentrations formed in buffer led to significant reduction in sperm viability, though approximately a 10× higher concentration was needed to show a similar effect with amyloid formed in seminal fluid. Both forms of PAP248-286 amyloid also had a significant impact on sperm motility at physiological levels, in agreement with a previous report. Our study suggests that PAP248-286 amyloids can directly influence sperm motility and viability in a concentration-dependent manner. We hypothesise that the direct toxic effect of PAP248-286 amyloid is normally mitigated by other seminal fluid ingredients, but that in pathological conditions, where PAP248-286 concentrations are elevated and it plays a role in determining sperm health and viability, with relevance for male fertility as well as sterility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8 Jaipur-Ajmer Highway, Bandarsindri, Kishangarh, Ajmer, Rajasthan, 305817, India
| | - Pradeep G Kumar
- Molecular Reproduction Division, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thycaud PO, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695014, India
| | - Jay Kant Yadav
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8 Jaipur-Ajmer Highway, Bandarsindri, Kishangarh, Ajmer, Rajasthan, 305817, India.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Varadi M, De Baets G, Vranken WF, Tompa P, Pancsa R. AmyPro: a database of proteins with validated amyloidogenic regions. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:D387-D392. [PMID: 29040693 PMCID: PMC5753394 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Soluble functional proteins may transform into insoluble amyloid fibrils that deposit in a variety of tissues. Amyloid formation is a hallmark of age-related degenerative disorders. Perhaps surprisingly, amyloid fibrils can also be beneficial and are frequently exploited for diverse functional roles in organisms. Here we introduce AmyPro, an open-access database providing a comprehensive, carefully curated collection of validated amyloid fibril-forming proteins from all kingdoms of life classified into broad functional categories (http://amypro.net). In particular, AmyPro provides the boundaries of experimentally validated amyloidogenic sequence regions, short descriptions of the functional relevance of the proteins and their amyloid state, a list of the experimental techniques applied to study the amyloid state, important structural/functional/variation/mutation data transferred from UniProt, a list of relevant PDB structures categorized according to protein states, database cross-references and literature references. AmyPro greatly improves on similar currently available resources by incorporating both prions and functional amyloids in addition to pathogenic amyloids, and allows users to screen their sequences against the entire collection of validated amyloidogenic sequence fragments. By enabling further elucidation of the sequential determinants of amyloid fibril formation, we hope AmyPro will enhance the development of new methods for the precise prediction of amyloidogenic regions within proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mihaly Varadi
- Protein Data Bank in Europe, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Greet De Baets
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Wim F Vranken
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, 1050, Belgium.,Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels (IB) 2, ULB-VUB, Brussels, 1050, Belgium.,VIB Center for Structural Biology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, 1050, Belgium
| | - Peter Tompa
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, 1050, Belgium.,VIB Center for Structural Biology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, 1050, Belgium.,Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences of the HAS, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Rita Pancsa
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Niu M, Li Y, Wang C, Han K. RFAmyloid: A Web Server for Predicting Amyloid Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19072071. [PMID: 30013015 PMCID: PMC6073578 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19072071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloid is an insoluble fibrous protein and its mis-aggregation can lead to some diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Creutzfeldt–Jakob’s disease. Therefore, the identification of amyloid is essential for the discovery and understanding of disease. We established a novel predictor called RFAmy based on random forest to identify amyloid, and it employed SVMProt 188-D feature extraction method based on protein composition and physicochemical properties and pse-in-one feature extraction method based on amino acid composition, autocorrelation pseudo acid composition, profile-based features and predicted structures features. In the ten-fold cross-validation test, RFAmy’s overall accuracy was 89.19% and F-measure was 0.891. Results were obtained by comparison experiments with other feature, classifiers, and existing methods. This shows the effectiveness of RFAmy in predicting amyloid protein. The RFAmy proposed in this paper can be accessed through the URL http://server.malab.cn/RFAmyloid/.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Niu
- School of Information and Computer Engineering, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China.
| | - Yanjuan Li
- School of Information and Computer Engineering, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China.
| | - Chunyu Wang
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150040, China.
| | - Ke Han
- School of Computer and Information Engineering, Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin 150040, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hexapeptide Tandem Repeats Dictate the Formation of Silkmoth Chorion, a Natural Protective Amyloid. J Mol Biol 2018; 430:3774-3783. [PMID: 29964045 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2018.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Silkmoth chorion is a fibrous structure composed mainly of two major protein classes, families A and B. Both families of silkmoth chorion proteins present a highly conserved, in sequence and in length, central domain, consisting of Gly-rich tandem hexapeptide repetitive segments, flanked by two more variable N-terminal and C-terminal arms. Primary studies identified silkmoth chorion as a functional protective amyloid by unveiling the amyloidogenic properties of the central domain of both protein families. In this work, we attempt to detect the principal source of amyloidogenicity of the central domain by focusing on the role of the tandem hexapeptide sequence repeats. Concurrently, we discuss a possible mechanism for the self-assembly of class A protofilaments, suggesting that the aggregation-prone hexapeptide building blocks may fold into a triangle-shaped β-helical structure.
Collapse
|
9
|
|
10
|
Hewetson A, Do HQ, Myers C, Muthusubramanian A, Sutton RB, Wylie BJ, Cornwall GA. Functional Amyloids in Reproduction. Biomolecules 2017; 7:biom7030046. [PMID: 28661450 PMCID: PMC5618227 DOI: 10.3390/biom7030046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Revised: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloids are traditionally considered pathological protein aggregates that play causative roles in neurodegenerative disease, diabetes and prionopathies. However, increasing evidence indicates that in many biological systems nonpathological amyloids are formed for functional purposes. In this review, we will specifically describe amyloids that carry out biological roles in sexual reproduction including the processes of gametogenesis, germline specification, sperm maturation and fertilization. Several of these functional amyloids are evolutionarily conserved across several taxa, including human, emphasizing the critical role amyloids perform in reproduction. Evidence will also be presented suggesting that, if altered, some functional amyloids may become pathological.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aveline Hewetson
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Hoa Quynh Do
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Caitlyn Myers
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Archana Muthusubramanian
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Roger Bryan Sutton
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Benjamin J Wylie
- Department of Chemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA.
| | - Gail A Cornwall
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Louros NN, Iconomidou VA. Identification of an amyloid fibril forming segment of human Pmel17 repeat domain (RPT domain). Biopolymers 2017; 106:133-9. [PMID: 26394553 DOI: 10.1002/bip.22746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Revised: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Pmel17 is the major component of functional amyloid fibrils that have an important role during pigment deposition. Pmel17 polymerization is promoted within the mildly acidic conditions of melanosomes, organelles located in pigment-specific cells. A repeat domain (RPT domain) of Pmel17, rich in glutamic acid residues has been extensively associated with the formation of the fibrous matrix. Here, we examine the RPT domain of human Pmel17 in order to provide information on this mechanism. Specifically, we have identified an aggregation-prone peptide segment ((405) VSIVVLSGT(413) ), close to the C-terminal part of the RPT domain. Experimental results utilizing electron microscopy, X-ray fiber diffraction, Congo red staining and ATR FT-IR spectroscopy indicate that this peptide segment self-assembles forming fibrils with evident amyloidogenic properties. Conclusively, our results demonstrate that the (405) VSIVVLSGT(413) peptide segment possibly has an essential role in RPT domain fibrillogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos N Louros
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens, 157 01, Greece
| | - Vassiliki A Iconomidou
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens, 157 01, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Louros NN, Bolas GMP, Tsiolaki PL, Hamodrakas SJ, Iconomidou VA. Intrinsic aggregation propensity of the CsgB nucleator protein is crucial for curli fiber formation. J Struct Biol 2016; 195:179-189. [PMID: 27245712 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2016.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Several organisms exploit the extraordinary physical properties of amyloid fibrils forming natural protective amyloids, in an effort to support complex biological functions. Curli amyloid fibers are a major component of mature biofilms, which are produced by many Enterobacteriaceae species and are responsible, among other functions, for the initial adhesion of bacteria to surfaces or cells. The main axis of curli fibers is formed by a major structural subunit, known as CsgA. CsgA self-assembly is promoted by oligomeric nuclei formed by a minor curli subunit, known as the CsgB nucleator protein. Here, by implementing AMYLPRED2, a consensus prediction method for the identification of 'aggregation-prone' regions in protein sequences, developed in our laboratory, we have successfully identified potent amyloidogenic regions of the CsgB subunit. Peptide-analogues corresponding to the predicted 'aggregation-prone' segments of CsgB were chemically synthesized and studied, utilizing several biophysical techniques. Our experimental data indicate that these peptides self-assemble in solution, forming fibrils with characteristic amyloidogenic properties. Using comparative modeling techniques, we have developed three-dimensional models of both CsgA and CsgB subunits. Structural analysis revealed that the identified 'aggregation-prone' segments may promote gradual polymerization of CsgB. Briefly, our results indicate that the intrinsic self-aggregation propensity of the CsgB subunit, most probably has a pivotal role in initiating the formation of curli amyloid fibers by promoting the self-assembly process of the CsgB nucleator protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos N Louros
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens 157 01, Greece
| | - Georgios M P Bolas
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens 157 01, Greece
| | - Paraskevi L Tsiolaki
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens 157 01, Greece
| | - Stavros J Hamodrakas
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens 157 01, Greece
| | - Vassiliki A Iconomidou
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens 157 01, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Louros NN, Chrysina ED, Baltatzis GE, Patsouris ES, Hamodrakas SJ, Iconomidou VA. A common 'aggregation-prone' interface possibly participates in the self-assembly of human zona pellucida proteins. FEBS Lett 2016; 590:619-30. [PMID: 26879157 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Human zona pellucida (ZP) is composed of four glycoproteins, namely ZP1, ZP2, ZP3 and ZP4. ZP proteins form heterodimers, which are incorporated into filaments through a common bipartite polymerizing component, designated as the ZP domain. The latter is composed of two individually folded subdomains, named ZP-N and ZP-C. Here, we have synthesized six 'aggregation-prone' peptides, corresponding to a common interface of human ZP2, ZP3 and ZP4. Experimental results utilizing electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, ATR FT-IR spectroscopy and polarizing microscopy indicate that these peptides self-assemble forming fibrils with distinct amyloid-like features. Finally, by performing detailed modeling and docking, we attempt to shed some light in the self-assembly mechanism of human ZP proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos N Louros
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia D Chrysina
- Institute of Biology, Medicinal Chemistry and Biotechnology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Stavros J Hamodrakas
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Greece
| | - Vassiliki A Iconomidou
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Egge N, Muthusubramanian A, Cornwall GA. Amyloid properties of the mouse egg zona pellucida. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0129907. [PMID: 26043223 PMCID: PMC4456372 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) surrounding the oocyte is an extracellular fibrillar matrix that plays critical roles during fertilization including species-specific gamete recognition and protection from polyspermy. The mouse ZP is composed of three proteins, ZP1, ZP2, and ZP3, all of which have a ZP polymerization domain that directs protein fibril formation and assembly into the three-dimensional ZP matrix. Egg coats surrounding oocytes in nonmammalian vertebrates and in invertebrates are also fibrillar matrices and are composed of ZP domain-containing proteins suggesting the basic structure and function of the ZP/egg coat is highly conserved. However, sequence similarity between ZP domains is low across species and thus the mechanism for the conservation of ZP/egg coat structure and its function is not known. Using approaches classically used to identify amyloid including conformation-dependent antibodies and dyes, X-ray diffraction, and negative stain electron microscopy, our studies suggest the mouse ZP is a functional amyloid. Amyloids are cross-β sheet fibrillar structures that, while typically associated with neurodegenerative and prion diseases in mammals, can also carry out functional roles in normal cells without resulting pathology. An analysis of the ZP domain from mouse ZP3 and ZP3 homologs from five additional taxa using the algorithm AmylPred 2 to identify amyloidogenic sites, revealed in all taxa a remarkable conservation of regions that were predicted to form amyloid. This included a conserved amyloidogenic region that localized to a stretch of hydrophobic amino acids previously shown in mouse ZP3 to be essential for fibril assembly. Similarly, a domain in the yeast protein α-agglutinin/Sag 1p, that possesses ZP domain-like features and which is essential for mating, also had sites that were predicted to be amyloidogenic including a hydrophobic stretch that appeared analogous to the critical site in mouse ZP3. Together, these studies suggest that amyloidogenesis may be a conserved mechanism for ZP structure and function across billions of years of evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Egge
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America
| | - Archana Muthusubramanian
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America
| | - Gail A. Cornwall
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Louros NN, Tsiolaki PL, Griffin MDW, Howlett GJ, Hamodrakas SJ, Iconomidou VA. Chameleon 'aggregation-prone' segments of apoA-I: A model of amyloid fibrils formed in apoA-I amyloidosis. Int J Biol Macromol 2015; 79:711-8. [PMID: 26049118 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2015.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Revised: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) is the major component of high density lipoproteins and plays a vital role in reverse cholesterol transport. Lipid-free apoA-I is the main constituent of amyloid deposits found in atherosclerotic plaques, an acquired type of amyloidosis, whereas its N-terminal fragments have been associated with a hereditary form, known as familial apoA-I amyloidosis. Here, we identified and verified four "aggregation-prone" segments of apoA-I with amyloidogenic properties, utilizing electron microscopy, X-ray fiber diffraction, ATR FT-IR spectroscopy and polarized light microscopy. These segments may act as conformational switches, possibly controlling the transition of the α-helical apoA-I content into the "cross-β" architecture of amyloid fibrils. A structural model illuminating the structure of amyloid fibrils formed by the N-terminal fragments of apoA-I is proposed, indicating that two of the identified chameleon segments may play a vital part in the formation of amyloid fibrils in familial apoA-I amyloidosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos N Louros
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens 157 01, Greece
| | - Paraskevi L Tsiolaki
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens 157 01, Greece
| | - Michael D W Griffin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Geoffrey J Howlett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Stavros J Hamodrakas
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens 157 01, Greece
| | - Vassiliki A Iconomidou
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens 157 01, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Louros NN, Tsiolaki PL, Zompra AA, Pappa EV, Magafa V, Pairas G, Cordopatis P, Cheimonidou C, Trougakos IP, Iconomidou VA, Hamodrakas SJ. Structural studies and cytotoxicity assays of “aggregation-prone” IAPP8-16and its non-amyloidogenic variants suggest its important role in fibrillogenesis and cytotoxicity of human amylin. Biopolymers 2015; 104:196-205. [DOI: 10.1002/bip.22650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2014] [Revised: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos N. Louros
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics; Faculty of Biology, University of Athens; Panepistimiopolis Athens 157 01 Greece
| | - Paraskevi L. Tsiolaki
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics; Faculty of Biology, University of Athens; Panepistimiopolis Athens 157 01 Greece
| | | | - Eleni V. Pappa
- Department of Pharmacy; University of Patras; Patras 26504 Greece
| | - Vassiliki Magafa
- Department of Pharmacy; University of Patras; Patras 26504 Greece
| | - George Pairas
- Department of Pharmacy; University of Patras; Patras 26504 Greece
| | - Paul Cordopatis
- Department of Pharmacy; University of Patras; Patras 26504 Greece
| | - Christina Cheimonidou
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics; Faculty of Biology, University of Athens; Panepistimiopolis Athens 157 01 Greece
| | - Ioannis P. Trougakos
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics; Faculty of Biology, University of Athens; Panepistimiopolis Athens 157 01 Greece
| | - Vassiliki A. Iconomidou
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics; Faculty of Biology, University of Athens; Panepistimiopolis Athens 157 01 Greece
| | - Stavros J. Hamodrakas
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics; Faculty of Biology, University of Athens; Panepistimiopolis Athens 157 01 Greece
| |
Collapse
|