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Ruan K, Bai G, Fang Y, Li D, Li T, Liu X, Lu B, Lu Q, Songyang Z, Sun S, Wang Z, Zhang X, Zhou W, Zhang H. Biomolecular condensates and disease pathogenesis. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024; 67:1792-1832. [PMID: 39037698 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-024-2661-3] [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: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates or membraneless organelles (MLOs) formed by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) divide intracellular spaces into discrete compartments for specific functions. Dysregulation of LLPS or aberrant phase transition that disturbs the formation or material states of MLOs is closely correlated with neurodegeneration, tumorigenesis, and many other pathological processes. Herein, we summarize the recent progress in development of methods to monitor phase separation and we discuss the biogenesis and function of MLOs formed through phase separation. We then present emerging proof-of-concept examples regarding the disruption of phase separation homeostasis in a diverse array of clinical conditions including neurodegenerative disorders, hearing loss, cancers, and immunological diseases. Finally, we describe the emerging discovery of chemical modulators of phase separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Ruan
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
| | - Ge Bai
- Nanhu Brain-computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, 311100, China.
- Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Yanshan Fang
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Dan Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Xingguo Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
- Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
| | - Boxun Lu
- Neurology Department at Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Qing Lu
- Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Zhou Songyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.
| | - Shuguo Sun
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Zheng Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China.
| | - Xin Zhang
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
| | - Wen Zhou
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Hong Zhang
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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Agarwal A, Chandran A, Raza F, Ungureanu IM, Hilcenko C, Stott K, Bright NA, Morone N, Warren AJ, Lautenschläger J. VAMP2 regulates phase separation of α-synuclein. Nat Cell Biol 2024; 26:1296-1308. [PMID: 38951707 PMCID: PMC11322000 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-024-01451-6] [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: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
α-Synuclein (αSYN), a pivotal synaptic protein implicated in synucleinopathies such as Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia, undergoes protein phase separation. We reveal that vesicle-associated membrane protein 2 (VAMP2) orchestrates αSYN phase separation both in vitro and in cells. Electrostatic interactions, specifically mediated by VAMP2 via its juxtamembrane domain and the αSYN C-terminal region, drive phase separation. Condensate formation is specific for R-SNARE VAMP2 and dependent on αSYN lipid membrane binding. Our results delineate a regulatory mechanism for αSYN phase separation in cells. Furthermore, we show that αSYN condensates sequester vesicles and attract complexin-1 and -2, thus supporting a role in synaptic physiology and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Agarwal
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Aswathy Chandran
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Farheen Raza
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Protein and Cellular Sciences, GSK, Stevenage, UK
| | - Irina-Maria Ungureanu
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Christine Hilcenko
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, School of Clinical Medicine, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Katherine Stott
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nicholas A Bright
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Alan J Warren
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, School of Clinical Medicine, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Janin Lautenschläger
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.
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Sternke-Hoffmann R, Sun X, Menzel A, Pinto MDS, Venclovaite U, Wördehoff M, Hoyer W, Zheng W, Luo J. Phase Separation and Aggregation of α-Synuclein Diverge at Different Salt Conditions. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2308279. [PMID: 38973194 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
The coacervation of alpha-synuclein (αSyn) into cytotoxic oligomers and amyloid fibrils are considered pathological hallmarks of Parkinson's disease. While aggregation is central to amyloid diseases, liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) and its interplay with aggregation have gained increasing interest. Previous work shows that factors promoting or inhibiting aggregation have similar effects on LLPS. This study provides a detailed scanning of a wide range of parameters, including protein, salt and crowding concentrations at multiple pH values, revealing different salt dependencies of aggregation and LLPS. The influence of salt on aggregation under crowding conditions follows a non-monotonic pattern, showing increased effects at medium salt concentrations. This behavior can be elucidated through a combination of electrostatic screening and salting-out effects on the intramolecular interactions between the N-terminal and C-terminal regions of αSyn. By contrast, this study finds a monotonic salt dependence of LLPS due to intermolecular interactions. Furthermore, it observes time evolution of the two distinct assembly states, with macroscopic fibrillar-like bundles initially forming at medium salt concentration but subsequently converting into droplets after prolonged incubation. The droplet state is therefore capable of inhibiting aggregation or even dissolving aggregates through heterotypic interactions, thus preventing αSyn from its dynamically arrested state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Sternke-Hoffmann
- Center for Life Sciences, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, Villigen, 5232, Switzerland
| | - Xun Sun
- Center for Life Sciences, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, Villigen, 5232, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Menzel
- Center for Photon Science, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, Villigen, 5232, Switzerland
| | - Miriam Dos Santos Pinto
- Center for Life Sciences, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, Villigen, 5232, Switzerland
| | - Urte Venclovaite
- Center for Life Sciences, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, Villigen, 5232, Switzerland
| | - Michael Wördehoff
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hoyer
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Wenwei Zheng
- College of Integrative Sciences and Arts, Arizona State University, Mesa, AZ, 85212, USA
| | - Jinghui Luo
- Center for Life Sciences, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, Villigen, 5232, Switzerland
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Zhang X, Yuan L, Zhang W, Zhang Y, Wu Q, Li C, Wu M, Huang Y. Liquid-liquid phase separation in diseases. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e640. [PMID: 39006762 PMCID: PMC11245632 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.640] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), an emerging biophysical phenomenon, can sequester molecules to implement physiological and pathological functions. LLPS implements the assembly of numerous membraneless chambers, including stress granules and P-bodies, containing RNA and protein. RNA-RNA and RNA-protein interactions play a critical role in LLPS. Scaffolding proteins, through multivalent interactions and external factors, support protein-RNA interaction networks to form condensates involved in a variety of diseases, particularly neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Modulating LLPS phenomenon in multiple pathogenic proteins for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and cancer could present a promising direction, though recent advances in this area are limited. Here, we summarize in detail the complexity of LLPS in constructing signaling pathways and highlight the role of LLPS in neurodegenerative diseases and cancers. We also explore RNA modifications on LLPS to alter diseases progression because these modifications can influence LLPS of certain proteins or the formation of stress granules, and discuss the possibility of proper manipulation of LLPS process to restore cellular homeostasis or develop therapeutic drugs for the eradication of diseases. This review attempts to discuss potential therapeutic opportunities by elaborating on the connection between LLPS, RNA modification, and their roles in diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Zhang
- College of Life and Health Sciences Northeastern University Shenyang China
| | - Lin Yuan
- Laboratory of Research in Parkinson's Disease and Related Disorders Health Sciences Institute China Medical University Shenyang China
| | - Wanlu Zhang
- College of Life and Health Sciences Northeastern University Shenyang China
| | - Yi Zhang
- College of Life and Health Sciences Northeastern University Shenyang China
| | - Qun Wu
- Department of Pediatrics Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Chunting Li
- College of Life and Health Sciences Northeastern University Shenyang China
| | - Min Wu
- Wenzhou Institute University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Wenzhou Zhejiang China
- The Joint Research Center Affiliated Xiangshan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University Ningbo China
| | - Yongye Huang
- College of Life and Health Sciences Northeastern University Shenyang China
- Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning Province College of Life and Health Sciences Northeastern University Shenyang China
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Schreiber CS, Wiesweg I, Stanelle-Bertram S, Beck S, Kouassi NM, Schaumburg B, Gabriel G, Richter F, Käufer C. Sex-specific biphasic alpha-synuclein response and alterations of interneurons in a COVID-19 hamster model. EBioMedicine 2024; 105:105191. [PMID: 38865747 PMCID: PMC11293593 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) frequently leads to neurological complications after recovery from acute infection, with higher prevalence in women. However, mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 disrupts brain function remain unclear and treatment strategies are lacking. We previously demonstrated neuroinflammation in the olfactory bulb of intranasally infected hamsters, followed by alpha-synuclein and tau accumulation in cortex, thus mirroring pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease. METHODS To uncover the sex-specific spatiotemporal profiles of neuroinflammation and neuronal dysfunction following intranasal SARS-CoV-2 infection, we quantified microglia cell density, alpha-synuclein immunoreactivity and inhibitory interneurons in cortical regions, limbic system and basal ganglia at acute and late post-recovery time points. FINDINGS Unexpectedly, microglia cell density and alpha-synuclein immunoreactivity decreased at 6 days post-infection, then rebounded to overt accumulation at 21 days post-infection. This biphasic response was most pronounced in amygdala and striatum, regions affected early in Parkinson's disease. Several brain regions showed altered densities of parvalbumin and calretinin interneurons which are involved in cognition and motor control. Of note, females appeared more affected. INTERPRETATION Our results demonstrate that SARS-CoV-2 profoundly disrupts brain homeostasis without neuroinvasion, via neuroinflammatory and protein regulation mechanisms that persist beyond viral clearance. The regional patterns and sex differences are in line with neurological deficits observed after SARS-CoV-2 infection. FUNDING Federal Ministry of Health, Germany (BMG; ZMV I 1-2520COR501 to G.G.), Federal Ministry of Education and Research, Germany (BMBF; 03COV06B to G.G.), Ministry of Science and Culture of Lower Saxony in Germany (14-76403-184, to G.G. and F.R.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara Sophie Schreiber
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover (ZSN), Germany
| | - Ivo Wiesweg
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian Beck
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nancy Mounogou Kouassi
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Berfin Schaumburg
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gülsah Gabriel
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany; Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Franziska Richter
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover (ZSN), Germany.
| | - Christopher Käufer
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover (ZSN), Germany.
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Han W, Wei M, Xu F, Niu Z. Aggregation and phase separation of α-synuclein in Parkinson's disease. Chem Commun (Camb) 2024; 60:6581-6590. [PMID: 38808534 DOI: 10.1039/d4cc01591f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
The deposition of α-synuclein (α-Syn) in Lewy bodies serves as a prominent pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD). Recent research has revealed that α-Syn can undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) during its fibrillization. Over time, the maturation of the resulting condensates leads to a liquid-to-solid phase transition (LSPT) ultimately resulting in the amyloid deposition in cells which is linked to the pathogenesis and development of PD. Herein, we summarize the understanding of α-Syn aggregation which can be described by nucleation and elongation steps to obtain insights into the correlation of protein aggregation, structural polymorphism, and PD progression. Additionally, we discuss the LLPS phenomena of α-Syn and heterotypic cross-amyloid interactions with a focus on aberrant LSPT in the aggregation process. Exploring the underlying mechanisms and interplay between α-Syn aberrant aggregation, pathological phase transitions, and PD pathogenesis will shed light on potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanlu Han
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
| | - Mengrui Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
| | - Fei Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
| | - Zheng Niu
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
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Mukherjee S, Poudyal M, Dave K, Kadu P, Maji SK. Protein misfolding and amyloid nucleation through liquid-liquid phase separation. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:4976-5013. [PMID: 38597222 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs01065a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is an emerging phenomenon in cell physiology and diseases. The weak multivalent interaction prerequisite for LLPS is believed to be facilitated through intrinsically disordered regions, which are prevalent in neurodegenerative disease-associated proteins. These aggregation-prone proteins also exhibit an inherent property for phase separation, resulting in protein-rich liquid-like droplets. The very high local protein concentration in the water-deficient confined microenvironment not only drives the viscoelastic transition from the liquid to solid-like state but also most often nucleate amyloid fibril formation. Indeed, protein misfolding, oligomerization, and amyloid aggregation are observed to be initiated from the LLPS of various neurodegeneration-related proteins. Moreover, in these cases, neurodegeneration-promoting genetic and environmental factors play a direct role in amyloid aggregation preceded by the phase separation. These cumulative recent observations ignite the possibility of LLPS being a prominent nucleation mechanism associated with aberrant protein aggregation. The present review elaborates on the nucleation mechanism of the amyloid aggregation pathway and the possible early molecular events associated with amyloid-related protein phase separation. It also summarizes the recent advancement in understanding the aberrant phase transition of major proteins contributing to neurodegeneration focusing on the common disease-associated factors. Overall, this review proposes a generic LLPS-mediated multistep nucleation mechanism for amyloid aggregation and its implication in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semanti Mukherjee
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Manisha Poudyal
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Kritika Dave
- Sunita Sanghi Centre of Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Pradeep Kadu
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Samir K Maji
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
- Sunita Sanghi Centre of Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
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Lu X, Lu J, Li S, Feng S, Wang Y, Cui L. The Role of Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation in the Accumulation of Pathological Proteins: New Perspectives on the Mechanism of Neurodegenerative Diseases. Aging Dis 2024:AD.2024.0209. [PMID: 38739933 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2024.0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
It is widely accepted that living organisms form highly dynamic membrane-less organelles (MLOS) with various functions through phase separation, and the indispensable role that phase separation plays in the mechanisms of normal physiological functions and pathogenesis is gradually becoming clearer. Pathological aggregates, regarded as hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases, have been revealed to be closely related to aberrant phase separation. Specific proteins are assembled into condensates and transform into insoluble inclusions through aberrant phase separation, contributing to the development of diseases. In this review, we present an overview of the progress of phase separation research, involving its biological mechanisms and the status of research in neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on five main disease-specific proteins, tau, TDP-43, FUS, α-Syn and HTT, and how exactly these proteins reside within dynamic liquid-like compartments and thus turn into solid deposits. Further studies will yield new perspectives for understanding the aggregation mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies, and future research directions are anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Lu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Jiongtong Lu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Shengnan Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Sifan Feng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Lili Cui
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong, School of Ocean and Tropical Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
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9
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Fang M, Liu Y, Huang C, Fan S. Targeting stress granules in neurodegenerative diseases: A focus on biological function and dynamics disorders. Biofactors 2024; 50:422-438. [PMID: 37966813 DOI: 10.1002/biof.2017] [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: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Stress granules (SGs) are membraneless organelles formed by eukaryotic cells in response to stress to promote cell survival through their pleiotropic cytoprotective effects. SGs recruit a variety of components to enhance their physiological function, and play a critical role in the propagation of pathological proteins, a key factor in neurodegeneration. Recent advances indicate that SG dynamic disorders exacerbate neuronal susceptibility to stress in neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) including Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Huntington's disease (HD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Here, we outline the biological functions of SGs, highlight SG dynamic disorders in NDs, and emphasize therapeutic approaches for enhancing SG dynamics to provide new insights into ND intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minglv Fang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shengjie Fan
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Powell WC, Nahum M, Pankratz K, Herlory M, Greenwood J, Poliyenko D, Holland P, Jing R, Biggerstaff L, Stowell MHB, Walczak MA. Post-Translational Modifications Control Phase Transitions of Tau. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.08.583040. [PMID: 38559065 PMCID: PMC10979912 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.08.583040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The self-assembly of Tau(297-391) into filaments, which mirror the structures observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brains, raises questions about the role of AD-specific post-translational modifications (PTMs) in the formation of paired helical filaments (PHFs). To investigate this, we developed a synthetic approach to produce Tau(291-391) featuring N-acetyllysine, phosphoserine, phosphotyrosine, and N-glycosylation at positions commonly modified in post-mortem AD brains, thus facilitating the study of their roles in Tau pathology. Using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), and a range of optical microscopy techniques, we discovered that these modifications generally hinder the in vitro assembly of Tau into PHFs. Interestingly, while acetylation's effect on Tau assembly displayed variability, either promoting or inhibiting phase transitions in the context of cofactor free aggregation, heparin-induced aggregation, and RNA-mediated liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), phosphorylation uniformly mitigated these processes. Our observations suggest that PTMs, particularly those situated outside the fibril's rigid core are pivotal in the nucleation of PHFs. Moreover, in scenarios involving heparin-induced aggregation leading to the formation of heterogeneous aggregates, most AD-specific PTMs, except for K311, appeared to decelerate the aggregation process. The impact of acetylation on RNA-induced LLPS was notably site-dependent, exhibiting both facilitative and inhibitory effects, whereas phosphorylation consistently reduced LLPS across all proteoforms examined. These insights underscore the complex interplay between site-specific PTMs and environmental factors in modulating Tau aggregation kinetics, enhancing our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of Tau pathology in AD and highlighting the critical role of PTMs located outside the ordered filament core in driving the self-assembly of Tau into PHF structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wyatt C. Powell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - McKinley Nahum
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Karl Pankratz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Morgane Herlory
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - James Greenwood
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Darya Poliyenko
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Patrick Holland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Ruiheng Jing
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Luke Biggerstaff
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Michael H. B. Stowell
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Maciej A. Walczak
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
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Sternke-Hoffmann R, Sun X, Menzel A, Pinto MDS, Venclovaitė U, Wördehoff M, Hoyer W, Zheng W, Luo J. Phase Separation and Aggregation of α-Synuclein Diverge at Different Salt Conditions. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.01.582895. [PMID: 38464093 PMCID: PMC10925286 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.01.582895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The coacervation and structural rearrangement of the protein alpha-synuclein (αSyn) into cytotoxic oligomers and amyloid fibrils are considered pathological hallmarks of Parkinson's disease. While aggregation is recognized as the key element of amyloid diseases, liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) and its interplay with aggregation have gained increasing interest. Previous work showed that factors promoting or inhibiting amyloid formation have similar effects on phase separation. Here, we provide a detailed scanning of a wide range of parameters including protein, salt and crowding concentrations at multiple pH values, revealing different salt dependencies of aggregation and phase separation. The influence of salt on aggregation under crowded conditions follows a non-monotonic pattern, showing increased effects at medium salt concentrations. This behavior can be elucidated through a combination of electrostatic screening and salting-out effects on the intramolecular interactions between the N-terminal and C-terminal regions of αSyn. By contrast, we find a monotonic salt dependence of phase separation due to the intermolecular interaction. Furthermore, we observe the time evolution of the two distinct assembly states, with macroscopic fibrillar-like bundles initially forming at medium salt concentration but subsequently converting into droplets after prolonged incubation. The droplet state is therefore capable of inhibiting aggregation or even dissolving the aggregates through a variety of heterotypic interactions, thus preventing αSyn from its dynamically arrested state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Sternke-Hoffmann
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Xun Sun
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Menzel
- Photon Science Division, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Miriam Dos Santos Pinto
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Urtė Venclovaitė
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Michael Wördehoff
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hoyer
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Wenwei Zheng
- College of Integrative Sciences and Arts, Arizona State University, Mesa, AZ, 85212, United States
| | - Jinghui Luo
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
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12
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Wang J, Dai L, Chen S, Zhang Z, Fang X, Zhang Z. Protein-protein interactions regulating α-synuclein pathology. Trends Neurosci 2024; 47:209-226. [PMID: 38355325 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2024.01.002] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and the formation of Lewy bodies (LBs). The main proteinaceous component of LBs is aggregated α-synuclein (α-syn). However, the mechanisms underlying α-syn aggregation are not yet fully understood. Converging lines of evidence indicate that, under certain pathological conditions, various proteins can interact with α-syn and regulate its aggregation. Understanding these protein-protein interactions is crucial for unraveling the molecular mechanisms contributing to PD pathogenesis. In this review we provide an overview of the current knowledge on protein-protein interactions that regulate α-syn aggregation. Additionally, we briefly summarize the methods used to investigate the influence of protein-protein interactions on α-syn aggregation and propagation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiannan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Lijun Dai
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Sichun Chen
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Zhaohui Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Xin Fang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Zhentao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China; TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430000, China.
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13
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Fu Q, Zhang B, Chen X, Chu L. Liquid-liquid phase separation in Alzheimer's disease. J Mol Med (Berl) 2024; 102:167-181. [PMID: 38167731 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-023-02407-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The pathological aggregation and misfolding of tau and amyloid-β play a key role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the underlying pathological mechanisms remain unclear. Emerging evidences indicate that liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) has great impacts on regulating human health and diseases, especially neurodegenerative diseases. A series of studies have revealed the significance of LLPS in AD. In this review, we summarize the latest progress of LLPS in AD, focusing on the impact of metal ions, small-molecule inhibitors, and proteinaceous partners on tau LLPS and aggregation, as well as toxic oligomerization, the role of LLPS on amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation, and the cross-interactions between amyloidogenic proteins in AD. Eventually, the fundamental methods and techniques used in LLPS study are introduced. We expect to present readers a deeper understanding of the relationship between LLPS and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinggang Fu
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Bixiang Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Liang Chu
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
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14
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van der Gaag BL, Deshayes NAC, Breve JJP, Bol JGJM, Jonker AJ, Hoozemans JJM, Courade JP, van de Berg WDJ. Distinct tau and alpha-synuclein molecular signatures in Alzheimer's disease with and without Lewy bodies and Parkinson's disease with dementia. Acta Neuropathol 2024; 147:14. [PMID: 38198008 PMCID: PMC10781859 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-023-02657-y] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Alpha-synuclein (aSyn) pathology is present in approximately 50% of Alzheimer's disease (AD) cases at autopsy and might impact the age-of-onset and disease progression in AD. Here, we aimed to determine whether tau and aSyn profiles differ between AD cases with Lewy bodies (AD-LB), pure AD and Parkinson's disease with dementia (PDD) cases using epitope-, post-translational modification- (PTM) and isoform-specific tau and aSyn antibody panels spanning from the N- to C-terminus. We included the middle temporal gyrus (MTG) and amygdala (AMY) of clinically diagnosed and pathologically confirmed cases and performed dot blotting, western blotting and immunohistochemistry combined with quantitative and morphological analyses. All investigated phospho-tau (pTau) species, except pT181, were upregulated in AD-LB and AD cases compared to PDD and control cases, but no significant differences were observed between AD-LB and AD subjects. In addition, tau antibodies targeting the proline-rich regions and C-terminus showed preferential binding to AD-LB and AD brain homogenates. Antibodies targeting C-terminal aSyn epitopes and pS129 aSyn showed stronger binding to AD-LB and PDD cases compared to AD and control cases. Two pTau species (pS198 and pS396) were specifically detected in the soluble protein fractions of AD-LB and AD subjects, indicative of early involvement of these PTMs in the multimerization process of tau. Other phospho-variants for both tau (pT212/S214, pT231 and pS422) and aSyn (pS129) were only detected in the insoluble protein fraction of AD-LB/AD and AD-LB/PDD cases, respectively. aSyn load was higher in the AMY of AD-LB cases compared to PDD cases, suggesting aggravated aSyn pathology under the presence of AD pathology, while tau load was similar between AD-LB and AD cases. Co-localization of pTau and aSyn could be observed within astrocytes of AD-LB cases within the MTG. These findings highlight a unique pathological signature for AD-LB cases compared to pure AD and PDD cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bram L van der Gaag
- Section Clinical Neuroanatomy and Biobanking, Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Neuroscience, Program Neurodegeneration, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Natasja A C Deshayes
- Section Clinical Neuroanatomy and Biobanking, Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John J P Breve
- Section Clinical Neuroanatomy and Biobanking, Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John G J M Bol
- Section Clinical Neuroanatomy and Biobanking, Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Allert J Jonker
- Section Clinical Neuroanatomy and Biobanking, Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen J M Hoozemans
- Amsterdam Neuroscience, Program Neurodegeneration, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Wilma D J van de Berg
- Section Clinical Neuroanatomy and Biobanking, Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Amsterdam Neuroscience, Program Neurodegeneration, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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15
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Lin Y. Preparation of Tau Condensates by Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation to Study Tau Amyloid Aggregation. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2754:185-192. [PMID: 38512667 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3629-9_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Protein liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) has been associated with protein amyloid aggregation. Amyloid aggregation of tau is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. This protocol provides steps to prepare tau condensates via LLPS, so that researchers can further study its driving forces and its relationship with tau amyloid aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanxian Lin
- Department of Biomolecular Science and Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
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16
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Rupert J, Monti M, Zacco E, Tartaglia G. RNA sequestration driven by amyloid formation: the alpha synuclein case. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:11466-11478. [PMID: 37870427 PMCID: PMC10681735 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acids can act as potent modulators of protein aggregation, and RNA has the ability to either hinder or facilitate protein assembly, depending on the molecular context. In this study, we utilized a computational approach to characterize the physico-chemical properties of regions involved in amyloid aggregation. In various experimental datasets, we observed that while the core is hydrophobic and highly ordered, external regions, which are more disordered, display a distinct tendency to interact with nucleic acids. To validate our predictions, we performed aggregation assays with alpha-synuclein (aS140), a non-nucleic acid-binding amyloidogenic protein, and a mutant truncated at the acidic C-terminus (aS103), which is predicted to have a higher tendency to interact with RNA. For both aS140 and aS103, we observed an acceleration of aggregation upon RNA addition, with a significantly stronger effect for aS103. Due to favorable electrostatics, we noted an enhanced nucleic acid sequestration ability for the aggregated aS103, allowing it to entrap a larger amount of RNA compared to the aggregated wild-type counterpart. Overall, our research suggests that RNA sequestration might be a common phenomenon linked to protein aggregation, constituting a gain-of-function mechanism that warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Rupert
- Centre for Human Technologies (CHT), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152, Genova, Italy
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies ‘Charles Darwin’, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Michele Monti
- Centre for Human Technologies (CHT), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152, Genova, Italy
| | - Elsa Zacco
- Centre for Human Technologies (CHT), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152, Genova, Italy
| | - Gian Gaetano Tartaglia
- Centre for Human Technologies (CHT), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152, Genova, Italy
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies ‘Charles Darwin’, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, Rome 00185, Italy
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies, ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain
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17
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Foressi NN, Rodríguez LC, Celej MS. Heterotypic liquid-liquid phase separation of tau and α-synuclein: Implications for overlapping neuropathologies. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2023; 1871:140950. [PMID: 37574035 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2023.140950] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Tauopathies and synucleinopathies are characterized by the aggregation of Tau and α-synuclein (AS) into amyloid structures, respectively. Individuals with these neuropathies have an elevated risk of developing subsequent neurodegenerative or comorbid disorders. Intriguingly, post-mortem brain examinations have revealed co-localization of Tau and AS aggregates, suggesting a synergistic pathological relationship with an adverse prognosis. The role of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in the development of neurodegenerative diseases is currently receiving significant attention, as it can contribute to the aggregation and co-deposition of amyloidogenic proteins. In this study, we investigated the phase separation behavior of Tau and AS under various insults, some of which are implicated in disease progression. Our findings demonstrate the formation of heterotypic droplets composed of Tau and AS at physiologically relevant mole ratios that mimic neurons' soma and terminal buttons. Importantly, these heterotypic droplets exhibit increased resistance to electrostatic screening compared to homotypic condensates. Moreover, we observed that biologically relevant biomolecules, known to be dysregulated in disease, exert different effects on these droplets. Additionally, we provide evidence that phase separation itself influences the amyloid aggregation of Tau and AS, underscoring the significance of this process in the development of aggregopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahuel N Foressi
- Departamento de Química Biológica Ranwel Caputto, Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC, CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Haya de la Torre y Medina Allende, Ciudad Universitaria, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Leandro Cruz Rodríguez
- Departamento de Química Biológica Ranwel Caputto, Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC, CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Haya de la Torre y Medina Allende, Ciudad Universitaria, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina
| | - M Soledad Celej
- Departamento de Química Biológica Ranwel Caputto, Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC, CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Haya de la Torre y Medina Allende, Ciudad Universitaria, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina.
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18
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Lim MJ, Boschen SL, Kurti A, Castanedes Casey M, Phillips VR, Fryer JD, Dickson D, Jansen-West KR, Petrucelli L, Delenclos M, McLean PJ. Investigating the Pathogenic Interplay of Alpha-Synuclein, Tau, and Amyloid Beta in Lewy Body Dementia: Insights from Viral-Mediated Overexpression in Transgenic Mouse Models. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2863. [PMID: 37893236 PMCID: PMC10604054 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Lewy body dementia (LBD) is an often misdiagnosed and mistreated neurodegenerative disorder clinically characterized by the emergence of neuropsychiatric symptoms followed by motor impairment. LBD falls within an undefined range between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) due to the potential pathogenic synergistic effects of tau, beta-amyloid (Aβ), and alpha-synuclein (αsyn). A lack of reliable and relevant animal models hinders the elucidation of the molecular characteristics and phenotypic consequences of these interactions. Here, the goal was to evaluate whether the viral-mediated overexpression of αsyn in adult hTau and APP/PS1 mice or the overexpression of tau in Line 61 hThy1-αsyn mice resulted in pathology and behavior resembling LBD. The transgenes were injected intravenously via the tail vein using AAV-PHP.eB in 3-month-old hThy1-αsyn, hTau, or APP/PS1 mice that were then aged to 6-, 9-, and 12-months-old for subsequent phenotypic and histological characterization. Although we achieved the widespread expression of αsyn in hTau and tau in hThy1-αsyn mice, no αsyn pathology in hTau mice and only mild tau pathology in hThy1-αsyn mice was observed. Additionally, cognitive, motor, and limbic behavior phenotypes were not affected by overexpression of the transgenes. Furthermore, our APP/PS1 mice experienced premature deaths starting at 3 months post-injection (MPI), therefore precluding further analyses at later time points. An evaluation of the remaining 3-MPI indicated no αsyn pathology or cognitive and motor behavioral changes. Taken together, we conclude that the overexpression of αsyn in hTau and APP/PS1 mice and tau in hThy1-αsyn mice does not recapitulate the behavioral and neuropathological phenotypes observed in LBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melina J. Lim
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (M.J.L.); (S.L.B.); (A.K.); (M.C.C.); (V.R.P.); (D.D.); (K.R.J.-W.); (L.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Suelen L. Boschen
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (M.J.L.); (S.L.B.); (A.K.); (M.C.C.); (V.R.P.); (D.D.); (K.R.J.-W.); (L.P.); (M.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Aishe Kurti
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (M.J.L.); (S.L.B.); (A.K.); (M.C.C.); (V.R.P.); (D.D.); (K.R.J.-W.); (L.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Monica Castanedes Casey
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (M.J.L.); (S.L.B.); (A.K.); (M.C.C.); (V.R.P.); (D.D.); (K.R.J.-W.); (L.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Virginia R. Phillips
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (M.J.L.); (S.L.B.); (A.K.); (M.C.C.); (V.R.P.); (D.D.); (K.R.J.-W.); (L.P.); (M.D.)
| | - John D. Fryer
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 13400 E. Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA;
| | - Dennis Dickson
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (M.J.L.); (S.L.B.); (A.K.); (M.C.C.); (V.R.P.); (D.D.); (K.R.J.-W.); (L.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Karen R. Jansen-West
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (M.J.L.); (S.L.B.); (A.K.); (M.C.C.); (V.R.P.); (D.D.); (K.R.J.-W.); (L.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Leonard Petrucelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (M.J.L.); (S.L.B.); (A.K.); (M.C.C.); (V.R.P.); (D.D.); (K.R.J.-W.); (L.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Marion Delenclos
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (M.J.L.); (S.L.B.); (A.K.); (M.C.C.); (V.R.P.); (D.D.); (K.R.J.-W.); (L.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Pamela J. McLean
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (M.J.L.); (S.L.B.); (A.K.); (M.C.C.); (V.R.P.); (D.D.); (K.R.J.-W.); (L.P.); (M.D.)
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19
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Chakraborty P, Zweckstetter M. Role of aberrant phase separation in pathological protein aggregation. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2023; 82:102678. [PMID: 37604044 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2023.102678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are associated with the pathological deposition of many different intrinsically disordered proteins or proteins with intrinsically disordered regions. Recent evidence suggests that these proteins can undergo liquid-liquid phase separation and also form membrane-less organelles in cells. Additionally, the biomolecular condensates formed by these proteins may undergo liquid-to-solid phase transition thereby maturating to amyloid fibrils, oligomeric species, or amorphous aggregates and contributing to the pathology of several neurodegenerative diseases. Here we discuss the role of phase separation of the neuronal proteins tau, α-synuclein, fused in sarcoma (FUS), and the transactive response DNA-binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43) that are associated with neurodegeneration in the context of pathological protein aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pijush Chakraborty
- Department for NMR-based Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Am Faßberg 11, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Markus Zweckstetter
- Department for NMR-based Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Am Faßberg 11, 37077 Göttingen, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Von-Siebold-Str. 3a, 37075 Göttingen, Germany.
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20
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Hou K, Liu T, Li J, Xian M, Sun L, Wei J. Liquid-liquid phase separation regulates alpha-synuclein aggregate and mitophagy in Parkinson's disease. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1250532. [PMID: 37781241 PMCID: PMC10536155 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1250532] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world, and alpha-synuclein (α-syn) abnormal aggregate and mitochondrial dysfunction play a crucial role in its pathological development. Recent studies have revealed that proteins can form condensates through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), and LLPS has been found to be widely present in α-syn aberrant aggregate and mitophagy-related protein physiological processes. This review summarizes the occurrence of α-syn LLPS and its influencing factors, introduces the production and transformation of the related protein LLPS during PINK1-Parkin-mediated mitophagy, hoping to provide new ideas and methods for the study of PD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiying Hou
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Jingwen Li
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Meiyan Xian
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Lin Sun
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Jianshe Wei
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
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21
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Piroska L, Fenyi A, Thomas S, Plamont MA, Redeker V, Melki R, Gueroui Z. α-Synuclein liquid condensates fuel fibrillar α-synuclein growth. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadg5663. [PMID: 37585526 PMCID: PMC10431715 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg5663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-Syn) aggregation into fibrils with prion-like features is intimately associated with Lewy pathology and various synucleinopathies. Emerging studies suggest that α-Syn could form liquid condensates through phase separation. The role of these condensates in aggregation and disease remains elusive and the interplay between α-Syn fibrils and α-Syn condensates remains unexplored, possibly due to difficulties in triggering the formation of α-Syn condensates in cells. To address this gap, we developed an assay allowing the controlled assembly/disassembly of α-Syn condensates in cells and studied them upon exposure to preformed α-Syn fibrillar polymorphs. Fibrils triggered the evolution of liquid α-Syn condensates into solid-like structures displaying growing needle-like extensions and exhibiting pathological amyloid hallmarks. No such changes were elicited on α-Syn that did not undergo phase separation. We, therefore, propose a model where α-Syn within condensates fuels exogenous fibrillar seeds growth, thus speeding up the prion-like propagation of pathogenic aggregates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard Piroska
- PASTEUR, Department of Chemistry, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Alexis Fenyi
- Institut Francois Jacob (MIRCen), CEA, CNRS, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Scott Thomas
- PASTEUR, Department of Chemistry, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Marie-Aude Plamont
- PASTEUR, Department of Chemistry, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Virginie Redeker
- Institut Francois Jacob (MIRCen), CEA, CNRS, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Ronald Melki
- Institut Francois Jacob (MIRCen), CEA, CNRS, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Zoher Gueroui
- PASTEUR, Department of Chemistry, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
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22
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Viola G, Floriani F, Barracchia CG, Munari F, D'Onofrio M, Assfalg M. Ultrasmall Gold Nanoparticles as Clients of Biomolecular Condensates. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202301274. [PMID: 37293933 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202301274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of biopolymers to form condensates is a widespread phenomenon in living cells. Agents that target or alter condensation can help uncover elusive physiological and pathological mechanisms. Owing to their unique material properties and modes of interaction with biomolecules, nanoparticles represent attractive condensate-targeting agents. Our work focused on elucidating the interaction between ultrasmall gold nanoparticles (usGNPs) and diverse types of condensates of tau, a representative phase-separating protein associated with neurodegenerative disorders. usGNPs attract considerable interest in the biomedical community due to unique features, including emergent optical properties and good cell penetration. We explored the interaction of usGNPs with reconstituted self-condensates of tau, two-component tau/polyanion and three-component tau/RNA/alpha-synuclein coacervates. The usGNPs were found to concentrate into condensed liquid droplets, consistent with the formation of dynamic client (nanoparticle) - scaffold (tau) interactions, and were observable thanks to their intrinsic luminescence. Furthermore, usGNPs were capable to promote LLPS of a protein domain which is unable to phase separate on its own. Our study demonstrates the ability of usGNPs to interact with and illuminate protein condensates. We anticipate that nanoparticles will have broad applicability as nanotracers to interrogate phase separation, and as nanoactuators controlling the formation and dissolution of condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Viola
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Fulvio Floriani
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Munari
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Michael Assfalg
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
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23
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Lan C, Kim J, Ulferts S, Aprile-Garcia F, Weyrauch S, Anandamurugan A, Grosse R, Sawarkar R, Reinhardt A, Hugel T. Quantitative real-time in-cell imaging reveals heterogeneous clusters of proteins prior to condensation. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4831. [PMID: 37582808 PMCID: PMC10427612 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40540-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Our current understanding of biomolecular condensate formation is largely based on observing the final near-equilibrium condensate state. Despite expectations from classical nucleation theory, pre-critical protein clusters were recently shown to form under subsaturation conditions in vitro; if similar long-lived clusters comprising more than a few molecules are also present in cells, our understanding of the physical basis of biological phase separation may fundamentally change. Here, we combine fluorescence microscopy with photobleaching analysis to quantify the formation of clusters of NELF proteins in living, stressed cells. We categorise small and large clusters based on their dynamics and their response to p38 kinase inhibition. We find a broad distribution of pre-condensate cluster sizes and show that NELF protein cluster formation can be explained as non-classical nucleation with a surprisingly flat free-energy landscape for a wide range of sizes and an inhibition of condensation in unstressed cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyang Lan
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- BIOSS and CIBSS Signalling Research Centres, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- PicoQuant GmbH, Rudower Chaussee 29, 12489, Berlin, Germany
| | - Juhyeong Kim
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Svenja Ulferts
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Sophie Weyrauch
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Robert Grosse
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ritwick Sawarkar
- Medical Research Council (MRC), University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QR, United Kingdom
| | - Aleks Reinhardt
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, United Kingdom.
| | - Thorsten Hugel
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
- BIOSS and CIBSS Signalling Research Centres, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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24
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Zhang X, Li H, Ma Y, Zhong D, Hou S. Study liquid-liquid phase separation with optical microscopy: A methodology review. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:021502. [PMID: 37180732 PMCID: PMC10171890 DOI: 10.1063/5.0137008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Intracellular liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a critical process involving the dynamic association of biomolecules and the formation of non-membrane compartments, playing a vital role in regulating biomolecular interactions and organelle functions. A comprehensive understanding of cellular LLPS mechanisms at the molecular level is crucial, as many diseases are linked to LLPS, and insights gained can inform drug/gene delivery processes and aid in the diagnosis and treatment of associated diseases. Over the past few decades, numerous techniques have been employed to investigate the LLPS process. In this review, we concentrate on optical imaging methods applied to LLPS studies. We begin by introducing LLPS and its molecular mechanism, followed by a review of the optical imaging methods and fluorescent probes employed in LLPS research. Furthermore, we discuss potential future imaging tools applicable to the LLPS studies. This review aims to provide a reference for selecting appropriate optical imaging methods for LLPS investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yue Ma
- Institute of Systems and Physical Biology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | | | - Shangguo Hou
- Institute of Systems and Physical Biology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
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25
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Li P, Chen J, Wang X, Su Z, Gao M, Huang Y. Liquid - liquid phase separation of tau: Driving forces, regulation, and biological implications. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 183:106167. [PMID: 37230179 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106167] [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: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The past 15 years have witnessed an explosion in the studies of biomolecular condensates that are implicated in numerous biological processes and play vital roles in human health and diseases. Recent findings demonstrate that the microtubule-associated protein tau forms liquid condensates through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in in vitro experiments using purified recombinant proteins and cell-based experiments. Although in vivo studies are lacking, liquid condensates have emerged as an important assembly state of physiological and pathological tau and LLPS can regulate the function of microtubules, mediate stress granule formation, and accelerate tau amyloid aggregation. In this review, we summarize recent advances in tau LLPS, aiming to unveiling the delicate interactions driving tau LLPS. We further discuss the association of tau LLPS with physiology and disease in the context of the sophisticated regulation of tau LLPS. Deciphering the mechanisms underlying tau LLPS and the liquid-to-solid transition enables rational design of molecules that inhibit or delay the formation of tau solid species, thus providing novel targeted therapeutic strategies for tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Li
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Jingxin Chen
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Zhengding Su
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Meng Gao
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China.
| | - Yongqi Huang
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China.
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26
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Zhang J, Huang Y, Bai F. Stochastic Monte Carlo Model for Simulating the Dynamic Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation in Bacterial Cells. J Phys Chem B 2023; 127:4145-4153. [PMID: 37130439 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c01696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
There is growing evidence showing that many critical biological processes are driven by biomolecule condensates through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). Although the qualitative observation and description of LLPS have been well documented, quantitative simulations of the time-dependent progression of LLPS in live cells are generally lacking. In this work, we build a stochastic Monte Carlo model to simulate the dynamic LLPS process during the formation of bacterial aggresomes. We demonstrate that the size distribution of the protein condensates evolves from an exponential-like to a bimodal-like pattern, and the number of condensates increases at the beginning and then decreases after reaching a maximum. Incorporating diffusion and collision, our simplified model recapitulates the two-step LLPS process in which many smaller condensates are formed in the first step and then merged into a few larger ones. We further reveal that the condensation speed, which can be defined by the condensates formed in unit time during the first step, is mainly determined by both the collision energy barrier and the initial protein density, while the number of condensates at the equilibrium is mainly associated with the dissociation energy barrier. Moreover, the LLPS process is not sensitive to temperature changes ranging around physiological conditions. Additionally, we consider the effect of the nucleation energy barrier on LLPS. We find that a higher nucleation energy barrier brings a slower condensation speed. Overall, we simulate the spatiotemporal dynamics of the LLPS process and provide qualitative guidance for understanding the dynamics of LLPS in bacterial cells, which can faithfully recapitulate experimental observations and facilitate the design of future experimental tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingpeng Zhang
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yanyi Huang
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Institute for Cell Analysis, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Fan Bai
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
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27
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Ramirez LM, Zweckstetter M. Molecular-level interplay between intrinsically disordered clients and Hsp90. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2023; 74:102304. [PMID: 37068388 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2023.102304] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Proteostasis is maintained by a network of molecular chaperones, a prominent member of which is the 90-kilodalton heat shock protein Hsp90. The chaperone function of Hsp90 has been extensively reviewed previously, emphasizing its ATPase activity and remodeling of folded client proteins. Experimental evidence implicating Hsp90 in neurodegenerative diseases has bolstered interest in the noncanonical chaperoning of intrinsically disordered protein (IDPs), however the interplay between Hsp90 and its disordered clients remains poorly understood. In this review we describe recent advances that have contributed to our understanding of the intricate mechanisms characterizing Hsp90-mediated chaperoning of the IDPs tau and α-synuclein and survey emerging insights into the modulation of the chaperone-client interplay in the context of neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Marie Ramirez
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Von-Siebold-Str. 3a, 37075 Gӧttingen, Germany
| | - Markus Zweckstetter
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Von-Siebold-Str. 3a, 37075 Gӧttingen, Germany; Department for NMR-based Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Am Fassberg 11, 37077 Gӧttingen, Germany.
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28
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Concha-Marambio L, Weber S, Farris CM, Dakna M, Lang E, Wicke T, Ma Y, Starke M, Ebentheuer J, Sixel-Döring F, Muntean ML, Schade S, Trenkwalder C, Soto C, Mollenhauer B. Accurate Detection of α-Synuclein Seeds in Cerebrospinal Fluid from Isolated Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder and Patients with Parkinson's Disease in the DeNovo Parkinson (DeNoPa) Cohort. Mov Disord 2023; 38:567-578. [PMID: 36781413 PMCID: PMC10153075 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Misfolded α-synuclein (αSyn) aggregates (αSyn-seeds) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are biomarkers for synucleinopathies such as Parkinson's disease (PD). αSyn-seeds have been detected in prodromal cases with isolated rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (iRBD). OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to determine the accuracy of the αSyn-seed amplification assay (αS-SAA) in a comprehensively characterized cohort with a high proportion of PD and iRBD CSF samples collected at baseline. METHODS We used a high-throughput αS-SAA to analyze 233 blinded CSF samples from 206 participants of the DeNovo Parkinson Cohort (DeNoPa) (113 de novo PD, 64 healthy controls, 29 iRBD confirmed by video polysomnography). Results were compared with the final diagnosis, which was determined after up to 10 years of longitudinal clinical evaluations, including dopamine-transporter-single-photon emission computed tomography (DAT-SPECT) at baseline, CSF proteins, Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, and various cognitive and nonmotor scales. RESULTS αS-SAA detected αSyn-seeds in baseline PD-CSF with 98% accuracy. αSyn-seeds were detected in 93% of the iRBD cases. αS-SAA results showed higher agreement with the final than the initial diagnosis, as 14 patients were rediagnosed as non-αSyn aggregation disorder. For synucleinopathies, αS-SAA showed higher concordance with the final diagnosis than DAT-SPECT. Statistically significant correlations were found between assay parameters and disease progression. CONCLUSIONS Our results confirm αS-SAA accuracy at the first clinical evaluation when a definite diagnosis is most consequential. αS-SAA conditions reported here are highly sensitive, enabling the detection of αSyn-seeds in CSF from iRBD just months after the first symptoms, suggesting that αSyn-seeds are present in the very early prodromal phase of synucleinopathies. Therefore, αSyn-seeds are clear risk markers for synuclein-related disorders, but not for time of phenoconversion. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandrina Weber
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Robert-Koch Str. 40, 37073 Goettingen, Germany
- Paracelsus-Elena-Klinik, Klinikstrasse 16, 34119 Kassel, Germany
| | - Carly M. Farris
- R&D Unit, Amprion Inc., 11095 Flintkote Av., San Diego, California, 92121, USA
| | - Mohammed Dakna
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Robert-Koch Str. 40, 37073 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Lang
- Paracelsus-Elena-Klinik, Klinikstrasse 16, 34119 Kassel, Germany
| | - Tamara Wicke
- Paracelsus-Elena-Klinik, Klinikstrasse 16, 34119 Kassel, Germany
| | - Yihua Ma
- R&D Unit, Amprion Inc., 11095 Flintkote Av., San Diego, California, 92121, USA
| | - Maritta Starke
- Paracelsus-Elena-Klinik, Klinikstrasse 16, 34119 Kassel, Germany
| | - Jens Ebentheuer
- Paracelsus-Elena-Klinik, Klinikstrasse 16, 34119 Kassel, Germany
| | - Friederike Sixel-Döring
- Paracelsus-Elena-Klinik, Klinikstrasse 16, 34119 Kassel, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian Schade
- Paracelsus-Elena-Klinik, Klinikstrasse 16, 34119 Kassel, Germany
| | - Claudia Trenkwalder
- Paracelsus-Elena-Klinik, Klinikstrasse 16, 34119 Kassel, Germany
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Robert-Koch Str. 40, 37073 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Claudio Soto
- R&D Unit, Amprion Inc., 11095 Flintkote Av., San Diego, California, 92121, USA
- Mitchell Center for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Brain Disorders, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Brit Mollenhauer
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Robert-Koch Str. 40, 37073 Goettingen, Germany
- Paracelsus-Elena-Klinik, Klinikstrasse 16, 34119 Kassel, Germany
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29
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Nam J, Gwon Y. Neuronal biomolecular condensates and their implications in neurodegenerative diseases. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1145420. [PMID: 37065458 PMCID: PMC10102667 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1145420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates are subcellular organizations where functionally related proteins and nucleic acids are assembled through liquid-liquid phase separation, allowing them to develop on a larger scale without a membrane. However, biomolecular condensates are highly vulnerable to disruptions from genetic risks and various factors inside and outside the cell and are strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative diseases. In addition to the classical view of the nucleation-polymerization process that triggers the protein aggregation from the misfolded seed, the pathologic transition of biomolecular condensates can also promote the aggregation of proteins found in the deposits of neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, it has been suggested that several protein or protein-RNA complexes located in the synapse and along the neuronal process are neuron-specific condensates displaying liquid-like properties. As their compositional and functional modifications play a crucial role in the context of neurodegeneration, further research is needed to fully understand the role of neuronal biomolecular condensates. In this article, we will discuss recent findings that explore the pivotal role of biomolecular condensates in the development of neuronal defects and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Youngdae Gwon
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
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30
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Peña-Díaz S, García-Pardo J, Ventura S. Development of Small Molecules Targeting α-Synuclein Aggregation: A Promising Strategy to Treat Parkinson's Disease. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:839. [PMID: 36986700 PMCID: PMC10059018 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease, the second most common neurodegenerative disorder worldwide, is characterized by the accumulation of protein deposits in the dopaminergic neurons. These deposits are primarily composed of aggregated forms of α-Synuclein (α-Syn). Despite the extensive research on this disease, only symptomatic treatments are currently available. However, in recent years, several compounds, mainly of an aromatic character, targeting α-Syn self-assembly and amyloid formation have been identified. These compounds, discovered by different approaches, are chemically diverse and exhibit a plethora of mechanisms of action. This work aims to provide a historical overview of the physiopathology and molecular aspects associated with Parkinson's disease and the current trends in small compound development to target α-Syn aggregation. Although these molecules are still under development, they constitute an important step toward discovering effective anti-aggregational therapies for Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Peña-Díaz
- Institut de Biotecnologia i Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Javier García-Pardo
- Institut de Biotecnologia i Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Salvador Ventura
- Institut de Biotecnologia i Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
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31
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Ainani H, Bouchmaa N, Ben Mrid R, El Fatimy R. Liquid-liquid phase separation of protein tau: An emerging process in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 178:106011. [PMID: 36702317 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic reactions within cells occur in various isolated compartments with or without borders, the latter being known as membrane-less organelles (MLOs). The MLOs show liquid-like properties and are formed by a process known as liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). MLOs contribute to different molecules interactions such as protein-protein, protein-RNA, and RNA-RNA driven by various factors, such as multivalency of intrinsic disorders. MLOs are involved in several cell signaling pathways such as transcription, immune response, and cellular organization. However, disruption of these processes has been found in different pathologies. Recently, it has been demonstrated that protein aggregates, a characteristic of some neurodegenerative diseases, undergo similar phase separation. Tau protein is known as a major neurofibrillary tangles component in Alzheimer's disease (AD). This protein can undergo phase separation to form a MLO known as tau droplet in vitro and in vivo, and this process can be facilitated by several factors, including crowding agents, RNA, and phosphorylation. Tau droplet has been shown to mature into insoluble aggregates suggesting that this process may precede and induce neurodegeneration in AD. Here we review major factors involved in liquid droplet formation within a cell. Additionally, we highlight recent findings concerning tau aggregation following phase separation in AD, along with the potential therapeutic strategies that could be explored in this process against the progression of this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Ainani
- Institute of Biological Sciences (ISSB), UM6P-Faculty of Medical Sciences (UM6P-FMS), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben-Guerir, Morocco
| | - Najat Bouchmaa
- Institute of Biological Sciences (ISSB), UM6P-Faculty of Medical Sciences (UM6P-FMS), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben-Guerir, Morocco
| | - Reda Ben Mrid
- Institute of Biological Sciences (ISSB), UM6P-Faculty of Medical Sciences (UM6P-FMS), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben-Guerir, Morocco
| | - Rachid El Fatimy
- Institute of Biological Sciences (ISSB), UM6P-Faculty of Medical Sciences (UM6P-FMS), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben-Guerir, Morocco.
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32
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Chew PY, Joseph JA, Collepardo-Guevara R, Reinhardt A. Thermodynamic origins of two-component multiphase condensates of proteins. Chem Sci 2023; 14:1820-1836. [PMID: 36819870 PMCID: PMC9931050 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc05873a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Intracellular condensates are highly multi-component systems in which complex phase behaviour can ensue, including the formation of architectures comprising multiple immiscible condensed phases. Relying solely on physical intuition to manipulate such condensates is difficult because of the complexity of their composition, and systematically learning the underlying rules experimentally would be extremely costly. We address this challenge by developing a computational approach to design pairs of protein sequences that result in well-separated multilayered condensates and elucidate the molecular origins of these compartments. Our method couples a genetic algorithm to a residue-resolution coarse-grained protein model. We demonstrate that we can design protein partners to form multiphase condensates containing naturally occurring proteins, such as the low-complexity domain of hnRNPA1 and its mutants, and show how homo- and heterotypic interactions must differ between proteins to result in multiphasicity. We also show that in some cases the specific pattern of amino-acid residues plays an important role. Our findings have wide-ranging implications for understanding and controlling the organisation, functions and material properties of biomolecular condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Yu Chew
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
| | - Jerelle A Joseph
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
- Department of Physics, University of Cambridge Cambridge CB3 0HE UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 3EH UK
| | - Rosana Collepardo-Guevara
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
- Department of Physics, University of Cambridge Cambridge CB3 0HE UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 3EH UK
| | - Aleks Reinhardt
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
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Rodríguez LC, Foressi NN, Celej MS. Modulation of α-synuclein phase separation by biomolecules. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2023; 1871:140885. [PMID: 36481455 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2022.140885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is currently recognized as a common mechanism involved in the regulation of a number of cellular functions. On the other hand, aberrant phase separation has been linked to the biogenesis of several neurodegenerative disorders since many proteins that undergo LLPS are also found in pathological aggregates. The formation of mixed protein coacervates may constitute a risk factor in overlapping neuropathologies, such as Parkinson's (PD) and Alzheimer's (AD) diseases. In this work, we evaluated the homotypic and heterotypic phase behaviour of the PD-related protein α-synuclein (AS) in the presence of the biologically relevant molecules ATP, polyamines, and the AD-related protein Tau. We found that AS exhibits a low propensity to form homotypic liquid droplets, yet phase separates into liquid-like or solid-like phases depending on the interacting biomolecule. We further demonstrated the synergistic droplet formation of AS and Tau providing support for a mechanism in which mixed condensates might contribute to the biogenesis of AS/Tau pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro Cruz Rodríguez
- Departamento de Química Biológica Ranwel Caputto, Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC, CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Haya de la Torre y Medina Allende, Ciudad Universitaria, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Nahuel N Foressi
- Departamento de Química Biológica Ranwel Caputto, Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC, CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Haya de la Torre y Medina Allende, Ciudad Universitaria, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina
| | - M Soledad Celej
- Departamento de Química Biológica Ranwel Caputto, Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC, CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Haya de la Torre y Medina Allende, Ciudad Universitaria, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina.
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Li Y, Chen T, You K, Peng T, Li T. Sequence determinants and solution conditions underlying liquid to solid phase transition. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 324:C236-C246. [PMID: 36503242 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00280.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Life consists of numberless functional biomolecules that exist in various states. Besides well-dissolved phases, biomolecules especially proteins and nucleic acids can form liquid droplets through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). Stronger interactions promote a solid-like state of biomolecular condensates, which are also formerly referred to as detergent-insoluble aggregates. Solid-like condensates exist in vivo physiologically and pathologically, and their formation has not been fully understood. Recently, more and more research has proven that liquid to solid phase transition (LST) is an essential way to form solid condensates. In this review, we summarized the regions in the sequence that have different impacts on phase transition and emphasized that the LST is affected by its sequence characteristics. Moreover, increasing evidence unveiled that LST is affected by various solution conditions. We discussed solution conditions like protein concentration, pH, ATP, ions, and small molecules in a solution. Methods have been established to study these solid phase components. Here, we summarized low-throughput experimental techniques and high-throughput omics methods in the study of the LST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Li
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission of China, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Taoyu Chen
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission of China, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Kaiqing You
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Happy Life Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Peng
- Happy Life Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission of China, Peking University, Beijing, China
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Das B, Roychowdhury S, Mohanty P, Rizuan A, Chakraborty J, Mittal J, Chattopadhyay K. A Zn-dependent structural transition of SOD1 modulates its ability to undergo phase separation. EMBO J 2023; 42:e111185. [PMID: 36416085 PMCID: PMC9841336 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2022111185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The misfolding and mutation of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) is commonly associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). SOD1 can accumulate within stress granules (SGs), a type of membraneless organelle, which is believed to form via liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). Using wild-type, metal-deficient, and different ALS disease mutants of SOD1 and computer simulations, we report here that the absence of Zn leads to structural disorder within two loop regions of SOD1, triggering SOD1 LLPS and amyloid formation. The addition of exogenous Zn to either metal-free SOD1 or to the severe ALS mutation I113T leads to the stabilization of the loops and impairs SOD1 LLPS and aggregation. Moreover, partial Zn-mediated inhibition of LLPS was observed for another severe ALS mutant, G85R, which shows perturbed Zn-binding. By contrast, the ALS mutant G37R, which shows reduced Cu-binding, does not undergo LLPS. In addition, SOD1 condensates induced by Zn-depletion exhibit greater cellular toxicity than aggregates formed by prolonged incubation under aggregating conditions. Overall, our work establishes a role for Zn-dependent modulation of SOD1 conformation and LLPS properties that may contribute to amyloid formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bidisha Das
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics DivisionCSIR‐Indian Institute of Chemical BiologyKolkataIndia
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR)GhaziabadIndia
| | - Sumangal Roychowdhury
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics DivisionCSIR‐Indian Institute of Chemical BiologyKolkataIndia
| | - Priyesh Mohanty
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical EngineeringTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTXUSA
| | - Azamat Rizuan
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical EngineeringTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTXUSA
| | - Joy Chakraborty
- Cell Biology and Physiology DivisionCSIR‐Indian Institute of Chemical BiologyKolkataIndia
| | - Jeetain Mittal
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical EngineeringTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTXUSA
| | - Krishnananda Chattopadhyay
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics DivisionCSIR‐Indian Institute of Chemical BiologyKolkataIndia
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR)GhaziabadIndia
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36
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Liquid-liquid Phase Separation of α-Synuclein: A New Mechanistic Insight for α-Synuclein Aggregation Associated with Parkinson's Disease Pathogenesis. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167713. [PMID: 35787838 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant aggregation of the misfolded presynaptic protein, α-Synuclein (α-Syn) into Lewy body (LB) and Lewy neuritis (LN) is a major pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD) and other synucleinopathies. Numerous studies have suggested that prefibrillar and fibrillar species of the misfolded α-Syn aggregates are responsible for cell death in PD pathogenesis. However, the precise molecular events during α-Syn aggregation, especially in the early stages, remain elusive. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of α-Syn occurs in the nucleation step of α-Syn aggregation, which offers an alternate non-canonical aggregation pathway in the crowded microenvironment. The liquid-like α-Syn droplets gradually undergo an irreversible liquid-to-solid phase transition into amyloid-like hydrogel entrapping oligomers and fibrils. This new mechanism of α-Syn LLPS and gel formation might represent the molecular basis of cellular toxicity associated with PD. This review aims to demonstrate the recent development of α-Syn LLPS, the underlying mechanism along with the microscopic events of aberrant phase transition. This review further discusses how several intrinsic and extrinsic factors regulate the thermodynamics and kinetics of α-Syn LLPS and co-LLPS with other proteins, which might explain the pathophysiology of α-Syn in various neurodegenerative diseases.
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37
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Unravelling the microscopic characteristics of intrinsically disordered proteins upon liquid–liquid phase separation. Essays Biochem 2022; 66:891-900. [DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Biomolecular condensate formation via liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) has emerged as a ubiquitous mechanism underlying the spatiotemporal organization of biomolecules in the cell. These membraneless condensates form and disperse dynamically in response to environmental stimuli. Growing evidence indicates that the liquid-like condensates not only play functional physiological roles but are also implicated in a wide range of human diseases. As a major component of biomolecular condensates, intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) are intimately involved in the LLPS process. During the last decade, great efforts have been made on the macroscopic characterization of the physicochemical properties and biological functions of liquid condensates both in vitro and in the cellular context. However, characterization of the conformations and interactions at the molecular level within phase-separated condensates is still at an early stage. In the present review, we summarize recent biophysical studies investigating the intramolecular conformational changes of IDPs upon LLPS and the intermolecular clustering of proteins undergoing LLPS, with a particular focus on single-molecule fluorescence detection. We also discuss how these microscopic features are linked to the macroscopic phase transitions that are relevant to the physiological and pathological roles of the condensates.
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38
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The central role of tau in Alzheimer’s disease: From neurofibrillary tangle maturation to the induction of cell death. Brain Res Bull 2022; 190:204-217. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2022.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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39
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Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation Promotes Protein Aggregation and Its Implications in Ferroptosis in Parkinson’s Disease Dementia. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:7165387. [PMID: 36246407 PMCID: PMC9560807 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7165387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The pathological features of PDD are represented by dopaminergic neuronal death and intracellular α-synuclein (α-syn) aggregation. The interaction of iron accumulation with α-syn and tau was further explored as an essential pathological mechanism of PDD. However, the links and mechanisms between these factors remain unclear. Studies have shown that the occurrence and development of neurodegenerative diseases such as PDD are closely related to the separation of abnormal phases. Substances such as proteins can form droplets through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) under normal physiological conditions and even undergo further liquid-solid phase transitions to form solid aggregates under disease or regulatory disorders, leading to pathological phenomena. By analyzing the existing literature, we propose that LLPS is the crucial mechanism causing abnormal accumulation of α-syn, tau, and other proteins in PDD, and its interaction with iron metabolism disorder is the key factor driving ferroptosis in PDD. Therefore, we believe that LLPS can serve as one of the means to explain the pathological mechanism of PDD. Determining the significance of LLPS in neurodegenerative diseases such as PDD will stimulate interest in research into treatments based on interference with abnormal LLPS.
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40
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Duraivel S, Subramaniam V, Chisolm S, Scheutz GM, Sumerlin BS, Bhattacharjee T, Angelini TE. Leveraging ultra-low interfacial tension and liquid-liquid phase separation in embedded 3D bioprinting. BIOPHYSICS REVIEWS 2022; 3:031307. [PMID: 38505275 PMCID: PMC10903370 DOI: 10.1063/5.0087387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Many recently developed 3D bioprinting strategies operate by extruding aqueous biopolymer solutions directly into a variety of different support materials constituted from swollen, solvated, aqueous, polymer assemblies. In developing these 3D printing methods and materials, great care is often taken to tune the rheological behaviors of both inks and 3D support media. By contrast, much less attention has been given to the physics of the interfaces created when structuring one polymer phase into another in embedded 3D printing applications. For example, it is currently unclear whether a dynamic interfacial tension between miscible phases stabilizes embedded 3D bioprinted structures as they are shaped while in a liquid state. Interest in the physics of interfaces between complex fluids has grown dramatically since the discovery of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in living cells. We believe that many new insights coming from this burst of investigation into LLPS within biological contexts can be leveraged to develop new materials and methods for improved 3D bioprinting that leverage LLPS in mixtures of biopolymers, biocompatible synthetic polymers, and proteins. Thus, in this review article, we highlight work at the interface between recent LLPS research and embedded 3D bioprinting methods and materials, and we introduce a 3D bioprinting method that leverages LLPS to stabilize printed biopolymer inks embedded in a bioprinting support material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senthilkumar Duraivel
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Vignesh Subramaniam
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Steven Chisolm
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Georg M. Scheutz
- George & Josephine Butler Polymer Research Laboratory, Center for Macromolecular Science & Engineering, Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Brent. S. Sumerlin
- George & Josephine Butler Polymer Research Laboratory, Center for Macromolecular Science & Engineering, Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Tapomoy Bhattacharjee
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bellary Road, Bangalore 560065, Karnataka, India
| | - Thomas E. Angelini
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
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41
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Gracia P, Polanco D, Tarancón-Díez J, Serra I, Bracci M, Oroz J, Laurents DV, García I, Cremades N. Molecular mechanism for the synchronized electrostatic coacervation and co-aggregation of alpha-synuclein and tau. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4586. [PMID: 35933508 PMCID: PMC9357037 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32350-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloid aggregation of α-synuclein (αS) is the hallmark of Parkinson's disease and other synucleinopathies. Recently, Tau protein, generally associated with Alzheimer's disease, has been linked to αS pathology and observed to co-localize in αS-rich disease inclusions, although the molecular mechanisms for the co-aggregation of both proteins remain elusive. We report here that αS phase-separates into liquid condensates by electrostatic complex coacervation with positively charged polypeptides such as Tau. Condensates undergo either fast gelation or coalescence followed by slow amyloid aggregation depending on the affinity of αS for the poly-cation and the rate of valence exhaustion of the condensate network. By combining a set of advanced biophysical techniques, we have been able to characterize αS/Tau liquid-liquid phase separation and identified key factors that lead to the formation of hetero-aggregates containing both proteins in the interior of the liquid protein condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Gracia
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zaragoza, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - David Polanco
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zaragoza, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jorge Tarancón-Díez
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zaragoza, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ilenia Serra
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Maruan Bracci
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Javier Oroz
- "Rocasolano" Institute for Physical Chemistry, CSIC, Serrano 119, Madrid, E-28006, Spain
| | - Douglas V Laurents
- "Rocasolano" Institute for Physical Chemistry, CSIC, Serrano 119, Madrid, E-28006, Spain
| | - Inés García
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro Universitario de la Defensa, Academia General Militar, Ctra. de Huesca s/n, 50090, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Nunilo Cremades
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zaragoza, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain.
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42
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Calabrese G, Molzahn C, Mayor T. Protein interaction networks in neurodegenerative diseases: from physiological function to aggregation. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102062. [PMID: 35623389 PMCID: PMC9234719 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The accumulation of protein inclusions is linked to many neurodegenerative diseases that typically develop in older individuals, due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In rare familial neurodegenerative disorders, genes encoding for aggregation-prone proteins are often mutated. While the underlying mechanism leading to these diseases still remains to be fully elucidated, efforts in the past 20 years revealed a vast network of protein–protein interactions that play a major role in regulating the aggregation of key proteins associated with neurodegeneration. Misfolded proteins that can oligomerize and form insoluble aggregates associate with molecular chaperones and other elements of the proteolytic machineries that are the frontline workers attempting to protect the cells by promoting clearance and preventing aggregation. Proteins that are normally bound to aggregation-prone proteins can become sequestered and mislocalized in protein inclusions, leading to their loss of function. In contrast, mutations, posttranslational modifications, or misfolding of aggregation-prone proteins can lead to gain of function by inducing novel or altered protein interactions, which in turn can impact numerous essential cellular processes and organelles, such as vesicle trafficking and the mitochondria. This review examines our current knowledge of protein–protein interactions involving several key aggregation-prone proteins that are associated with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We aim to provide an overview of the protein interaction networks that play a central role in driving or mitigating inclusion formation, while highlighting some of the key proteomic studies that helped to uncover the extent of these networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Calabrese
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, V6T 1Z4 Vancouver BC, Canada.
| | - Cristen Molzahn
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, V6T 1Z4 Vancouver BC, Canada
| | - Thibault Mayor
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, V6T 1Z4 Vancouver BC, Canada.
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43
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Zhu S, Bäckström D, Forsgren L, Trupp M. Alterations in Self-Aggregating Neuropeptides in Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients with Parkinsonian Disorders. JOURNAL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2022; 12:1169-1189. [PMID: 35253777 PMCID: PMC9198747 DOI: 10.3233/jpd-213031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and multiple system atrophy (MSA) present with similar movement disorder symptoms but distinct protein aggregates upon pathological examination. Objective: Discovery and validation of candidate biomarkers in parkinsonian disorders for differential diagnosis of subgroup molecular etiologies. Methods: Untargeted liquid chromatography (LC)-mass spectrometry (MS) proteomics was used for discovery profiling in cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) followed by LC-MS/MS based multiple reaction monitoring for validation of candidates. We compared clinical variation within the parkinsonian cohort including PD subgroups exhibiting tremor dominance (TD) or postural instability gait disturbance and those with detectable leukocytes in CSF. Results: We have identified candidate peptide biomarkers and validated related proteins with targeted quantitative multiplexed assays. Dopamine-drug naïve patients at first diagnosis exhibit reduced levels of signaling neuropeptides, chaperones, and processing proteases for packaging of self-aggregating peptides into dense core vesicles. Distinct patterns of biomarkers were detected in the parkinsonian disorders but were not robust enough to offer a differential diagnosis. Different biomarker changes were detected in male and female patients with PD. Subgroup specific candidate biomarkers were identified for TD PD and PD patients with leukocytes detected in CSF. Conclusion: PD, MSA, and PSP exhibit overlapping as well as distinct protein biomarkers that suggest specific molecular etiologies. This indicates common sensitivity of certain populations of selectively vulnerable neurons in the brain, and distinct therapeutic targets for PD subgroups. Our report validates a decrease in CSF levels of self-aggregating neuropeptides in parkinsonian disorders and supports the role of native amyloidogenic proteins in etiologies of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaochun Zhu
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - David Bäckström
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Lars Forsgren
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Miles Trupp
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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44
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Agarwal A, Arora L, Rai SK, Avni A, Mukhopadhyay S. Spatiotemporal modulations in heterotypic condensates of prion and α-synuclein control phase transitions and amyloid conversion. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1154. [PMID: 35241680 PMCID: PMC8894376 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28797-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensation via liquid-liquid phase separation of proteins and nucleic acids is associated with a range of critical cellular functions and neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we demonstrate that complex coacervation of the prion protein and α-synuclein within narrow stoichiometry results in the formation of highly dynamic, reversible, thermo-responsive liquid droplets via domain-specific electrostatic interactions between the positively-charged intrinsically disordered N-terminal segment of prion and the acidic C-terminal tail of α-synuclein. The addition of RNA to these coacervates yields multiphasic, vesicle-like, hollow condensates. Picosecond time-resolved measurements revealed the presence of transient electrostatic nanoclusters that are stable on the nanosecond timescale and can undergo breaking-and-making of interactions on slower timescales giving rise to a liquid-like behavior in the mesoscopic regime. The liquid-to-solid transition drives a rapid conversion of complex coacervates into heterotypic amyloids. Our results suggest that synergistic prion-α-synuclein interactions within condensates provide mechanistic underpinnings of their physiological role and overlapping neuropathological features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Agarwal
- Centre for Protein Science, Design and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Punjab, India
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Lisha Arora
- Centre for Protein Science, Design and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Punjab, India
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Sandeep K Rai
- Centre for Protein Science, Design and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Punjab, India
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Anamika Avni
- Centre for Protein Science, Design and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Punjab, India
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Samrat Mukhopadhyay
- Centre for Protein Science, Design and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Punjab, India.
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Punjab, India.
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Punjab, India.
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45
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A human tau seeded neuronal cell model recapitulates molecular responses associated with Alzheimer's disease. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2673. [PMID: 35177665 PMCID: PMC8854741 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06411-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular models recapitulating features of tauopathies are useful tools to investigate the causes and consequences of tau aggregation and the identification of novel treatments. We seeded rat primary cortical neurons with tau isolated from Alzheimer’s disease brains to induce a time-dependent increase in endogenous tau inclusions. Transcriptomics of seeded and control cells identified 1075 differentially expressed genes (including 26 altered at two time points). These were enriched for lipid/steroid metabolism and neuronal/glial cell development genes. 50 genes were correlated with tau inclusion formation at both transcriptomic and proteomic levels, including several microtubule and cytoskeleton-related proteins such as Tubb2a, Tubb4a, Nefl and Snca. Several genes (such as Fyn kinase and PTBP1, a tau exon 10 repressor) interact directly with or regulate tau. We conclude that this neuronal model may be a suitable platform for high-throughput screens for target or hit compound identification and validation.
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46
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Tau liquid-liquid phase separation in neurodegenerative diseases. Trends Cell Biol 2022; 32:611-623. [PMID: 35181198 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2022.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Aggregation of the microtubule-associated protein tau plays a major role in Alzheimer's disease and several other neurodegenerative disorders. An exciting recent development is the finding that, akin to some other proteins associated with neurodegenerative disease, tau has a high propensity to condensate via the mechanism of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). Here, we discuss the evidence for tau LLPS in vitro, the molecular mechanisms of this reaction, and the role of post-translational modifications and pathogenic mutations in tau phase separation. We also discuss recent studies on tau LLPS in cells and the insights these studies provide regarding the link between LLPS and neurodegeneration in tauopathies.
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47
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Abstract
The 14-3-3 family proteins are vital scaffold proteins that ubiquitously expressed in various tissues. They interact with numerous protein targets and mediate many cellular signaling pathways. The 14-3-3 binding motifs are often embedded in intrinsically disordered regions which are closely associated with liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). In the past ten years, LLPS has been observed for a variety of proteins and biological processes, indicating that LLPS plays a fundamental role in the formation of membraneless organelles and cellular condensates. While extensive investigations have been performed on 14-3-3 proteins, its involvement in LLPS is overlooked. To date, 14-3-3 proteins have not been reported to undergo LLPS alone or regulate LLPS of their binding partners. To reveal the potential involvement of 14-3-3 proteins in LLPS, in this review, we summarized the LLPS propensity of 14-3-3 binding partners and found that about one half of them may undergo LLPS spontaneously. We further analyzed the phase separation behavior of representative 14-3-3 binders and discussed how 14-3-3 proteins may be involved. By modulating the conformation and valence of interactions and recruiting other molecules, we speculate that 14-3-3 proteins can efficiently regulate the functions of their targets in the context of LLPS. Considering the critical roles of 14-3-3 proteins, there is an urgent need for investigating the involvement of 14-3-3 proteins in the phase separation process of their targets and the underling mechanisms.
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Giampà M, Amundarain MJ, Herrera MG, Tonali N, Dodero VI. Implementing Complementary Approaches to Shape the Mechanism of α-Synuclein Oligomerization as a Model of Amyloid Aggregation. Molecules 2021; 27:88. [PMID: 35011320 PMCID: PMC8747028 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aggregation of proteins into amyloid fibers is linked to more than forty still incurable cellular and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple system atrophy, Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes, among others. The process of amyloid formation is a main feature of cell degeneration and disease pathogenesis. Despite being methodologically challenging, a complete understanding of the molecular mechanism of aggregation, especially in the early stages, is essential to find new biological targets for innovative therapies. Here, we reviewed selected examples on α-syn showing how complementary approaches, which employ different biophysical techniques and models, can better deal with a comprehensive study of amyloid aggregation. In addition to the monomer aggregation and conformational transition hypothesis, we reported new emerging theories regarding the self-aggregation of α-syn, such as the alpha-helix rich tetramer hypothesis, whose destabilization induce monomer aggregation; and the liquid-liquid phase separation hypothesis, which considers a phase separation of α-syn into liquid droplets as a primary event towards the evolution to aggregates. The final aim of this review is to show how multimodal methodologies provide a complete portrait of α-syn oligomerization and can be successfully extended to other protein aggregation diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Giampà
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres Gate 9, 7491 Trondheim, Norway;
| | - María J. Amundarain
- Instituto de Física del Sur (IFISUR), Departamento de Física, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), CONICET, Av. L. N. Alem 1253, Bahía Blanca B8000CPB, Argentina;
| | - Maria Georgina Herrera
- Institute of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany;
| | - Nicolò Tonali
- BioCIS, CNRS, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris-Saclay, 92290 Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Veronica I. Dodero
- Organic and Bioorganic Chemistry, Chemistry Department, Bielefeld University, Universitätstr. 25, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
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Tesei G, Schulze TK, Crehuet R, Lindorff-Larsen K. Accurate model of liquid-liquid phase behavior of intrinsically disordered proteins from optimization of single-chain properties. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2111696118. [PMID: 34716273 DOI: 10.1101/2021.06.23.449550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Many intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) may undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) and participate in the formation of membraneless organelles in the cell, thereby contributing to the regulation and compartmentalization of intracellular biochemical reactions. The phase behavior of IDPs is sequence dependent, and its investigation through molecular simulations requires protein models that combine computational efficiency with an accurate description of intramolecular and intermolecular interactions. We developed a general coarse-grained model of IDPs, with residue-level detail, based on an extensive set of experimental data on single-chain properties. Ensemble-averaged experimental observables are predicted from molecular simulations, and a data-driven parameter-learning procedure is used to identify the residue-specific model parameters that minimize the discrepancy between predictions and experiments. The model accurately reproduces the experimentally observed conformational propensities of a set of IDPs. Through two-body as well as large-scale molecular simulations, we show that the optimization of the intramolecular interactions results in improved predictions of protein self-association and LLPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Tesei
- Structural Biology and NMR Laboratory, Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Thea K Schulze
- Structural Biology and NMR Laboratory, Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ramon Crehuet
- Structural Biology and NMR Laboratory, Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- CSIC-Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC), E-08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kresten Lindorff-Larsen
- Structural Biology and NMR Laboratory, Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark;
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50
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Tesei G, Schulze TK, Crehuet R, Lindorff-Larsen K. Accurate model of liquid-liquid phase behavior of intrinsically disordered proteins from optimization of single-chain properties. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2111696118. [PMID: 34716273 PMCID: PMC8612223 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2111696118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Many intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) may undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) and participate in the formation of membraneless organelles in the cell, thereby contributing to the regulation and compartmentalization of intracellular biochemical reactions. The phase behavior of IDPs is sequence dependent, and its investigation through molecular simulations requires protein models that combine computational efficiency with an accurate description of intramolecular and intermolecular interactions. We developed a general coarse-grained model of IDPs, with residue-level detail, based on an extensive set of experimental data on single-chain properties. Ensemble-averaged experimental observables are predicted from molecular simulations, and a data-driven parameter-learning procedure is used to identify the residue-specific model parameters that minimize the discrepancy between predictions and experiments. The model accurately reproduces the experimentally observed conformational propensities of a set of IDPs. Through two-body as well as large-scale molecular simulations, we show that the optimization of the intramolecular interactions results in improved predictions of protein self-association and LLPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Tesei
- Structural Biology and NMR Laboratory, Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Thea K Schulze
- Structural Biology and NMR Laboratory, Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ramon Crehuet
- Structural Biology and NMR Laboratory, Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- CSIC-Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC), E-08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kresten Lindorff-Larsen
- Structural Biology and NMR Laboratory, Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark;
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