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Zhao YD, Zhang W, Xing LZ, Xu J, Shi WM, Zhang YX. In vitro inhibition of α-Synuclein aggregation and disaggregation of preformed fibers by polyphenol hybrids with 2-conjugated benzothiazole. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2024; 105:129752. [PMID: 38631541 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2024.129752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
The misfolding and aggregation of α-Syn play a pivotal role in connecting diverse pathological pathways in Parkinson's disease (PD). Preserving α-Syn proteostasis and functionality by inhibiting its aggregation or disaggregating existing aggregates using suitable inhibitors represents a promising strategy for PD prevention and treatment. In this study, a series of benzothiazole-polyphenol hybrids was designed and synthesized. Three identified compounds exhibited notable inhibitory activities against α-Syn aggregation in vitro, with IC50 values in the low micromolar range. These inhibitors demonstrated sustained inhibitory effects throughout the entire aggregation process, stabilizing α-Syn proteostasis conformation. Moreover, the compounds effectively disintegrated preformed α-Syn oligomers and fibers, potentially by binding to specific domains within the fibers, inducing fibril instability, collapse, and ultimately resulting in smaller-sized aggregates and monomers. These findings offer valuable insights into the therapeutic potential of polyphenol hybrids with 2-conjugated benzothiazole targeting α-Syn aggregation in the treatment of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Dong Zhao
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Li-Zi Xing
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ji Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001 Zhengzhou, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001 Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Wei-Min Shi
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Yun-Xiao Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China.
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2
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Xing LZ, Zhang W, Zhao YD, Xu J, Zhang YX. Pyrazolamide derivatives inhibit α-Synuclein aggregation, disaggregate preformed fibers, and reduce inclusion formation in neuron cells. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116198. [PMID: 38368711 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116198] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
α-Syn fibers, the primary cause and central element of Lewy bodies (LB), play a pivotal role in the development of Parkinson's disease (PD). This research aims to identify more potent inhibitors of α-Syn aggregation. A series of N-aryl-3-aryl-pyrazole-5-carboxamide derivatives were designed and synthesized for this purpose. Among them, four candidate compounds, combining pyrazole and polyphenol blocks, were identified through screening, demonstrating good inhibitory effects with IC50 values in the low micromolar range (1.25-4.29 μM). Two candidates exhibited high permeability through the blood-brain barrier. Mechanistic studies using various methods revealed that the candidates preferentially bind to the aggregation-prone domains-proNAC or NAC domains of α-Syn. This binding hinders the conformational transition from random coil/α-helix to β-sheet, preserving α-Syn proteostasis. As a result, it interferes with α-Syn nuclei formation, prolongs the lag phase, decelerates the elongation phase, and ultimately impedes the formation of α-Syn fibrils. Additionally, the candidates demonstrated promising results in the disaggregation of preformed α-Syn fibers, potentially by binding to specific sites near the β-sheet domain within fibers. This reduces fiber stability, causing rapid collapse and yielding smaller aggregates and monomers. Crucially, the candidate compounds exhibited significant inhibitory efficacy against α-Syn aggregation within nerve cells with low cytotoxicity. This resulted in a notable inhibition of the formation of LB-like α-Syn inclusions. These compounds show considerable promise as potential therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Zi Xing
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ya-Dong Zhao
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ji Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience Research Institute, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Yun-Xiao Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052, Zhengzhou, China.
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3
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Huang W, Liu J, Le S, Yao M, Shi Y, Yan J. In situ single-molecule investigations of the impacts of biochemical perturbations on conformational intermediates of monomeric α-synuclein. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:016114. [PMID: 38435467 PMCID: PMC10908564 DOI: 10.1063/5.0188714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
α-Synuclein aggregation is a common trait in synucleinopathies, including Parkinson's disease. Being an unstructured protein, α-synuclein exists in several distinct conformational intermediates, contributing to both its function and pathogenesis. However, the regulation of these monomer conformations by biochemical factors and potential drugs has remained elusive. In this study, we devised an in situ single-molecule manipulation approach to pinpoint kinetically stable conformational intermediates of monomeric α-synuclein and explore the effects of various biochemical factors and drugs. We uncovered a partially folded conformation located in the non-amyloid-β component (NAC) region of monomeric α-synuclein, which is regulated by a preNAC region. This conformational intermediate is sensitive to biochemical perturbations and small-molecule drugs that influencing α-synuclein's aggregation tendency. Our findings reveal that this partially folded intermediate may play a role in α-synuclein aggregation, offering fresh perspectives for potential treatments aimed at the initial stage of higher-order α-synuclein aggregation. The single-molecule approach developed here can be broadly applied to the study of disease-related intrinsically disordered proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenmao Huang
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
| | - Jingzhun Liu
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411
| | | | | | - Yi Shi
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Jie Yan
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
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4
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Wang ZP, Zhang W, Xing LZ, Zhao YD, Xu J, Zhang YX. Therapeutic potential of Coumarin-polyphenolic acid hybrids in PD: Inhibition of α-Syn aggregation and disaggregation of preformed fibrils, leading to reduced neuronal inclusion formation. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2024; 99:129618. [PMID: 38219887 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2024.129618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
This study focuses on the discovery of new potential drugs for treating PD by targeting the aggregation of α-Syn. A series of hybrids combining Coumarin and phenolic acid were designed and synthesized. Four particularly promising compounds were identified, showing strong inhibitory effects with IC50 values ranging from low micromolar to submicromolar concentrations, as low as 0.63 μM. These compounds exhibited a higher binding affinity to α-Syn residues and effectively hindered the entire aggregation process, maintaining the proteostasis conformation of α-Syn and preventing the formation of β-sheet aggregates. This approach holds significant promise for PD prevention. Additionally, these candidate compounds demonstrated the ability to break down preformed α-Syn oligomers and fibrils, resulting in the formation of smaller aggregates and monomers. Moreover, the candidate compounds showed impressive effectiveness in inhibiting α-Syn aggregation within nerve cells, thereby reducing the likelihood of α-Syn inclusion formation resembling Lewy bodies, which highlights their potential for treating PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Ping Wang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Li-Zi Xing
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ya-Dong Zhao
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ji Xu
- Deparment of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001 Zhengzhou, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001 Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Yun-Xiao Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China.
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Zhang W, Liu W, Zhao YD, Xing LZ, Xu J, Li RJ, Zhang YX. The potential of Rhein's aromatic amines for Parkinson's disease prevention and treatment: α-Synuclein aggregation inhibition and disaggregation of preformed fibers. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2024; 97:129564. [PMID: 38000482 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2023.129564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
The aggregation of α-Syn is a pivotal mechanism in Parkinson's disease (PD). Effectively maintaining α-Syn proteostasis involves both inhibiting its aggregation and promoting disaggregation. In this study, we developed a series of aromatic amide derivatives based on Rhein. Two of these compounds, 4,5-dihydroxy-N-(3-hydroxyphenyl)-9,10-dioxo-9,10-dihydroanthracene-2-carboxamide (a5) and 4,5-dihydroxy-N-(2-hydroxy-4-chlorophenyl)-9,10-dioxo-9,10-dihydroanthracene-2-carboxamide (a8), exhibited good binding affinities to α-Syn residues, demonstrating promising inhibitory activity against α-Syn aggregation in vitro, with low IC50 values (1.35 and 1.08 μM, respectivly). These inhibitors acted throughout the entire aggregation process by stabilizing α-Syn's conformation and preventing the formation of β-sheet aggregates. They also effectively disassembled preformed α-Syn oligomers and fibrils. Preliminary mechanistic insights indicated that they bound to the specific domain within fibrils, inducing fibril instability, collapse, and the formation of smaller aggregates and monomeric α-Syn units. This research underscores the therapeutic potential of Rhein's aromatic amides in targeting α-Syn aggregation for PD treatment and suggests broader applications in managing and preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ya-Dong Zhao
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Li-Zi Xing
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ji Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001 Zhengzhou, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001 Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Rui-Jun Li
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Yun-Xiao Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China.
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Liu W, Zhang W, Xing LZ, Zhao YD, Xu J, Li RJ, Zhang YX. 4-Arylidene curcumin derivatives in vitro inhibit α-Synuclein aggregation and disaggregate the preformed fibril. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 96:117529. [PMID: 37976808 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
This study focuses on the misfolding and aggregation of α-Syn as a central mechanism linking various pathological processes in PD. Maintaining α-Syn proteostasis through suitable inhibitors emerges as an effective approach to prevent PD. A more efficient strategy for PD treatment involves disintegrating neurotoxic oligomers and fibrils into normal functional α-Syn using inhibitors. To this end, a series of 4-arylidene curcumin derivatives were synthesized with a sheet-like conjugated skeleton and higher binding energies with α-Syn residues. Among these derivatives, three candidate compounds exhibited promising α-Syn aggregation inhibitory activities in vitro, with IC50 values as low as 0.61 μM. The inhibitory action extended throughout the entire aggregation process, stabilizing α-Syn proteostasis conformation and preventing β-sheets aggregation. Furthermore, the candidate compounds demonstrated effective disintegration capabilities against preformed α-Syn oligomers and fibrils. Initial mechanistic investigations indicated that the inhibitors may bind to a specific domain within the fibril, inducing fibril instability and subsequent collapse. This process resulted in the formation of a complex system of aggregates with smaller sizes and monomers. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights into the potential of 4-arylidene curcumin derivatives as therapeutic agents for targeting α-Syn aggregation in PD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Li-Zi Xing
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ya-Dong Zhao
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ji Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001 Zhengzhou, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001 Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Rui-Jun Li
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Yun-Xiao Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China.
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Huang F, Liu Y, Wang Y, Xu J, Lian J, Zou Y, Wang C, Ding F, Sun Y. Co-aggregation of α-synuclein with amyloid-β stabilizes β-sheet-rich oligomers and enhances the formation of β-barrels. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:31604-31614. [PMID: 37964757 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp04138g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are the two most common neurodegenerative diseases with markedly different pathological features of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques and α-synuclein (αS) Lewy bodies (LBs), respectively. However, clinical overlaps in symptoms and pathologies between AD and PD are commonly observed caused by the cross-interaction between Aβ and αS. To uncover the molecular mechanisms behind their overlapping symptoms and pathologies, we computationally investigated the impact of αS on an Aβ monomer and dimerization using atomistic discrete molecular dynamics simulations (DMD). Our results revealed that αS could directly interact with Aβ monomers and dimers, thus forming β-sheet-rich oligomers, including potentially toxic β-barrel intermediates. The binding hotspot involved the second half of the N-terminal domain and NAC region in αS, along with residues 10-21 and 31-42 in Aβ. In their hetero-complex, the binding hotspot primarily assumed a β-sheet core buried inside, which was dynamically shielded by the highly charged, amyloid-resistant C-terminus of αS. Because the amyloid prion region was the same as the binding hotspot being buried, their fibrillization may be delayed, causing the toxic oligomers to increase. This study sheds light on the intricate relationship between Aβ and αS and provides insights into the overlapping pathology of AD and PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengjuan Huang
- Ningbo Institute of Innovation for Combined Medicine and Engineering (NIIME), Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Yuying Liu
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China.
| | - Ying Wang
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China.
| | - Jia Xu
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China.
| | - Jiangfang Lian
- Ningbo Institute of Innovation for Combined Medicine and Engineering (NIIME), Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Yu Zou
- Department of Sport and Exercise Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Chuang Wang
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China.
| | - Feng Ding
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA.
| | - Yunxiang Sun
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China.
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA.
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Lü MH, Wang ZP, Xing LZ, Zhang W, Han F, Huang GL, Liu W, Zhang YX, Xu J, Cui J. Hybrids of polyphenolic/quinone acids, the potential preventive and therapeutic drugs for PD: Disaggregate α-Syn fibrils, inhibit inclusions, and repair damaged neurons in mice. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 249:115122. [PMID: 36680987 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Neurotoxic α-Syn fibers, the main components of Lewy bodies, play a key role in the development of PD characterized by a progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons. Here, we designed and synthesized the hybrids of polyphenolic/quinone acids. The candidate compounds showed high α-Syn aggregation inhibitory activities in vitro with IC50 down to 1.6 μM. The inhibition went through the aggregation process by stabilizing the conformation of α-Syn proteostasis and preventing β-sheets aggregation, especially in the lag phase. Furthermore, the candidate drugs could disintegrate the preformed varisized aggregates into pony-size aggregates and functional monomers and continually inhibit the re-aggregation. The activities of anti-aggregation and aggregates depolymerization result in the reduction of inclusions in neuron cells. The candidate drugs also show high anti-oxidation and low cytotoxicity. They finally repair the damaged neurons in 6-OHDA-lesioned C57 mice and significantly improve PD-like symptoms of the PD model mice. The hybrids are promising molecules for PD prevention and therapy.© 2022 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Huan Lü
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, Zhengzhou, 450052, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450014, China
| | - Zhen-Ping Wang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Li-Zi Xing
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Feng Han
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Guo-Long Huang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yun-Xiao Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Ji Xu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience Research Institute, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, Zhengzhou, 45000, China.
| | - Jinquan Cui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450014, China.
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Lawal BA, Ayipo YO, Adekunle AO, Amali MO, Badeggi UM, Alananzeh WA, Mordi MN. Phytoconstituents of Datura metel extract improved motor coordination in haloperidol-induced cataleptic mice: Dual-target molecular docking and behavioural studies. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 300:115753. [PMID: 36162546 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115753] [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: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Parkinson's disease (PD) is a prominent health challenge characterized by complex aetiology and limited therapeutic breakthroughs. Datura metel (DM) is a medicinal plant containing active phytoconstituents with neuropharmacological potentials. In traditional medicine, it exerts anticholinergic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and protection from organophosphate poisoning inclusively involved in the pharmacotherapy of PD. Its other PD-related medicinal potency includes treatment of motor sickness and bradycardia. However, the exact mechanisms of anti-PD effects of its phytoconstituents remain underexplored. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, methanolic extract of DM was evaluated for anti-PD behavioural effects in vivo haloperidol-induced cataleptic mice. The GC-MS-identified phytochemicals were studied for one-drug-multi-target inhibitory mechanisms against some key targets for PD treatment, alpha-synuclein (ASN) and dopa decarboxylase (DDC) using molecular docking. RESULTS and discussion: Chronic administration of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of DM extract improved the 14-s latency time induced by haloperidol to 54, 54 and 57 s respectively, whereas levodopa (30 mg/kg) produced 47 s in rotarod tests. Similarly, the descending times for haloperidol-induced cataleptic mice were significantly reduced from 110 s to 17.7, 17.7 and 12.5 s by the respective chronic doses of DM extract, whereas levodopa-administered mice spent 17.5 s descending the same 30 cm pole. The interesting motor coordination enhancements are suggestively due to synergistic inhibition of ASN and DCC by the phytoconstituents of DM, especially, atropine and scopolamine. From the docking analysis, the two phytochemicals interacted more potently with the active therapeutic sites of the dual targets than levodopa and carbidopa. CONCLUSION Methanolic extract of DM contains active phytochemicals for multi-target-directed antiparkinsonian mechanisms amenable for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilqis Abiola Lawal
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Drug Development, University of Ilorin, P.M.B., 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Yusuf Oloruntoyin Ayipo
- Centre for Drug Research, Universiti Sains Malaysia, USM, 11800, Pulauz, Pinang, Malaysia; Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, Kwara State University, P. M. B., 1530, Malete, Ilorin, Nigeria.
| | | | - Mohammed Otuofu Amali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Ilorin, P.M.B., 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Umar Muhammad Badeggi
- Department of Chemistry, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, PMB 11, Niger State, Nigeria
| | - Waleed A Alananzeh
- Centre for Drug Research, Universiti Sains Malaysia, USM, 11800, Pulauz, Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Nizam Mordi
- Centre for Drug Research, Universiti Sains Malaysia, USM, 11800, Pulauz, Pinang, Malaysia
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Zhang Y, Wang Y, Liu Y, Wei G, Ding F, Sun Y. Molecular Insights into the Misfolding and Dimerization Dynamics of the Full-Length α-Synuclein from Atomistic Discrete Molecular Dynamics Simulations. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:3126-3137. [PMID: 36278939 PMCID: PMC9797213 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The misfolding and pathological aggregation of α-synuclein forming insoluble amyloid deposits is associated with Parkinson's disease, the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world population. Characterizing the self-assembly mechanism of α-synuclein is critical for discovering treatments against synucleinopathies. The intrinsically disordered property, high degrees of freedom, and macroscopic timescales of conformational conversion make its characterization extremely challenging in vitro and in silico. Here, we systematically investigated the dynamics of monomer misfolding and dimerization of the full-length α-synuclein using atomistic discrete molecular dynamics simulations. Our results suggested that both α-synuclein monomers and dimers mainly adopted unstructured formations with partial helices around the N-terminus (residues 8-32) and various β-sheets spanning the residues 35-56 (N-terminal tail) and residues 61-95 (NAC region). The C-terminus mostly assumed an unstructured formation wrapping around the lateral surface and the elongation edge of the β-sheet core formed by an N-terminal tail and NAC regions. Dimerization enhanced the β-sheet formation along with a decrease in the unstructured content. The inter-peptide β-sheets were mainly formed by the N-terminal tail and NACore (residues 68-78) regions, suggesting that these two regions played critical roles in the amyloid aggregation of α-synuclein. Interactions of the C-terminus with the N-terminal tail and the NAC region were significantly suppressed in the α-synuclein dimer, indicating that the interaction of the C-terminus with the N-terminal tail and NAC regions could prevent α-synuclein aggregation. These results on the structural ensembles and early aggregation dynamics of α-synuclein will help understand the nucleation and fibrillization of α-synuclein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Physics, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Physics, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Yuying Liu
- Department of Physics, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Guanghong Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Surface Physics and Department of Physics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Feng Ding
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - Yunxiang Sun
- Department of Physics, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
- State Key Laboratory of Surface Physics and Department of Physics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
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11
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Han F, Jiang B, Lü MH, Wang ZP, Liu W, Zhang YX, Xu J. Hybrids of polyphenolic acids and xanthone, the potential preventive and therapeutic effects on PD: Design, synthesis, in vitro anti-aggregation of α-synuclein, and disaggregation against the existed α-synuclein oligomer and fibril. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 66:116818. [PMID: 35584603 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.116818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The misfolding and aggregation of α-Syn are the central mechanism linking and facilitating the other pathological mechanisms of PD. Maintaining α-Syn proteostasis by suitable inhibitors is an effective means to prevent PD. Disintegrating the neurotoxic oligomers and fibrils into the normal functional α-Syn by inhibitors is a more efficient way for PD treatment. This work synthesized two series hybrids of polyphenolic acids and xanthone. The hybrids possess a sheet-like conjugated skeleton and higher binding energies with α-Syn residues. Some compounds present well α-Syn aggregation inhibitory activities in vitro (IC50 down to 2.58 μM). The inhibitory action goes throughout the aggregation process from lag to the stationary phase by stabilizing α-Syn proteostasis conformation and preventing β-sheets aggregation. The candidate compounds with appropriate LogP values (2.02-3.11) present good disintegration abilities against the existed α-Syn oligomers and fibrils. The preliminary mechanism studies suggest that the inhibitors could quickly and randomly bind to the specific site closed to the β-sheet domain in the fibril, resulting in unstable and collapse of the protein fibril, yielding a complex system with aggregates of different sizes and monomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Han
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bing Jiang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ming-Huan Lü
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhen-Ping Wang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yun-Xiao Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052 Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Ji Xu
- Deparment of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001 Zhengzhou, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001 Zhengzhou, China.
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12
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Jiang B, Han F, Lü MH, Wang ZP, Liu W, Zhang YX, Xu J, Li RJ. Bis-chalcone polyphenols with potential preventive and therapeutic effects on PD: Design, synthesis and in vitro disaggregation activity against α-synuclein oligomers and fibrils. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 239:114529. [PMID: 35728509 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
α-Syn fibrils, which are neurotoxic, play a key role in the development of PD. Maintaining α-Syn proteostasis by suitable molecule ligands is an effective approach to prevent aggregation. Disintegrating the existed oligomers and fibrils into individual α-Syn by small molecular compounds is a more efficient way to treat PD. This work designed and synthesized two series of bis-chalcone polyphenol compounds, which possess a sheet-like conjugated skeleton with stronger H-bonding, π-stacking, and hydrophobic interaction with α-Syn protein residues. Some compounds have shown high α-Syn aggregation inhibitory activities in vitro with IC50 down to 0.64 μM. The inhibition goes throughout the aggregation process from the lag to the stationary phase by stabilizing α-Syn proteostasis conformation and preventing β-sheets aggregation, especially in the lag phase. In addition, the inhibitors present good disintegration abilities against the existed α-Syn oligomers and fibrils. The preliminary mechanism studies suggest that the inhibitors could quickly and randomly bind to the specific site closed to the β-sheet domain in the fibril, resulting in unstable and collapse of the protein fibril and yielding a complex system with aggregates of different sizes and monomers. The inhibitors, which could penetrate the blood-brain barrier, are expected to develop into the drug candidates for PD targeting α-Syn aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Jiang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Feng Han
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ming-Huan Lü
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhen-Ping Wang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yun-Xiao Zhang
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Ji Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001, Zhengzhou, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Road 100, 450001, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Rui-Jun Li
- Green Catalysis Center, College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Daxue Road 75, 450052, Zhengzhou, China.
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13
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Saffari B, Amininasab M, Sheikhi S, Davoodi J. An efficient method for recombinant production of human alpha synuclein in Escherichia coli using thioredoxin as a fusion partner. Prep Biochem Biotechnol 2020; 50:723-734. [PMID: 32129160 DOI: 10.1080/10826068.2020.1734938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Herein, we describe a simple and efficient approach to produce recombinant human α-synuclein (hAS) with high purity from Escherichia coli (E. coli). The cDNA for hAS was inserted into plasmid pET32a and expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3) with an N-terminal tag containing E. coli thioredoxin (trx), followed by a histidine hexapeptide, and a tobacco etch virus (TEV) protease cleavage site (trx-6His-TEV). The fusion protein, trx-hAS, was initially released by osmotic shock treatment from the host cells and subsequently purified using a nickel affinity chromatography. A TEV protease cleavage step was performed to liberate the target protein, hAS, from the fusion partner, trx. Finally, an additional nickel affinity chromatography was performed to further purify the digested product. The yield of this method is ∼25 mg of tag-less protein (with ∼99% purity) per liter of culture volume. Reverse phase HPLC (RP-HPLC) and electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry confirmed the purity and authenticity of the purified protein. Thioflavin T (ThT) fluorescence assay, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy demonstrated that the purified proteins form fibrils. Our protocol not only provides a convenient procedure for preparing highly pure hAS, but also requires very little specialized laboratory techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Saffari
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehriar Amininasab
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Sheikhi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jamshid Davoodi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Mohite GM, Dwivedi S, Das S, Kumar R, Paluri S, Mehra S, Ruhela N, S A, Jha NN, Maji SK. Parkinson's Disease Associated α-Synuclein Familial Mutants Promote Dopaminergic Neuronal Death in Drosophila melanogaster. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:2628-2638. [PMID: 29906099 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-Syn) aggregation and amyloid formation are associated with loss of dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's disease (PD). In addition, familial mutations in α-Syn are shown to be one of the definite causes of PD. Here we have extensively studied familial PD associated α-Syn G51D, H50Q, and E46K mutations using Drosophila model system. Our data showed that flies expressing α-Syn familial mutants have a shorter lifespan and exhibit more climbing defects compared to wild-type (WT) flies in an age-dependent manner. The immunofluorescence studies of the brain from the old flies showed more dopaminergic neuronal cell death in all mutants compared to WT. This adverse effect of α-Syn familial mutations is highly correlated with the sustained population of oligomer production and retention in mutant flies. Furthermore, this was supported by our in vitro studies, where significantly higher amount of oligomer was observed in mutants compared to WT. The data suggest that the sustained population of oligomer formation and retention could be a major cause of cell death in α-Syn familial mutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganesh M. Mohite
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Saumya Dwivedi
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Subhadeep Das
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
- IITB-Monash Research Academy, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Sravya Paluri
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Surabhi Mehra
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Neha Ruhela
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Arunima S
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Narendra Nath Jha
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Samir K. Maji
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
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15
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Wongkongkathep P, Han JY, Choi TS, Yin S, Kim HI, Loo JA. Native Top-Down Mass Spectrometry and Ion Mobility MS for Characterizing the Cobalt and Manganese Metal Binding of α-Synuclein Protein. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2018; 29:1870-1880. [PMID: 29951842 PMCID: PMC6087494 DOI: 10.1007/s13361-018-2002-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Structural characterization of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) has been a major challenge in the field of protein science due to limited capabilities to obtain full-length high-resolution structures. Native ESI-MS with top-down MS was utilized to obtain structural features of protein-ligand binding for the Parkinson's disease-related protein, α-synuclein (αSyn), which is natively unstructured. Binding of heavy metals has been implicated in the accelerated formation of αSyn aggregation. Using high-resolution Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR) mass spectrometry, native top-down MS with various fragmentation methods, including electron capture dissociation (ECD), collisional activated dissociation (CAD), and multistage tandem MS (MS3), deduced the binding sites of cobalt and manganese to the C-terminal region of the protein. Ion mobility MS (IM-MS) revealed a collapse toward compacted states of αSyn upon metal binding. The combination of native top-down MS and IM-MS provides structural information of protein-ligand interactions for intrinsically disordered proteins. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piriya Wongkongkathep
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Center of Excellence in Systems Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jong Yoon Han
- Department of Chemistry, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Su Choi
- Department of Chemistry, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sheng Yin
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Hugh I Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joseph A Loo
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, UCLA Molecular Biology Institute, and UCLA/DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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16
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Guerrero-Ferreira R, Taylor NM, Mona D, Ringler P, Lauer ME, Riek R, Britschgi M, Stahlberg H. Cryo-EM structure of alpha-synuclein fibrils. eLife 2018; 7:36402. [PMID: 29969391 PMCID: PMC6092118 DOI: 10.7554/elife.36402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 387] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neuropathological disorder that belongs to the class of synucleinopathies, in which the protein alpha-synuclein is found at abnormally high concentrations in affected neurons. Its hallmark are intracellular inclusions called Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites. We here report the structure of cytotoxic alpha-synuclein fibrils (residues 1–121), determined by cryo-electron microscopy at a resolution of 3.4 Å. Two protofilaments form a polar fibril composed of staggered β-strands. The backbone of residues 38 to 95, including the fibril core and the non-amyloid component region, are well resolved in the EM map. Residues 50–57, containing three of the mutation sites associated with familial synucleinopathies, form the interface between the two protofilaments and contribute to fibril stability. A hydrophobic cleft at one end of the fibril may have implications for fibril elongation, and invites for the design of molecules for diagnosis and treatment of synucleinopathies. People with Parkinson’s disease have damaged cells in a part of the brain involved in movement, learning and reward-seeking behaviors. These cells contain blob-like aggregates that contain abnormally high amounts of a protein called alpha-synuclein. It is generally believed that, within these blobs, this protein clusters together into small needles called fibrils. Discerning the structure of a fibril could help researchers to understand both how alpha-synuclein damages brain cells and how diseases like Parkinson’s spread. Biophysicists have attempted to reveal the fibril structure previously. But many of these efforts only looked at short segments of the alpha-synuclein protein. Researchers still need more detailed imagery of the fibrils to confirm previous findings regarding their architecture and ultimately to identify ways to counteract the damage they cause. Guerrero-Ferreira et al. used a technique called cryo-electron microscopy to capture images of frozen fibrils made from a version of human alpha-synuclein that readily aggregates and that is only slightly shorter than the full-length protein. Processing these high-resolution images with computer software then revealed a three-dimensional model of the fibril structure, in which fine details are clearly visible. In the fibril, the proteins cluster to form a helix, similar to a flight of stairs. Each turn of the helix is formed by two alpha-synuclein molecules, facing each other but rotated by almost 180 degrees from one another. The three-dimensional model displays which parts of the protein lie at the core of the helix and thereby stabilize the fibril structure. Guerrero-Ferreira et al. speculate that fibrils may also take alternative forms because common alpha-synuclein mutations, which correlate with disease, would destabilize the observed helical structure. In the future, researchers may be able to use the features of this three-dimensional model to help design molecules that would make the fibrils detectable via medical imaging. This could help doctors to diagnose people with Parkinson’s disease at an earlier stage. Further research is also needed to understand where and how fibrils form, if differences in fibril structures exist within or between patients, possibly leading to different sub-classes of the disease, and how such fibrils interact with and possibly damage human brain cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicholas Mi Taylor
- Center for Cellular Imaging and NanoAnalytics, Biozentrum, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Mona
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience, Ophthalmology and Rare Diseases Discovery and Translational Area/Neuroscience Discovery, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Philippe Ringler
- Center for Cellular Imaging and NanoAnalytics, Biozentrum, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias E Lauer
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Chemical Biology, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Roland Riek
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Markus Britschgi
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience, Ophthalmology and Rare Diseases Discovery and Translational Area/Neuroscience Discovery, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Henning Stahlberg
- Center for Cellular Imaging and NanoAnalytics, Biozentrum, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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17
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Zhang Y, Hashemi M, Lv Z, Williams B, Popov KI, Dokholyan NV, Lyubchenko YL. High-speed atomic force microscopy reveals structural dynamics of α-synuclein monomers and dimers. J Chem Phys 2018; 148:123322. [PMID: 29604892 PMCID: PMC5764752 DOI: 10.1063/1.5008874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-syn) is the major component of the intraneuronal inclusions called Lewy bodies, which are the pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease. α-Syn is capable of self-assembly into many different species, such as soluble oligomers and fibrils. Even though attempts to resolve the structures of the protein have been made, detailed understanding about the structures and their relationship with the different aggregation steps is lacking, which is of interest to provide insights into the pathogenic mechanism of Parkinson's disease. Here we report the structural flexibility of α-syn monomers and dimers in an aqueous solution environment as probed by single-molecule time-lapse high-speed AFM. In addition, we present the molecular basis for the structural transitions using discrete molecular dynamics (DMD) simulations. α-Syn monomers assume a globular conformation, which is capable of forming tail-like protrusions over dozens of seconds. Importantly, a globular monomer can adopt fully extended conformations. Dimers, on the other hand, are less dynamic and show a dumbbell conformation that experiences morphological changes over time. DMD simulations revealed that the α-syn monomer consists of several tightly packed small helices. The tail-like protrusions are also helical with a small β-sheet, acting as a "hinge". Monomers within dimers have a large interfacial interaction area and are stabilized by interactions in the non-amyloid central (NAC) regions. Furthermore, the dimer NAC-region of each α-syn monomer forms a β-rich segment. Moreover, NAC-regions are located in the hydrophobic core of the dimer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliang Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 69198, USA
| | - Mohtadin Hashemi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 69198, USA
| | - Zhengjian Lv
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 69198, USA
| | - Benfeard Williams
- Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Konstantin I Popov
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Nikolay V Dokholyan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Yuri L Lyubchenko
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 69198, USA
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18
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A scalable approach to the computation of invariant measures for high-dimensional Markovian systems. Sci Rep 2018; 8:1796. [PMID: 29379123 PMCID: PMC5789124 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-19863-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The Markovian invariant measure is a central concept in many disciplines. Conventional numerical techniques for data-driven computation of invariant measures rely on estimation and further numerical processing of a transition matrix. Here we show how the quality of data-driven estimation of a transition matrix crucially depends on the validity of the statistical independence assumption for transition probabilities. Moreover, the cost of the invariant measure computation in general scales cubically with the dimension - and is usually unfeasible for realistic high-dimensional systems. We introduce a method relaxing the independence assumption of transition probabilities that scales quadratically in situations with latent variables. Applications of the method are illustrated on the Lorenz-63 system and for the molecular dynamics (MD) simulation data of the α-synuclein protein. We demonstrate how the conventional methodologies do not provide good estimates of the invariant measure based upon the available α-synuclein MD data. Applying the introduced approach to these MD data we detect two robust meta-stable states of α-synuclein and a linear transition between them, involving transient formation of secondary structure, qualitatively consistent with previous purely experimental reports.
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19
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Xu L, Ma B, Nussinov R, Thompson D. Familial Mutations May Switch Conformational Preferences in α-Synuclein Fibrils. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:837-849. [PMID: 28075555 PMCID: PMC7900905 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.6b00406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease is closely associated with the aggregation of the α-synuclein protein. Several familial mutants have been identified and shown to affect the aggregation kinetics of α-synuclein through distinct molecular mechanisms. Quantitative evaluation of the relative stabilities of the wild type and mutant fibrils is crucial for understanding the aggregation process and identifying the key component steps. In this work, we examined two topologically different α-synuclein fibril structures that are either determined by solid-state NMR method or modeled based on solid-state NMR data, and characterized their conformational properties and thermodynamic stabilities using molecular dynamics simulations. We show that the two fibril morphologies have comparable size, solvent exposure, secondary structures, and similar molecule/peptide binding modes; but different stabilities. Familial mutations do not significantly alter the overall fibril structures but shift their relative stabilities. Distinct mutations display altered fibril conformational behavior, suggesting different propagation preferences, reminiscent of cross-seeding among prion strains and tau deletion mutants. The simulations quantify the hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions, as well as N-terminal dynamics, that may contribute to the divergent aggregation kinetics that has been observed experimentally. Our results indicate that small molecule and peptide inhibitors may share the same binding region, providing molecular recognition that is independent of fibril conformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Xu
- Department of Physics, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Buyong Ma
- Basic Science Program, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. Cancer and Inflammation Program, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Ruth Nussinov
- Sackler Inst. of Molecular Medicine Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Basic Science Program, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. Cancer and Inflammation Program, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Damien Thompson
- Department of Physics, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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20
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Wild R, Hothorn M. The macro domain as fusion tag for carrier-driven crystallization. Protein Sci 2016; 26:365-374. [PMID: 27774698 DOI: 10.1002/pro.3073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Obtaining well-ordered crystals remains a significant challenge in protein X-ray crystallography. Carrier-driven crystallization can facilitate crystal formation and structure solution of difficult target proteins. We obtained crystals of the small and highly flexible SPX domain from the yeast vacuolar transporter chaperone 4 (Vtc4) when fused to a C-terminal, non-cleavable macro tag derived from human histone macroH2A1.1. Initial crystals diffracted to 3.3 Å resolution. Reductive protein methylation of the fusion protein yielded a new crystal form diffracting to 2.1 Å. The structures were solved by molecular replacement, using isolated macro domain structures as search models. Our findings suggest that macro domain tags can be employed in recombinant protein expression in E. coli, and in carrier-driven crystallization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekka Wild
- Structural Plant Biology Laboratory, Department of Botany and Plant Biology, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Michael Hothorn
- Structural Plant Biology Laboratory, Department of Botany and Plant Biology, University of Geneva, Switzerland
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21
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Chen X, Lu Y, Tan G, Cao Z, Liu W, Wang B, Zhang M, Li Z. Functional and binding characterization of a single chain Fv antibody to abscisic acid and conjugated abscisic acid. FOOD AGR IMMUNOL 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/09540105.2016.1148123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojiao Chen
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Lu
- Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guiyu Tan
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Cao
- Department of Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Wei Liu
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Baomin Wang
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Mingcai Zhang
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaohu Li
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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22
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Waugh DS. Crystal structures of MBP fusion proteins. Protein Sci 2016; 25:559-71. [PMID: 26682969 DOI: 10.1002/pro.2863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 12/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Although chaperone-assisted protein crystallization remains a comparatively rare undertaking, the number of crystal structures of polypeptides fused to maltose-binding protein (MBP) that have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) has grown dramatically during the past decade. Altogether, 102 fusion protein structures were detected by Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) analysis. Collectively, these structures comprise a range of sizes, space groups, and resolutions that are typical of the PDB as a whole. While most of these MBP fusion proteins were equipped with short inter-domain linkers to increase their rigidity, fusion proteins with long linkers have also been crystallized. In some cases, surface entropy reduction mutations in MBP appear to have facilitated the formation of crystals. A comparison of the structures of fused and unfused proteins, where both are available, reveals that MBP-mediated structural distortions are very rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Waugh
- Protein Engineering Section, Macromolecular Crystallography Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, P.O. Box B, Frederick, Maryland, 21702-1201
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23
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Bataille L, Dieryck W, Hocquellet A, Cabanne C, Bathany K, Lecommandoux S, Garbay B, Garanger E. Expression and purification of short hydrophobic elastin-like polypeptides with maltose-binding protein as a solubility tag. Protein Expr Purif 2015; 110:165-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2015.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Revised: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Narkiewicz J, Giachin G, Legname G. In vitro aggregation assays for the characterization of α-synuclein prion-like properties. Prion 2015; 8:19-32. [PMID: 24552879 PMCID: PMC4116381 DOI: 10.4161/pri.28125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aggregation of α-synuclein plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of synucleinopathies, a group of neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), diffuse Lewy body disease (DLBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA). The common feature of these diseases is a pathological deposition of protein aggregates, known as Lewy bodies (LBs) in the central nervous system. The major component of these aggregates is α-synuclein, a natively unfolded protein, which may undergo dramatic structural changes resulting in the formation of β-sheet rich assemblies. In vitro studies have shown that recombinant α-synuclein protein may polymerize into amyloidogenic fibrils resembling those found in LBs. These aggregates may be uptaken and propagated between cells in a prion-like manner. Here we present the mechanisms and kinetics of α-synuclein aggregation in vitro, as well as crucial factors affecting this process. We also describe how PD-linked α-synuclein mutations and some exogenous factors modulate in vitro aggregation. Furthermore, we present a current knowledge on the mechanisms by which extracellular aggregates may be internalized and propagated between cells, as well as the mechanisms of their toxicity.
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25
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Expression and purification of the aortic amyloid polypeptide medin. Protein Expr Purif 2014; 98:32-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2014.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Revised: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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26
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Yuan J, Zhao Y. Evolutionary aspects of the synuclein super-family and sub-families based on large-scale phylogenetic and group-discrimination analysis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 441:308-17. [PMID: 24140056 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.09.132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2013] [Accepted: 09/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Over the last decade, many genetic studies have suggested that the synucleins, which are small, natively unfolded proteins, are closely related to Parkinson's disease and cancer. Less is known about the molecular basis of this role. A comprehensive analysis of the evolutionary path of the synuclein protein family may reveal the relationship between evolutionarily conserved residues and protein function or structure. The phylogeny of 252 unique synuclein sequences from 73 organisms suggests that gamma-synuclein is the common ancestor of alpha- and beta-synuclein. Although all three sub-families remain highly conserved, especially at the N-terminal, nearly 15% of the residues in each sub family clearly diverged during evolution, providing crucial guidance for investigations of the different properties of the members of the superfamily. His50 is found to be an alpha-specific conserved residue (91%) and, based on mutagenesis, evolutionarily developed a secondary copper binding site in the alpha synuclein family. Surprisingly, this site is located between two well-known polymorphisms of alpha-synuclein, E46K and A53T, which are linked to early-onset Parkinson's disease, suggesting that the mutation-induced impairment of copper binding could be a mechanism responsible for alpha-synuclein aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawen Yuan
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200233, China
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27
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Diao J, Burré J, Vivona S, Cipriano DJ, Sharma M, Kyoung M, Südhof TC, Brunger AT. Native α-synuclein induces clustering of synaptic-vesicle mimics via binding to phospholipids and synaptobrevin-2/VAMP2. eLife 2013; 2:e00592. [PMID: 23638301 PMCID: PMC3639508 DOI: 10.7554/elife.00592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
α-Synuclein is a presynaptic protein that is implicated in Parkinson's and other neurodegenerative diseases. Physiologically, native α-synuclein promotes presynaptic SNARE-complex assembly, but its molecular mechanism of action remains unknown. Here, we found that native α-synuclein promotes clustering of synaptic-vesicle mimics, using a single-vesicle optical microscopy system. This vesicle-clustering activity was observed for both recombinant and native α-synuclein purified from mouse brain. Clustering was dependent on specific interactions of native α-synuclein with both synaptobrevin-2/VAMP2 and anionic lipids. Out of the three familial Parkinson's disease-related point mutants of α-synuclein, only the lipid-binding deficient mutation A30P disrupted clustering, hinting at a possible loss of function phenotype for this mutant. α-Synuclein had little effect on Ca(2+)-triggered fusion in our reconstituted single-vesicle system, consistent with in vivo data. α-Synuclein may therefore lead to accumulation of synaptic vesicles at the active zone, providing a 'buffer' of synaptic vesicles, without affecting neurotransmitter release itself. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.00592.001.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajie Diao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Departments of Photon Sciences, and Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
| | - Jacqueline Burré
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
| | - Sandro Vivona
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Departments of Photon Sciences, and Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
| | - Daniel J Cipriano
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Departments of Photon Sciences, and Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
| | - Manu Sharma
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
| | - Minjoung Kyoung
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Departments of Photon Sciences, and Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
| | - Thomas C Südhof
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- For correspondence: (TCS)
| | - Axel T Brunger
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Departments of Photon Sciences, and Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
- For correspondence: (ATB)
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Narayanan C, Weinstock DS, Wu KP, Baum J, Levy RM. Investigation of the Polymeric Properties of α-Synuclein and Comparison with NMR Experiments: A Replica Exchange Molecular Dynamics Study. J Chem Theory Comput 2012; 8:3929-3942. [PMID: 23162382 PMCID: PMC3496295 DOI: 10.1021/ct300241t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) have been shown to be involved in a number of cellular functions, in addition to their predominance in diseased states. α-synuclein may be described as one such IDP implicated in the pathology of Parkinson's disease. Understanding the conformational characteristics of the monomeric state of α-synuclein is necessary for understanding the role of the monomer conformation in aggregation. Polymer theories have been applied to investigate the statistical properties of homopolymeric IDPs. Here we use Replica Exchange Molecular Dynamics (REMD) simulations using temperature as a proxy for solvent quality to examine how well these theories developed for homopolymeric chains describe heteropolymeric α-synuclein. Our results indicate that α-synuclein behaves like a homopolymer at the extremes of solvent quality, while in the intermediate solvent regime, the uneven distribution of charged residues along the sequence strongly influences the conformations adopted by the chain. We refine the ensemble extracted from the REMD simulations of α-synuclein, which shows the best qualitative agreement with experiment, by fitting to the experimental NMR Residual Dipolar Couplings (RDCs) and Paramagnetic Relaxation Enhancements (PREs). Our results demonstrate that the detailed shape of the RDC patterns are sensitive to the angular correlations that are local in sequence while longer range anti-correlations which arise from packing constraints affect the RDC magnitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chitra Narayanan
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Rutgers University, Piscataway NJ 08854
| | - Daniel S. Weinstock
- BioMaPS Institute for Quantitative Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway NJ 08854
| | - Kuen-Phon Wu
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers University, 610 Taylor Road, Piscataway NJ 08854
| | - Jean Baum
- BioMaPS Institute for Quantitative Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway NJ 08854
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers University, 610 Taylor Road, Piscataway NJ 08854
| | - Ronald M. Levy
- BioMaPS Institute for Quantitative Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway NJ 08854
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers University, 610 Taylor Road, Piscataway NJ 08854
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A soluble α-synuclein construct forms a dynamic tetramer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:17797-802. [PMID: 22006323 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1113260108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 364] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A heterologously expressed form of the human Parkinson disease-associated protein α-synuclein with a 10-residue N-terminal extension is shown to form a stable tetramer in the absence of lipid bilayers or micelles. Sequential NMR assignments, intramonomer nuclear Overhauser effects, and circular dichroism spectra are consistent with transient formation of α-helices in the first 100 N-terminal residues of the 140-residue α-synuclein sequence. Total phosphorus analysis indicates that phospholipids are not associated with the tetramer as isolated, and chemical cross-linking experiments confirm that the tetramer is the highest-order oligomer present at NMR sample concentrations. Image reconstruction from electron micrographs indicates that a symmetric oligomer is present, with three- or fourfold symmetry. Thermal unfolding experiments indicate that a hydrophobic core is present in the tetramer. A dynamic model for the tetramer structure is proposed, based on expected close association of the amphipathic central helices observed in the previously described micelle-associated "hairpin" structure of α-synuclein.
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Breydo L, Wu JW, Uversky VN. Α-synuclein misfolding and Parkinson's disease. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2011; 1822:261-85. [PMID: 22024360 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2011.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 453] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2011] [Revised: 08/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Substantial evidence links α-synuclein, a small highly conserved presynaptic protein with unknown function, to both familial and sporadic Parkinson's disease (PD). α-Synuclein has been identified as the major component of Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites, the characteristic proteinaceous deposits that are the hallmarks of PD. α-Synuclein is a typical intrinsically disordered protein, but can adopt a number of different conformational states depending on conditions and cofactors. These include the helical membrane-bound form, a partially-folded state that is a key intermediate in aggregation and fibrillation, various oligomeric species, and fibrillar and amorphous aggregates. The molecular basis of PD appears to be tightly coupled to the aggregation of α-synuclein and the factors that affect its conformation. This review examines the different aggregation states of α-synuclein, the molecular mechanism of its aggregation, and the influence of environmental and genetic factors on this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonid Breydo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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Laganowsky A, Zhao M, Soriaga AB, Sawaya MR, Cascio D, Yeates TO. An approach to crystallizing proteins by metal-mediated synthetic symmetrization. Protein Sci 2011; 20:1876-90. [PMID: 21898649 DOI: 10.1002/pro.727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2011] [Revised: 08/17/2011] [Accepted: 08/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Combining the concepts of synthetic symmetrization with the approach of engineering metal-binding sites, we have developed a new crystallization methodology termed metal-mediated synthetic symmetrization. In this method, pairs of histidine or cysteine mutations are introduced on the surface of target proteins, generating crystal lattice contacts or oligomeric assemblies upon coordination with metal. Metal-mediated synthetic symmetrization greatly expands the packing and oligomeric assembly possibilities of target proteins, thereby increasing the chances of growing diffraction-quality crystals. To demonstrate this method, we designed various T4 lysozyme (T4L) and maltose-binding protein (MBP) mutants and cocrystallized them with one of three metal ions: copper (Cu²⁺, nickel (Ni²⁺), or zinc (Zn²⁺). The approach resulted in 16 new crystal structures--eight for T4L and eight for MBP--displaying a variety of oligomeric assemblies and packing modes, representing in total 13 new and distinct crystal forms for these proteins. We discuss the potential utility of the method for crystallizing target proteins of unknown structure by engineering in pairs of histidine or cysteine residues. As an alternate strategy, we propose that the varied crystallization-prone forms of T4L or MBP engineered in this work could be used as crystallization chaperones, by fusing them genetically to target proteins of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Laganowsky
- Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, UCLA-DOE, Los Angeles, California 90095-1570, USA
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32
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High throughput construction and small scale expression screening of multi-tag vectors in Escherichia coli. Methods 2011; 55:29-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2011.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2011] [Revised: 07/31/2011] [Accepted: 08/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
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