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Cordeiro Y, Freire MHO, Wiecikowski AF, do Amaral MJ. (Dys)functional insights into nucleic acids and RNA-binding proteins modulation of the prion protein and α-synuclein phase separation. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:577-589. [PMID: 37681103 PMCID: PMC10480379 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01067-4] [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] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are prototype of infectious diseases transmitted by a protein, the prion protein (PrP), and are still not understandable at the molecular level. Heterogenous species of aggregated PrP can be generated from its monomer. α-synuclein (αSyn), related to Parkinson's disease, has also shown a prion-like pathogenic character, and likewise PrP interacts with nucleic acids (NAs), which in turn modulate their aggregation. Recently, our group and others have characterized that NAs and/or RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) modulate recombinant PrP and/or αSyn condensates formation, and uncontrolled condensation might precede pathological aggregation. Tackling abnormal phase separation of neurodegenerative disease-related proteins has been proposed as a promising therapeutic target. Therefore, understanding the mechanism by which polyanions, like NAs, modulate phase transitions intracellularly, is key to assess their role on toxicity promotion and neuronal death. Herein we discuss data on the nucleic acids binding properties and phase separation ability of PrP and αSyn with a special focus on their modulation by NAs and RBPs. Furthermore, we provide insights into condensation of PrP and/or αSyn in the light of non-trivial subcellular locations such as the nuclear and cytosolic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yraima Cordeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av Carlos Chagas Filho 373, bloco B, subsolo Sala 36, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Maria Heloisa O. Freire
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av Carlos Chagas Filho 373, bloco B, subsolo Sala 36, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Adalgisa Felippe Wiecikowski
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av Carlos Chagas Filho 373, bloco B, subsolo Sala 36, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Mariana Juliani do Amaral
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av Carlos Chagas Filho 373, bloco B, subsolo Sala 36, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902 Brazil
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Abstract
As we learn more and more about the classes of organisms that infect humans, we are discovering that many organisms, including pathogenic organisms, may have a complex relationship with humans in which infection seldom results in the production disease. In some cases, infection may be just one biological event that occurs during a multievent process that develops sequentially, over time, and involves genetic and environmental factors that may vary among individuals. Consequently, the role of infectious organisms in the development of human disease may not meet all of the criteria normally required to determine when an organism can be called the cause of a disease. This chapter reviews the expanding role of infections in the development of human disease. We discuss prion diseases of humans, a fascinating example of an infectious disease-causing agent that is not a living organism. We also discuss the diseases of unknown etiology for which infectious organisms may play a role. In addition, this chapter reviews some of the misconceptions and recurring errors associated with the classification of infectious diseases that have led to misdiagnoses and have impeded our understanding of the role of organisms in the development of human diseases.
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Heparan sulfate S-domains and extracellular sulfatases (Sulfs): their possible roles in protein aggregation diseases. Glycoconj J 2018; 35:387-396. [PMID: 30003471 DOI: 10.1007/s10719-018-9833-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Highly sulfated domains of heparan sulfate (HS), also known as HS S-domains, consist of repeated trisulfated disaccharide units [iduronic acid (2S)-glucosamine (NS, 6S)-]. The expression of HS S-domains at the cell surface is determined by two mechanisms: tightly regulated biosynthetic machinery and enzymatic remodeling by extracellular endoglucosamine 6-sulfatases, Sulf-1 and Sulf-2. Intracellular or extracellular deposits of misfolded and aggregated proteins are characteristic of protein aggregation diseases. Although proteins can aggregate alone, deposits of protein aggregates in vivo contain a number of proteinaceous and non-protein components. HS S-domains are one non-protein component of these aggregated deposits. HS S-domains are considered to be critical for signal transduction of several growth factors and several disease conditions, such as tumor progression, but their roles in protein aggregation diseases are not yet fully understood. This review summarizes the current understanding of the possible roles of HS S-domains and Sulfs in the formation and cytotoxicity of protein aggregates.
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Legname G, Virgilio T, Bistaffa E, De Luca CMG, Catania M, Zago P, Isopi E, Campagnani I, Tagliavini F, Giaccone G, Moda F. Effects of peptidyl-prolyl isomerase 1 depletion in animal models of prion diseases. Prion 2018; 12:127-137. [PMID: 29676205 DOI: 10.1080/19336896.2018.1464367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pin1 is a peptidyl-prolyl isomerase that induces the cis-trans conversion of specific Ser/Thr-Pro peptide bonds in phosphorylated proteins, leading to conformational changes through which Pin1 regulates protein stability and activity. Since down-regulation of Pin1 has been described in several neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's Disease (AD), Parkinson's Disease (PD) and Huntington's Disease (HD), we investigated its potential role in prion diseases. Animals generated on wild-type (Pin1+/+), hemizygous (Pin1+/-) or knock-out (Pin1-/-) background for Pin1 were experimentally infected with RML prions. The study indicates that, neither the total depletion nor reduced levels of Pin1 significantly altered the clinical and neuropathological features of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Legname
- a Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience , Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati (SISSA) , Trieste , Italy.,c ELETTRA Laboratory , Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A , Basovizza, Trieste , Italy
| | - Tommaso Virgilio
- b Unit of Neuropathology and Neurology 5 , IRCCS Foundation Carlo Besta Neurological Institute , Milano , Italy.,d Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera Italiana , Bellinzona , Switzerland
| | - Edoardo Bistaffa
- a Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience , Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati (SISSA) , Trieste , Italy.,b Unit of Neuropathology and Neurology 5 , IRCCS Foundation Carlo Besta Neurological Institute , Milano , Italy
| | - Chiara Maria Giulia De Luca
- b Unit of Neuropathology and Neurology 5 , IRCCS Foundation Carlo Besta Neurological Institute , Milano , Italy
| | - Marcella Catania
- b Unit of Neuropathology and Neurology 5 , IRCCS Foundation Carlo Besta Neurological Institute , Milano , Italy
| | - Paola Zago
- a Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience , Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati (SISSA) , Trieste , Italy
| | - Elisa Isopi
- a Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience , Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati (SISSA) , Trieste , Italy
| | - Ilaria Campagnani
- b Unit of Neuropathology and Neurology 5 , IRCCS Foundation Carlo Besta Neurological Institute , Milano , Italy
| | - Fabrizio Tagliavini
- b Unit of Neuropathology and Neurology 5 , IRCCS Foundation Carlo Besta Neurological Institute , Milano , Italy
| | - Giorgio Giaccone
- b Unit of Neuropathology and Neurology 5 , IRCCS Foundation Carlo Besta Neurological Institute , Milano , Italy
| | - Fabio Moda
- b Unit of Neuropathology and Neurology 5 , IRCCS Foundation Carlo Besta Neurological Institute , Milano , Italy
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Bamdad K. Sequence-dependent dynamical instability of the human prion protein: a comparative simulation study. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2017; 36:3023-3033. [PMID: 28868991 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2017.1375430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to explore the most probable regions of the human prion protein backbone for which the initial steps of conformational transitions as a result of intrinsic and extrinsic perturbing factors on the protein structure can be assigned. A total of 0.3-μs molecular dynamics simulations on several analog structures of the protein have been performed. To mimic the impact of the extrinsic and intrinsic destructive parameters on the dynamical characteristics of the protein, mild acidic conditions and R208H mutation have been simulated. The findings indicated that distribution of conformational flexibilities along the protein chain was almost independent of the induced perturbing factors, and was mostly centralized on certain distinct parts of the structure comprising residues 132-145 and 187-203. Analyses also revealed that the segment comprising residues 187-203 may be considered as a peptide sequence, possessing high potential to start the initial steps of conformational rearrangements due to the induced physicochemical alterations. Sequence alignment and molecular dynamics data also revealed that segment 178-203 prefers to accommodate in extended structures rather than α-helices. Region 178-203 may be considered as a peptide switch capable of initiating the conformational transitions due to the introduced modifications and perturbing parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kourosh Bamdad
- a Department of Biology, Faculty of Science , Payame Noor University (PNU) , 19395-3697 , Iran
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Nishitsuji K, Uchimura K. Sulfated glycosaminoglycans in protein aggregation diseases. Glycoconj J 2017; 34:453-466. [DOI: 10.1007/s10719-017-9769-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Glatzel M, Linsenmeier L, Dohler F, Krasemann S, Puig B, Altmeppen HC. Shedding light on prion disease. Prion 2016; 9:244-56. [PMID: 26186508 DOI: 10.1080/19336896.2015.1065371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteolytic processing regulates key processes in health and disease. The cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) is subject to at least 3 cleavage events, α-cleavage, β-cleavage and shedding. In contrast to α- and β-cleavage where there is an ongoing controversy on the identity of relevant proteases, the metalloprotease ADAM10 represents the only relevant PrP sheddase. Here we focus on the roles that ADAM10-mediated shedding of PrP(C) and its pathogenic isoform (PrP(Sc)) might play in regulating their physiological and pathogenic functions, respectively. As revealed by our recent study using conditional ADAM10 knockout mice (Altmeppen et al., 2015), shedding of PrP seems to be involved in key processes of prion diseases. These aspects and several open questions arising from them are discussed. Increased knowledge on this topic can shed new light on prion diseases and other neurodegenerative conditions as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Glatzel
- a Institute of Neuropathology; University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf ; Hamburg , Germany
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Abstract
Prions are the etiological agent of fatal neurodegenerative diseases called prion diseases or transmissible spongiform encephalopathies. These maladies can be sporadic, genetic or infectious disorders. Prions are due to post-translational modifications of the cellular prion protein leading to the formation of a β-sheet enriched conformer with altered biochemical properties. The molecular events causing prion formation in sporadic prion diseases are still elusive. Recently, we published a research elucidating the contribution of major structural determinants and environmental factors in prion protein folding and stability. Our study highlighted the crucial role of octarepeats in stabilizing prion protein; the presence of a highly enthalpically stable intermediate state in prion-susceptible species; and the role of disulfide bridge in preserving native fold thus avoiding the misfolding to a β-sheet enriched isoform. Taking advantage from these findings, in this work we present new insights into structural determinants of prion protein folding and stability.
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Key Words
- ADAM family, A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase family
- CJD, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
- FFI, fatal familial insomnia
- GPI, glycosylphosphatidylinositol
- GSS, Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker syndrome
- N-terminal domain
- NMDA receptor, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor
- OR, octarepeats
- PrPC, cellular prion protein
- PrPSc, prion
- TSE, transmissible spongiform encephalopathies
- disulfide bridge
- folding
- globular domain
- intermediate state
- octarepeat
- prion protein
- stability
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Benetti
- a Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience; Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati (SISSA) , Trieste , Italy
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Kuwabara K, Nishitsuji K, Uchimura K, Hung SC, Mizuguchi M, Nakajima H, Mikawa S, Kobayashi N, Saito H, Sakashita N. Cellular interaction and cytotoxicity of the iowa mutation of apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-IIowa) amyloid mediated by sulfate moieties of heparan sulfate. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:24210-21. [PMID: 26292220 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.652545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The single amino acid mutation G26R in human apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) is associated with familial amyloid polyneuropathy III. ApoA-I carrying this mutation (apoA-IIowa) forms amyloid fibrils in vitro. Heparan sulfate (HS) is a glycosaminoglycan that is abundant at the cell surface and in the extracellular matrix. Although HS and its highly sulfated domains are involved in aggregation of amyloid-β and accumulate in cerebral amyloid plaques of patients with Alzheimer disease and mouse models of this disease, the role of HS in familial amyloid polyneuropathy III has never been addressed. Here, we used cell models to investigate the possible role of HS in the cytotoxicity of apoA-IIowa amyloid. Wild-type CHO cells, but not pgsD-677 cells, an HS-deficient CHO mutant, demonstrated uptake of apoA-IIowa amyloid after incubation with the amyloid. Addition of sulfated glycosaminoglycans to culture media prevented interaction with and cytotoxicity of apoA-IIowa amyloid to CHO cells. Elimination of cell surface HS or inhibition of HS sulfation with chemical reagents interfered with interaction of apoA-IIowa amyloid with CHO cells. We also found that cellular interaction and cytotoxicity of apoA-IIowa amyloid were significantly attenuated in CHO cells that stably expressed the human extracellular endoglucosamine 6-sulfatases HSulf-1 and HSulf-2. Our results thus suggest that cell surface HS mediates cytotoxicity of apoA-IIowa amyloid and that enzymatic remodeling of HS mitigates the cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaori Kuwabara
- From the Department of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan, the Department of Molecular Physical Pharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 1-78-1 Shomachi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Kazuchika Nishitsuji
- From the Department of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan,
| | - Kenji Uchimura
- the Department of Biochemistry, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Shang-Cheng Hung
- the Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei 11529, Taiwan, and
| | - Makoto Mizuguchi
- From the Department of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Nakajima
- From the Department of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan, the Department of Molecular Physical Pharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 1-78-1 Shomachi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Shiho Mikawa
- the Department of Molecular Physical Pharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 1-78-1 Shomachi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Norihiro Kobayashi
- the Department of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1, Motoyama-Kitamachi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe 658-8558, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Saito
- the Department of Molecular Physical Pharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 1-78-1 Shomachi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Naomi Sakashita
- From the Department of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
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N(ε)-Carboxymethyl Modification of Lysine Residues in Pathogenic Prion Isoforms. Mol Neurobiol 2015; 53:3102-3112. [PMID: 25983034 PMCID: PMC4902843 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-015-9200-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The most prominent hallmark of prion diseases is prion protein conversion and the subsequent deposition of the altered prions, PrPSc, at the pathological sites of affected individuals, particularly in the brain. A previous study has demonstrated that the N-terminus of the pathogenic prion isoform (PrPSc) is modified with advanced glycation end products (AGEs), most likely at one or more of the three Lys residues (positions 23, 24, and 27) in the N-terminus (23KKRPKP28). The current study investigated whether Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML), a major AGE form specific to Lys residues produced by nonenzymatic glycation, is an AGE adduct of the N-terminus of PrPSc. We show that CML is linked to at least one Lys residue at the N-terminus of PrPSc in 263K prion-infected hamster brains and at least one of the eight Lys residues (positions 101, 104, 106, 110, 185, 194, 204, and 220) in the proteinase K (PK)-resistant core region of PrPSc. The nonenzymatic glycation of the Lys residue(s) of PrPSc with CML likely occurs in the widespread prion-deposit areas within infected brains, particularly in some of the numerous tyrosine hydroxylase-positive thalamic and hypothalamic nuclei. CML glycation does not occur in PrPC but is seen in the pathologic PrPSc isoform. Furthermore, the modification of PrPSc with CML may be closely involved in prion propagation and deposition in pathological brain areas.
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Benetti F, Biarnés X, Attanasio F, Giachin G, Rizzarelli E, Legname G. Structural determinants in prion protein folding and stability. J Mol Biol 2014; 426:3796-3810. [PMID: 25280897 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2014.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Revised: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Prions are responsible for a heterogeneous group of fatal neurodegenerative diseases, involving post-translational modifications of the cellular prion protein. Epidemiological studies on Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a prototype prion disorder, show a majority of cases being sporadic, while the remaining occurrences are either genetic or iatrogenic. The molecular mechanisms by which PrP(C) is converted into its pathological isoform have not yet been established. While point mutations and seeds trigger the protein to cross the energy barriers, thus causing genetic and infectious transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, respectively, the mechanism responsible for sporadic forms remains unclear. Since prion diseases are protein-misfolding disorders, we investigated prion protein folding and stability as functions of different milieus. Using spectroscopic techniques and atomistic simulations, we dissected the contribution of major structural determinants, also defining the energy landscape of prion protein. In particular, we elucidated (i) the essential role of the octapeptide region in prion protein folding and stability, (ii) the presence of a very enthalpically stable intermediate in prion-susceptible species, and (iii) the role of the disulfide bridge in prion protein folding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Benetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati, Via Bonomea 265, I-34136 Trieste, Italy; Italian Institute of Technology, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati Unit, Via Bonomea 265, I-34136 Trieste, Italy
| | - Xevi Biarnés
- Department of Physics, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati, I-34136 Trieste, Italy
| | - Francesco Attanasio
- National Research Council, Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, Viale Andrea Doria 6, I-95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Gabriele Giachin
- Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati, Via Bonomea 265, I-34136 Trieste, Italy
| | - Enrico Rizzarelli
- National Research Council, Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, Viale Andrea Doria 6, I-95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Legname
- Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati, Via Bonomea 265, I-34136 Trieste, Italy; Italian Institute of Technology, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati Unit, Via Bonomea 265, I-34136 Trieste, Italy; Elettra - Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A., AREA Science Park, I-34149 Basovizza Trieste, Italy.
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Enhanced virulence of sheep-passaged bovine spongiform encephalopathy agent is revealed by decreased polymorphism barriers in prion protein conversion studies. J Virol 2013; 88:2903-12. [PMID: 24371051 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02446-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) can be efficiently transmitted to small ruminants (sheep and goats) with certain prion protein (PrP) genotypes. Polymorphisms in PrP of both the host and donor influence the transmission efficiency of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) in general. These polymorphisms in PrP also modulate the PrP conversion underlying TSE agent replication. Here we demonstrate that single-round protein misfolding cyclic amplification (PMCA) can be used to assess species and polymorphism barriers at the molecular level. We assessed those within and between the ovine and bovine species in vitro using a variety of natural scrapie and experimentally generated cross-species BSE agents. These BSE agents include ovBSE-ARQ isolates (BSE derived from sheep having the ARQ/ARQ PrP genotype), and two unique BSE-derived variants: BSE passaged in VRQ/VRQ sheep and a cow BSE agent isolate generated by back-transmission of ovBSE-ARQ into its original host. PMCA allowed us to quantitatively determine PrP conversion profiles that correlated with known in vivo transmissibility and susceptibility in the two ruminant species in which strain-specific molecular signatures, like its molecular weight after protease digestion, were maintained. Furthermore, both BSE agent isolates from ARQ and VRQ sheep demonstrated a surprising transmission profile in which efficient transmissions to both sheep and bovine variants was combined. Finally, all data support the notion that ARQ-derived sheep BSE points to a significant increase in virulence compared to all other tested scrapie- and BSE-derived variants reflected by the increased conversion efficiencies of previously inefficient convertible PrP variants (including the so-called "resistant" sheep ARR variant). IMPORTANCE Prion diseases such as scrapie in sheep and goats, BSE in cattle, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) in humans are fatal neurodegenerative diseases caused by prions. BSE is known to be transmissible to a variety of hosts, including sheep and humans. Based on the typical BSE agent strain signatures and epidemiological data, the occurrence of a novel variant of CJD in humans was linked to BSE occurrence in the United Kingdom. Measures, including genetic selection of sheep toward less susceptible PrP genotypes, have been implemented to lower the risk of BSE transmission into sheep, since the disease could potentially spread into a natural reservoir. In this study, we demonstrated using molecular PrP conversion studies that when BSE is first transmitted through sheep, the host range is modified significantly and the PrP converting potency increased, allowing the ovine BSE to transmit more efficiently than cow BSE into supposedly less susceptible hosts.
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Krasemann S, Neumann M, Szalay B, Stocking C, Glatzel M. Protease-sensitive prion species in neoplastic spleens of prion-infected mice with uncoupling of PrP(Sc) and prion infectivity. J Gen Virol 2012; 94:453-463. [PMID: 23136363 DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.045922-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are fatal neurodegenerative disorders. An important step in disease pathophysiology is the conversion of cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) to disease-associated misfolded conformers (PrP(Sc)). These misfolded PrP variants are a common component of prion infectivity and are detectable in diseased brain and lymphoreticular organs such as spleen. In the latter, PrP(Sc) is thought to replicate mainly in follicular dendritic cells within spleen follicles. Although the presence of PrP(Sc) is a hallmark for prion disease and serves as a main diagnostic criterion, in certain instances the amount of PrP(Sc) does not correlate well with neurotoxicity or prion infectivity. Therefore, it has been proposed that prions might be a mixture of different conformers and aggregates with differing properties. This study investigated the impact of disruption of spleen architecture by neoplasia on the abundance of different PrP species in spleens of prion-infected mice. Although follicular integrity was completely disturbed, titres of prion infectivity in neoplastic spleens were not significantly altered, yet no protease-resistant PrP(Sc) was detectable. Instead, unique protease-sensitive prion species could be detected in neoplastic spleens. These results indicate the dissociation of PrP(Sc) and prion infectivity and showed the presence of non-PrP(Sc) PrP species in spleen with divergent biochemical properties that become apparent after tissue architecture disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Krasemann
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Institute of Neuropathology, Martinistrasse 52, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Melanie Neumann
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Institute of Neuropathology, Martinistrasse 52, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Beata Szalay
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Institute of Neuropathology, Martinistrasse 52, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carol Stocking
- Heinrich Pette Institute, AG Molecular Pathology, D-20206 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Glatzel
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Institute of Neuropathology, Martinistrasse 52, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Stanker LH, Scotcher MC, Lin A, McGarvey J, Prusiner SB, Hnasko R. Novel epitopes identified by anti-PrP monoclonal antibodies produced following immunization of Prnp0/0 Balb/cJ mice with purified scrapie prions. Hybridoma (Larchmt) 2012; 31:314-24. [PMID: 23098297 PMCID: PMC3482378 DOI: 10.1089/hyb.2012.0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2012] [Accepted: 07/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Prions, or infectious proteins, cause a class of uniformly fatal neurodegenerative diseases. Prions are composed solely of an aberrantly folded isoform (PrP(Sc)) of a normal cellular protein (PrP(C)). Shared sequence identity of PrP(Sc) with PrP(C) has limited the detection sensitivity of immunochemical assays, as antibodies specific for the disease-causing PrP(Sc) isoform have not been developed. Here we report the generation of three new monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) to PrP, which were isolated following immunization of Prnp(0/0) Balb/cJ mice with highly purified PrP(Sc) isolated from brain lipid rafts. Epitope mapping using synthetic PrP peptides revealed that the three MAbs bind different epitopes of PrP. The DRM1-31 MAb has a conformational epitope at the proposed binding site for the putative prion conversion co-factor "protein X." The DRM1-60 MAb binds a single linear epitope localized to the β2-α2 loop region of PrP, whereas DRM2-118 binds an epitope that includes sequences within the octarepeat region and near the site of N-terminal truncation of PrP(Sc) by proteinase K. Our novel anti-PrP MAbs with defined PrP epitopes may be useful in deciphering the conformational conversion of PrP(C) into PrP(Sc).
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry H. Stanker
- USDA-Agriculture Research Service, Foodborne Contaminants Research Unit, Albany California
| | - Miles C. Scotcher
- USDA-Agriculture Research Service, Foodborne Contaminants Research Unit, Albany California
| | - Alice Lin
- USDA-Agriculture Research Service, Foodborne Contaminants Research Unit, Albany California
| | - Jeffery McGarvey
- USDA-Agriculture Research Service, Foodborne Contaminants Research Unit, Albany California
| | - Stanley B. Prusiner
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco California
| | - Robert Hnasko
- USDA-Agriculture Research Service, Foodborne Contaminants Research Unit, Albany California
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15
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Sollazzo V, Galasso M, Volinia S, Carinci F. Prion proteins (PRNP and PRND) are over-expressed in osteosarcoma. J Orthop Res 2012; 30:1004-12. [PMID: 22147650 DOI: 10.1002/jor.22034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2011] [Accepted: 11/10/2011] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Although osteosarcoma is the most common bone malignancy, the molecular and cellular mechanisms influencing its pathogenesis have remained elusive. Prion proteins (PRNP and PRND), known mostly for its involvement in neurodegenerative spongiform encephalopathies, have been recently demonstrated to be involved in resistance to apoptosis, tumorigenesis, proliferation, and metastasis. The main aim of research was to study whether prion proteins were over-expressed in human osteosarcoma, and if prion proteins could have a role also in osteosarcomas. We evaluated differential gene expression between 22 cases of osteosarcoma and 40 cases of normal bone specimens through cDNA microarray analysis spanning a substantial fraction of the human genome. PRNP and PRND are significantly over-expressed in osteosarcoma. PRNP and PRND appear involved with some important genes related to tumorigenesis and apoptosis. PRNP is linked to PTK2, RBBP9, and TGFB1 while PRND is linked to TNFSF10, BCL2A1, NFKB2, and TP53RK. Increased expression on Affymetrix arrays of prion proteins seems to be associated with the development of osteosarcoma. Prions seem to induce a negative regulation of apoptosis, thus promoting osteosarcoma development and progression. Osteosarcoma is a very aggressive tumor and even after modern chemotherapy and excision of tumors efforts are needed to improve clinical outcome. Since Prion proteins seem to be related to osteosarcoma development, their inhibition could represent a new approach to the molecular treatment of osteosarcoma.
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16
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Amyloid-Like Fibril Formation by Tachykinin Neuropeptides and Its Relevance to Amyloid β-Protein Aggregation and Toxicity. Cell Biochem Biophys 2012; 64:29-44. [DOI: 10.1007/s12013-012-9364-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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17
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Heparan Sulfate Subdomains that are Degraded by Sulf Accumulate in Cerebral Amyloid ß Plaques of Alzheimer's Disease. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2012; 180:2056-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2012.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2011] [Revised: 12/29/2011] [Accepted: 01/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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18
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Gomes MPB, Vieira TCRG, Cordeiro Y, Silva JL. The role of RNA in mammalian prion protein conversion. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2011; 3:415-28. [PMID: 22095764 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Prion diseases remain a challenge to modern science in the 21st century because of their capacity for transmission without an encoding nucleic acid. PrP(Sc), the infectious and alternatively folded form of the PrP prion protein, is capable of self-replication, using PrP(C), the properly folded form of PrP, as a template. This process is associated with neuronal death and the clinical manifestation of prion-based diseases. Unfortunately, little is known about the mechanisms that drive this process. Over the last decade, the theory that a nucleic acid, such as an RNA molecule, might be involved in the process of prion structural conversion has become more widely accepted; such a nucleic acid would act as a catalyst rather than encoding genetic information. Significant amounts of data regarding the interactions of PrP with nucleic acids have created a new foundation for understanding prion conversion and the transmission of prion diseases. Our knowledge has been enhanced by the characterization of a large group of RNA molecules known as non-coding RNAs, which execute a series of important cellular functions, from transcriptional regulation to the modulation of neuroplasticity. The RNA-binding properties of PrP along with the competition with other polyanions, such as glycosaminoglycans and nucleic acid aptamers, open new avenues for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana P B Gomes
- Centro Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear Jiri Jonas, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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19
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Wong M, Toth J, Haney S, Krewski D, Leighton FA, Ricketts M, Westaway D, Cashman N. PrioNet Canada: a network of centres of excellence for research on prion diseases--ongoing and future research directions. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2011; 74:73-87. [PMID: 21218336 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2011.529056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
It is PrioNet's vision to build a network that shapes and sustains prion research in Canada, translating basic science into accessible socioeconomic benefits for global betterment. PrioNet's research is developing surveillance measures, diagnostic tools, vaccines, and potential therapies and determining the various impacts of prion diseases on people. PrioNet seeks to integrate scientifically informed risk management strategies and to use this knowledge to address ongoing problems posed by bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), the gathering crisis of chronic wasting disease (CWD), emerging issues of human prion disease, and basic scientific understanding of the nature of prions. PrioNet is strategically responding to prion threats by focusing its network of highly accomplished researchers and trainees to implement integrated risk management strategies that could not be supported by other mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Wong
- PrioNet Canada, 200-2386 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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20
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Prion protein self-interactions: A gateway to novel therapeutic strategies? Vaccine 2010; 28:7810-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2010.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2010] [Revised: 08/31/2010] [Accepted: 09/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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21
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Macedo B, Kaschula CH, Hunter R, Chaves JAP, van der Merwe JD, Silva JL, Egan TJ, Cordeiro Y. Synthesis and anti-prion activity evaluation of aminoquinoline analogues. Eur J Med Chem 2010; 45:5468-73. [PMID: 20797807 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2010.07.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2010] [Revised: 07/22/2010] [Accepted: 07/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies form a group of neurodegenerative diseases that affect humans and other mammals. They occur when the native prion protein is converted into an infectious isoform, the scrapie PrP, which aggregates, leading to neurodegeneration. Although several compounds were evaluated for their ability to inhibit this conversion, there is no effective therapy for such diseases. Previous studies have shown that antimalarial compounds, such as quinolines, possess anti-scrapie activity. Here, we report the synthesis and evaluate the effect of aminoquinoline derivatives on the aggregation of a prion peptide. Our results show that 4-amino-7-chloroquinoline and N-(7-chloro-4-quinolinyl)-1,2-ethanediamine inhibit the aggregation significantly. Therefore, such aminoquinolines might be considered as candidates for the further development of therapeutics to prevent the development of prion diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Macedo
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av Carlos Chagas Filho, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
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22
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Valle‐Delgado JJ, Alfonso‐Prieto M, Groot NS, Ventura S, Samitier J, Rovira C, Fernàndez‐Busquets X. Modulation of Aβ
42
fìbrillogenesis by glycosaminoglycan structure. FASEB J 2010; 24:4250-61. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.09-153551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Juan José Valle‐Delgado
- Nanobioengineering GroupInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia Barcelona Spain
- Biomolecular Interactions TeamNanoscience and Nanotechnology Institute Barcelona Spain
| | - Mercedes Alfonso‐Prieto
- Institut de Química Teòrica i Computacional Barcelona Spain
- Computer Simulation and Modeling Laboratory (CoSMo LAB) Barcelona Spain
| | - Natalia S. Groot
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de BiomedicinaDepartament de Bioquímica i Biologia MolecularUniversitat Autònoma de Barcelona Barcelona Spain
| | - Salvador Ventura
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de BiomedicinaDepartament de Bioquímica i Biologia MolecularUniversitat Autònoma de Barcelona Barcelona Spain
| | - Josep Samitier
- Nanobioengineering GroupInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia Barcelona Spain
- Department of ElectronicsUniversity of Barcelona Barcelona Spain
| | - Carme Rovira
- Institut de Química Teòrica i Computacional Barcelona Spain
- Computer Simulation and Modeling Laboratory (CoSMo LAB) Barcelona Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats Barcelona Spain
| | - Xavier Fernàndez‐Busquets
- Nanobioengineering GroupInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia Barcelona Spain
- Biomolecular Interactions TeamNanoscience and Nanotechnology Institute Barcelona Spain
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23
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Abstract
Prions are responsible for a heterogeneous group of fatal neurodegenerative diseases. They occur in three forms - sporadic, genetic, or acquired - and involve non-covalent post-translational modifications of the cellular prion protein (PrPC). Prions (PrPSc) are characterized by their infectious properties and intrinsic ability to act as a template, converting the normal, physiological PrPC into the pathological form, PrPSc. The ‘protein-only’ hypothesis, postulated by Stanley B Prusiner, implies that the generation of de novo prions is possible. Exciting recent work, in vivo and in vitro, has further strengthened this postulate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Benetti
- Laboratory of Prion Biology, Neurobiology Sector, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati - International School of Advanced Studies (SISSA-ISAS)via Bonomea 265, 34136 TriesteItaly
- Italian Institute of Technology, SISSA-ISAS Unitvia Bonomea 265, 34136 TriesteItaly
| | - Michael D Geschwind
- Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology, University of CaliforniaSan Francisco, Medical Center, Box 1207, San Francisco, CA 94117USA
| | - Giuseppe Legname
- Laboratory of Prion Biology, Neurobiology Sector, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati - International School of Advanced Studies (SISSA-ISAS)via Bonomea 265, 34136 TriesteItaly
- Italian Institute of Technology, SISSA-ISAS Unitvia Bonomea 265, 34136 TriesteItaly
- ELETTRA Laboratory, Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A.S.S. 14 Km 163.5, 34012 Basovizza, TriesteItaly
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24
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Jones M, Wight D, Barron R, Jeffrey M, Manson J, Prowse C, Ironside JW, Head MW. Molecular model of prion transmission to humans. Emerg Infect Dis 2010; 15:2013-6. [PMID: 19961689 PMCID: PMC3044515 DOI: 10.3201/eid1512.090194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To assess interspecies barriers to transmission of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, we investigated the ability of disease-associated prion proteins (PrPd) to initiate conversion of the human normal cellular form of prion protein of the 3 major PRNP polymorphic variants in vitro. Protein misfolding cyclic amplification showed that conformation of PrPd partly determines host susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Jones
- National CJD Surveillance Unit, School of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, Scotland EH4 2XU, UK.
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25
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The prevalence of human endogenous retroviruses in cerebrospinal fluids from patients with sporadic Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease. J Clin Virol 2010; 47:136-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2009.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2009] [Revised: 11/03/2009] [Accepted: 11/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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26
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Kohtz JD, Berghoff EG. Regulatory long non-coding RNAs and neuronal disorders. Physiol Behav 2010; 100:250-4. [PMID: 20097218 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2010.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2010] [Accepted: 01/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests that GABA neuropathies play a major role in a variety of neuronal disorders. In addition, the role of non-coding RNAs in regulating a wide range of cellular processes is an intense area of investigation. This commentary discusses the intersection of these two fields, a corollary to the finding that adult hippocampal GABAergic interneuron development is controlled by an embryonic non-coding RNA during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhumku D Kohtz
- Developmental Biology and Department of Pediatrics, Children's Memorial Hospital and Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Box 204, 2430 N. Halsted, Chicago, IL 60614, United States.
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27
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Zhang L. Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) biosynthesis and GAG-binding proteins. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2010; 93:1-17. [PMID: 20807638 DOI: 10.1016/s1877-1173(10)93001-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Two major types of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) polysaccharides, heparan sulfate and chondroitin sulfate, are polymerized and modified by enzymes that are encoded by more than 40 genes in animal cells. Because of the expression repertoire of the GAG assembly and modification enzymes, each heparan sulfate and chondroitin sulfate chain has a sulfation pattern, chain length, and fine structure that is potentially unique to each animal cell. GAGs interact with hundreds of proteins. Such interactions protect growth factors, chemokines, and cytokines against proteolysis. GAGs catalyze protease (such as thrombin) inhibition by serpins. GAGs regulate multiple signaling pathways including, but not limited to, fibroblast growth factor (FGF)/FGFR, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF)/c-Ret/GFRalpha1, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/VEGFR, platelet derived growth factor (PDGF)/PDGFR, BAFF/TACI, Indian hedgehog, Wnt, and BMP signaling pathways,where genetic studies have revealed an absolute requirement for GAGs in these pathways. Most importantly, protein/GAG aggregates induce thrombin generation and immune system upregulation by activating the contact system. Abnormal protein/GAG aggregates are associated with a variety of devastating human diseases including, but not limited to, Alzheimer's, diabetes, prion or transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, Lupus, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia/thrombosis, and different kinds of cancers. Therefore, GAGs are essential components of modern molecular biology and human physiology. Understanding GAG structure and function at molecular level with regard to development and health represents a unique opportunity in combating different kinds of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University Medical School, St. Louis, MO, USA
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28
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Abstract
Prions are responsible for a heterogeneous group of fatal neurodegenerative diseases. They can be sporadic, genetic, or infectious disorders involving post-translational modifications of the cellular prion protein (PrP(C)). Prions (PrP(Sc)) are characterized by their infectious property and intrinsic ability to convert the physiological PrP(C) into the pathological form, acting as a template. The "protein-only" hypothesis, postulated by Stanley B. Prusiner, implies the possibility to generate de novo prions in vivo and in vitro. Here we describe major milestones towards proving this hypothesis, taking into account physiological environment/s, biochemical properties and interactors of the PrP(C).
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Benetti
- Laboratory of Prion Biology, Neurobiology Sector, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati-International School of Advanced Studies (SISSA-ISAS), Basovizza (TS), Italy
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29
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Prion metal interaction: Is prion pathogenesis a cause or a consequence of metal imbalance? Chem Biol Interact 2009; 181:282-91. [PMID: 19660443 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2009.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2008] [Revised: 07/22/2009] [Accepted: 07/27/2009] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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30
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Roostaee A, Côté S, Roucou X. Aggregation and amyloid fibril formation induced by chemical dimerization of recombinant prion protein in physiological-like conditions. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:30907-16. [PMID: 19710507 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.057950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are caused by the conversion of a cellular protein (PrP(C)) into a misfolded, aggregated isoform (PrP(Res)). Misfolding of recombinant PrP(C) in the absence of PrP(Res) template, cellular factors, denaturing agents, or at neutral pH has not been achieved. A number of studies indicate that dimerization of PrP(C) may be a key step in the aggregation process. In an effort to understand the molecular event that may activate misfolding of PrP(C) in more relevant physiological conditions, we tested if enforced dimerization of PrP(C) may induce a conformational change reminiscent of the conversion of PrP(C) to PrP(Res). We used a well described inducible dimerization strategy whereby a chimeric PrP(C) composed of a modified FK506-binding protein (Fv) fused with PrP(C) and termed Fv-PrP is incubated in the presence of a monomeric FK506 or dimerizing AP20187 ligand. Addition of AP20187 but not FK506 to recombinant Fv-PrP (rFv-PrP) in physiological-like conditions resulted in a rapid conformational change characterized by an increase in beta-sheet structure and simultaneous aggregation of the protein. Aggregates were partially resistant to proteinase K and induced the conversion of soluble rFv-PrP in serial seeding experiments. As judged from thioflavin T binding and electron microscopy, aggregates converted to amyloid fibers. Aggregates were toxic to cultured cells, whereas soluble rFv-PrP and amyloid fibers were harmless. This study strongly supports the proposition that dimerization of PrP(C) is a key pathological primary event in the conversion of PrP(C) and may initiate the pathogenesis of prion diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Roostaee
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec J1H 5N4, Canada
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31
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Hosszu LLP, Trevitt CR, Jones S, Batchelor M, Scott DJ, Jackson GS, Collinge J, Waltho JP, Clarke AR. Conformational properties of beta-PrP. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:21981-21990. [PMID: 19369250 PMCID: PMC2755922 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m809173200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2008] [Revised: 03/19/2009] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion propagation involves a conformational transition of the cellular form of prion protein (PrPC) to a disease-specific isomer (PrPSc), shifting from a predominantly alpha-helical conformation to one dominated by beta-sheet structure. This conformational transition is of critical importance in understanding the molecular basis for prion disease. Here, we elucidate the conformational properties of a disulfide-reduced fragment of human PrP spanning residues 91-231 under acidic conditions, using a combination of heteronuclear NMR, analytical ultracentrifugation, and circular dichroism. We find that this form of the protein, which similarly to PrPSc, is a potent inhibitor of the 26 S proteasome, assembles into soluble oligomers that have significant beta-sheet content. The monomeric precursor to these oligomers exhibits many of the characteristics of a molten globule intermediate with some helical character in regions that form helices I and III in the PrPC conformation, whereas helix II exhibits little evidence for adopting a helical conformation, suggesting that this region is a likely source of interaction within the initial phases of the transformation to a beta-rich conformation. This precursor state is almost as compact as the folded PrPC structure and, as it assembles, only residues 126-227 are immobilized within the oligomeric structure, leaving the remainder in a mobile, random-coil state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laszlo L. P. Hosszu
- From the MRC Prion Unit, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG
- the Krebs Institute for Biomolecular Research, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, and
| | - Clare R. Trevitt
- From the MRC Prion Unit, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG
| | - Samantha Jones
- From the MRC Prion Unit, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG
| | - Mark Batchelor
- From the MRC Prion Unit, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG
| | - David J. Scott
- the National Centre for Macromolecular Hydrodynamics, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, United Kingdom
| | - Graham S. Jackson
- From the MRC Prion Unit, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG
| | - John Collinge
- From the MRC Prion Unit, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG
| | - Jonathan P. Waltho
- the Krebs Institute for Biomolecular Research, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, and
| | - Anthony R. Clarke
- From the MRC Prion Unit, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG
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32
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Phosphorylation of prion protein at serine 43 induces prion protein conformational change. J Neurosci 2009; 29:8743-51. [PMID: 19587281 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2294-09.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The cause of the conformational change of normal cellular prion protein (PrP) into its disease-associated form is unknown. Posttranslational modifications, such as glycosylation, acetylation, S-nitrosylation, and phosphorylation, are known to induce protein conformational changes. Here, we investigated whether phosphorylation could induce the conformational change of PrP because PrP contains several kinase motifs and has been found recently in the cytosol, in which kinases generally reside. Neuronal cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) phosphorylated recombinant PrP(23-231) at serine 43 (S43) in an in vitro kinase assay. Cdk5-phosphorylated PrP became proteinase K resistant, formed Congo Red-positive fibrils, and formed aggregates that were immunostained with anti-PrP and anti-phospho-PrP(S43) (anti-pPrP(S43)). pPrP(S43) was detected in PrP/Cdk5/p25 cotransfected N2a cells. Roscovitine inhibition of Cdk5 activity or transfection of N2a cells with mutant PrP S43A eliminated the anti-pPrP(S43)-immunopositive protein. Alkaline phosphatase-sensitive and proteinase K-resistant pPrP(S43) immunoreactivity was observed in scrapie-infected but not control-injected mice brains. These results raise the possibility that phosphorylation could represent a physiological mechanism of PrP conversion in vivo.
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33
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Bravo R, Arimon M, Valle-Delgado JJ, García R, Durany N, Castel S, Cruz M, Ventura S, Fernàndez-Busquets X. Sulfated Polysaccharides Promote the Assembly of Amyloid β1–42 Peptide into Stable Fibrils of Reduced Cytotoxicity. J Biol Chem 2008; 283:32471-83. [DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m709870200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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34
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Zhang W, Wu J, Li Y, Carke RC, Wong T. The In Vitro Bioassay Systems for the Amplification and Detection of Abnormal Prion PrPSc in Blood and Tissues. Transfus Med Rev 2008; 22:234-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmrv.2008.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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35
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Freudenberg JA, Bembas K, Greene MI, Zhang H. Non-invasive, ultra-sensitive, high-throughput assays to quantify rare biomarkers in the blood. Methods 2008; 46:33-8. [PMID: 18573345 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2008.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2008] [Accepted: 05/22/2008] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Many diseases are easier to treat and control when detected at an early stage of disease progression. Often, disease-related antigens or biomarkers are shed from the primary site and present in the blood. Unfortunately, there are very few tests capable of detecting these rare biomarkers in the blood. A blood test would be very useful to diagnose the disease earlier, monitor effectiveness of treatments, predict recurrence, and monitor recurrence. There is certainly a need to develop assays that are ultra-sensitive, non-invasive, and high-throughput. Here we describe several highly sensitive immunological assays we have developed to detect rare serum antigens. Initially we created an assay named immuno-detection amplified by T7 RNA polymerase (IDAT). To enhance the effectiveness and streamline the procedure, this assay was amended to the facile amplification system termed fluorescent amplification catalyzed by T7 polymerase technique (FACTT). These assays have been used to analyze the tumor antigen HER2 and the prion protein PrPSc. They can also be applied to other tumor markers or antigens from a variety of diseases such as cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and hepatitis. These tests are not limited to testing only serum, but may also be applicable to detecting biomarkers in tissue, saliva, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, etc. Clearly, the FACTT-based technology represents an important step in the detection of rare molecules in fluids or tissues for a variety of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn A Freudenberg
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 252 John Morgan Building, 3620 Hamilton Walk, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6082, USA
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36
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Gomes MPB, Millen TA, Ferreira PS, e Silva NLC, Vieira TCRG, Almeida MS, Silva JL, Cordeiro Y. Prion protein complexed to N2a cellular RNAs through its N-terminal domain forms aggregates and is toxic to murine neuroblastoma cells. J Biol Chem 2008; 283:19616-25. [PMID: 18456654 PMCID: PMC2443653 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m802102200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Conversion of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) into its altered conformation, PrPSc, is believed to be the major cause of prion diseases. Although PrP is the only identified agent for these diseases, there is increasing evidence that other molecules can modulate the conversion. We have found that interaction of PrP with double-stranded DNA leads to a protein with higher β-sheet content and characteristics similar to those of PrPSc. RNA molecules can also interact with PrP and potentially modulate PrPC to PrPSc conversion or even bind differentially to both PrP isoforms. Here, we investigated the interaction of recombinant murine PrP with synthetic RNA sequences and with total RNA extracted from cultured neuroblastoma cells (N2aRNA). We found that PrP interacts with N2aRNA with nanomolar affinity, aggregates upon this interaction, and forms species partially resistant to proteolysis. RNA does not bind to N-terminal deletion mutants of PrP, indicating that the N-terminal region is important for this process. Cell viability assays showed that only the N2aRNA extract induces PrP-RNA aggregates that can alter the homeostasis of cultured cells. Small RNAs bound to PrP give rise to nontoxic small oligomers. Nuclear magnetic resonance measurements of the PrP-RNA complex revealed structural changes in PrP, but most of its native fold is maintained. These results indicate that there is selectivity in the species generated by interaction with different molecules of RNA. The catalytic effect of RNA on the PrPC→PrPSc conversion depends on the RNA sequence, and small RNA molecules may exert a protective effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana P B Gomes
- Programa de Biologia Estrutural, Centro Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear Jiri Jonas, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21491-590 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Löfgren K, Wahlström A, Lundberg P, Langel Ö, Gräslund A, Bedecs K. Antiprion properties of prion protein‐derived cell‐penetrating peptides. FASEB J 2008; 22:2177-84. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.07-099549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kajsa Löfgren
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics The Arrhenius Laboratories Department of Neurochemistry and NeurotoxicologyStockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
| | - Anna Wahlström
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics The Arrhenius Laboratories Department of Neurochemistry and NeurotoxicologyStockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
| | - Pontus Lundberg
- Department of Neurochemistry and NeurotoxicologyStockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
| | - Ölo Langel
- Department of Neurochemistry and NeurotoxicologyStockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
| | - Astrid Gräslund
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics The Arrhenius Laboratories Department of Neurochemistry and NeurotoxicologyStockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
| | - Katarina Bedecs
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics The Arrhenius Laboratories Department of Neurochemistry and NeurotoxicologyStockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
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Leclerc E, Vetter S. Conformational changes and development of proteinase K resistance in surface-immobilized PrP. Arch Virol 2008; 153:683-91. [DOI: 10.1007/s00705-008-0049-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2007] [Accepted: 01/09/2008] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Lawson VA. Understanding the nature of prion diseases using cell-free assays. Methods Mol Biol 2008; 459:97-103. [PMID: 18576150 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-59745-234-2_7] [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: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
A central event in the transmission and pathogenesis of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy diseases is the misfolding of the prion protein. Considerable progress has been made in our understanding of this misfolding event through the development of cell-free assays that mimic the molecular features of prion propagation. This chapter reviews the contribution of cell-free assays to our understanding of prion propagation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria A Lawson
- Department of Pathology and Mental Health Research Institute of Victoria, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Chang Y, Stockinger MP, Tashiro H, Glenn Lin C. A novel noncoding RNA rescues mutant SOD1‐mediated cell death. FASEB J 2007; 22:691-702. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.07-9532com] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yueming Chang
- Department of NeuroscienceThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
- Ohio State Biochemistry ProgramThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | | | - Hirofumi Tashiro
- Department of NeuroscienceThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Chien‐liang Glenn Lin
- Department of NeuroscienceThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
- Ohio State Biochemistry ProgramThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
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Onisko B, Dynin I, Requena JR, Silva CJ, Erickson M, Carter JM. Mass spectrometric detection of attomole amounts of the prion protein by nanoLC/MS/MS. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2007; 18:1070-9. [PMID: 17446085 DOI: 10.1016/j.jasms.2007.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2006] [Revised: 03/15/2007] [Accepted: 03/22/2007] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Sensitive quantitation of prions in biological samples is an extremely important and challenging analytical problem. Prions are the cause of several fatal neurodegenerative diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). At this time, there are no methods to diagnose TSEs in live animals or to assure a prion-free blood supply for humans. Prions have been shown to be present in blood by transfusion experiments, but based on the amount of infectivity found in these types of experiments, the amount of misfolded prion protein in blood is estimated to be only 30 to 625 amol/mL. More sensitive detection of prions in brain would allow earlier detection of disease and assure a safer food supply. We studied quantitation of the prion protein by use of nanoscale liquid chromatography coupled to a tandem mass spectrometer using the multiple reaction monitoring mode of operation. We developed a method based on the detection of VVEQMCTTQYQK obtained by reduction, alkylation, and digestion with trypsin of the prion protein. Detection of VVEQMCTTQYQK was more sensitive than for the derivative with phenylisothiocyanate (PITC) because of decreased ionization efficiency of the PITC-derivatized peptides. The VVEQMCTTQYQK method has a LOD of 20 to 30 amol for pure standards. Proof of principle is demonstrated by quantitation of the amount of PrP 27-30 in the brains of terminally ill Syrian hamsters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Onisko
- Western Regional Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture, Albany, California, USA.
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42
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Fasano C, Campana V, Zurzolo C. Prions: protein only or something more? Overview of potential prion cofactors. J Mol Neurosci 2007; 29:195-214. [PMID: 17085779 DOI: 10.1385/jmn:29:3:195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2005] [Revised: 11/30/1999] [Accepted: 02/03/2006] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) in humans and animals are attributed to protein-only infectious agents, called prions. Prions have been proposed to arise from the conformational conversion of the cellular protein PrP(C) into a misfolded form (e.g., PrP(Sc) for scrapie), which precipitates into aggregates and fibrils. It has been proposed that the conversion process is triggered by the interaction of the infectious form (PrP(Sc)) with the cellular form (PrP(C)) or might result from a mutation in the gene for PrP(C). However, until recently, all efforts to reproduce this process in vitro had failed, suggesting that host factors are necessary for prion replication. In this review we discuss recent findings such as the cellular factors that might be involved in the conformational conversion of prion proteins and the potential mechanisms by which they could operate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Fasano
- Unité de Trafic Membranaire et Pathogénése, Institut Pasteur, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France
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43
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Prasanth KV, Spector DL. Eukaryotic regulatory RNAs: an answer to the 'genome complexity' conundrum. Genes Dev 2007; 21:11-42. [PMID: 17210785 DOI: 10.1101/gad.1484207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 301] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A large portion of the eukaryotic genome is transcribed as noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). While once thought of primarily as "junk," recent studies indicate that a large number of these RNAs play central roles in regulating gene expression at multiple levels. The increasing diversity of ncRNAs identified in the eukaryotic genome suggests a critical nexus between the regulatory potential of ncRNAs and the complexity of genome organization. We provide an overview of recent advances in the identification and function of eukaryotic ncRNAs and the roles played by these RNAs in chromatin organization, gene expression, and disease etiology.
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44
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Abstract
The discovery of prion disease transmission in mammals, as well as a non-Mendelian type of inheritance in yeast, has led to the establishment of a new concept in biology, the prion hypothesis. The prion hypothesis postulates that an abnormal protein conformation propagates itself in an autocatalytic manner using the normal isoform of the same protein as a substrate and thereby acts either as a transmissible agent of disease (in mammals), or as a heritable determinant of phenotype (in yeast and fungus). While the prion biology of yeast and fungus supports this idea strongly, the direct proof of the prion hypothesis in mammals, specifically the reconstitution of the disease-associated isoform of the prion protein (PrP(Sc)) in vitro de novo from noninfectious prion protein, has been difficult to achieve despite many years of effort. The present review summarizes our current knowledge about the biochemical nature of the prion infectious agent and structure of PrP(Sc), describes potential strategies for generating prion infectivity de novo and provides some insight on why the reconstitution of infectivity has been difficult to achieve in vitro. Several hypotheses are proposed to explain the apparently low infectivity of the first generation of recently reported synthetic mammalian prions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilia V Baskakov
- Medical Biotechnology Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Abstract
Extracellular nucleic acids are found in different biological fluids in the organism and in the environment: DNA is a ubiquitous component of the organic matter pool in the soil and in all marine and freshwater habitats. Data from recent studies strongly suggest that extracellular DNA and RNA play important biological roles in microbial communities and in higher organisms. DNA is an important component of bacterial biofilms and is involved in horizontal gene transfer. In recent years, the circulating extracellular nucleic acids were shown to be associated with some diseases. Attempts are being made to develop noninvasive methods of early tumor diagnostics based on analysis of circulating DNA and RNA. Recent observations demonstrated the possibility of nucleic acids exchange between eukaryotic cells and extracellular space suggesting their participation in so far unidentified biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin V Vlassov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Novosibirsk, Russia.
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Chang B, Cheng X, Yin S, Pan T, Zhang H, Wong P, Kang SC, Xiao F, Yan H, Li C, Wolfe LL, Miller MW, Wisniewski T, Greene MI, Sy MS. Test for detection of disease-associated prion aggregate in the blood of infected but asymptomatic animals. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2006; 14:36-43. [PMID: 17079434 PMCID: PMC1797712 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00341-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We have developed a sensitive in vitro assay for detecting disease-associated prion aggregates by combining an aggregation-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (AS-ELISA) with the fluorescent amplification catalyzed by T7 RNA polymerase technique (FACTT). The new assay, named aggregation-specific FACTT (AS-FACTT), is much more sensitive than AS-ELISA and could detect prion aggregates in the brain of mice as early as 7 days after an intraperitoneal inoculation of PrP(Sc). However, AS-FACTT was still unable to detect prion aggregates in blood of infected mice. To further improve the detection limit of AS-FACTT, we added an additional prion amplification step (Am) and developed a third-generation assay, termed Am-A-FACTT. Am-A-FACTT has 100% sensitivity and specificity in detecting disease-associated prion aggregates in blood of infected mice at late but still asymptomatic stages of disease. At a very early stage, Am-A-FACTT had a sensitivity of 50% and a specificity of 100%. Most importantly, Am-A-FACTT also detects prion aggregates in blood of mule deer infected with the agent causing a naturally occurring prion disease, chronic wasting disease. Application of this assay to cattle, sheep, and humans could safeguard food supplies and prevent human contagion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binggong Chang
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Xin Cheng
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Shaoman Yin
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Tao Pan
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Hongtao Zhang
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Poki Wong
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Shin-Chung Kang
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Fan Xiao
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Huimin Yan
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Chaoyang Li
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Lisa L. Wolfe
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Michael W. Miller
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Thomas Wisniewski
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Mark I. Greene
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Man-Sun Sy
- Institute of Pathology School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44107-1712, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6082, Modern Virology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China, Wildlife Health Program, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Wildlife Research Center, 317 West Prospect Road, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526-2097, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
- Corresponding author. Mailing address: Room 5131, Wolstein Bldg., School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, 2103 Cornell Rd., Cleveland, OH 44120. Phone: (216) 368-1268. Fax: (216) 368-1357. E-mail:
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47
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Surewicz WK, Jones EM, Apetri AC. The Emerging Principles of Mammalian Prion Propagation and Transmissibility Barriers: Insight from Studies in Vitro. Acc Chem Res 2006. [DOI: 10.1021/ar068279x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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48
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Surewicz WK, Jones EM, Apetri AC. The emerging principles of mammalian prion propagation and transmissibility barriers: Insight from studies in vitro. Acc Chem Res 2006; 39:654-62. [PMID: 16981682 DOI: 10.1021/ar050226c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Self-perpetuating conformational conversion of the cellular prion protein PrP(C) into the beta-sheet-rich "scrapie" conformer (PrP(Sc)) is believed to be the central molecular event in pathogenesis of a group of diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies. Recent advances provide growing support for the notion that a misfolded protein alone might act as an infectious agent. Furthermore, findings regarding the mechanism of prion protein structural rearrangement, the role of folding intermediates in conformational conversion, and "conformational adaptability" in the propagation of prion amyloids in vitro yield molecular-level insight into such phenomena as inherited prion diseases, prion transmission barriers, and prion strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Witold K Surewicz
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA.
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49
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Vasan S, Mong PY, Grossman A. Interaction of Prion Protein with Small Highly Structured RNAs: Detection and Characterization of PrP-Oligomers. Neurochem Res 2006; 31:629-37. [PMID: 16770734 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-006-9063-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2006] [Accepted: 02/23/2006] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Conformational modification of normal prion protein (PrP(c)) to protease-resistant, beta-sheet rich, aggregates (PrP(sc)) is commonly accepted cause for prion diseases. On the other hand, several studies in recent years implicate soluble, protease-sensitive, oligomers of PrP(c) in neuronal damage. Previously, our group has shown that small, highly structured RNAs (shsRNAs), in conjunction with a serum factor, facilitated the conversion of hrPrP to a protease resistant, high molecular weight isoform. In the current study we demonstrate that shsRNAs, in the absence of the serum factor, generate soluble, protease-sensitive, and potentially toxic oligomers of ovrPrP. We have isolated a 500 kD oligomer by size exclusion chromatography of the reaction mixture and identified the accessible epitopes. The soluble PrP-oligomers were present in enhanced amounts in scrapie infected sheep brain and treating extracts of normal sheep brain with shsRNA resulted in oligomerization of endogenous PrP. Isolation, characterization of PrP-oligomers and their possible implication in prion diseases is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Vasan
- Q-RNA, Inc.,, 3960 Broadway, New York, NY 10032, USA
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50
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Langella E, Improta R, Crescenzi O, Barone V. Assessing the acid–base and conformational properties of histidine residues in human prion protein (125–228) by means of pK
a
calculations and molecular dynamics simulations. Proteins 2006; 64:167-77. [PMID: 16639746 DOI: 10.1002/prot.20979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
A thorough study of the acid-base behavior of the four histidines and the other titratable residues of the structured domain of human prion protein (125-228) is presented. By using multi-tautomer electrostatic calculations, average titration curves have been built for all titratable residues, using the whole bundles of NMR structures determined at pH 4.5 and 7.0. According to our results, (1) only histidine residues are likely to be involved in the first steps of the pH-driven conformational transition of prion protein; (2) the pK(a)'s of His140 and His177 are approximately 7.0, whereas those of His155 and His187 are < 5.5. 10-ns long molecular dynamics simulations have been performed on five different models, corresponding to the most significant combinations of histidine protonation states. A critical comparison between the available NMR structures and our computational results (1) confirms that His155 and His187 are the residues whose protonation is involved in the conformational rearrangement of huPrP in mildly acidic condition, and (2) shows how their protonation leads to the destructuration of the C-terminal part of HB and to the loss of the last turn of HA that represent the crucial microscopic steps of the rearrangement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Langella
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Universitá Federico II, Complesso di Monte S. Angelo, Napoli, Italy
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