1
|
Sanders G, Borbat PP, Georgieva ER. Conformations of influenza A M2 protein in DOPC/DOPS and E. coli native lipids and proteins. Biophys J 2024; 123:2584-2593. [PMID: 38932458 PMCID: PMC11365223 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
We compared the conformations of the transmembrane domain (TMD) of influenza A M2 (IM2) protein reconstituted in 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine/1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-L-serine (DOPC/DOPS) bilayers to those in isolated Escherichia coli (E. coli) membranes, having preserved its native proteins and lipids. IM2 is a single-pass transmembrane protein known to assemble into a homo-tetrameric proton channel. To represent this channel, we made a construct containing the IM2's TMD region flanked by the juxtamembrane residues. The single cysteine substitution, L43C, of leucine located in the bilayer polar region was paramagnetically tagged with a methanethiosulfonate nitroxide label for the electron spin resonance (ESR) study. For this particular residue, we probed the conformations of the spin-labeled IM2 reconstituted in DOPC/DOPS and isolated E. coli membranes using continuous-wave ESR and double electron-electron resonance (DEER) spectroscopy. The total protein-to-lipid molar ratio spanned the range from 1:230 to 1:10,400. The continuous-wave ESR spectra corresponded to very slow spin-label motion in both environments. In all cases, the DEER data were reconstructed into distance distributions with well-resolved peaks at 1.68 and 2.37 nm in distance and amplitude ratios of 1.41 ± 0.2 and 2:1, respectively. This suggests four nitroxide spin labels located at the corners of a square, indicative of an axially symmetric tetramer. The distance modeling of DEER data with molecular modeling software applied to the NMR molecular structures (PDB: 2L0J) confirmed the symmetry and closed state of the C-terminal exit pore of the IM2 TMD tetramer in agreement with the model. Thus, we can conclude that, under conditions of pH 7.4 used in this study, IM2 TMD has similar conformations in model lipid bilayers and membranes made of native E. coli lipids and proteins of comparable thickness and fluidity, notwithstanding the complexity of the E. coli membranes caused by their lipid diversity and the abundance of integral and peripheral membrane proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Griffin Sanders
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Peter P Borbat
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, ACERT, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
| | - Elka R Georgieva
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Miura Y. The conformational properties of alamethicin in ethanol studied by NMR. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2024; 53:267-276. [PMID: 38849514 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-024-01711-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Alamethicin, a peptide consisted of 20 amino acid residues, has been known to function as an antibiotic. The peptides self-associate in biological membranes, form an ion channel, and then induce cell death by leaking intracellular contents through a transmembrane pore of an ion channel. We investigated conformation and its thermal stability of alamethicin-A6 and -U6 in ethanol using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy; alamethicin-A6 and -U6 have the amino acid sequences of UPUAUAQUVUGLUPVUUQQO and UPUAUUQUVUGLUPVUUQQO, respectively, where U and O represent α-aminoisobutyric acid and phenylalaninol, respectively. As indicated by the under bars in the sequences, only the residue 6 differs between the alamethicins. We show that the alamethicins in ethanol form helix conformation in the region of the residues 2-11 and a non-regular conformation in the regions of the N- and C-termini, and that the helices are maintained up to 66 °C at least. Conformations in the region of the residues 12-18 of the alamethicins, however, are not well identified due to the lack of NMR data. In addition, we demonstrate that the amide proton chemical shift temperature coefficients' method, which is known as an indicator for intramolecular hydrogen bonds in peptides and proteins in aqueous solutions, can be also applied to the alamethicins in ethanol. Further, we show that the conformation around the C-terminus of alamethicin-A6 is restrained by intramolecular hydrogen bonds, whereas that of alamethicin-U6 is either restrained or unrestrained by intramolecular hydrogen bonds; the alamethicin-U6 molecules having the restrained and unrestrained conformations coexist in ethanol. We discuss the two types of conformations using a model chain consisting of particles linked by rigid bonds called as the free jointed chain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Miura
- Center for Advanced Instrumental Analysis, Kyushu University, Kasuga, 816-8580, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Labrecque C, Fuglestad B. Ligandability at the Membrane Interface of GPx4 Revealed through a Reverse Micelle Fragment Screening Platform. JACS AU 2024; 4:2676-2686. [PMID: 39055139 PMCID: PMC11267533 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.4c00427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
While they account for a large portion of drug targets, membrane proteins present a unique challenge for drug discovery. Peripheral membrane proteins (PMPs), a class of water-soluble proteins that bind to membranes, are also difficult targets, particularly those that function only when bound to membranes. The protein-membrane interface in PMPs is often where functional interactions and catalysis occur, making it a logical target for inhibition. However, protein-membrane interfaces are underexplored spaces in inhibitor design, and there is a need for enhanced methods for small-molecule ligand discovery. In an effort to better initiate drug discovery efforts for PMPs, this study presents a screening methodology using membrane-mimicking reverse micelles (mmRM) and NMR-based fragment screening to assess ligandability at the protein-membrane interface. The proof-of-principle target, glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4), is a lipid hydroperoxidase that is essential for the oxidative protection of membranes and thereby the prevention of ferroptosis. GPx4 inhibition is promising for therapy-resistant cancer therapy, but current inhibitors are generally covalent ligands with limited clinical utility. Presented here is the discovery of noncovalent small-molecule ligands for membrane-bound GPx4 revealed through the mmRM fragment screening methodology. The fragments were tested against GPx4 under bulk aqueous conditions and displayed little to no binding to the protein without embedment into the membrane. The 9 hits had varying affinities and partitioning coefficients and revealed properties of fragments that bind within the protein-membrane interface. Additionally, a secondary screen confirmed the potential to progress the fragments by enhancing the affinity from >200 to ∼15 μM with the addition of certain hydrophobic groups. This study presents an advancement of screening capabilities for membrane-associated proteins, reveals ligandability within the GPx4 protein-membrane interface, and may serve as a starting point for developing noncovalent inhibitors of GPx4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney
L. Labrecque
- Department
of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23284, United States
| | - Brian Fuglestad
- Department
of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23284, United States
- Institute
for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23219, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang B, Tieleman DP. The structure, self-assembly and dynamics of lipid nanodiscs revealed by computational approaches. Biophys Chem 2024; 309:107231. [PMID: 38569455 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2024.107231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Nanodisc technology is increasingly being used in structural, biochemical and biophysical studies of membrane proteins. The computational approaches have revealed many important features of nanodisc assembly, structures and dynamics. Therefore, we reviewed the application of computational approaches, especially molecular modeling and molecular dyncamics (MD) simulations, to characterize nanodiscs, including the structural models, assembly and disassembly, protocols for modeling, structural properties and dynamics, and protein-lipid interactions in nanodiscs. More amazing computational studies about nanodiscs are looked forward to in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beibei Wang
- Centre for Advanced Materials Research, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China.
| | - D Peter Tieleman
- Department of Biological Sciences and Centre for Molecular Simulation, University of Calgary, Calgary T2N 1N4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Labrecque CL, Fuglestad B. Ligandability at the membrane interface of GPx4 revealed through a reverse micelle fragment screening platform. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.09.593437. [PMID: 38766018 PMCID: PMC11100811 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.09.593437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
While they account for a large portion of drug targets, membrane proteins (MPs) present a unique challenge for drug discovery. Peripheral membrane proteins (PMPs), a class of proteins that bind reversibly to membranes, are also difficult targets, particularly those that function only while bound to membranes. The protein-membrane interface in PMPs is often where functional interactions and catalysis occur, making it a logical target for inhibition. However, interfaces are underexplored spaces in inhibitor design and there is a need for enhanced methods for small-molecule ligand discovery. In an effort to better initiate drug discovery efforts for PMPs, this study presents a screening methodology using membrane-mimicking reverse micelles (mmRM) and NMR-based fragment screening to assess ligandability in the protein-membrane interface. The proof-of-principle target, glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4), is a lipid hydroperoxidase which is essential for the oxidative protection of membranes and thereby the prevention of ferroptosis. GPx4 inhibition is promising for therapy-resistant cancer therapy, but current inhibitors are generally covalent ligands with limited clinical utility. Presented here is the discovery of non-covalent small-molecule ligands for membrane-bound GPx4 revealed through the mmRM fragment screening methodology. The fragments were tested against GPx4 in bulk aqueous conditions and displayed little to no binding to the protein without embedment into the membrane. The 9 hits had varying affinities and partitioning coefficients and revealed properties of fragments that bind within the protein-membrane interface. Additionally, a secondary screen confirmed the potential to progress the fragments by enhancing the affinity from > 200 μM to ~15 μM with the addition of certain hydrophobic groups. This study presents an advancement of screening capabilities for membrane associated proteins, reveals ligandability within the GPx4 protein-membrane interface, and may serve as a starting point for developing non-covalent inhibitors of GPx4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney L. Labrecque
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 22384, United States
| | - Brian Fuglestad
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 22384, United States
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23219, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chiramba C, Möller DS, Lorenz CD, Chirombo RR, Mason AJ, Bester MJ, Gaspar ARM. Tryptophan End-Tagging Confers Antifungal Activity on a Tick-Derived Peptide by Triggering Reactive Oxygen Species Production. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:15556-15572. [PMID: 38585074 PMCID: PMC10993377 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c00478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
WHO has identified several Candida species including Candida albicans as critical priority fungal pathogens due to greater infection prevalence and formation of recalcitrant biofilms. Novel antifungal agents are urgently needed, and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are being considered as potential alternatives, but inactivity in physiological salt environments, serum, and plasma often limits further therapeutic development. Tryptophan end-tagging is a strategy to overcome these limitations and is thought to selectively enhance membrane permeabilization in both fungal and bacterial plasma membranes. Here, we show that C-terminal tryptophan end-tagging of the tick-derived peptide Os-C transforms an inactive peptide into Os-C(W5), an antifungal peptide capable of preventing the formation of C. albicans biofilms. Mechanistic insight is provided by circular dichroism spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulations, which demonstrate that tryptophan end-tagging alters the secondary structure of Os-C, while the latter reveals that end-tagging reduces interactions with, and insertion into, a model C. albicans membrane but promotes peptide aggregation on its surface. Interestingly, this leads to the induction of reactive oxygen species production rather than membrane permeabilization, and consequently, oxidative stress leads to cell wall damage. Os-C(W5) does not induce the hemolysis of human erythrocytes. Reduced cell adhesion and viability contribute to decreased biofilm extracellular matrix formation which, although reduced, is retained in the serum-containing medium. In this study, tryptophan end-tagging was identified as a promising strategy for enhancing the antifungal activity, including the biofilm inhibitory activity of Os-C against C. albicans in physiological salt environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Court
K. Chiramba
- Department
of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and
Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Dalton S. Möller
- Department
of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and
Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | | | - Rumbidzai R. Chirombo
- Department
of Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - A. James Mason
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Science, King’s College London, London SE1 9NH, U.K.
| | - Megan J. Bester
- Department
of Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Anabella R. M. Gaspar
- Department
of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and
Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sani MA, Rajput S, Keizer DW, Separovic F. NMR techniques for investigating antimicrobial peptides in model membranes and bacterial cells. Methods 2024; 224:10-20. [PMID: 38295893 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2024.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
AMPs are short, mainly cationic membrane-active peptides found in all living organism. They perform diverse roles including signaling and acting as a line of defense against bacterial infections. AMPs have been extensively investigated as templates to facilitate the development of novel antimicrobial therapeutics. Understanding the interplay between these membrane-active peptides and the lipid membranes is considered to be a significant step in elucidating the specific mechanism of action of AMPs against prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells to aid the development of new therapeutics. In this review, we have provided a brief overview of various NMR techniques commonly used for studying AMP structure and AMP-membrane interactions in model membranes and whole cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc-Antoine Sani
- Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Sunnia Rajput
- Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - David W Keizer
- Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Frances Separovic
- Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Alpízar-Pedraza D, Roque-Diaz Y, Garay-Pérez H, Rosenau F, Ständker L, Montero-Alejo V. Insights into the Adsorption Mechanisms of the Antimicrobial Peptide CIDEM-501 on Membrane Models. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:167. [PMID: 38391553 PMCID: PMC10886324 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13020167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
CIDEM-501 is a hybrid antimicrobial peptide rationally designed based on the structure of panusin and panulirin template peptides. The new peptide exhibits significant antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant pathogens (MIC = 2-4 μM) while conserving no toxicity in human cell lines. We conducted molecular dynamics (MD) simulations using the CHARMM-36 force field to explore the CIDEM-501 adsorption mechanism with different membrane compositions. Several parameters that characterize these interactions were analyzed to elucidate individual residues' structural and thermodynamic contributions. The membrane models were constructed using CHARMM-GUI, mimicking the bacterial and eukaryotic phospholipid compositions. Molecular dynamics simulations were conducted over 500 ns, showing rapid and highly stable peptide adsorption to bacterial lipids components rather than the zwitterionic eucaryotic model membrane. A predominant peptide orientation was observed in all models dominated by an electric dipole. The peptide remained parallel to the membrane surface with the center loop oriented to the lipids. Our findings shed light on the antibacterial activity of CIDEM-501 on bacterial membranes and yield insights valuable for designing potent antimicrobial peptides targeting multi- and extreme drug-resistant bacteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Alpízar-Pedraza
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Ave. 26 # 1605, Nuevo Vedado, Ciudad de La Habana 10400, Cuba
| | - Yessica Roque-Diaz
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Ave. 26 # 1605, Nuevo Vedado, Ciudad de La Habana 10400, Cuba
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 12, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Hilda Garay-Pérez
- Peptide Synthesis Group, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Playa, Habana 11600, Cuba
| | - Frank Rosenau
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Ludger Ständker
- Core Facility for Functional Peptidomics, Ulm Peptide Pharmaceuticals (U-PEP), Faculty of Medicine, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Vivian Montero-Alejo
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Ave. 26 # 1605, Nuevo Vedado, Ciudad de La Habana 10400, Cuba
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sanders G, Borbat PP, Georgieva ER. A comparative study of influenza A M2 protein conformations in DOPC/DOPS liposomes and in native E. coli membranes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.08.574681. [PMID: 38260371 PMCID: PMC10802500 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.08.574681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
We compared the conformations of the transmembrane domain (TMD) of influenza A M2 (IAM2) protein reconstituted at pH 7.4 in DOPC/DOPS bilayers to those in isolated E. coli membranes, having preserved its native proteins and lipids. IAM2 is a single-pass transmembrane protein known to assemble into homo-tetrameric proton channel. To represent this channel, we made a construct containing the IAM2's TMD region flanked by the juxtamembrane residues. The single cysteine substitute, L43C, of leucine located in the bilayer polar region was paramagnetically tagged with a methanethiosulfonate nitroxide label for the ESR (electron spin resonance) study. We compared the conformations of the spin-labeled IAM2 residing in DOPC/DOPS and native E. coli membranes using continuous-wave (CW) ESR and double electron-electron resonance (DEER) spectroscopy. The total protein-to-lipid molar ratio spanned the range from 1:230 to 1:10,400⩦ The CW ESR spectra corresponded to a nearly rigid limit spin label dynamics in both environments. In all cases, the DEER data were reconstructed into the distance distributions showing well-resolved peaks at 1.68 nm and 2.37 nm. The peak distance ratio was 1.41±0.2 and the amplitude ratio was 2:1. This is what one expects from four nitroxide spin-labels located at the corners of a square, indicative of an axially symmetric tetramer. Distance modeling of DEER data with molecular modeling software applied to the NMR molecular structures (PDB: 2L0J) confirmed the symmetry and closed state of the C-terminal exit pore of the IAM2 tetramer in agreement with the NMR model. Thus, we can conclude that IAM2 TMD has similar conformations in model and native E. coli membranes of comparable thickness and fluidity, notwithstanding the complexity of the E. coli membranes caused by their lipid diversity and the abundance of integral and peripheral membrane proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Griffin Sanders
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, 79409
| | - Peter P. Borbat
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology and ACERT, Cornell University, Ithaca NY 14853
| | - Elka R. Georgieva
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, 79409
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Walters SH, Castillo AJ, Develin AM, Labrecque CL, Qu Y, Fuglestad B. Investigating protein-membrane interactions using native reverse micelles constructed from naturally sourced lipids. Protein Sci 2023; 32:e4786. [PMID: 37746759 PMCID: PMC10578115 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Advancing the study of membrane associated proteins and their interactions is dependent on accurate membrane models. While a variety of membrane models for high-resolution membrane protein study exist, most do not reflect the diversity of lipids found within biological membranes. In this work, we have developed native reverse micelles (nRMs) formulated with lipids from multiple eukaryotic sources, which encapsulate proteins and enable them to interact as they would with a biological membrane. Diverse formulations of nRMs using soy lecithin, porcine brain lipids, or bovine heart lipids combined with n-dodecylphosphocholine were developed and characterized by dynamic light scattering and 31 P-NMR. To optimize protein encapsulation, ubiquitin was used as a standard and protein NMR verified minimal changes to its structure. Peripheral membrane proteins, which bind reversibly to membranes, were encapsulated and include glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4), phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein 1 (PEBP1), and fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4). All three proteins showed anticipated interactions with the membrane-like inner surface of the nRMs as assessed by protein NMR. The nRM formulations developed here allow for efficient, high-resolution study of membrane interacting proteins up to and beyond ~21 kDa, in a more biologically relevant context compared to other non-native membrane models. The approach outlined here may be applied to a wide range of lipid extracts, allowing study of a variety of membrane associated proteins in their specific biological context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara H. Walters
- Department of ChemistryVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
| | - Abdul J. Castillo
- Department of ChemistryVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
| | - Angela M. Develin
- Department of ChemistryVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
| | | | - Yun Qu
- Department of ChemistryVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
| | - Brian Fuglestad
- Department of ChemistryVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and DevelopmentVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Siebert HC, Eckert T, Bhunia A, Klatte N, Mohri M, Siebert S, Kozarova A, Hudson JW, Zhang R, Zhang N, Li L, Gousias K, Kanakis D, Yan M, Jiménez-Barbero J, Kožár T, Nifantiev NE, Vollmer C, Brandenburger T, Kindgen-Milles D, Haak T, Petridis AK. Blood pH Analysis in Combination with Molecular Medical Tools in Relation to COVID-19 Symptoms. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051421. [PMID: 37239092 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The global outbreak of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 provided the stage to accumulate an enormous biomedical data set and an opportunity as well as a challenge to test new concepts and strategies to combat the pandemic. New research and molecular medical protocols may be deployed in different scientific fields, e.g., glycobiology, nanopharmacology, or nanomedicine. We correlated clinical biomedical data derived from patients in intensive care units with structural biology and biophysical data from NMR and/or CAMM (computer-aided molecular modeling). Consequently, new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches against SARS-CoV-2 were evaluated. Specifically, we tested the suitability of incretin mimetics with one or two pH-sensitive amino acid residues as potential drugs to prevent or cure long-COVID symptoms. Blood pH values in correlation with temperature alterations in patient bodies were of clinical importance. The effects of biophysical parameters such as temperature and pH value variation in relation to physical-chemical membrane properties (e.g., glycosylation state, affinity of certain amino acid sequences to sialic acids as well as other carbohydrate residues and lipid structures) provided helpful hints in identifying a potential Achilles heel against long COVID. In silico CAMM methods and in vitro NMR experiments (including 31P NMR measurements) were applied to analyze the structural behavior of incretin mimetics and SARS-CoV fusion peptides interacting with dodecylphosphocholine (DPC) micelles. These supramolecular complexes were analyzed under physiological conditions by 1H and 31P NMR techniques. We were able to observe characteristic interaction states of incretin mimetics, SARS-CoV fusion peptides and DPC membranes. Novel interaction profiles (indicated, e.g., by 31P NMR signal splitting) were detected. Furthermore, we evaluated GM1 gangliosides and sialic acid-coated silica nanoparticles in complex with DPC micelles in order to create a simple virus host cell membrane model. This is a first step in exploring the structure-function relationship between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and incretin mimetics with conserved pH-sensitive histidine residues in their carbohydrate recognition domains as found in galectins. The applied methods were effective in identifying peptide sequences as well as certain carbohydrate moieties with the potential to protect the blood-brain barrier (BBB). These clinically relevant observations on low blood pH values in fatal COVID-19 cases open routes for new therapeutic approaches, especially against long-COVID symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Christian Siebert
- RI-B-NT-Research Institute of Bioinformatics and Nanotechnology, Schauenburgerstr. 116, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Thomas Eckert
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, University of Applied Sciences Fresenius, Limburger Str. 2, 65510 Idstein, Germany
- RISCC-Research Institute for Scientific Computing and Consulting, Ludwig-Schunk-Str. 15, 35452 Heuchelheim, Germany
- Institut für Veterinärphysiologie und Biochemie, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig Universität Gießen, Frankfurter Str. 100, 35392 Gießen, Germany
| | - Anirban Bhunia
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), Kolkata 700054, India
| | - Nele Klatte
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, University of Applied Sciences Fresenius, Limburger Str. 2, 65510 Idstein, Germany
| | - Marzieh Mohri
- RI-B-NT-Research Institute of Bioinformatics and Nanotechnology, Schauenburgerstr. 116, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Simone Siebert
- RI-B-NT-Research Institute of Bioinformatics and Nanotechnology, Schauenburgerstr. 116, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Anna Kozarova
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON N9B 3P4, Canada
| | - John W Hudson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON N9B 3P4, Canada
| | - Ruiyan Zhang
- Institute of BioPharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Institute of BioPharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Lan Li
- Klinik für Neurochirurgie, Alfried Krupp Krankenhaus, Rüttenscheid, Alfried-Krupp-Straße 21, 45131 Essen, Germany
| | - Konstantinos Gousias
- Klinik für Neurochirurgie, Klinikum Lünen, St.-Marien-Hospital, Akad. Lehrkrankenhaus der Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, 44534 Lünen, Germany
| | - Dimitrios Kanakis
- Institute of Pathology, University of Nicosia Medical School, 2408 Egkomi, Cyprus
| | - Mingdi Yan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Lowell, 1 University Avenue, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
| | | | - Tibor Kožár
- Center for Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Technology and Innovation Park, P. J. Šafárik University, Jesenná 5, 04001 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Nikolay E Nifantiev
- Laboratory of Glycoconjugate Chemistry, N. D. Zelinsky Institute of Organic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospect 47, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Christian Vollmer
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Timo Brandenburger
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Detlef Kindgen-Milles
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Thomas Haak
- Diabetes Klinik Bad Mergentheim, Theodor-Klotzbücher-Str. 12, 97980 Bad Mergentheim, Germany
| | - Athanasios K Petridis
- Medical School, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Motov VV, Kot EF, Shabalkina AV, Goncharuk SA, Arseniev AS, Goncharuk MV, Mineev KS. Investigation of lipid/protein interactions in trifluoroethanol-water mixtures proposes the strategy for the refolding of helical transmembrane domains. JOURNAL OF BIOMOLECULAR NMR 2023; 77:15-24. [PMID: 36451032 DOI: 10.1007/s10858-022-00408-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Membrane proteins are one of the keystone objects in molecular biology, but their structural studies often require an extensive search for an appropriate membrane-like environment and an efficient refolding protocol for a recombinant protein. Isotropic bicelles are a convenient membrane mimetic used in structural studies of membrane proteins. Helical membrane domains are often transferred into bicelles from trifluoroethanol-water mixtures. However, the protocols for such a refolding are empirical and the process itself is still not understood in detail. In search of the optimal refolding approaches for helical membrane proteins, we studied here how membrane proteins, lipids, and detergents interact with each other at various trifluoroethanol-water ratios. Using high-resolution NMR spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering, we determined the key states of the listed compounds in the trifluoroethanol/water mixture, found the factors that could be critical for the efficiency of refolding, and proposed several most optimal protocols. These protocols were developed on the transmembrane domain of neurotrophin receptor TrkA and tested on two model helical membrane domains-transmembrane of Toll-like receptor TLR9 and voltage-sensing domain of a potassium channel KvAP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vladislav V Motov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, RAS, Ulitsa Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Erik F Kot
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, RAS, Ulitsa Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997.
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia.
| | - Alexandra V Shabalkina
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, RAS, Ulitsa Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Sergey A Goncharuk
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, RAS, Ulitsa Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Alexander S Arseniev
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, RAS, Ulitsa Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997
| | - Marina V Goncharuk
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, RAS, Ulitsa Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997
| | - Konstantin S Mineev
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, RAS, Ulitsa Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Majeed S, Adetuyi O, Borbat PP, Majharul Islam M, Ishola O, Zhao B, Georgieva ER. Insights into the oligomeric structure of the HIV-1 Vpu protein. J Struct Biol 2023; 215:107943. [PMID: 36796461 PMCID: PMC10257199 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2023.107943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
The HIV-1-encoded protein Vpu forms an oligomeric ion channel/pore in membranes and interacts with host proteins to support the virus lifecycle. However, Vpu molecular mechanisms are currently not well understood. Here, we report on the Vpu oligomeric organization under membrane and aqueous conditions and provide insights into how the Vpu environment affects the oligomer formation. For these studies, we designed a maltose-binding protein (MBP)-Vpu chimera protein and produced it in E. coli in soluble form. We analyzed this protein using analytical size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), negative staining electron microscopy (nsEM), and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Surprisingly, we found that MBP-Vpu formed stable oligomers in solution, seemingly driven by Vpu transmembrane domain self-association. A coarse modeling of nsEM data as well as SEC and EPR data suggests that these oligomers most likely are pentamers, similar to what was reported regarding membrane-bound Vpu. We also noticed reduced MBP-Vpu oligomer stability upon reconstitution of the protein in β-DDM detergent and mixtures of lyso-PC/PG or DHPC/DHPG. In these cases, we observed greater oligomer heterogeneity, with MBP-Vpu oligomeric order generally lower than in solution; however, larger oligomers were also present. Notably, we found that in lyso-PC/PG, above a certain protein concentration, MBP-Vpu assembles into extended structures, which had not been reported for Vpu. Therefore, we captured various Vpu oligomeric forms, which can shed light on Vpu quaternary organization. Our findings could be useful in understanding Vpu organization and function in cellular membranes and could provide information regarding the biophysical properties of single-pass transmembrane proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saman Majeed
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
| | - Oluwatosin Adetuyi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
| | - Peter P Borbat
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology and ACERT, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States
| | - Md Majharul Islam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
| | - Olamide Ishola
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
| | - Bo Zhao
- College of Arts & Sciences Microscopy (CASM), Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
| | - Elka R Georgieva
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Won T, Mohid SA, Choi J, Kim M, Krishnamoorthy J, Biswas I, Bhunia A, Lee D. The role of hydrophobic patches of de novo designed MSI-78 and VG16KRKP antimicrobial peptides on fragmenting model bilayer membranes. Biophys Chem 2023; 296:106981. [PMID: 36871366 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2023.106981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with cell membrane lysing capability are considered potential candidates for the development of the next generation of antibiotics. Designing novel AMPs requires an in-depth understanding of the mechanism of action of the peptides. In this work, we used various biophysical techniques including 31P solid-state NMR to examine the interaction of model membranes with amphipathic de novo-designed peptides. Two such peptides, MSI-78 and VG16KRKP, were designed with different hydrophobicity and positive charges. The model lipid membranes were constituted by mixing lipids of varying degrees of 'area per lipid' (APL), which directly affected the packing properties of the membrane. The observed emergence of the isotropic peak in 31P NMR spectra as a function of time is a consequence of the fragmentation of the membrane mediated by the peptide interaction. The factors such as the charges, overall hydrophilicity of the AMPs, as well as lipid membrane packing, contributed to the kinetics of membrane fragmentation. Furthermore, we anticipate the designed AMPs follow the carpet and toroidal pore mechanisms when lysing the cell membrane. This study highlights the significance of the effect of the overall charges and the hydrophobicity of the novel AMPs designed for antimicrobial activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- TaeJun Won
- Department of Fine Chemistry, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 01811, Republic of Korea
| | - Sk Abdul Mohid
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, Unified Academic Campus, Bidhan Nagar EN 80, Kolkata 700 091, India
| | - JiHye Choi
- Department of Fine Chemistry, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 01811, Republic of Korea
| | - MinSoo Kim
- Department of Fine Chemistry, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 01811, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Indranil Biswas
- Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, and Immunology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Anirban Bhunia
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, Unified Academic Campus, Bidhan Nagar EN 80, Kolkata 700 091, India.
| | - DongKuk Lee
- Department of Fine Chemistry, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 01811, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Claveras Cabezudo A, Athanasiou C, Tsengenes A, Wade RC. Scaling Protein-Water Interactions in the Martini 3 Coarse-Grained Force Field to Simulate Transmembrane Helix Dimers in Different Lipid Environments. J Chem Theory Comput 2023; 19:2109-2119. [PMID: 36821400 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.2c00950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Martini 3, the latest version of the widely used Martini force field for coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, is a promising tool to investigate proteins in phospholipid bilayers. However, simulating other lipid environments, such as detergent micelles, presents challenges due to the absence of validated parameters for their constituent molecules. Here, we propose parameters for the micelle-forming surfactant, dodecylphosphocholine (DPC). These result in micelle assembly with aggregation numbers in agreement with the experimental values. However, we identified a lack of hydrophobic interactions between transmembrane helix protein dimers and the tails of DPC molecules, preventing insertion and stabilization of the protein in the micelles. This problem was also observed for protein insertion by self-assembling 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) or dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) bilayers. We propose the reduction of the nonbonded interactions between protein and water beads by 10% as a simple and effective solution to this problem that enables protein encapsulation in phospholipid micelles and bilayers without altering protein dimerization or the bilayer structure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ainara Claveras Cabezudo
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS), Schloss-Wolfsbrunnenweg 35, 69118 Heidelberg, Germany.,Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 234, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christina Athanasiou
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS), Schloss-Wolfsbrunnenweg 35, 69118 Heidelberg, Germany.,Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 234, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Biosciences International Graduate School, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 501, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexandros Tsengenes
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS), Schloss-Wolfsbrunnenweg 35, 69118 Heidelberg, Germany.,Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 234, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Biosciences International Graduate School, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 501, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rebecca C Wade
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS), Schloss-Wolfsbrunnenweg 35, 69118 Heidelberg, Germany.,Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 234, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,Center for Molecular Biology (ZMBH), DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 282, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Center for Scientific Computing (IWR), Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 205, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Valdemar-Aguilar CM, Manisekaran R, Acosta-Torres LS, López-Marín LM. Spotlight on mycobacterial lipid exploitation using nanotechnology for diagnosis, vaccines, and treatments. NANOMEDICINE : NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY, AND MEDICINE 2023; 48:102653. [PMID: 36646193 PMCID: PMC9839462 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2023.102653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB), historically the most significant cause of human morbidity and mortality, has returned as the top infectious disease worldwide, under circumstances worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic's devastating effects on public health. Although Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causal agent, has been known of for more than a century, the development of tools to control it has been largely neglected. With the advancement of nanotechnology, the possibility of engineering tools at the nanoscale creates unique opportunities to exploit any molecular type. However, little attention has been paid to one of the major attributes of the pathogen, represented by the atypical coat and its abundant lipids. In this review, an overview of the lipids encountered in M. tuberculosis and interest in exploiting them for the development of TB control tools are presented. Then, the amalgamation of nanotechnology with mycobacterial lipids from both reported and future works are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos M. Valdemar-Aguilar
- Centro de Física Aplicada y Tecnología Avanzada, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, 76230 Querétaro, Mexico,Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico
| | - Ravichandran Manisekaran
- Interdisciplinary Research Laboratory (LII), Nanostructures and Biomaterials Area, Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Unidad León, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Predio el Saucillo y el Potrero, Comunidad de los Tepetates, 37689 León, Mexico.
| | - Laura S. Acosta-Torres
- Interdisciplinary Research Laboratory (LII), Nanostructures and Biomaterials Area, Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Unidad León, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Predio el Saucillo y el Potrero, Comunidad de los Tepetates, 37689 León, Mexico
| | - Luz M. López-Marín
- Centro de Física Aplicada y Tecnología Avanzada, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, 76230 Querétaro, Mexico,Corresponding authors
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ghanam RH, Eastep GN, Saad JS. Structural Insights into the Mechanism of HIV-1 Tat Secretion from the Plasma Membrane. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167880. [PMID: 36370804 PMCID: PMC9822876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) trans-activator of transcription (Tat) is a small, intrinsically disordered basic protein that plays diverse roles in the HIV-1 replication cycle, including promotion of efficient viral RNA transcription. Tat is released by infected cells and subsequently absorbed by healthy cells, thereby contributing to HIV-1 pathogenesis including HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder. It has been shown that, in HIV-1-infected primary CD4 T-cells, Tat accumulates at the plasma membrane (PM) for secretion, a mechanism mediated by phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2). However, the structural basis for Tat interaction with the PM and thereby secretion is lacking. Herein, we employed NMR and biophysical methods to characterize Tat86 (86 amino acids) interactions with PI(4,5)P2 and lipid nanodiscs (NDs). Our data revealed that Arg49, Lys50 and Lys51 (RKK motif) constitute the PI(4,5)P2 binding site, that Tat86 interaction with lipid NDs is dependent on PI(4,5)P2 and phosphatidylserine (PS), and that the arginine-rich motif (RRQRRR) preferentially interacts with PS. Furthermore, we show that Trp11, previously implicated in Tat secretion, penetrates deeply in the membrane; substitution of Trp11 severely reduced Tat86 interaction with membranes. Deletion of the entire highly basic region and Trp11 completely abolished Tat86 binding to lipid NDs. Our data support a mechanism by which HIV-1 Tat secretion from the PM is mediated by a tripartite signal consisting of binding of the RKK motif to PI(4,5)P2, arginine-rich motif to PS, and penetration of Trp11 in the membrane. Altogether, these findings provide new insights into the molecular requirements for Tat binding to membranes during secretion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruba H Ghanam
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, United States
| | - Gunnar N Eastep
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, United States
| | - Jamil S Saad
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang B, Tieleman DP. Release of nanodiscs from charged nano-droplets in the electrospray ionization revealed by molecular dynamics simulations. Commun Chem 2023; 6:21. [PMID: 36717705 PMCID: PMC9886951 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-023-00818-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrospray ionization (ESI) is essential for application of mass spectrometry in biological systems, as it prevents the analyte being split into fragments. However, due to lack of a clear understanding of the mechanism of ESI, the interpretation of mass spectra is often ambiguous. This is a particular challenge for complex biological systems. Here, we focus on systems that include nanodiscs as membrane environment, which are essential for membrane proteins. We performed microsecond atomistic molecular dynamics simulations to study the release of nanodiscs from highly charged nano-droplets into the gas phase, the late stage of ESI. We observed two distinct major scenarios, highlighting the diversity of morphologies of gaseous product ions. Our simulations are in reasonable agreement with experimental results. Our work provides a detailed atomistic view of the ESI process of a heterogeneous system (lipid nanodisc), which may give insights into the interpretation of mass spectra of all lipid-protein systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beibei Wang
- grid.20513.350000 0004 1789 9964Centre for Advanced Materials Research, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai, 519087 People’s Republic of China
| | - D. Peter Tieleman
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Biological Sciences and Centre for Molecular Simulation, University of Calgary, Calgary, T2N 1N4 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Krishnarjuna B, Ramamoorthy A. Detergent-Free Isolation of Membrane Proteins and Strategies to Study Them in a Near-Native Membrane Environment. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1076. [PMID: 36008970 PMCID: PMC9406181 DOI: 10.3390/biom12081076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Atomic-resolution structural studies of membrane-associated proteins and peptides in a membrane environment are important to fully understand their biological function and the roles played by them in the pathology of many diseases. However, the complexity of the cell membrane has severely limited the application of commonly used biophysical and biochemical techniques. Recent advancements in NMR spectroscopy and cryoEM approaches and the development of novel membrane mimetics have overcome some of the major challenges in this area. For example, the development of a variety of lipid-nanodiscs has enabled stable reconstitution and structural and functional studies of membrane proteins. In particular, the ability of synthetic amphipathic polymers to isolate membrane proteins directly from the cell membrane, along with the associated membrane components such as lipids, without the use of a detergent, has opened new avenues to study the structure and function of membrane proteins using a variety of biophysical and biological approaches. This review article is focused on covering the various polymers and approaches developed and their applications for the functional reconstitution and structural investigation of membrane proteins. The unique advantages and limitations of the use of synthetic polymers are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bankala Krishnarjuna
- Department of Chemistry and Biophysics, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Michigan Neuroscience Institute, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1055, USA
| | - Ayyalusamy Ramamoorthy
- Department of Chemistry and Biophysics, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Michigan Neuroscience Institute, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1055, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Vallejo DD, Ramírez CR, Parson KF, Han Y, Gadkari VG, Ruotolo BT. Mass Spectrometry Methods for Measuring Protein Stability. Chem Rev 2022; 122:7690-7719. [PMID: 35316030 PMCID: PMC9197173 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Mass spectrometry is a central technology in the life sciences, providing our most comprehensive account of the molecular inventory of the cell. In parallel with developments in mass spectrometry technologies targeting such assessments of cellular composition, mass spectrometry tools have emerged as versatile probes of biomolecular stability. In this review, we cover recent advancements in this branch of mass spectrometry that target proteins, a centrally important class of macromolecules that accounts for most biochemical functions and drug targets. Our efforts cover tools such as hydrogen-deuterium exchange, chemical cross-linking, ion mobility, collision induced unfolding, and other techniques capable of stability assessments on a proteomic scale. In addition, we focus on a range of application areas where mass spectrometry-driven protein stability measurements have made notable impacts, including studies of membrane proteins, heat shock proteins, amyloidogenic proteins, and biotherapeutics. We conclude by briefly discussing the future of this vibrant and fast-moving area of research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel D. Vallejo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Carolina Rojas Ramírez
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Kristine F. Parson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Yilin Han
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Varun G. Gadkari
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Brandon T. Ruotolo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Laurence MJ, Carpenter TS, Laurence TA, Coleman MA, Shelby M, Liu C. Biophysical Characterization of Membrane Proteins Embedded in Nanodiscs Using Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:membranes12040392. [PMID: 35448362 PMCID: PMC9028781 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12040392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Proteins embedded in biological membranes perform essential functions in all organisms, serving as receptors, transporters, channels, cell adhesion molecules, and other supporting cellular roles. These membrane proteins comprise ~30% of all human proteins and are the targets of ~60% of FDA-approved drugs, yet their extensive characterization using established biochemical and biophysical methods has continued to be elusive due to challenges associated with the purification of these insoluble proteins. In response, the development of nanodisc techniques, such as nanolipoprotein particles (NLPs) and styrene maleic acid polymers (SMALPs), allowed membrane proteins to be expressed and isolated in solution as part of lipid bilayer rafts with defined, consistent nanometer sizes and compositions, thus enabling solution-based measurements. Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) is a relatively simple yet powerful optical microscopy-based technique that yields quantitative biophysical information, such as diffusion kinetics and concentrations, about individual or interacting species in solution. Here, we first summarize current nanodisc techniques and FCS fundamentals. We then provide a focused review of studies that employed FCS in combination with nanodisc technology to investigate a handful of membrane proteins, including bacteriorhodopsin, bacterial division protein ZipA, bacterial membrane insertases SecYEG and YidC, Yersinia pestis type III secretion protein YopB, yeast cell wall stress sensor Wsc1, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), ABC transporters, and several G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Laurence
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA; (M.J.L.); (T.S.C.); (M.A.C.)
| | - Timothy S. Carpenter
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA; (M.J.L.); (T.S.C.); (M.A.C.)
| | - Ted A. Laurence
- Materials Science Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA;
| | - Matthew A. Coleman
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA; (M.J.L.); (T.S.C.); (M.A.C.)
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95616, USA
| | - Megan Shelby
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA; (M.J.L.); (T.S.C.); (M.A.C.)
- Correspondence: (M.S.); (C.L.)
| | - Chao Liu
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA; (M.J.L.); (T.S.C.); (M.A.C.)
- Correspondence: (M.S.); (C.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Labrecque CL, Nolan AL, Develin AM, Castillo AJ, Offenbacher AR, Fuglestad B. Membrane-Mimicking Reverse Micelles for High-Resolution Interfacial Study of Proteins and Membranes. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:3676-3686. [PMID: 35298177 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.1c03085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Despite substantial advances, the study of proteins interacting with membranes remains a significant challenge. While integral membrane proteins have been a major focus of recent efforts, peripheral membrane proteins (PMPs) and their interactions with membranes and lipids have far less high-resolution information available. Their small size and the dynamic nature of their interactions have stalled detailed interfacial study using structural methods like cryo-EM and X-ray crystallography. A major roadblock for the structural analysis of PMP interactions is limitations in membrane models to study the membrane recruited state. Commonly used membrane mimics such as liposomes, bicelles, nanodiscs, and micelles are either very large or composed of non-biological detergents, limiting their utility for the NMR study of PMPs. While there have been previous successes with integral and peripheral membrane proteins, currently employed reverse micelle (RM) compositions are optimized for their inertness with proteins rather than their ability to mimic membranes. Applying more native, membrane-like lipids and surfactants promises to be a valuable advancement for the study of interfacial interactions between proteins and membranes. Here, we describe the development of phosphocholine-based RM systems that mimic biological membranes and are compatible with high-resolution protein NMR. We demonstrate new formulations that are able to encapsulate the model soluble protein, ubiquitin, with minimal perturbations of the protein structure. Furthermore, one formula, DLPC:DPC, allowed the encapsulation of the PMPs glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4) and phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein 1 (PEBP1) and enabled the embedment of these proteins, matching the expected interactions with biological membranes. Dynamic light scattering and small-angle X-ray scattering characterization of the RMs reveals small, approximately spherical, and non-aggregated particles, a prerequisite for protein NMR and other avenues of study. The formulations presented here represent a new tool for the study of elusive PMP interactions and other membrane interfacial investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney L Labrecque
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23284, United States
| | - Aubree L Nolan
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23284, United States
| | - Angela M Develin
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23284, United States
| | - Abdul J Castillo
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23284, United States
| | - Adam R Offenbacher
- Department of Chemistry, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina 27858, United States
| | - Brian Fuglestad
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23284, United States
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23219, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
McCalpin SD, Ravula T, Ramamoorthy A. Saponins Form Nonionic Lipid Nanodiscs for Protein Structural Studies by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy. J Phys Chem Lett 2022; 13:1705-1712. [PMID: 35156801 PMCID: PMC9548298 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.1c04185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Structural studies of membrane proteins in native-like environments require the development of diverse membrane mimetics. Currently there is a need for nanodiscs formed with nonionic belt molecules to avoid nonphysiological electrostatic interactions between the membrane system and protein of interest. Here, we describe the formation of lipid nanodiscs from the phospholipid DMPC and a class of nonionic glycoside natural products called saponins. The morphology, surface characteristics, and magnetic alignment properties of the saponin nanodiscs were characterized by light scattering and solid-state NMR experiments. We determined that preparing nanodiscs with high saponin/lipid ratios reduced their size, diminished their ability to spontaneously align in a magnetic field, and favored insertion of individual saponin molecules in the lipid bilayer surface. Further, purification of saponin nanodiscs allowed flipping of the orientation of aligned nanodiscs by 90°. Finally, we found that aligned saponin nanodiscs provide a sufficient alignment medium to allow the measurement of residual dipolar couplings (RDCs) in aqueous cytochrome c.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D. McCalpin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, USA
| | - Thirupathi Ravula
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, USA
- Biophysics, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1055, USA
| | - Ayyalusamy Ramamoorthy
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, USA
- Biophysics, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1055, USA
- Corresponding Author:
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Reid LM, Guzzetti I, Svensson T, Carlsson AC, Su W, Leek T, von Sydow L, Czechtizky W, Miljak M, Verma C, De Maria L, Essex JW. How well does molecular simulation reproduce environment-specific conformations of the intrinsically disordered peptides PLP, TP2 and ONEG? Chem Sci 2022; 13:1957-1971. [PMID: 35308859 PMCID: PMC8848758 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc03496k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the conformational ensembles of intrinsically disordered proteins and peptides (IDPs) in their various biological environments is essential for understanding their mechanisms and functional roles in the proteome, leading to a greater knowledge of, and potential treatments for, a broad range of diseases. To determine whether molecular simulation is able to generate accurate conformational ensembles of IDPs, we explore the structural landscape of the PLP peptide (an intrinsically disordered region of the proteolipid membrane protein) in aqueous and membrane-mimicking solvents, using replica exchange with solute scaling (REST2), and examine the ability of four force fields (ff14SB, ff14IDPSFF, CHARMM36 and CHARMM36m) to reproduce literature circular dichroism (CD) data. Results from variable temperature (VT) 1H and Rotating frame Overhauser Effect SpectroscopY (ROESY) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments are also presented and are consistent with the structural observations obtained from the simulations and CD. We also apply the optimum simulation protocol to TP2 and ONEG (a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) and a negative control peptide, respectively) to gain insight into the structural differences that may account for the observed difference in their membrane-penetrating abilities. Of the tested force fields, we find that CHARMM36 and CHARMM36m are best suited to the study of IDPs, and accurately predict a disordered to helical conformational transition of the PLP peptide accompanying the change from aqueous to membrane-mimicking solvents. We also identify an α-helical structure of TP2 in the membrane-mimicking solvents and provide a discussion of the mechanistic implications of this observation with reference to the previous literature on the peptide. From these results, we recommend the use of CHARMM36m with the REST2 protocol for the study of environment-specific IDP conformations. We believe that the simulation protocol will allow the study of a broad range of IDPs that undergo conformational transitions in different biological environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Reid
- School of Chemistry, University of Southampton Highfield Southampton SO17 1BJ UK
- Bioinformatics Institute (ASTAR) 30 Biolpolis Street Matrix 138671 Singapore
- MedChemica Ltd Alderley Park Macclesfield Cheshire SK10 4TG UK
| | - Ileana Guzzetti
- Medical Chemistry, Research and Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D AstraZeneca Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Tor Svensson
- Medical Chemistry, Research and Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D AstraZeneca Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Anna-Carin Carlsson
- Early Chemical Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D AstraZeneca Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Wu Su
- Medical Chemistry, Research and Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D AstraZeneca Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Tomas Leek
- Medical Chemistry, Research and Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D AstraZeneca Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Lena von Sydow
- Medical Chemistry, Research and Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D AstraZeneca Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Werngard Czechtizky
- Medical Chemistry, Research and Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D AstraZeneca Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Marija Miljak
- School of Chemistry, University of Southampton Highfield Southampton SO17 1BJ UK
| | - Chandra Verma
- Bioinformatics Institute (ASTAR) 30 Biolpolis Street Matrix 138671 Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore 16 Science Drive 4 117558 Singapore
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University 60 Nanyang Dr 637551 Singapore
| | - Leonardo De Maria
- Medical Chemistry, Research and Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D AstraZeneca Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Jonathan W Essex
- School of Chemistry, University of Southampton Highfield Southampton SO17 1BJ UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Rajput S, Yao S, Keizer DW, Sani MA, Separovic F. NMR spectroscopy of lipidic cubic phases. Biophys Rev 2022; 14:67-74. [PMID: 35340611 PMCID: PMC8921435 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-021-00900-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipidic cubic phase (LCP) structures have been used for stabilisation and crystallisation of membrane proteins and show promising properties as drug carriers. In this mini-review, we present how NMR spectroscopy has played a major role in understanding the physico-chemical properties of LCPs and how recent advances in pulsed field gradient NMR techniques open new perspectives in characterising encapsulated molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sunnia Rajput
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052 Australia
| | - Shenggen Yao
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052 Australia
| | - David W. Keizer
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052 Australia
| | - Marc-Antoine Sani
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052 Australia
- School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Frances Separovic
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052 Australia
- School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Spatial structure of the fibril-forming SEM1(86–107) peptide in a complex with dodecylphosphocholine micelles. Russ Chem Bull 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11172-021-3362-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
27
|
Ramos-Martín F, Herrera-León C, D'Amelio N. Molecular basis of the anticancer, apoptotic and antibacterial activities of Bombyx mori Cecropin A. Arch Biochem Biophys 2022; 715:109095. [PMID: 34826396 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.109095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
As Cecropin XJ, Cecropin A from Bombyx mori is one of the very few antimicrobial peptides having shown activity against esophageal cancer cells. It displays remarkable sequence-similarity to Cecropin XJ but slightly enhanced activity. In this work we show by NMR that both peptides are unstructured in solution but get structured in the presence of DPC micelles, mimicking the surface of biological membranes. In order to get insight into the molecular basis of its anticancer, antimicrobial and antifungal activity, we have investigated by MD simulations their interaction with a large variety of lipid bilayers mimicking cancer, mitochondrial, bacterial and fungal membranes. At variance with CecXJ, organized in two main helices, CecA tends to form a three helix bundle resulting in enhanced adaptability to its membrane targets. A specificity for the headgroup of phosphatidylserine and affinity for phosphatidylglycerol and cardiolipin may account for its selective targeting of cancer, bacterial and mitochondrial membranes, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Ramos-Martín
- Unité de Génie Enzymatique et Cellulaire UMR 7025 CNRS, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, 80039, France.
| | - Claudia Herrera-León
- Unité de Génie Enzymatique et Cellulaire UMR 7025 CNRS, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, 80039, France
| | - Nicola D'Amelio
- Unité de Génie Enzymatique et Cellulaire UMR 7025 CNRS, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, 80039, France.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lian T, Zhang B, Giacani L, Kou C, Yang X, Zhang R, Wang Q. Full-length TprK of Treponema pallidum subsp. pallidum in lipid nanodiscs is a monomeric porin. Enzyme Microb Technol 2022; 153:109897. [PMID: 34670182 PMCID: PMC10929906 DOI: 10.1016/j.enzmictec.2021.109897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
TprK is a key virulence factor of Treponema pallidum subsp. pallidum (T. pallidum) due to its ability to undergo intra-strain antigenic variation through gene conversion. This mechanism can generate millions of tprK gene and protein variants to allow immune evasion and pathogen persistence during infection. In silico structural modeling supports that TprK is an outer membrane β-barrel with porin function and with several surface-exposed loops, seven of which corresponding to the variable regions. No definitive structural of functional data, however, exist for this protein aside from its role in immune evasion. Studies to elucidate TprK biological function as a porin, are hindered by the evidence that TprK is not abundant on T. pallidum outer membrane, and by the fragility of T. pallidum envelope. To gain insight onto TprK structure and possible function as a porin, we used an Escherichia coli - based expression system that yielded highly pure full-length TprK without any intermediate denaturation step, and proceeded to reconstitute it in detergents and lipid nanodiscs. Visualization of TprK in nanodiscs using negative staining electron microscopy supported that TprK is a monomeric porin in an artificial lipid environment mimicking T. pallidum membrane. Our work provided evidence that TprK is a possible porin transporter of T. pallidum, a biological function compatible with its structural models. These results bring us closer to a comprehensive understanding of the function of this important virulence factor in syphilis pathogenesis and T. pallidum biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Lian
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing 210042, China.
| | - Bing Zhang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies and School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 200120, China.
| | - Lorenzo Giacani
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Caixia Kou
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing 210042, China.
| | - Xiuna Yang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies and School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 200120, China.
| | - Ruili Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210042, China.
| | - Qianqiu Wang
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing 210042, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Barret L, Schubeis T, Kugler V, Guyot L, Pintacuda G, Wagner R. Production and Preparation of Isotopically Labeled Human Membrane Proteins in Pichia pastoris for Fast-MAS-NMR Analyses. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2507:201-221. [PMID: 35773584 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2368-8_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Membrane proteins (MPs) comprise about one-third of the human proteome, playing critical roles in many physiological processes and associated disorders. Consistently, they represent one of the largest classes of targets for the pharmaceutical industry. Their study at the molecular level is however particularly challenging, resulting in a severe lack of structural and dynamic information that is hindering their detailed functional characterization and the identification of novel potent drug candidates.Magic Angle Spinning (MAS) NMR is a reliable and efficient method for the determination of protein structures and dynamics and for the identification of ligand binding sites and equilibria. MAS-NMR is particularly well suited for MPs since they can be directly analysed in a native-like lipid bilayer environment but used to require aggravating large amounts of isotope enriched material. The frequent toxicity of human MP overexpression in bacterial cultures poses an additional hurdle, resulting in the need for alternative (and often more costly) expression systems. The recent development of very fast (up to 150 kHz) MAS probes has revolutionized the field of biomolecular solid-state NMR enabling higher spectral resolution with significant reduction of the required sample, rendering eukaryotic expression systems cost-effective.Here is presented a set of accessible procedures validated for the production and preparation of eukaryotic MPs for Fast-MAS 1H-detected NMR analysis. The methodology is illustrated with the human copper uptake protein hCTR1 recombinantly produced and 13C-15N uniformly labeled with the versatile and affordable Pichia pastoris system. Subsequent purification procedures allow the recovery of mg amounts that are then reconstituted into liposome formulations compatible with solid-state NMR handling and analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lina Barret
- Biotechnology and Cell Signalling, IMPReSs Protein Facility, UMR7242 CNRS-University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
- Centre de Résonance Magnétique Nucléaire à Très Hauts Champs de Lyon (UMR 5082-CNRS, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, École Normale Supérieure Lyon), Université de Lyon, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Tobias Schubeis
- Centre de Résonance Magnétique Nucléaire à Très Hauts Champs de Lyon (UMR 5082-CNRS, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, École Normale Supérieure Lyon), Université de Lyon, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Valérie Kugler
- Biotechnology and Cell Signalling, IMPReSs Protein Facility, UMR7242 CNRS-University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
| | - Lucile Guyot
- Biotechnology and Cell Signalling, IMPReSs Protein Facility, UMR7242 CNRS-University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
- NovAliX, Illkirch, France
| | - Guido Pintacuda
- Centre de Résonance Magnétique Nucléaire à Très Hauts Champs de Lyon (UMR 5082-CNRS, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, École Normale Supérieure Lyon), Université de Lyon, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Renaud Wagner
- Biotechnology and Cell Signalling, IMPReSs Protein Facility, UMR7242 CNRS-University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, France.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Herrera-León C, Ramos-Martín F, Antonietti V, Sonnet P, D'Amelio N. The impact of phosphatidylserine exposure on cancer cell membranes on the activity of the anticancer peptide HB43. FEBS J 2021; 289:1984-2003. [PMID: 34767285 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
HB43 (FAKLLAKLAKKLL) is a synthetic peptide active against cell lines derived from breast, colon, melanoma, lung, prostate, and cervical cancers. Despite its remarkable spectrum of activity, the mechanism of action at the molecular level has never been investigated, preventing further optimization of its selectivity. The alternation of charged and hydrophobic residues suggests amphipathicity, but the formation of alpha-helical structure seems discouraged by its short length and the large number of positively charged residues. Using different biophysical and in silico approaches we show that HB43 is completely unstructured in solution but assumes alpha-helical conformation in the presence of DPC micelles and liposomes exposing phosphatidylserine (PS) used as mimics of cancer cell membranes. Membrane permeabilization assays demonstrate that the interaction leads to the preferential destabilization of PS-containing vesicles with respect to PC-containing ones, here used as noncancerous cell mimics. ssNMR reveals that HB43 is able to fluidify the internal structure of cancer-cell mimicking liposomes while MD simulations show its internalization in such bilayers. This is achieved by the formation of specific interactions between the lysine side chains and the carboxylate group of phosphatidylserine and/or the phosphate oxygen atoms of targeted phospholipids, which could catalyze the formation of the alpha helix required for internalization. With the aim of better understanding the peptide biocompatibility and the additional antibacterial activity, the interaction with noncancerous cell mimicking liposomes exposing phosphatidylcholine (PC) and bacterial mimicking bilayers exposing phosphatidylglycerol (PG) is also described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Herrera-León
- Unité de Génie Enzymatique et Cellulaire, UMR 7025, CNRS, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Francisco Ramos-Martín
- Unité de Génie Enzymatique et Cellulaire, UMR 7025, CNRS, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Viviane Antonietti
- Agents Infectieux, Résistance et Chimiothérapie, UFR de Pharmacie, AGIR UR 4294, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Pascal Sonnet
- Agents Infectieux, Résistance et Chimiothérapie, UFR de Pharmacie, AGIR UR 4294, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Nicola D'Amelio
- Unité de Génie Enzymatique et Cellulaire, UMR 7025, CNRS, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Membrane proteins (MPs) play essential roles in numerous cellular processes. Because around 70% of the currently marketed drugs target MPs, a detailed understanding of their structure, binding properties, and functional dynamics in a physiologically relevant environment is crucial for a more detailed understanding of this important protein class. We here summarize the benefits of using lipid nanodiscs for NMR structural investigations and provide a detailed overview of the currently used lipid nanodisc systems as well as their applications in solution-state NMR. Despite the increasing use of other structural methods for the structure determination of MPs in lipid nanodiscs, solution NMR turns out to be a versatile tool to probe a wide range of MP features, ranging from the structure determination of small to medium-sized MPs to probing ligand and partner protein binding as well as functionally relevant dynamical signatures in a lipid nanodisc setting. We will expand on these topics by discussing recent NMR studies with lipid nanodiscs and work out a key workflow for optimizing the nanodisc incorporation of an MP for subsequent NMR investigations. With this, we hope to provide a comprehensive background to enable an informed assessment of the applicability of lipid nanodiscs for NMR studies of a particular MP of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Umut Günsel
- Bavarian NMR Center (BNMRZ) at the Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Ernst-Otto-Fischer-Strasse 2, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Franz Hagn
- Bavarian NMR Center (BNMRZ) at the Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Ernst-Otto-Fischer-Strasse 2, 85748 Garching, Germany.,Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Langmuir Monolayer Techniques for the Investigation of Model Bacterial Membranes and Antibiotic Biodegradation Mechanisms. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:membranes11090707. [PMID: 34564524 PMCID: PMC8471293 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11090707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The amounts of antibiotics of anthropogenic origin released and accumulated in the environment are known to have a negative impact on local communities of microorganisms, which leads to disturbances in the course of the biodegradation process and to growing antimicrobial resistance. This mini-review covers up-to-date information regarding problems related to the omnipresence of antibiotics and their consequences for the world of bacteria. In order to understand the interaction of antibiotics with bacterial membranes, it is necessary to explain their interaction mechanism at the molecular level. Such molecular-level interactions can be probed with Langmuir monolayers representing the cell membrane. This mini-review describes monolayer experiments undertaken to investigate the impact of selected antibiotics on components of biomembranes, with particular emphasis on the role and content of individual phospholipids and lipopolysaccharides (LPS). It is shown that the Langmuir technique may provide information about the interactions between antibiotics and lipids at the mixed film surface (π–A isotherm) and about the penetration of the active substances into the phospholipid monolayer model membranes (relaxation of the monolayer). Effects induced by antibiotics on the bacterial membrane may be correlated with their bactericidal activity, which may be vital for the selection of appropriate bacterial consortia that would ensure a high degradation efficiency of pharmaceuticals in the environment.
Collapse
|
33
|
Solid state NMR of membrane proteins: methods and applications. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:1505-1513. [PMID: 34397082 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Membranes of cells are active barriers, in which membrane proteins perform essential remodelling, transport and recognition functions that are vital to cells. Membrane proteins are key regulatory components of cells and represent essential targets for the modulation of cell function and pharmacological intervention. However, novel folds, low molarity and the need for lipid membrane support present serious challenges to the characterisation of their structure and interactions. We describe the use of solid state NMR as a versatile and informative approach for membrane and membrane protein studies, which uniquely provides information on structure, interactions and dynamics of membrane proteins. High resolution approaches are discussed in conjunction with applications of NMR methods to studies of membrane lipid and protein structure and interactions. Signal enhancement in high resolution NMR spectra through DNP is discussed as a tool for whole cell and interaction studies.
Collapse
|
34
|
Aronica PGA, Reid LM, Desai N, Li J, Fox SJ, Yadahalli S, Essex JW, Verma CS. Computational Methods and Tools in Antimicrobial Peptide Research. J Chem Inf Model 2021; 61:3172-3196. [PMID: 34165973 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.1c00175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is an ongoing and troubling development that has increased the number of diseases and infections that risk going untreated. There is an urgent need to develop alternative strategies and treatments to address this issue. One class of molecules that is attracting significant interest is that of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Their design and development has been aided considerably by the applications of molecular models, and we review these here. These methods include the use of tools to explore the relationships between their structures, dynamics, and functions and the increasing application of machine learning and molecular dynamics simulations. This review compiles resources such as AMP databases, AMP-related web servers, and commonly used techniques, together aimed at aiding researchers in the area toward complementing experimental studies with computational approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pietro G A Aronica
- Bioinformatics Institute at A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), 30 Biopolis Street, #07-01 Matrix, Singapore 138671
| | - Lauren M Reid
- Bioinformatics Institute at A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), 30 Biopolis Street, #07-01 Matrix, Singapore 138671.,School of Chemistry, University of Southampton, Highfield Southampton, Hampshire, U.K. SO17 1BJ.,MedChemica Ltd, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire, U.K. SK10 4TG
| | - Nirali Desai
- Bioinformatics Institute at A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), 30 Biopolis Street, #07-01 Matrix, Singapore 138671.,Division of Biological and Life Sciences, Ahmedabad University, Central Campus, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India 380009
| | - Jianguo Li
- Bioinformatics Institute at A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), 30 Biopolis Street, #07-01 Matrix, Singapore 138671.,Singapore Eye Research Institute, 20 College Road Discovery Tower, Singapore 169856
| | - Stephen J Fox
- Bioinformatics Institute at A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), 30 Biopolis Street, #07-01 Matrix, Singapore 138671
| | - Shilpa Yadahalli
- Bioinformatics Institute at A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), 30 Biopolis Street, #07-01 Matrix, Singapore 138671
| | - Jonathan W Essex
- School of Chemistry, University of Southampton, Highfield Southampton, Hampshire, U.K. SO17 1BJ
| | - Chandra S Verma
- Bioinformatics Institute at A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), 30 Biopolis Street, #07-01 Matrix, Singapore 138671.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, 117543 Singapore.,School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Drive, 637551 Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zhou S, Pettersson P, Björck ML, Dawitz H, Brzezinski P, Mäler L, Ädelroth P. NMR structural analysis of the yeast cytochrome c oxidase subunit Cox13 and its interaction with ATP. BMC Biol 2021; 19:98. [PMID: 33971868 PMCID: PMC8111780 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-021-01036-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mitochondrial respiration is organized in a series of enzyme complexes in turn forming dynamic supercomplexes. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker’s yeast), Cox13 (CoxVIa in mammals) is a conserved peripheral subunit of Complex IV (cytochrome c oxidase, CytcO), localized at the interface of dimeric bovine CytcO, which has been implicated in the regulation of the complex. Results Here, we report the solution NMR structure of Cox13, which forms a dimer in detergent micelles. Each Cox13 monomer has three short helices (SH), corresponding to disordered regions in X-ray or cryo-EM structures of homologous proteins. Dimer formation is mainly induced by hydrophobic interactions between the transmembrane (TM) helix of each monomer. Furthermore, an analysis of chemical shift changes upon addition of ATP revealed that ATP binds at a conserved region of the C terminus with considerable conformational flexibility. Conclusions Together with functional analysis of purified CytcO, we suggest that this ATP interaction is inhibitory of catalytic activity. Our results shed light on the structural flexibility of an important subunit of yeast CytcO and provide structure-based insight into how ATP could regulate mitochondrial respiration. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-021-01036-x.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shu Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Current address: High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Pontus Pettersson
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Markus L Björck
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hannah Dawitz
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Brzezinski
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lena Mäler
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Pia Ädelroth
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Gaussmann S, Gopalswamy M, Eberhardt M, Reuter M, Zou P, Schliebs W, Erdmann R, Sattler M. Membrane Interactions of the Peroxisomal Proteins PEX5 and PEX14. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:651449. [PMID: 33937250 PMCID: PMC8086558 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.651449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human PEX5 and PEX14 are essential components of the peroxisomal translocon, which mediates import of cargo enzymes into peroxisomes. PEX5 is a soluble receptor for cargo enzymes comprised of an N-terminal intrinsically disordered domain (NTD) and a C-terminal tetratricopeptide (TPR) domain, which recognizes peroxisomal targeting signal 1 (PTS1) peptide motif in cargo proteins. The PEX5 NTD harbors multiple WF peptide motifs (WxxxF/Y or related motifs) that are recognized by a small globular domain in the NTD of the membrane-associated protein PEX14. How the PEX5 or PEX14 NTDs bind to the peroxisomal membrane and how the interaction between the two proteins is modulated at the membrane is unknown. Here, we characterize the membrane interactions of the PEX5 NTD and PEX14 NTD in vitro by membrane mimicking bicelles and nanodiscs using NMR spectroscopy and isothermal titration calorimetry. The PEX14 NTD weakly interacts with membrane mimicking bicelles with a surface that partially overlaps with the WxxxF/Y binding site. The PEX5 NTD harbors multiple interaction sites with the membrane that involve a number of amphipathic α-helical regions, which include some of the WxxxF/Y-motifs. The partially formed α-helical conformation of these regions is stabilized in the presence of bicelles. Notably, ITC data show that the interaction between the PEX5 and PEX14 NTDs is largely unaffected by the presence of the membrane. The PEX5/PEX14 interaction exhibits similar free binding enthalpies, where reduced binding enthalpy in the presence of bicelles is compensated by a reduced entropy loss. This demonstrates that docking of PEX5 to PEX14 at the membrane does not reduce the overall binding affinity between the two proteins, providing insights into the initial phase of PEX5-PEX14 docking in the assembly of the peroxisome translocon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Gaussmann
- Bavarian NMR Center, Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Mohanraj Gopalswamy
- Bavarian NMR Center, Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Maike Eberhardt
- Bavarian NMR Center, Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Maren Reuter
- Institute of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Department of Systems Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Peijian Zou
- Bavarian NMR Center, Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Schliebs
- Institute of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Department of Systems Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Ralf Erdmann
- Institute of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Department of Systems Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Michael Sattler
- Bavarian NMR Center, Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Felício MR, Silveira GGOS, Oshiro KGN, Meneguetti BT, Franco OL, Santos NC, Gonçalves S. Polyalanine peptide variations may have different mechanisms of action against multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. J Antimicrob Chemother 2021; 76:1174-1186. [PMID: 33501992 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkaa560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The number of bacterial pathogens resistant to the currently available antibiotics has dramatically increased, with antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) being among the most promising potential new drugs. In this study, the applicability and mechanisms of action of Pa-MAP 2 and Pa-MAP 1.9, two AMPs synthetically designed based on a natural AMP template, were evaluated. METHODS Pa-MAP 2 and Pa-MAP 1.9 were tested against a clinically isolated multidrug-resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli strain. Biophysical approaches were used to evaluate the preference of both peptides for specific lipid membranes, and bacterial surface changes imaged by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The efficacy of both peptides was assessed both in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Experimental results showed that both peptides have antimicrobial activity against the E. coli MDR strain. Zeta potential and surface plasmon resonance assays showed that they interact extensively with negatively charged membranes, changing from a random coil structure, when free in solution, to an α-helical structure after membrane interaction. The antibacterial efficacy was evaluated in vitro, by several techniques, and in vivo, using a wound infection model, showing a concentration-dependent antibacterial effect. Different membrane properties were evaluated to understand the mechanism underlying peptide action, showing that both promote destabilization of the bacterial surface, as imaged by AFM, and change properties such as membrane surface and dipole potential. CONCLUSIONS Despite their similarity, data indicate that the mechanisms of action of the peptides are different, with Pa-MAP 1.9 being more effective than Pa-MAP 2. These results highlight their potential use as antimicrobial agents against MDR bacteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mário R Felício
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Gislaine G O S Silveira
- S-Inova Biotech, Pós-graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Karen G N Oshiro
- S-Inova Biotech, Pós-graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Patologia Molecular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Beatriz T Meneguetti
- S-Inova Biotech, Pós-graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Octávio L Franco
- S-Inova Biotech, Pós-graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Patologia Molecular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Nuno C Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sónia Gonçalves
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Moritsugu K, Takeuchi K, Kamiya N, Higo J, Yasumatsu I, Fukunishi Y, Fukuda I. Flexibility and Cell Permeability of Cyclic Ras-Inhibitor Peptides Revealed by the Coupled Nosé-Hoover Equation. J Chem Inf Model 2021; 61:1921-1930. [PMID: 33835817 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.0c01427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Quantifying the cell permeability of cyclic peptides is crucial for their rational drug design. However, the reasons remain unclear why a minor chemical modification, such as the difference between Ras inhibitors cyclorasin 9A5 and 9A54, can substantially change a peptide's permeability. To address this question, we performed enhanced sampling simulations of these two 11-mer peptides using the coupled Nosé-Hoover equation (cNH) we recently developed. The present cNH simulations realized temperature fluctuations over a wide range (240-600 K) in a dynamic manner, allowing structural samplings that were well validated by nuclear Overhauser effect measurements. The derived structural ensembles were comprehensively analyzed by all-atom structural clustering, mapping the derived clusters onto principal components (PCs) that characterize the cyclic structure, and calculating cluster-dependent geometric and chemical properties. The planar-open conformation was dominant in aqueous solvent, owing to inclusion of the Trp side chain in the main-chain ring, while the compact-closed conformation, which favors cell permeation due to its compactness and high polarity, was also accessible. Conformation-dependent cell permeability was observed in one of the derived PCs, demonstrating that decreased cell permeability in 9A54 is due to the high free energy barrier separating the two conformations. The origin of the change in free energy surface was determined to be loss of flexibility in the modified residues 2-3, resulting from the increased bulkiness of their side chains. The derived molecular mechanism of cell permeability highlights the significance of complete structural dynamics surveys for accelerating drug development with cyclic peptides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kei Moritsugu
- Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, 1-7-29 Suehirocho, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Koh Takeuchi
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan
| | - Narutoshi Kamiya
- Graduate School of Simulation Studies, University of Hyogo, 7-1-28 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan.,Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Junichi Higo
- Graduate School of Simulation Studies, University of Hyogo, 7-1-28 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan.,Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Isao Yasumatsu
- Structure-Based Drug Design Group, Organic Synthesis Department, Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd., 1-2-58 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 140-8710, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Fukunishi
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan
| | - Ikuo Fukuda
- Graduate School of Simulation Studies, University of Hyogo, 7-1-28 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan.,Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Kim M, Son J, Kim Y. Structural and Mechanismic Studies of Lactophoricin Analog, Novel Antibacterial Peptide. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073734. [PMID: 33918526 PMCID: PMC8038340 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Naturally derived antibacterial peptides exhibit excellent pharmacological action without the risk of resistance, suggesting a potential role as biologicals. Lactophoricin-I (LPcin-I), found in the proteose peptone component-3 (PP3; lactophorin) of bovine milk, is known to exhibit antibiotic activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Accordingly, we derived a new antibacterial peptide and investigated its structure–function relationship. This study was initiated by designing antibacterial peptide analogs with better antibacterial activity, less cytotoxicity, and shorter amino acid sequences based on LPcin-I. The structural properties of antibacterial peptide analogs were investigated via spectroscopic analysis, and the antibacterial activity was confirmed by measurement of the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). The structure and mechanism of the antibacterial peptide analog in the cell membrane were also studied via solution-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and solid-state NMR spectroscopy. Through 15N one-dimensional and two-dimensional NMR experiments and 31P NMR experiments, we suggest the 3D morphology and antibacterial mechanism in the phospholipid bilayer of the LPcin analog. This study is expected to establish a system for the development of novel antibacterial peptides and to establish a theoretical basis for research into antibiotic substitutes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yongae Kim
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-31-330-4604; Fax: +82-31-330-4566
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Gjuroski I, Furrer J, Vermathen M. Probing the Interactions of Porphyrins with Macromolecules Using NMR Spectroscopy Techniques. Molecules 2021; 26:1942. [PMID: 33808335 PMCID: PMC8037866 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26071942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Porphyrinic compounds are widespread in nature and play key roles in biological processes such as oxygen transport in blood, enzymatic redox reactions or photosynthesis. In addition, both naturally derived as well as synthetic porphyrinic compounds are extensively explored for biomedical and technical applications such as photodynamic therapy (PDT) or photovoltaic systems, respectively. Their unique electronic structures and photophysical properties make this class of compounds so interesting for the multiple functions encountered. It is therefore not surprising that optical methods are typically the prevalent analytical tool applied in characterization and processes involving porphyrinic compounds. However, a wealth of complementary information can be obtained from NMR spectroscopic techniques. Based on the advantage of providing structural and dynamic information with atomic resolution simultaneously, NMR spectroscopy is a powerful method for studying molecular interactions between porphyrinic compounds and macromolecules. Such interactions are of special interest in medical applications of porphyrinic photosensitizers that are mostly combined with macromolecular carrier systems. The macromolecular surrounding typically stabilizes the encapsulated drug and may also modify its physical properties. Moreover, the interaction with macromolecular physiological components needs to be explored to understand and control mechanisms of action and therapeutic efficacy. This review focuses on such non-covalent interactions of porphyrinic drugs with synthetic polymers as well as with biomolecules such as phospholipids or proteins. A brief introduction into various NMR spectroscopic techniques is given including chemical shift perturbation methods, NOE enhancement spectroscopy, relaxation time measurements and diffusion-ordered spectroscopy. How these NMR tools are used to address porphyrin-macromolecule interactions with respect to their function in biomedical applications is the central point of the current review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Martina Vermathen
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Freiestrasse 3, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (I.G.); (J.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Takeuchi K, Misaki I, Tokunaga Y, Fujisaki M, Kamoshida H, Takizawa T, Hanzawa H, Shimada I. Conformational Plasticity of Cyclic Ras‐Inhibitor Peptides Defines Cell Permeabilization Activity. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202016647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Koh Takeuchi
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto Tokyo 135-0063 Japan
| | - Imai Misaki
- Japan Biological Informatics Consortium 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto Tokyo 135-0063 Japan
| | - Yuji Tokunaga
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto Tokyo 135-0063 Japan
| | - Miwa Fujisaki
- Japan Biological Informatics Consortium 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto Tokyo 135-0063 Japan
| | - Hajime Kamoshida
- Japan Biological Informatics Consortium 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto Tokyo 135-0063 Japan
| | - Takeshi Takizawa
- Biological Research Department Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd. 1-16-13 Kitakasai, Edogawa-ku Tokyo 134-8630 Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Hanzawa
- Biological Research Department Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd. 1-16-13 Kitakasai, Edogawa-ku Tokyo 134-8630 Japan
| | - Ichio Shimada
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-0033 Japan
- Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research RIKEN 1-7-22 Suehiro-cho, Tsurumi-ku Yokohama 230-0045 Japan
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Palmioli A, Nicolini G, Tripodi F, Orsato A, Ceresa C, Donzelli E, Arici M, Coccetti P, Rocchetti M, La Ferla B, Airoldi C. Targeting GRP receptor: Design, synthesis and preliminary biological characterization of new non-peptide antagonists of bombesin. Bioorg Chem 2021; 109:104739. [PMID: 33626451 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.104739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
We report the rational design, synthesis, and in vitro preliminary evaluation of a new small library of non-peptide ligands of Gastrin Releasing Peptide Receptor (GRP-R), able to antagonize its natural ligand bombesin (BN) in the nanomolar range of concentration. GRP-R is a transmembrane G-protein coupled receptor promoting the stimulation of cancer cell proliferation. Being overexpressed on the surface of different human cancer cell lines, GRP-R is ideal for the selective delivery to tumor cells of both anticancer drug and diagnostic devices. What makes very challenging the design of non-peptide BN analogues is that the 3D structure of the GRP-R is not available, which is the case for many membrane-bound receptors. Thus, the design of GRP-R ligands has to be based on the structure of its natural ligands, BN and GRP. We recently mapped the BN binding epitope by NMR and here we exploited the same spectroscopy, combined with MD, to define BN conformation in proximity of biological membranes, where the interaction with GRP-R takes place. The gained structural information was used to identify a rigid C-galactosidic scaffold able to support pharmacophore groups mimicking the BN key residues' side chains in a suitable manner for binding to GRP-R. Our BN antagonists represent hit compounds for the rational design and synthesis of new ligands and modulators of GRP-R. The further optimization of the pharmacophore groups will allow to increase the biological activity. Due to their favorable chemical properties and stability, they could be employed for the active receptor-mediated targeting of GRP-R positive tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Palmioli
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano - Bicocca, P.zza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milan, Italy; Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, P.zza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Gabriella Nicolini
- Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, P.zza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1, 20126 Milano, Italy; School of Medicine and Surgery, Experimental Neurology Unit, University of Milano - Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy
| | - Farida Tripodi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano - Bicocca, P.zza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Alexandre Orsato
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano - Bicocca, P.zza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milan, Italy; Departamento de Química, CCE, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, CEP 86057-970 Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Cecilia Ceresa
- Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, P.zza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1, 20126 Milano, Italy; School of Medicine and Surgery, Experimental Neurology Unit, University of Milano - Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Donzelli
- Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, P.zza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1, 20126 Milano, Italy; School of Medicine and Surgery, Experimental Neurology Unit, University of Milano - Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy
| | - Martina Arici
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano - Bicocca, P.zza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Coccetti
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano - Bicocca, P.zza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Marcella Rocchetti
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano - Bicocca, P.zza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara La Ferla
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano - Bicocca, P.zza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milan, Italy.
| | - Cristina Airoldi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano - Bicocca, P.zza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milan, Italy; Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, P.zza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1, 20126 Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Takeuchi K, Misaki I, Tokunaga Y, Fujisaki M, Kamoshida H, Takizawa T, Hanzawa H, Shimada I. Conformational Plasticity of Cyclic Ras‐Inhibitor Peptides Defines Cell Permeabilization Activity. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:6567-6572. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202016647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Koh Takeuchi
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto Tokyo 135-0063 Japan
| | - Imai Misaki
- Japan Biological Informatics Consortium 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto Tokyo 135-0063 Japan
| | - Yuji Tokunaga
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto Tokyo 135-0063 Japan
| | - Miwa Fujisaki
- Japan Biological Informatics Consortium 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto Tokyo 135-0063 Japan
| | - Hajime Kamoshida
- Japan Biological Informatics Consortium 2-3-26 Aomi, Koto Tokyo 135-0063 Japan
| | - Takeshi Takizawa
- Biological Research Department Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd. 1-16-13 Kitakasai, Edogawa-ku Tokyo 134-8630 Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Hanzawa
- Biological Research Department Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd. 1-16-13 Kitakasai, Edogawa-ku Tokyo 134-8630 Japan
| | - Ichio Shimada
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-0033 Japan
- Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research RIKEN 1-7-22 Suehiro-cho, Tsurumi-ku Yokohama 230-0045 Japan
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Gimenez D, Phelan A, Murphy CD, Cobb SL. 19F NMR as a tool in chemical biology. Beilstein J Org Chem 2021; 17:293-318. [PMID: 33564338 PMCID: PMC7849273 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.17.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reviewed the use of 19F NMR in the broad field of chemical biology [Cobb, S. L.; Murphy, C. D. J. Fluorine Chem. 2009, 130, 132-140] and present here a summary of the literature from the last decade that has the technique as the central method of analysis. The topics covered include the synthesis of new fluorinated probes and their incorporation into macromolecules, the application of 19F NMR to monitor protein-protein interactions, protein-ligand interactions, physiologically relevant ions and in the structural analysis of proteins and nucleic acids. The continued relevance of the technique to investigate biosynthesis and biodegradation of fluorinated organic compounds is also described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Gimenez
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH13LE, UK
| | - Aoife Phelan
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Cormac D Murphy
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Steven L Cobb
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH13LE, UK
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Karska N, Graul M, Sikorska E, Ślusarz MJ, Zhukov I, Kasprzykowski F, Kubiś A, Lipińska AD, Rodziewicz-Motowidło S. Investigation of the Effects of Primary Structure Modifications within the RRE Motif on the Conformation of Synthetic Bovine Herpesvirus 1-Encoded UL49.5 Protein Fragments. Chem Biodivers 2021; 18:e2000883. [PMID: 33427369 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202000883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Herpesviruses are the most prevalent viruses that infect the human and animal body. They can escape a host immune response in numerous ways. One way is to block the TAP complex so that viral peptides, originating from proteasomal degradation, cannot be transported to the endoplasmic reticulum. As a result, a reduced number of MHC class I molecules appear on the surface of infected cells and, thus, the immune system is not efficiently activated. BoHV-1-encoded UL49.5 protein is one such TAP transporter inhibitor. This protein binds to TAP in such a way that its N-terminal fragment interacts with the loops of the TAP complex, and the C-terminus stimulates proteasomal degradation of TAP. Previous studies have indicated certain amino acid residues, especially the RRE(9-11) motif, within the helical structure of the UL49.5 N-terminal fragment, as being crucial to the protein's activity. In this work, we investigated the effects of modifications within the RRE region on the spatial structure of the UL49.5 N-terminal fragment. The introduced RRE(9-11) variations were designed to abolish or stabilize the structure of the α-helix and, consequently, to increase or decrease protein activity compared to the wild type. The terminal structure of the peptides was established using circular dichroism (CD), 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and molecular dynamics (MD) in membrane-mimetic or membrane-model environments. Our structural results show that in the RRE(9-11)AAA and E11G peptides the helical structure has been stabilized, whereas for the RRE(9-11)GGG peptide, as expected, the helix structure has partially unfolded compared to the native structure. These RRE modifications, in the context of the entire UL49.5 proteins, slightly altered their biological activity in human cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Karska
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland.,Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-307, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Graul
- Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-307, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Emilia Sikorska
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | | | - Igor Zhukov
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5a, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland.,NanoBioMedical Center, Adam Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 85, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
| | | | - Agnieszka Kubiś
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Andrea D Lipińska
- Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-307, Gdańsk, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
A 10-year meta-analysis of membrane protein structural biology: Detergents, membrane mimetics, and structure determination techniques. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2020; 1863:183533. [PMID: 33340490 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2020.183533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Structure determination of membrane proteins is critical to the molecular understanding of many life processes, yet it has historically been a technically challenging endeavor. This past decade has given rise to a number of technological advancements, techniques, and reagents, which have facilitated membrane protein structural biology, resulting in an ever-growing number of membrane protein structures determined. To collate these advances, we have mined available literature to analyze the purification and structure determination specifics for all uniquely solved membrane protein structures from 2010 to 2019. Our analyses demonstrate the strong impact of single-particle cryo-electron microscopy on the field and illustrate how this technique has affected detergent and membrane mimetic usage. Furthermore, we detail how different structure determination methods, taxonomic domains and protein classes have unique detergent/membrane mimetic profiles, highlighting the importance of tailoring their selection. Our analyses provide a quantitative overview of where the field of membrane protein structural biology stands and how it has developed over time. We anticipate that these will serve as a useful tool to streamline future membrane protein structure determination by guiding the choice of detergent/membrane mimetic.
Collapse
|
47
|
Yeh V, Goode A, Bonev BB. Membrane Protein Structure Determination and Characterisation by Solution and Solid-State NMR. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:E396. [PMID: 33198410 PMCID: PMC7697852 DOI: 10.3390/biology9110396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Biological membranes define the interface of life and its basic unit, the cell. Membrane proteins play key roles in membrane functions, yet their structure and mechanisms remain poorly understood. Breakthroughs in crystallography and electron microscopy have invigorated structural analysis while failing to characterise key functional interactions with lipids, small molecules and membrane modulators, as well as their conformational polymorphism and dynamics. NMR is uniquely suited to resolving atomic environments within complex molecular assemblies and reporting on membrane organisation, protein structure, lipid and polysaccharide composition, conformational variations and molecular interactions. The main challenge in membrane protein studies at the atomic level remains the need for a membrane environment to support their fold. NMR studies in membrane mimetics and membranes of increasing complexity offer close to native environments for structural and molecular studies of membrane proteins. Solution NMR inherits high resolution from small molecule analysis, providing insights from detergent solubilised proteins and small molecular assemblies. Solid-state NMR achieves high resolution in membrane samples through fast sample spinning or sample alignment. Recent developments in dynamic nuclear polarisation NMR allow signal enhancement by orders of magnitude opening new opportunities for expanding the applications of NMR to studies of native membranes and whole cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Boyan B. Bonev
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (V.Y.); (A.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Antibiofilm Activity on Candida albicans and Mechanism of Action on Biomembrane Models of the Antimicrobial Peptide Ctn[15-34]. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218339. [PMID: 33172206 PMCID: PMC7664368 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ctn[15–34], the C-terminal fragment of crotalicidin, an antimicrobial peptide from the South American rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus venom, displays remarkable anti-infective and anti-proliferative activities. Herein, its activity on Candida albicans biofilms and its interaction with the cytoplasmic membrane of the fungal cell and with a biomembrane model in vitro was investigated. A standard C. albicans strain and a fluconazole-resistant clinical isolate were exposed to the peptide at its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) (10 µM) and up to 100 × MIC to inhibit biofilm formation and its eradication. A viability test using XTT and fluorescent dyes, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used to observe the antibiofilm effect. To evaluate the importance of membrane composition on Ctn[15–34] activity, C. albicans protoplasts were also tested. Fluorescence assays using di-8-ANEPPS, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential measurements using liposomes, protoplasts, and C. albicans cells indicated a direct mechanism of action that was dependent on membrane interaction and disruption. Overall, Ctn[15–34] showed to be an effective antifungal peptide, displaying antibiofilm activity and, importantly, interacting with and disrupting fungal plasma membrane.
Collapse
|
49
|
Tulkens PM. Phosphocholine May Allow for Listeriolysin-Mediated Escape of Phagocytized Listeria From Vacuolar Compartments Into the Host Cytosol While Protecting Against Overt Destruction of the Infected Cell. J Infect Dis 2020; 222:1425-1427. [PMID: 31965180 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Tulkens
- Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Gravel AE, Arnold AA, Fillion M, Auger M, Warschawski DE, Marcotte I. Magnetically-orientable Tween-based model membranes for NMR studies of proteins. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2020; 1862:183379. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2020.183379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|