1
|
Brown C, Ghosh S, McAllister R, Kumar M, Walker G, Sun E, Aman T, Panda A, Kumar S, Li W, Coleman J, Liu Y, Rothman JE, Bhattacharyya M, Gupta K. A proteome-wide quantitative platform for nanoscale spatially resolved extraction of membrane proteins into native nanodiscs. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.10.579775. [PMID: 38405833 PMCID: PMC10888908 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.10.579775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
The intricate molecular environment of the native membrane profoundly influences every aspect of membrane protein (MP) biology. Despite this, the most prevalent method of studying MPs uses detergent-like molecules that disrupt and remove this vital local membrane context. This severely impedes our ability to quantitatively decipher the local molecular context and comprehend its regulatory role in the structure, function, and biogenesis of MPs. Using a library of membrane-active polymers we have developed a platform for the high-throughput analysis of the membrane proteome. The platform enables near-complete spatially resolved extraction of target MPs directly from their endogenous membranes into native nanodiscs that maintain the local membrane context. We accompany this advancement with an open-access database that quantifies the polymer-specific extraction variability for 2065 unique mammalian MPs and provides the most optimized condition for each of them. Our method enables rapid and near-complete extraction and purification of target MPs directly from their endogenous organellar membranes at physiological expression levels while maintaining the nanoscale local membrane environment. Going beyond the plasma membrane proteome, our platform enables extraction from any target organellar membrane including the endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, lysosome, Golgi, and even transient organelles such as the autophagosome. To further validate this platform, we took several independent MPs and demonstrated how our resource can enable rapid extraction and purification of target MPs from different organellar membranes with high efficiency and purity. Further, taking two synaptic vesicle MPs, we show how the database can be extended to capture multiprotein complexes between overexpressed MPs. We expect these publicly available resources to empower researchers across disciplines to efficiently capture membrane 'nano-scoops' containing a target MP and interface with structural, functional, and other bioanalytical approaches. We demonstrate an example of this by combining our extraction platform with single-molecule TIRF imaging to demonstrate how it can enable rapid determination of homo-oligomeric states of target MPs in native cell membranes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Brown
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815
| | - Snehasish Ghosh
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815
| | - Rachel McAllister
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mukesh Kumar
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurobiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Gerard Walker
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Eric Sun
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Talat Aman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Aniruddha Panda
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Shailesh Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Wenxue Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Cancer Biology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jeff Coleman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yansheng Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Cancer Biology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - James E Rothman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Kallol Gupta
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hosokawa M, Inaba M, Tanaka M, Ogawara KI. Uptake Pathway of Styrene Maleic Acid Copolymer-Coated Lipid Emulsions Under Acidic Tumor Microenvironment. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:1047-1053. [PMID: 37844758 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.10.018] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to elucidate and compare styrene maleic acid copolymer (SMA)-coated lipid emulsions (SMA emulsions) uptake pathway in vascular endothelial cells and surrounding cancer cells under not only neutral but also acidic pH, which is often observed in tumor microenvironment. DiI-labeled SMA emulsions were prepared using 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn‑glycero-3-phosphocholine and triolein. In murine melanoma B16-BL6 (B16) cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), DiI-labeled SMA emulsions uptake under near-neutral (pH 7.4) and acidic (pH 6.0) conditions was determined by fluorescent analysis. SMA emulsions were taken up more efficiently into HUVEC than B16 cells under acidic condition in a temperature-dependent manner. Uptake study using endocytosis inhibitors showed that SMA emulsions were taken up by macropinocytosis and clathrin-mediated endocytosis in B16 cells. In HUVEC, however, they were taken up by clathrin- and caveolae-independent, but dynamin-dependent pathway. SMA emulsions would be internalized efficiently into vascular endothelial cells as well as cancer cells under acidic microenvironment via different endocytosis pathways. SMA emulsions could be a promising drug delivery carrier for anti-angiogenic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mika Hosokawa
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1 Motoyamakita-machi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe 658-8558, Japan
| | - Moeka Inaba
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1 Motoyamakita-machi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe 658-8558, Japan
| | - Masafumi Tanaka
- Laboratory of Functional Molecular Chemistry, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1 Motoyamakita-machi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe 658-8558, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Ogawara
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1 Motoyamakita-machi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe 658-8558, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Moller E, Britt M, Zhou F, Yang H, Anshkin A, Ernst R, Sukharev S, Matthies D. Polymer-extracted structure of the mechanosensitive channel MscS reveals the role of protein-lipid interactions in the gating cycle. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.22.576751. [PMID: 38328078 PMCID: PMC10849555 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.22.576751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Membrane protein structure determination is not only technically challenging but is further complicated by the removal or displacement of lipids, which can result in non-native conformations or a strong preference for certain states at the exclusion of others. This is especially applicable to mechanosensitive channels (MSC's) that evolved to gate in response to subtle changes in membrane tension transmitted through the lipid bilayer. E. coli MscS, a model bacterial system, is an ancestral member of the large family of MSCs found across all phyla of walled organisms. As a tension sensor, MscS is very sensitive and highly adaptive; it readily opens under super-threshold tension and closes under no tension, but under lower tensions, it slowly inactivates and can only recover when tension is released. However, existing cryo-EM structures do not explain the entire functional gating cycle of open, closed, and inactivated states. A central question in the field has been the assignment of the frequently observed non-conductive conformation to either a closed or inactivated state. Here, we present a 3 Å MscS structure in native nanodiscs obtained with Glyco-DIBMA polymer extraction, eliminating the lipid removal step that is common to all previous structures. Besides the protein in the non-conductive conformation, we observe well-resolved densities of four endogenous phospholipid molecules intercalating between the lipid-facing and pore-lining helices in preferred orientations. Mutations of positively charged residues coordinating these lipids inhibit MscS inactivation, whereas removal of a negative charge near the lipid-filled crevice increases inactivation. The functional data allows us to assign this class of structures to the inactivated state. This structure reveals preserved lipids in their native locations, and the functional effects of their destabilization illustrate a novel inactivation mechanism based on an uncoupling of the peripheral tension-sensing helices from the gate.
Collapse
|
4
|
Krishnarjuna B, Sharma G, Ravula T, Ramamoorthy A. Factors influencing the detergent-free membrane protein isolation using synthetic nanodisc-forming polymers. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOMEMBRANES 2024; 1866:184240. [PMID: 37866688 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2023.184240] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The detergent-free isolation of membrane proteins using synthetic polymers is becoming the desired approach for functional and structural studies of membrane proteins. Since the expression levels for many membrane proteins are low and a high yield of functionalized reconstituted membrane proteins is essential for in vitro studies, it is crucial to optimize the experimental conditions for a given polymer to solubilize target membranes/proteins effectively. The factors that affect membrane solubilization and subsequently the isolation of a target membrane protein include polymer concentration, polymer charge, temperature, pH, and concentration of divalent metal ions. Therefore, it is important to have knowledge about the efficacy of different types of polymers in solubilizing cell membranes. In this study, we evaluate the efficacy of inulin-based non-ionic polymers in solubilizing E. coli membranes enriched with rat flavin mononucleotide binding-domain (FBD) of cytochrome-P450-reductase (CPR) and rabbit cytochrome-b5 (Cyt-b5) under various solubilization conditions. Our results show that a 1:1 (w/w) membrane:polymer ratio, low temperature, high pH and sub-millimolar concentration of metal ions favor the solubilization of E. coli membranes enriched with FBD or Cyt-b5. Conversely, the presence of excess divalent metal ions affected the final protein levels in the polymer-solubilized samples. We believe that the results from this study provide knowledge to assess and plan the use of non-ionic polymers in membrane protein studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bankala Krishnarjuna
- Biophysics Program, Department of Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Michigan Neuroscience Institute, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Gaurav Sharma
- Biophysics Program, Department of Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Michigan Neuroscience Institute, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Thirupathi Ravula
- Biophysics Program, Department of Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Michigan Neuroscience Institute, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ayyalusamy Ramamoorthy
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Krishnarjuna B, Sharma G, Im SC, Auchus R, Anantharamaiah GM, Ramamoorthy A. Characterization of nanodisc-forming peptides for membrane protein studies. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 653:1402-1414. [PMID: 37801850 PMCID: PMC10864042 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.09.162] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Lipid-bilayer nanodiscs provide a stable, native-like membrane environment for the functional and structural studies of membrane proteins and other membrane-binding molecules. Peptide-based nanodiscs having unique properties are developed for membrane protein studies and other biological applications. While the self-assembly process rendering the formation of peptide-nanodiscs is attractive, it is important to understand the stability and suitability of these nanodisc systems for membrane protein studies. In this study, we investigated the nanodiscs formation by the anti-inflammatory and tumor-suppressing peptide AEM28. AEM28 is a chimeric peptide containing a cationic-rich heparan sulfate proteoglycan- (HSPG)-binding domain from human apolipoprotein E (hapoE) (141-150) followed by the 18A peptide's amino acid sequence. AEM28-based nanodiscs made with different types of lipids were characterized using various biophysical techniques and compared with the nanodiscs formed using 2F or 4F peptides. Variable temperature dynamic light-scattering and 31P NMR experiments indicated the fusion and size heterogeneity of nanodiscs at high temperatures. The suitability of AEM28 and Ac-18A-NH2- (2F-) based nanodiscs for studying membrane proteins is demonstrated by reconstituting and characterizing a drug-metabolizing enzyme, cytochrome-P450 (CYP450), or the redox complex CYP450-CYP450 reductase. AEM28 and 2F were also tested for their efficacies in solubilizing E. coli membranes to understand the possibility of using them for detergent-free membrane protein isolation. Our experimental results suggest that AEM28 nanodiscs are suitable for studying membrane proteins with a net positive charge, whereas 2F-based nanodiscs are compatible with any membrane proteins and their complexes irrespective of their charge. Furthermore, both peptides solubilized E. coli cell membranes, indicating their use in membrane protein isolation and other applications related to membrane solubilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bankala Krishnarjuna
- Biophysics Program, Department of Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Gaurav Sharma
- Biophysics Program, Department of Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Sang-Choul Im
- Department of Pharmacology and Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Richard Auchus
- Department of Pharmacology and Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - G M Anantharamaiah
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Ayyalusamy Ramamoorthy
- Biophysics Program, Department of Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Arbor, MI 48109, USA; National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hoang Trinh TK, Catalano C, Guo Y. Fabrication of membrane proteins in the form of native cell membrane nanoparticles using novel membrane active polymers. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:5932-5940. [PMID: 37881706 PMCID: PMC10597567 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00381g] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Membrane proteins are a widespread class of bio-macromolecules responsible for numerous vital biological processes and serve as therapeutic targets for a vast array of contemporary medications. For membrane protein isolation and purification, detergents have historically been used. Despite this, detergents frequently result in protein instability. Consequently, their application was limited. Recent detergent-free approaches have been invented. Among these, styrene-maleic acid lipid particle (SMALP), diisobutylene-maleic acid lipid particle (DIBMALP), and native cell membrane nanoparticle (NCMN) systems are the most prevalent. The NCMN system intends to create a library of membrane-active polymers suitable for high-resolution structure determination of membrane protein. Design, synthesis, characterization, and comparative application evaluations of three novel classes of NCMN polymers, NCMNP13-x, NCMNP21-x, and NCMNP21b-x, are presented in this article. Although each NCMN polymer can solubilize distinct model membrane proteins and retain native lipids in NCMN particles, only the NCMNP21b-x family produces lipid-protein particles with ideal buffer compatibility and high homogeneity suitable for single-particle cryo-EM analysis. NCMNP21b-x polymers that generate high-quality NCMN particles are particularly desirable for membrane protein structural biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thi Kim Hoang Trinh
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23298 USA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23219 USA
| | - Claudio Catalano
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23298 USA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23219 USA
| | - Youzhong Guo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23298 USA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23219 USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jiang Y, Li Y, Fu X, Wu Y, Wang R, Zhao M, Mao C, Shi S. Interplay between G protein-coupled receptors and nanotechnology. Acta Biomater 2023; 169:1-18. [PMID: 37517621 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.07.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), as the largest family of membrane receptors, actively modulate plasma membrane and endosomal signalling. Importantly, GPCRs are naturally nanosized, and spontaneously formed nanoaggregates of GPCRs (natural nano-GPCRs) may enhance GPCR-related signalling and functions. Although GPCRs are the molecular targets of the majority of marketed drugs, the poor pharmacokinetics and physicochemical properties of GPCR ligands greatly limit their clinical applicability. Nanotechnology, as versatile techniques, can encapsulate GPCR ligands to assemble synthetic nano-GPCRs to overcome their obstacles, robustly elevating drug efficacy and safety. Moreover, endosomal delivery of GPCR ligands by nanoparticles can precisely initiate sustained endosomal signal transduction, while nanotechnology has been widely utilized for isolation, diagnosis, and detection of GPCRs. In turn, due to overexpression of GPCRs on the surface of various types of cells, GPCR ligands can endow nanoparticles with active targeting capacity for specific cells via ligand-receptor binding and mediate receptor-dependent endocytosis of nanoparticles. This significantly enhances the potency of nanoparticle delivery systems. Therefore, emerging evidence has revealed the interplay between GPCRs and nanoparticles, although investigations into their relationship have been inadequate. This review aims to summarize the interaction between GPCRs and nanotechnology for understanding their mutual influences and utilizing their interplay for biomedical applications. It will provide a fundamental platform for developing powerful and safe GPCR-targeted drugs and nanoparticle systems. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: GPCRs as molecular targets for the majority of marketed drugs are naturally nanosized, and even spontaneously form nano aggregations (nano-GPCRs). Nanotechnology has also been applied to construct synthetic nano-GPCRs or detect GPCRs, while endosomal delivery of GPCR ligands by nanoparticles can magnify endosomal signalling. Meanwhile, molecular engineering of nanoparticles with GPCRs or their ligands can modulate membrane binding and endocytosis, powerfully improving the efficacy of nanoparticle system. However, there are rare summaries on the interaction between GPCRs and nanoparticles. This review will not only provide a versatile platform for utilizing nanoparticles to modulate or detect GPCRs, but also facilitate better understanding of the designated value of GPCRs for molecular engineering of biomaterials with GPCRs in therapeutical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Jiang
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
| | - Yuke Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Xiujuan Fu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Yue Wu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Rujing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Mengnan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Canquan Mao
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Sanjun Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Trinh TKH, Cabezas AJ, Joshi S, Catalano C, Siddique AB, Qiu W, Deshmukh S, des Georges A, Guo Y. pH-tunable membrane-active polymers, NCMNP2a- x, and their potential membrane protein applications. Chem Sci 2023; 14:7310-7326. [PMID: 37416719 PMCID: PMC10321531 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc01890c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Accurate 3D structures of membrane proteins are essential for comprehending their mechanisms of action and designing specific ligands to modulate their activities. However, these structures are still uncommon due to the involvement of detergents in the sample preparation. Recently, membrane-active polymers have emerged as an alternative to detergents, but their incompatibility with low pH and divalent cations has hindered their efficacy. Herein, we describe the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of a new class of pH-tunable membrane-active polymers, NCMNP2a-x. The results demonstrated that NCMNP2a-x could be used for high-resolution single-particle cryo-EM structural analysis of AcrB in various pH conditions and can effectively solubilize BcTSPO with the function preserved. Molecular dynamic simulation is consistent with experimental data that shed great insights into the working mechanism of this class of polymers. These results demonstrated that NCMNP2a-x might have broad applications in membrane protein research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thi Kim Hoang Trinh
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23298 USA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23219 USA
| | - Andres Jorge Cabezas
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, City University of New York New York New York 10017 USA
- PhD Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York New York New York 10017 USA
| | - Soumil Joshi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Virginia Tech Blacksburg VA2 4060 USA
| | - Claudio Catalano
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23298 USA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23219 USA
| | - Abu Bakkar Siddique
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23298 USA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23219 USA
| | - Weihua Qiu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23298 USA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23219 USA
| | - Sanket Deshmukh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Virginia Tech Blacksburg VA2 4060 USA
| | - Amedee des Georges
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, City University of New York New York New York 10017 USA
- PhD Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York New York New York 10017 USA
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, City College of New York New York New York 10017 USA
| | - Youzhong Guo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23298 USA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond VA 23219 USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Real Hernandez LM, Levental I. Lipid packing is disrupted in copolymeric nanodiscs compared with intact membranes. Biophys J 2023; 122:2256-2266. [PMID: 36641625 PMCID: PMC10257115 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.01.013] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Discoidal lipid-protein nanoparticles known as nanodiscs are widely used tools in structural and membrane biology. Amphipathic, synthetic copolymers have recently become an attractive alternative to membrane scaffold proteins for the formation of nanodiscs. Such copolymers can directly intercalate into, and form nanodiscs from, intact membranes without detergents. Although these copolymer nanodiscs can extract native membrane lipids, it remains unclear whether native membrane properties are also retained. To determine the extent to which bilayer lipid packing is retained in nanodiscs, we measured the behavior of packing-sensitive fluorescent dyes in various nanodisc preparations compared with intact lipid bilayers. We analyzed styrene-maleic acid (SMA), diisobutylene-maleic acid (DIBMA), and polymethacrylate (PMA) as nanodisc scaffolds at various copolymer-to-lipid ratios and temperatures. Measurements of Laurdan spectral shifts revealed that dimyristoyl-phosphatidylcholine (DMPC) nanodiscs had increased lipid headgroup packing compared with large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) above the lipid melting temperature for all three copolymers. Similar effects were observed for DMPC nanodiscs stabilized by membrane scaffolding protein MSP1E1. Increased lipid headgroup packing was also observed when comparing nanodiscs with intact membranes composed of binary mixtures of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-phosphocholine (POPC) and di-palmitoyl-phosphocholine (DPPC), which show fluid-gel-phase coexistence. Similarly, Laurdan reported increased headgroup packing in nanodiscs for biomimetic mixtures containing cholesterol, most notable for relatively disordered membranes. The magnitudes of these ordering effects were not identical for the various copolymers, with SMA being the most and DIBMA being the least perturbing. Finally, nanodiscs derived from mammalian cell membranes showed similarly increased lipid headgroup packing. We conclude that nanodiscs generally do not completely retain the physical properties of intact membranes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis M Real Hernandez
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, Center for Membrane and Cell Physiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Ilya Levental
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, Center for Membrane and Cell Physiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wang F, Yu X, Cui Y, Xu L, Huo S, Ding Z, Hu Q, Xie W, Xiao H, Zhang D. Efficient extraction of phycobiliproteins from dry biomass of Spirulina platensis using sodium chloride as extraction enhancer. Food Chem 2023; 406:135005. [PMID: 36446282 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2022.135005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
An efficient strategy for phycobiliprotein extraction from Spirulina platensis dry biomass has been developed by using NaCl as an enhancer. Different sodium ion and chloride ion salts were screened, and NaCl was selected as the most appropriate solvent for phycobiliprotein extraction. The extraction parameters with NaCl were optimized using response surface methodology. Under optimal operating conditions, a phycobiliprotein extraction rate of 74.8 % and a phycocyanin extraction yield of 102.4 mg/g with a purity of 74.0 % were achieved. Adding NaCl resulted in smaller fragments and destroyed the cell integrity of S. platensis, facilitating phycobiliprotein exudation. The secondary structure and antioxidant activity of phycobiliproteins were not affected by NaCl extraction. The stability of the phycobiliproteins was improved by adding NaCl. This study provides a potential method for phycobiliprotein extraction with high efficiency and good quality using an inexpensive extraction enhancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China; Institute of Agricultural Products Processing Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China
| | - Xiaolei Yu
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China
| | - Yi Cui
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China
| | - Ling Xu
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China; Institute of Agricultural Products Processing Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China.
| | - Shuhao Huo
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China
| | - Zhongyang Ding
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, PR China
| | - Qiaofeng Hu
- Yanchi Yijian Biological Project Company Limited, Wuzhong 751500, PR China
| | - Weijiao Xie
- Yanchi Yijian Biological Project Company Limited, Wuzhong 751500, PR China
| | - Haitao Xiao
- Yanchi Yijian Biological Project Company Limited, Wuzhong 751500, PR China
| | - Dezhi Zhang
- Yanchi Yijian Biological Project Company Limited, Wuzhong 751500, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Johansen NT, Tidemand FG, Pedersen MC, Arleth L. Travel light: Essential packing for membrane proteins with an active lifestyle. Biochimie 2023; 205:3-26. [PMID: 35963461 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2022.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
We review the considerable progress during the recent decade in the endeavours of designing, optimising, and utilising carrier particle systems for structural and functional studies of membrane proteins in near-native environments. New and improved systems are constantly emerging, novel studies push the perceived limits of a given carrier system, and specific carrier systems consolidate and entrench themselves as the system of choice for particular classes of target membrane protein systems. This review covers the most frequently used carrier systems for such studies and emphasises similarities and differences between these systems as well as current trends and future directions for the field. Particular interest is devoted to the biophysical properties and membrane mimicking ability of each system and the manner in which this may impact an embedded membrane protein and an eventual structural or functional study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolai Tidemand Johansen
- Section for Transport Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, Frederiksberg C, 1871, Denmark.
| | - Frederik Grønbæk Tidemand
- Section for Transport Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, Frederiksberg C, 1871, Denmark
| | - Martin Cramer Pedersen
- Condensed Matter Physics, Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, Copenhagen E, 2100, Denmark
| | - Lise Arleth
- Condensed Matter Physics, Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, Copenhagen E, 2100, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sawczyc H, Heit S, Watts A. A comparative characterisation of commercially available lipid-polymer nanoparticles formed from model membranes. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2023; 52:39-51. [PMID: 36786921 PMCID: PMC10039845 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-023-01632-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
From the discovery of the first membrane-interacting polymer, styrene maleic-acid (SMA), there has been a rapid development of membrane solubilising polymers. These new polymers can solubilise membranes under a wide range of conditions and produce varied sizes of nanoparticles, yet there has been a lack of broad comparison between the common polymer types and solubilising conditions. Here, we present a comparative study on the three most common commercial polymers: SMA 3:1, SMA 2:1, and DIBMA. Additionally, this work presents, for the first time, a comparative characterisation of polymethacrylate copolymer (PMA). Absorbance and dynamic light scattering measurements were used to evaluate solubilisation across key buffer conditions in a simple, adaptable assay format that looked at pH, salinity, and divalent cation concentration. Lipid-polymer nanoparticles formed from SMA variants were found to be the most susceptible to buffer effects, with nanoparticles from either zwitterionic DMPC or POPC:POPG (3:1) bilayers only forming in low to moderate salinity (< 600 mM NaCl) and above pH 6. DIBMA-lipid nanoparticles could be formed above a pH of 5 and were stable in up to 4 M NaCl. Similarly, PMA-lipid nanoparticles were stable in all NaCl concentrations tested (up to 4 M) and a broad pH range (3-10). However, for both DIBMA and PMA nanoparticles there is a severe penalty observed for bilayer solubilisation in non-optimal conditions or when using a charged membrane. Additionally, lipid fluidity of the DMPC-polymer nanoparticles was analysed through cw-EPR, showing no cooperative gel-fluid transition as would be expected for native-like lipid membranes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henry Sawczyc
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK.
| | - Sabine Heit
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Anthony Watts
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
van Walree CA. Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonding in DIBMA Model Compounds. MACROMOL THEOR SIMUL 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/mats.202200042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cornelis A. van Walree
- Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics Utrecht University Padualaan 8 Utrecht 3584 CH Netherlands
- University College Utrecht Campusplein 1 Utrecht 3584 ED the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
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: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [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
|
15
|
Tanaka M. Applications of Synthetic Polymer Discoidal Lipid Nanoparticles to Biomedical Research. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 2022; 70:507-513. [DOI: 10.1248/cpb.c22-00125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Masafumi Tanaka
- Laboratory of Functional Molecular Chemistry, Kobe Pharmaceutical University
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
de Grip WJ, Ganapathy S. Rhodopsins: An Excitingly Versatile Protein Species for Research, Development and Creative Engineering. Front Chem 2022; 10:879609. [PMID: 35815212 PMCID: PMC9257189 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.879609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The first member and eponym of the rhodopsin family was identified in the 1930s as the visual pigment of the rod photoreceptor cell in the animal retina. It was found to be a membrane protein, owing its photosensitivity to the presence of a covalently bound chromophoric group. This group, derived from vitamin A, was appropriately dubbed retinal. In the 1970s a microbial counterpart of this species was discovered in an archaeon, being a membrane protein also harbouring retinal as a chromophore, and named bacteriorhodopsin. Since their discovery a photogenic panorama unfolded, where up to date new members and subspecies with a variety of light-driven functionality have been added to this family. The animal branch, meanwhile categorized as type-2 rhodopsins, turned out to form a large subclass in the superfamily of G protein-coupled receptors and are essential to multiple elements of light-dependent animal sensory physiology. The microbial branch, the type-1 rhodopsins, largely function as light-driven ion pumps or channels, but also contain sensory-active and enzyme-sustaining subspecies. In this review we will follow the development of this exciting membrane protein panorama in a representative number of highlights and will present a prospect of their extraordinary future potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Willem J. de Grip
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Department of Biophysical Organic Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Srividya Ganapathy
- Department of Imaging Physics, Delft University of Technology, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Krishnarjuna B, Ravula T, Ramamoorthy A. Detergent-free isolation of CYP450-reductase's FMN-binding domain in E. coli lipid-nanodiscs using a charge-free polymer. Chem Commun (Camb) 2022; 58:4913-4916. [PMID: 35356954 PMCID: PMC9578324 DOI: 10.1039/d1cc07193a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The membrane-anchored flavin mononucleotide binding domain (FBD) of CYP450 reductase was extracted in E. coli lipid-nanodiscs using charge-free pentyl-inulin polymer. FBD in nanodiscs was found to be conformationally homogenous and enabled high-resolution NMR probing. 31P NMR revealed the polymer's lack of preference for any specific E. coli lipids and identified the lipid-types in nanodiscs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bankala Krishnarjuna
- Biophysics Program, Department of Chemistry, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1055, USA.
| | - Thirupathi Ravula
- Biophysics Program, Department of Chemistry, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1055, USA.
| | - Ayyalusamy Ramamoorthy
- Biophysics Program, Department of Chemistry, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1055, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kopf AH, Lijding O, Elenbaas BOW, Koorengevel MC, Dobruchowska JM, van Walree CA, Killian JA. Synthesis and Evaluation of a Library of Alternating Amphipathic Copolymers to Solubilize and Study Membrane Proteins. Biomacromolecules 2022; 23:743-759. [PMID: 34994549 PMCID: PMC8924871 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.1c01166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
![]()
Amphipathic copolymers
such as poly(styrene-maleic acid) (SMA)
are promising tools for the facile extraction of membrane proteins
(MPs) into native nanodiscs. Here, we designed and synthesized a library
of well-defined alternating copolymers of SMA analogues in order to
elucidate polymer properties that are important for MP solubilization
and stability. MP extraction efficiency was determined using KcsA
from E. coli membranes, and general solubilization
efficiency was investigated via turbidimetry experiments on membranes
of E. coli, yeast mitochondria, and synthetic
lipids. Remarkably, halogenation of SMA copolymers dramatically improved
solubilization efficiency in all systems, while substituents on the
copolymer backbone improved resistance to Ca2+. Relevant
polymer properties were found to include hydrophobic balance, size
and positioning of substituents, rigidity, and electronic effects.
The library thus contributes to the rational design of copolymers
for the study of MPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian H Kopf
- Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Odette Lijding
- Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Barend O W Elenbaas
- Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn C Koorengevel
- Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Justyna M Dobruchowska
- Department of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis A van Walree
- Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J Antoinette Killian
- Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Broadbent L, Depping P, Lodé A, Vaitsopoulou A, Hardy D, Ayub H, Mitchell-White J, Kerr ID, Goddard AD, Bill RM, Rothnie AJ. Detergent-Free Membrane Protein Purification Using SMA Polymer. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2507:389-404. [PMID: 35773594 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2368-8_21] [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] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
One of the big challenges for the study of structure and function of membrane proteins is the need to extract them from the membrane. Traditionally this was achieved using detergents which disrupt the membrane and form a micelle around the protein, but this can cause issues with protein function and/or stability. In 2009 an alternative approach was reported, using styrene maleic acid (SMA) copolymer to extract small discs of lipid bilayer encapsulated by the polymer and termed SMALPs (SMA lipid particles). Since then this approach has been shown to work for a range of different proteins from many different expression systems. It allows the extraction and purification of a target protein while maintaining a lipid bilayer environment. Recently this has led to several new high-resolution structures and novel insights to function. As with any method there are some limitations and issues to be aware of. Here we describe a standard protocol for preparation of the polymer and its use for membrane protein purification, and also include details of typical challenges that may be encountered and possible ways to address those.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luke Broadbent
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Peer Depping
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alexis Lodé
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - David Hardy
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Hoor Ayub
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
- Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - James Mitchell-White
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ian D Kerr
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Alan D Goddard
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Roslyn M Bill
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alice J Rothnie
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dimitrova VS, Song S, Karagiaridi A, Marand A, Pinkett HW. Detergent Alternatives: Membrane Protein Purification Using Synthetic Nanodisc Polymers. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2507:375-387. [PMID: 35773593 PMCID: PMC9361707 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2368-8_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The development of styrene maleic acid (SMA) and diisobutylene maleic acid (DIBMA) copolymers provides an alternative to traditional detergent extraction of integral membrane proteins. By inserting into the membrane, these polymers can extract membrane proteins along with lipids in the form of native nanodiscs made by poly(styrene co-maleic anhydride) derivatives. Unlike detergent solubilization, where membrane proteins may lose annular lipids necessary for proper folding and stability, native nanodiscs allow for proteins to reside in the natural lipid environment. In addition, polymer-based nanodiscs can be purified using common chromatography methods similar to protocols established with detergent solubilization purification. Here we describe the solubilization screening and purification of an integral membrane protein using several commercial copolymers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Saemee Song
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | | | - Anika Marand
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Heather W Pinkett
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Hawkins OP, Jahromi CPT, Gulamhussein AA, Nestorow S, Bahra T, Shelton C, Owusu-Mensah QK, Mohiddin N, O'Rourke H, Ajmal M, Byrnes K, Khan M, Nahar NN, Lim A, Harris C, Healy H, Hasan SW, Ahmed A, Evans L, Vaitsopoulou A, Akram A, Williams C, Binding J, Thandi RK, Joby A, Guest A, Tariq MZ, Rasool F, Cavanagh L, Kang S, Asparuhov B, Jestin A, Dafforn TR, Simms J, Bill RM, Goddard AD, Rothnie AJ. Membrane protein extraction and purification using partially-esterified SMA polymers. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOMEMBRANES 2021; 1863:183758. [PMID: 34480878 PMCID: PMC8484863 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2021.183758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Styrene maleic acid (SMA) polymers have proven to be very successful for the extraction of membrane proteins, forming SMA lipid particles (SMALPs), which maintain a lipid bilayer around the membrane protein. SMALP-encapsulated membrane proteins can be used for functional and structural studies. The SMALP approach allows retention of important protein-annular lipid interactions, exerts lateral pressure, and offers greater stability than traditional detergent solubilisation. However, SMA polymer does have some limitations, including a sensitivity to divalent cations and low pH, an absorbance spectrum that overlaps with many proteins, and possible restrictions on protein conformational change. Various modified polymers have been developed to try to overcome these challenges, but no clear solution has been found. A series of partially-esterified variants of SMA (SMA 2625, SMA 1440 and SMA 17352) has previously been shown to be highly effective for solubilisation of plant and cyanobacterial thylakoid membranes. It was hypothesised that the partial esterification of maleic acid groups would increase tolerance to divalent cations. Therefore, these partially-esterified polymers were tested for the solubilisation of lipids and membrane proteins, and their tolerance to magnesium ions. It was found that all partially esterified polymers were capable of solubilising and purifying a range of membrane proteins, but the yield of protein was lower with SMA 1440, and the degree of purity was lower for both SMA 1440 and SMA 17352. SMA 2625 performed comparably to SMA 2000. SMA 1440 also showed an increased sensitivity to divalent cations. Thus, it appears the interactions between SMA and divalent cations are more complex than proposed and require further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivia P Hawkins
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | | | - Aiman A Gulamhussein
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Stephanie Nestorow
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Taranpreet Bahra
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Christian Shelton
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Quincy K Owusu-Mensah
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Naadiya Mohiddin
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Hannah O'Rourke
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Mariam Ajmal
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Kara Byrnes
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Madiha Khan
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Nila N Nahar
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Arcella Lim
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Cassandra Harris
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Hannah Healy
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Syeda W Hasan
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Asma Ahmed
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Lora Evans
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Afroditi Vaitsopoulou
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Aneel Akram
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Chris Williams
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Johanna Binding
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Rumandeep K Thandi
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Aswathy Joby
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Ashley Guest
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Mohammad Z Tariq
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Farah Rasool
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Luke Cavanagh
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Simran Kang
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Biser Asparuhov
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Aleksandr Jestin
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Timothy R Dafforn
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - John Simms
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Roslyn M Bill
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Alan D Goddard
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Alice J Rothnie
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Szundi I, Pitch SG, Chen E, Farrens DL, Kliger DS. Styrene-maleic acid copolymer effects on the function of the GPCR rhodopsin in lipid nanoparticles. Biophys J 2021; 120:4337-4348. [PMID: 34509506 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Styrene-maleic acid (SMA) copolymers solubilize biological membranes to form lipid nanoparticles (SMALPs) that contain membrane proteins surrounded by native lipids, thus enabling the use of a variety of biophysical techniques for structural and functional studies. The question of whether SMALPs provide a truly natural environment or SMA solubilization affects the functional properties of membrane proteins, however, remains open. We address this question by comparing the photoactivation kinetics of rhodopsin, a G-protein-coupled receptor in the disk membranes of rod cells, in native membrane and SMALPs prepared at different molar ratios between SMA(3:1) and rhodopsin. Time-resolved absorption spectroscopy combined with complex kinetic analysis reveals kinetic and mechanistic differences between the native membrane and SMA-stabilized environment. The results suggest a range of molar ratios for nanoparticles suitable for kinetic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Istvan Szundi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California
| | - Stephanie G Pitch
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California
| | - Eefei Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California
| | - David L Farrens
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - David S Kliger
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Janson K, Zierath J, Kyrilis FL, Semchonok DA, Hamdi F, Skalidis I, Kopf AH, Das M, Kolar C, Rasche M, Vargas C, Keller S, Kastritis PL, Meister A. Solubilization of artificial mitochondrial membranes by amphiphilic copolymers of different charge. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2021; 1863:183725. [PMID: 34384757 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2021.183725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Certain amphiphilic copolymers form lipid-bilayer nanodiscs from artificial and natural membranes, thereby rendering incorporated membrane proteins optimal for structural analysis. Recent studies have shown that the amphiphilicity of a copolymer strongly determines its solubilization efficiency. This is especially true for highly negatively charged membranes, which experience pronounced Coulombic repulsion with polyanionic polymers. Here, we present a systematic study on the solubilization of artificial multicomponent lipid vesicles that mimic inner mitochondrial membranes, which harbor essential membrane-protein complexes. In particular, we compared the lipid-solubilization efficiencies of established anionic with less densely charged or zwitterionic and even cationic copolymers in low- and high-salt concentrations. The nanodiscs formed under these conditions were characterized by dynamic light scattering and negative-stain electron microscopy, pointing to a bimodal distribution of nanodisc diameters with a considerable fraction of nanodiscs engaging in side-by-side interactions through their polymer rims. Overall, our results show that some recent, zwitterionic copolymers are best suited to solubilize negatively charged membranes at high ionic strengths even at low polymer/lipid ratios.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Janson
- Interdisciplinary Research Center HALOmem, Charles Tanford Protein Center, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany; Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Jennifer Zierath
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Fotis L Kyrilis
- Interdisciplinary Research Center HALOmem, Charles Tanford Protein Center, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany; Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Dmitry A Semchonok
- Interdisciplinary Research Center HALOmem, Charles Tanford Protein Center, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Farzad Hamdi
- Interdisciplinary Research Center HALOmem, Charles Tanford Protein Center, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Ioannis Skalidis
- Interdisciplinary Research Center HALOmem, Charles Tanford Protein Center, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany; Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Adrian H Kopf
- Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Manabendra Das
- Molecular Biophysics, Technische Universität Kaiserslautern (TUK), Erwin-Schrödinger-Straße 13, 67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Cenek Kolar
- GLYCON Biochemicals GmbH, Im Biotechnologie Park TGZ 1, 14943 Luckenwalde, Germany
| | - Marie Rasche
- GLYCON Biochemicals GmbH, Im Biotechnologie Park TGZ 1, 14943 Luckenwalde, Germany
| | - Carolyn Vargas
- Molecular Biophysics, Technische Universität Kaiserslautern (TUK), Erwin-Schrödinger-Straße 13, 67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany; Biophysics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences (IMB), NAWI Graz, University of Graz, Humboldtstr. 50/III, 8010 Graz, Austria; Field of Excellence BioHealth, University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Sandro Keller
- Molecular Biophysics, Technische Universität Kaiserslautern (TUK), Erwin-Schrödinger-Straße 13, 67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany; Biophysics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences (IMB), NAWI Graz, University of Graz, Humboldtstr. 50/III, 8010 Graz, Austria; Field of Excellence BioHealth, University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Panagiotis L Kastritis
- Interdisciplinary Research Center HALOmem, Charles Tanford Protein Center, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany; Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany; Biozentrum, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Weinbergweg 22, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany.
| | - Annette Meister
- Interdisciplinary Research Center HALOmem, Charles Tanford Protein Center, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany; Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Straße 3a, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ravula T, Ramamoorthy A. Synthesis, Characterization, and Nanodisc Formation of Non‐ionic Polymers**. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202101950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Thirupathi Ravula
- Biophysics and Department of Chemistry Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering The University of Michigan Ann Arbor MI 48109-1055 USA
| | - Ayyalusamy Ramamoorthy
- Biophysics and Department of Chemistry Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering The University of Michigan Ann Arbor MI 48109-1055 USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ravula T, Ramamoorthy A. Synthesis, Characterization, and Nanodisc Formation of Non-ionic Polymers*. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:16885-16888. [PMID: 33998111 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202101950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Although lipid nanodiscs are increasingly used in the structural studies of membrane proteins, drug delivery and other applications, the interaction between the nanodisc belt and the protein to be reconstituted is a major limitation. To overcome this limitation and to further broaden the scope of nanodiscs, a family of non-ionic amphiphilic polymers synthesized by hydrophobic functionalization of fructo-oligosaccharides/inulin is reported. We show the stability of lipid nanodiscs formed by these polymers against pH and divalent metal ions, and their magnetic-alignment properties. The reported results also demonstrate that the non-ionic polymers extract membrane proteins with unprecedented efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thirupathi Ravula
- Biophysics and Department of Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-1055, USA
| | - Ayyalusamy Ramamoorthy
- Biophysics and Department of Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-1055, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Overduin M, Trieber C, Prosser RS, Picard LP, Sheff JG. Structures and Dynamics of Native-State Transmembrane Protein Targets and Bound Lipids. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:451. [PMID: 34204456 PMCID: PMC8235241 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11060451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Membrane proteins work within asymmetric bilayers of lipid molecules that are critical for their biological structures, dynamics and interactions. These properties are lost when detergents dislodge lipids, ligands and subunits, but are maintained in native nanodiscs formed using styrene maleic acid (SMA) and diisobutylene maleic acid (DIBMA) copolymers. These amphipathic polymers allow extraction of multicomponent complexes of post-translationally modified membrane-bound proteins directly from organ homogenates or membranes from diverse types of cells and organelles. Here, we review the structures and mechanisms of transmembrane targets and their interactions with lipids including phosphoinositides (PIs), as resolved using nanodisc systems and methods including cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). We focus on therapeutic targets including several G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), as well as ion channels and transporters that are driving the development of next-generation native nanodiscs. The design of new synthetic polymers and complementary biophysical tools bodes well for the future of drug discovery and structural biology of native membrane:protein assemblies (memteins).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Overduin
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada;
| | - Catharine Trieber
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada;
| | - R. Scott Prosser
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, UTM, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada; (R.S.P.); (L.-P.P.)
| | - Louis-Philippe Picard
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, UTM, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada; (R.S.P.); (L.-P.P.)
| | - Joey G. Sheff
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0R6, Canada;
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Bjørnestad V, Orwick-Rydmark M, Lund R. Understanding the Structural Pathways for Lipid Nanodisc Formation: How Styrene Maleic Acid Copolymers Induce Membrane Fracture and Disc Formation. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2021; 37:6178-6188. [PMID: 33979520 PMCID: PMC8280715 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.1c00304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Lipid nanodiscs formed by mixtures of styrene maleic acid (SMA) copolymers and lipid membranes are important tools for studying membrane proteins in many biotechnological applications. However, molecular interactions leading up to their formation are not well understood. Here, we elucidate the nanodisc formation pathways for SMA/lipid vesicle mixtures using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) that allows detailed in situ nanostructural information. SMA copolymer that is initially aggregated in solution inserts its styrene units into the lipid bilayer hydrocarbon region, leading to fractures in the membrane. The initial copolymer-lipid interactions observed in the vesicles are also present in the formed discs, with excess copolymer distributed along the normal of the bilayer. The size and SMA distribution in the resulting discs strongly depend on the temperature, lipid/copolymer ratio, and lipid type. We find that the solubilization limit increases for membranes above the melting point, suggesting that defects in gel-like lipid membranes play a significant role in membrane fracturing and nanodisc formation. These findings provide unique insights into the formation of nanodiscs as well as into the microscopic mechanism of solubilization, which plays an important role in many applications and products ranging from household goods to biotechnology and medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Reidar Lund
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Oslo, Sem Sælandsvei 26, 0371 Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Brown CJ, Trieber C, Overduin M. Structural biology of endogenous membrane protein assemblies in native nanodiscs. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2021; 69:70-77. [PMID: 33915422 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The advent of amphiphilic copolymers enables integral membrane proteins to be solubilized into stable 10-30 nm native nanodiscs to resolve their multisubunit structures, post-translational modifications, endogenous lipid bilayers, and small molecule ligands. This breakthrough has positioned biological membrane:protein assemblies (memteins) as fundamental functional units of cellular membranes. Herein, we review copolymer design strategies and methods for the characterization of transmembrane proteins within native nanodiscs by cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), transmission electron microscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance, X-ray diffraction, surface plasmon resonance, and mass spectrometry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chanelle J Brown
- Department of Chemistry and Macromolecules Innovation Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, USA
| | - Catharine Trieber
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Michael Overduin
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2H7, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Subramanian M, Kielar C, Tsushima S, Fahmy K, Oertel J. DNA-Mediated Stack Formation of Nanodiscs. Molecules 2021; 26:1647. [PMID: 33809519 PMCID: PMC8000961 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26061647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Membrane-scaffolding proteins (MSPs) derived from apolipoprotein A-1 have become a versatile tool in generating nano-sized discoidal membrane mimetics (nanodiscs) for membrane protein research. Recent efforts have aimed at exploiting their controlled lipid protein ratio and size distribution to arrange membrane proteins in regular supramolecular structures for diffraction studies. Thereby, direct membrane protein crystallization, which has remained the limiting factor in structure determination of membrane proteins, would be circumvented. We describe here the formation of multimers of membrane-scaffolding protein MSP1D1-bounded nanodiscs using the thiol reactivity of engineered cysteines. The mutated positions N42 and K163 in MSP1D1 were chosen to support chemical modification as evidenced by fluorescent labeling with pyrene. Minimal interference with the nanodisc formation and structure was demonstrated by circular dichroism spectroscopy, differential light scattering and size exclusion chromatography. The direct disulphide bond formation of nanodiscs formed by the MSP1D1_N42C variant led to dimers and trimers with low yield. In contrast, transmission electron microscopy revealed that the attachment of oligonucleotides to the engineered cysteines of MSP1D1 allowed the growth of submicron-sized tracts of stacked nanodiscs through the hybridization of nanodisc populations carrying complementary strands and a flexible spacer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madhumalar Subramanian
- Biophysics Department, Institute of Resource Ecology, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstrasse 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (M.S.); (C.K.); (S.T.)
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Charlotte Kielar
- Biophysics Department, Institute of Resource Ecology, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstrasse 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (M.S.); (C.K.); (S.T.)
| | - Satoru Tsushima
- Biophysics Department, Institute of Resource Ecology, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstrasse 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (M.S.); (C.K.); (S.T.)
| | - Karim Fahmy
- Biophysics Department, Institute of Resource Ecology, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstrasse 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (M.S.); (C.K.); (S.T.)
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Jana Oertel
- Biophysics Department, Institute of Resource Ecology, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstrasse 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (M.S.); (C.K.); (S.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lipidomic and in-gel analysis of maleic acid co-polymer nanodiscs reveals differences in composition of solubilized membranes. Commun Biol 2021; 4:218. [PMID: 33594255 PMCID: PMC7886889 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-01711-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Membrane proteins are key in a large number of physiological and pathological processes. Their study often involves a prior detergent solubilization step, which strips away the membrane and can jeopardize membrane protein integrity. A recent alternative to detergents encompasses maleic acid based copolymers (xMAs), which disrupt the lipid bilayer and form lipid protein nanodiscs (xMALPs) soluble in aqueous buffer. Although xMALPs are often referred to as native nanodiscs, little is known about the resemblance of their lipid and protein content to the native bilayer. Here we have analyzed prokaryotic and eukaryotic xMALPs using lipidomics and in-gel analysis. Our results show that the xMALPs content varies with the chemical properties of the used xMA.
Collapse
|
31
|
Lavington S, Watts A. Lipid nanoparticle technologies for the study of G protein-coupled receptors in lipid environments. Biophys Rev 2020; 12:10.1007/s12551-020-00775-5. [PMID: 33215301 PMCID: PMC7755959 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-020-00775-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large family of integral membrane proteins which conduct a wide range of biological roles and represent significant drug targets. Most biophysical and structural studies of GPCRs have been conducted on detergent-solubilised receptors, and it is clear that detergents can have detrimental effects on GPCR function. Simultaneously, there is increasing appreciation of roles for specific lipids in modulation of GPCR function. Lipid nanoparticles such as nanodiscs and styrene maleic acid lipid particles (SMALPs) offer opportunities to study integral membrane proteins in lipid environments, in a form that is soluble and amenable to structural and biophysical experiments. Here, we review the application of lipid nanoparticle technologies to the study of GPCRs, assessing the relative merits and limitations of each system. We highlight how these technologies can provide superior platforms to detergents for structural and biophysical studies of GPCRs and inform on roles for protein-lipid interactions in GPCR function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Lavington
- Biochemistry Department, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Anthony Watts
- Biochemistry Department, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lemieux MJ, Overduin M. Structure and function of proteins in membranes and nanodiscs. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2020; 1863:183445. [PMID: 32841614 PMCID: PMC7443088 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2020.183445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The field of membrane structural biology represents a fast-moving field with exciting developments including native nanodiscs that allow preparation of complexes of post-translationally modified proteins bound to biological lipids. This has led to conceptual advances including biological membrane:protein assemblies or “memteins” as the fundamental functional units of biological membranes. Tools including cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography are maturing such that it is becoming increasingly feasible to solve structures of large, multicomponent complexes, while complementary methods including nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy yield unique insights into interactions and dynamics. Challenges remain, including elucidating exactly how lipids and ligands are recognized at atomic resolution and transduce signals across asymmetric bilayers. In this special volume some of the latest thinking and methods are gathered through the analysis of a range of transmembrane targets. Ongoing work on areas including polymer design, protein labelling and microfluidic technologies will ensure continued progress on improving resolution and throughput, providing deeper understanding of this most important group of targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Joanne Lemieux
- Department of Biochemistry, Membrane Protein Disease Research Group, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Michael Overduin
- Department of Biochemistry, Membrane Protein Disease Research Group, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lavington S, Watts A. Detergent-free solubilisation & purification of a G protein coupled receptor using a polymethacrylate polymer. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2020; 1863:183441. [PMID: 32810489 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2020.183441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) function as guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) at heterotrimeric G proteins, and conduct this role embedded in a lipid bilayer. Detergents are widely used to solubilise GPCRs for structural and biophysical analysis, but are poor mimics of the lipid bilayer and may be deleterious to protein function. Amphipathic polymers have emerged as promising alternatives to detergents, which maintain a lipid environment around a membrane protein during purification. Of these polymers, the polymethacrylate (PMA) polymers have potential advantages over the most popular styrene maleic acid (SMA) polymer, but to date have not been applied to purification of membrane proteins. Here we use a class A GPCR, neurotensin receptor 1 (NTSR1), to explore detergent-free purification using PMA. By using an NTSR1-eGFP fusion protein expressed in Sf9 cells, a range of solubilisation conditions were screened, demonstrating the importance of solubilisation temperature, pH, NaCl concentration and the relative amounts of polymer and membrane sample. PMA-solubilised NTSR1 displayed compatibility with standard purification protocols and millimolar divalent cation concentrations. Moreover, the receptor in PMA discs showed stimulation of both Gq and Gi1 heterotrimers to an extent that was greater than that for the detergent-solubilised receptor. PMA therefore represents a viable alternative to SMA for membrane protein purification and has a potentially broad utility in studying GPCRs and other membrane proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Lavington
- Department of Biochemistry, Oxford University, South Parks Road, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Anthony Watts
- Department of Biochemistry, Oxford University, South Parks Road, OX1 3QU, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Krishnarjuna B, Ravula T, Ramamoorthy A. Detergent-free extraction, reconstitution and characterization of membrane-anchored cytochrome-b5 in native lipids. Chem Commun (Camb) 2020; 56:6511-6514. [PMID: 32462144 PMCID: PMC7337974 DOI: 10.1039/d0cc01737j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Despite their denaturing properties, detergents are used to purify and study membrane proteins. Herein, we demonstrated a polymer-based detergent-free extraction of the membrane protein cytochrome-b5 along with E. coli lipids. Nuclear magnetic resonance experiments revealed the suitability of using nanodiscs for high-resolution studies and revealed the types of native lipids associated with the protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bankala Krishnarjuna
- Biophysics Program, Department of Chemistry, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Arbor, MI 48109-1055, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|