1
|
Duersch BG, Soini SA, Luo Y, Liu X, Chen S, Merk VM. Nanoscale elemental and morphological imaging of nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria. Metallomics 2024; 16:mfae040. [PMID: 39271453 DOI: 10.1093/mtomcs/mfae040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
Nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria bind atmospheric nitrogen and carbon dioxide using sunlight. This experimental study focused on a laboratory-based model system, Anabaena sp., in nitrogen-depleted culture. When combined nitrogen is scarce, the filamentous prokaryotes reconcile photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation by cellular differentiation into heterocysts. To better understand the influence of micronutrients on cellular function, 2D and 3D synchrotron X-ray fluorescence mappings were acquired from whole biological cells in their frozen-hydrated state at the Bionanoprobe, Advanced Photon Source. To study elemental homeostasis within these chain-like organisms, biologically relevant elements were mapped using X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis. Higher levels of cytosolic K+, Ca2+, and Fe2+ were measured in the heterocyst than in adjacent vegetative cells, supporting the notion of elevated micronutrient demand. P-rich clusters, identified as polyphosphate bodies involved in nutrient storage, metal detoxification, and osmotic regulation, were consistently co-localized with K+ and occasionally sequestered Mg2+, Ca2+, Fe2+, and Mn2+ ions. Machine-learning-based k-mean clustering revealed that P/K clusters were associated with either Fe or Ca, with Fe and Ca clusters also occurring individually. In accordance with XRF nanotomography, distinct P/K-containing clusters close to the cellular envelope were surrounded by larger Ca-rich clusters. The transition metal Fe, which is a part of nitrogenase enzyme, was detected as irregularly shaped clusters. The elemental composition and cellular morphology of diazotrophic Anabaena sp. was visualized by multimodal imaging using atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and fluorescence microscopy. This paper discusses the first experimental results obtained with a combined in-line optical and X-ray fluorescence microscope at the Bionanoprobe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bobby G Duersch
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Ocean and Mechanical Engineering, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Steven A Soini
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Ocean and Mechanical Engineering, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Yanqi Luo
- Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL, USA
| | - Xiaoyang Liu
- Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL, USA
| | - Si Chen
- Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL, USA
| | - Vivian M Merk
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Ocean and Mechanical Engineering, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wang S, Neufurth M, Schepler H, Muñoz-Espí R, Ushijima H, Schröder HC, Wang X, Müller WEG. Liquid-liquid phase transition as a basis for novel materials for skin repair and regeneration. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:9622-9638. [PMID: 39226118 DOI: 10.1039/d4tb01080a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Inorganic materials are of increasing interest not only for bone repair but also for other applications in regenerative medicine. In this study, the combined effects of energy-providing, regeneratively active inorganic polyphosphate (polyP) and also morphogenetically active pearl powder on wound healing were investigated. Aragonite, the mineralic constituent of pearl nacre and thermodynamically unstable form of crystalline calcium carbonate, was found to be converted into a soluble state in the presence of a Ca2+-containing wound exudate, particularly upon addition of sodium polyP (Na-polyP), driven by the transfer of Ca2+ ions from aragonite to polyP, leading to liquid-liquid phase separation to form an aqueous Ca-polyP coacervate. This process is further enhanced in the presence of Ca-polyP nanoparticles (Ca-polyP-NP). Kinetic studies revealed that the coacervation of polyP and nacre aragonite in wound exudate is a very rapid process that results in the formation of a stronger gel with a porous structure compared to polyP alone. Coacervate formation, enabled by phase transition of crystalline aragonite in the presence of Na-polyP/Ca-polyP-NP and wound exudate, could also be demonstrated in a hydroxyethyl cellulose-based hydrogel used for wound treatment. Furthermore, it is shown that Na-polyP/Ca-polyP-NP together with nacre aragonite strongly enhances the proliferation of mesenchymal stem cells and promotes microtube formation in the in vitro angiogenesis assay with HUVEC endothelial cells. The latter effect was confirmed by gene expression studies, applying real-time polymerase chain reaction, using the biomarker genes VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 α (HIF-1α). Division of Escherichia coli is suppressed when suspended in a matrix containing Na-polyP/Ca-polyP-NP and aragonite. The potential medical relevance of these findings is supported by an animal study on genetically engineered diabetic mice (db/db), which demonstrated a marked increase in granulation tissue and microvessel formation in regenerating experimental wounds treated with Ca-polyP-NP compared to controls. Co-administration of aragonite significantly accelerated the wound healing-promoting effect of polyP in db/db mice. Based on these results, we propose that the ability of polyP to form a mixed coacervate with aragonite, in addition to its energy (ATP)-generating function, can decisively contribute to the regenerative activity of this polymer in wound repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shunfeng Wang
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
| | - Meik Neufurth
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
| | - Hadrian Schepler
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Rafael Muñoz-Espí
- Institute of Materials Science (ICMUV), Universitat de València, C/Catedràtic José Beltrán 2, 46980 Paterna-València, Spain
| | - Hiroshi Ushijima
- Nihon University, Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Nihon University-School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Heinz C Schröder
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
| | - Werner E G Müller
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Schoeppe R, Waldmann M, Jessen HJ, Renné T. An Update on Polyphosphate In Vivo Activities. Biomolecules 2024; 14:937. [PMID: 39199325 PMCID: PMC11352482 DOI: 10.3390/biom14080937] [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: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyphosphate (polyP) is an evolutionary ancient inorganic molecule widespread in biology, exerting a broad range of biological activities. The intracellular polymer serves as an energy storage pool and phosphate/calcium ion reservoir with implications for basal cellular functions. Metabolisms of the polymer are well understood in procaryotes and unicellular eukaryotic cells. However, functions, regulation, and association with disease states of the polymer in higher eukaryotic species such as mammalians are just beginning to emerge. The review summarises our current understanding of polyP metabolism, the polymer's functions, and methods for polyP analysis. In-depth knowledge of the pathways that control polyP turnover will open future perspectives for selective targeting of the polymer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Schoeppe
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (O26), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Moritz Waldmann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (O26), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Henning J. Jessen
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, D-79105 Freiburg, Germany;
| | - Thomas Renné
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (O26), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
- Center for Thrombosis and Haemostasis (CTH), Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, D-55131 Mainz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Opperdoes FR, Záhonová K, Škodová-Sveráková I, Bučková B, Chmelová Ľ, Lukeš J, Yurchenko V. In silico prediction of the metabolism of Blastocrithidia nonstop, a trypanosomatid with non-canonical genetic code. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:184. [PMID: 38365628 PMCID: PMC10874023 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10094-8] [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: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Almost all extant organisms use the same, so-called canonical, genetic code with departures from it being very rare. Even more exceptional are the instances when a eukaryote with non-canonical code can be easily cultivated and has its whole genome and transcriptome sequenced. This is the case of Blastocrithidia nonstop, a trypanosomatid flagellate that reassigned all three stop codons to encode amino acids. RESULTS We in silico predicted the metabolism of B. nonstop and compared it with that of the well-studied human parasites Trypanosoma brucei and Leishmania major. The mapped mitochondrial, glycosomal and cytosolic metabolism contains all typical features of these diverse and important parasites. We also provided experimental validation for some of the predicted observations, concerning, specifically presence of glycosomes, cellular respiration, and assembly of the respiratory complexes. CONCLUSIONS In an unusual comparison of metabolism between a parasitic protist with a massively altered genetic code and its close relatives that rely on a canonical code we showed that the dramatic differences on the level of nucleic acids do not seem to be reflected in the metabolisms. Moreover, although the genome of B. nonstop is extremely AT-rich, we could not find any alterations of its pyrimidine synthesis pathway when compared to other trypanosomatids. Hence, we conclude that the dramatic alteration of the genetic code of B. nonstop has no significant repercussions on the metabolism of this flagellate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fred R Opperdoes
- de Duve Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kristína Záhonová
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czechia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Ingrid Škodová-Sveráková
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Barbora Bučková
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Ľubomíra Chmelová
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Vyacheslav Yurchenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rodriguez JB, Szajnman SH. An updated review of chemical compounds with anti-Toxoplasma gondii activity. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 262:115885. [PMID: 37871407 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115885] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
The opportunistic apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is the etiologic agent for toxoplasmosis, which can infect a widespread range of hosts, particularly humans and warm-blooded animals. The present chemotherapy to treat or prevent toxoplasmosis is deficient and is based on diverse drugs such as atovaquone, trimethoprim, spiramycine, which are effective in acute toxoplasmosis. Therefore, a safe chemotherapy is required for toxoplasmosis considering that its responsible agent, T. gondii, provokes severe illness and death in pregnant women and immunodeficient patients. A certain disadvantage of the available treatments is the lack of effectiveness against the tissue cyst of the parasite. A safe chemotherapy to combat toxoplasmosis should be based on the metabolic differences between the parasite and the mammalian host. This article covers different relevant molecular targets to combat this disease including the isoprenoid pathway (farnesyl diphosphate synthase, squalene synthase), dihydrofolate reductase, calcium-dependent protein kinases, histone deacetylase, mitochondrial electron transport chain, etc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan B Rodriguez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, Pabellón 2, C1428EHA, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Unidad de Microanálisis y Métodos Físicos en Química Orgánica (UMYMFOR), C1428EHA, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Sergio H Szajnman
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, Pabellón 2, C1428EHA, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Unidad de Microanálisis y Métodos Físicos en Química Orgánica (UMYMFOR), C1428EHA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Martín JF. Interaction of calcium responsive proteins and transcriptional factors with the PHO regulon in yeasts and fungi. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1225774. [PMID: 37601111 PMCID: PMC10437122 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1225774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphate and calcium ions are nutrients that play key roles in growth, differentiation and the production of bioactive secondary metabolites in filamentous fungi. Phosphate concentration regulates the biosynthesis of hundreds of fungal metabolites. The central mechanisms of phosphate transport and regulation, mediated by the master Pho4 transcriptional factor are known, but many aspects of the control of gene expression need further research. High ATP concentration in the cells leads to inositol pyrophosphate molecules formation, such as IP3 and IP7, that act as phosphorylation status reporters. Calcium ions are intracellular messengers in eukaryotic organisms and calcium homeostasis follows elaborated patterns in response to different nutritional and environmental factors, including cross-talking with phosphate concentrations. A large part of the intracellular calcium is stored in vacuoles and other organelles forming complexes with polyphosphate. The free cytosolic calcium concentration is maintained by transport from the external medium or by release from the store organelles through calcium permeable transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels. Calcium ions, particularly the free cytosolic calcium levels, control the biosynthesis of fungal metabolites by two mechanisms, 1) direct interaction of calcium-bound calmodulin with antibiotic synthesizing enzymes, and 2) by the calmodulin-calcineurin signaling cascade. Control of very different secondary metabolites, including pathogenicity determinants, are mediated by calcium through the Crz1 factor. Several interactions between calcium homeostasis and phosphate have been demonstrated in the last decade: 1) The inositol pyrophosphate IP3 triggers the release of calcium ions from internal stores into the cytosol, 2) Expression of the high affinity phosphate transporter Pho89, a Na+/phosphate symporter, is controlled by Crz1. Also, mutants defective in the calcium permeable TRPCa7-like of Saccharomyces cerevisiae shown impaired expression of Pho89. This information suggests that CrzA and Pho89 play key roles in the interaction of phosphate and calcium regulatory pathways, 3) Finally, acidocalcisomes organelles have been found in mycorrhiza and in some melanin producing fungi that show similar characteristics as protozoa calcisomes. In these organelles there is a close interaction between orthophosphate, pyrophosphate and polyphosphate and calcium ions that are absorbed in the polyanionic polyphosphate matrix. These advances open new perspectives for the control of fungal metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan F. Martín
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Área de Microbiología, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kim GD, Qiu D, Jessen HJ, Mayer A. Metabolic Consequences of Polyphosphate Synthesis and Imminent Phosphate Limitation. mBio 2023; 14:e0010223. [PMID: 37074217 PMCID: PMC10294617 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00102-23] [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: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cells stabilize intracellular inorganic phosphate (Pi) to compromise between large biosynthetic needs and detrimental bioenergetic effects of Pi. Pi homeostasis in eukaryotes uses Syg1/Pho81/Xpr1 (SPX) domains, which are receptors for inositol pyrophosphates. We explored how polymerization and storage of Pi in acidocalcisome-like vacuoles supports Saccharomyces cerevisiae metabolism and how these cells recognize Pi scarcity. Whereas Pi starvation affects numerous metabolic pathways, beginning Pi scarcity affects few metabolites. These include inositol pyrophosphates and ATP, a low-affinity substrate for inositol pyrophosphate-synthesizing kinases. Declining ATP and inositol pyrophosphates may thus be indicators of impending Pi limitation. Actual Pi starvation triggers accumulation of the purine synthesis intermediate 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR), which activates Pi-dependent transcription factors. Cells lacking inorganic polyphosphate show Pi starvation features already under Pi-replete conditions, suggesting that vacuolar polyphosphate supplies Pi for metabolism even when Pi is abundant. However, polyphosphate deficiency also generates unique metabolic changes that are not observed in starving wild-type cells. Polyphosphate in acidocalcisome-like vacuoles may hence be more than a global phosphate reserve and channel Pi to preferred cellular processes. IMPORTANCE Cells must strike a delicate balance between the high demand of inorganic phosphate (Pi) for synthesizing nucleic acids and phospholipids and its detrimental bioenergetic effects by reducing the free energy of nucleotide hydrolysis. The latter may stall metabolism. Therefore, microorganisms manage the import and export of phosphate, its conversion into osmotically inactive inorganic polyphosphates, and their storage in dedicated organelles (acidocalcisomes). Here, we provide novel insights into metabolic changes that yeast cells may use to signal declining phosphate availability in the cytosol and differentiate it from actual phosphate starvation. We also analyze the role of acidocalcisome-like organelles in phosphate homeostasis. This study uncovers an unexpected role of the polyphosphate pool in these organelles under phosphate-rich conditions, indicating that its metabolic roles go beyond that of a phosphate reserve for surviving starvation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geun-Don Kim
- Department of Immunobiology, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Danye Qiu
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Andreas Mayer
- Department of Immunobiology, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Thevenard F, Brito IA, Costa-Silva TA, Tempone AG, Lago JHG. Enyne acetogenins from Porcelia macrocarpa displayed anti-Trypanosoma cruzi activity and cause a reduction in the intracellular calcium level. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10254. [PMID: 37355735 PMCID: PMC10290671 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37520-3] [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: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural products are a promising source of new compounds with a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties, including antiprotozoal activities. Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, is one of several neglected tropical diseases with reduced options for treatment, which presents limitations such as toxicity and ineffectiveness in the chronic stage of the disease. Aiming to investigate the Brazilian flora for the discovery of new anti-T. cruzi compounds, the MeOH extract from Porcelia macrocarpa R.E. Fries (Annonaceae) fruit peels displayed potent activity against trypomastigotes and intracellular amastigotes and was subjected to bioactivity-guided fractionation. Using different chromatographic steps, a fraction composed of a mixture of four new chemically related acetogenins was obtained. The compounds were characterized as (2S*,3R*,4R*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-(n-octadeca-13',17'-dien-11'-inil)butanolide (1), (2S*,3R*,4R*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-(n-eicosa-13',19'-dien-11'-inil)butanolide (2), (2S*,3R*,4R*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-(n-octadec-13'-en-11'-inil)butanolide (3), and (2S*,3R*,4R*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-(n-eicosa-13'-en-11'-inil)butanolide (4) by NMR analysis and UHPLC/ESI-HRMS data. The mixture of compounds 1-4, displayed an EC50 of 4.9 and 2.5 µg/mL against trypomastigote and amastigote forms of T. cruzi, respectively, similar to the standard drug benznidazole (EC50 of 4.8 and 1.4 µg/mL). Additionally, the mixture of compounds 1-4 displayed no mammalian toxicity for murine fibroblasts (CC50 > 200 µg/mL), resulting in a SI > 40.8 and > 83.3 against trypomastigotes and amastigotes, respectively. Based on these results, the mechanism of action of this bioactive fraction was investigated. After a short-time incubation with the trypomastigotes, no alterations in the cell membrane permeability were observed. However, it was verified a decrease in the intracellular calcium of the parasites, without significant pH variations of the acidocalcisomes. The intracellular damages were followed by an upregulation of the reactive oxygen species and ATP, but no depolarization effects were observed in the mitochondrial membrane potential. These data suggest that the mixture of compounds 1-4 caused an irreversible oxidative stress in the parasites, leading to death. If adequately studied, these acetogenins can open new insights for the discovery of new routes of death in T. cruzi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Thevenard
- Centre for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ivanildo A Brito
- Centre for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thais A Costa-Silva
- Centre for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, São Paulo, Brazil
- SENAI Institute of Innovation in Biotechnology, São Paulo, 01130-000, Brazil
| | - Andre G Tempone
- Centre for Parasitology and Mycology, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - João Henrique G Lago
- Centre for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Diao Y, Yao Y, El-Ashram S, Bian M. Egress Regulatory Factors: How Toxoplasma Exits from Infected Cells? Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12050679. [PMID: 37242349 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12050679] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligatory intracellular protozoan in the family Apicomplexa. It infects almost one-third of the world's population and causes toxoplasmosis, a prevalent disease. The parasite's egress from infected cells is a key step in the pathology caused by T. gondii. Moreover, T. gondii's continuous infection relies heavily on its capacity to migrate from one cell to another. Many pathways are involved in T. gondii egress. Individual routes may be modified to respond to various environmental stimuli, and many paths can converge. Regardless of the stimuli, the relevance of Ca2+ as a second messenger in transducing these signals, and the convergence of various signaling pathways in the control of motility and, ultimately, egress, is well recognized. This review attempts to outline intra- and extra-parasitic regulators that mediate T. gondii egress, and provides insight into potential clinical interventions and research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Diao
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yong Yao
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Saeed El-Ashram
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, 18 Jiangwan Street, Foshan 528231, China
- Faculty of Science, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr El-Sheikh 33516, Egypt
| | - Maohong Bian
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
Living systems are built from a small subset of the atomic elements, including the bulk macronutrients (C,H,N,O,P,S) and ions (Mg,K,Na,Ca) together with a small but variable set of trace elements (micronutrients). Here, we provide a global survey of how chemical elements contribute to life. We define five classes of elements: those that are (i) essential for all life, (ii) essential for many organisms in all three domains of life, (iii) essential or beneficial for many organisms in at least one domain, (iv) beneficial to at least some species, and (v) of no known beneficial use. The ability of cells to sustain life when individual elements are absent or limiting relies on complex physiological and evolutionary mechanisms (elemental economy). This survey of elemental use across the tree of life is encapsulated in a web-based, interactive periodic table that summarizes the roles chemical elements in biology and highlights corresponding mechanisms of elemental economy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaleigh A Remick
- Department of Microbiology, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - John D Helmann
- Department of Microbiology, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
H +-Translocating Membrane-Bound Pyrophosphatase from Rhodospirillum rubrum Fuels Escherichia coli Cells via an Alternative Pathway for Energy Generation. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020294. [PMID: 36838259 PMCID: PMC9959109 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020294] [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: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Inorganic pyrophosphatases (PPases) catalyze an essential reaction, namely, the hydrolysis of PPi, which is formed in large quantities as a side product of numerous cellular reactions. In the majority of living species, PPi hydrolysis is carried out by soluble cytoplasmic PPase (S-PPases) with the released energy dissipated in the form of heat. In Rhodospirillum rubrum, part of this energy can be conserved by proton-pumping pyrophosphatase (H+-PPaseRru) in the form of a proton electrochemical gradient for further ATP synthesis. Here, the codon-harmonized gene hppaRru encoding H+-PPaseRru was expressed in the Escherichia coli chromosome. We demonstrate, for the first time, that H+-PPaseRru complements the essential native S-PPase in E. coli cells. 13C-MFA confirmed that replacing native PPase to H+-PPaseRru leads to the re-distribution of carbon fluxes; a statistically significant 36% decrease in tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle fluxes was found compared with wild-type E. coli MG1655. Such a flux re-distribution can indicate the presence of an additional method for energy generation (e.g., ATP), which can be useful for the microbiological production of a number of compounds, the biosynthesis of which requires the consumption of ATP.
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Acidocalcisomes are electron-dense organelles rich in polyphosphate and inorganic and organic cations that are acidified by proton pumps, and possess several channels, pumps, and transporters. They are present in bacteria and eukaryotes and have been studied in greater detail in trypanosomatids. Biogenesis studies of trypanosomatid acidocalcisomes found that they share properties with lysosome-related organelles of animal cells. In addition to their described roles in autophagy, cation and phosphorus storage, osmoregulation, pH homeostasis, and pathogenesis, recent studies have defined the role of these organelles in phosphate utilization, calcium ion (Ca2+ ) signaling, and bioenergetics, and will be the main subject of this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Docampo
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Guozhong Huang
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Romanelli M, Amaral M, Thevenard F, Santa Cruz LM, Regasini LO, Migotto AE, Lago JHG, Tempone AG. Mitochondrial Imbalance of Trypanosoma cruzi Induced by the Marine Alkaloid 6-Bromo-2'-de- N-Methylaplysinopsin. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:28561-28570. [PMID: 35990437 PMCID: PMC9387129 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c03395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, affects seven million people worldwide and lacks effective treatments. Using bioactivity-guided fractionation, NMR, and electrospray ionization-high resolution mass spectrometry (ESI-HRMS) spectral analysis, the indole alkaloid 6-bromo-2'-de-N-methylaplysinopsin (BMA) was isolated and chemically characterized from the marine coral Tubastraea tagusensis. BMA was tested against trypomastigotes and intracellular amastigotes of T. cruzi, resulting in IC50 values of 62 and 5.7 μM, respectively, with no mammalian cytotoxicity. The mechanism of action studies showed that BMA induced no alterations in the plasma membrane permeability but caused depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane potential, reducing ATP levels. Intracellular calcium levels were also reduced after the treatment, which was associated with pH alteration of acidocalcisomes. Using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF)/MS analysis, alterations of mass spectral signals were observed after treatment with BMA, suggesting a different mechanism from benznidazole. In silico pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PKPD) parameters suggested a drug-likeness property, supporting the promising usefulness of this compound as a new hit for optimizations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maiara
M. Romanelli
- Centre
for Parasitology and Mycology, Adolfo Lutz
Institute, Av Dr Arnaldo 351, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil
| | - Maiara Amaral
- Centre
for Parasitology and Mycology, Adolfo Lutz
Institute, Av Dr Arnaldo 351, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Thevenard
- Centre
of Natural Sciences and Humanities, Federal
University of ABC (UFABC), Avenida dos Estados 5001, Santo Andre, SP 09210-580, Brazil
| | - Lucas M. Santa Cruz
- Department
of Organic Contaminants, Instituto Adolfo
Lutz, Av Dr Arnaldo 355, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil
| | - Luis O. Regasini
- Department
of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Biosciences,
Humanities and Exact Sciences, Universidade
Estadual Paulista, R. Cristóvão Colombo 2265, São
Jose do Rio Preto, SP 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Alvaro E. Migotto
- Centre
for Marine Biology, Universidade de São
Paulo, Rodovia Manoel Hypólito do Rego, Km 131, São Sebastião, São Paulo, SP 11600-000, Brazil
| | - João Henrique G. Lago
- Centre
of Natural Sciences and Humanities, Federal
University of ABC (UFABC), Avenida dos Estados 5001, Santo Andre, SP 09210-580, Brazil
| | - Andre G. Tempone
- Centre
for Parasitology and Mycology, Adolfo Lutz
Institute, Av Dr Arnaldo 351, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ros-Lucas A, Martinez-Peinado N, Bastida J, Gascón J, Alonso-Padilla J. The Use of AlphaFold for In Silico Exploration of Drug Targets in the Parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:944748. [PMID: 35909956 PMCID: PMC9329570 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.944748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease is a devastating neglected disease caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which affects millions of people worldwide. The two anti-parasitic drugs available, nifurtimox and benznidazole, have a good efficacy against the acute stage of the infection. But this is short, usually asymptomatic and often goes undiagnosed. Access to treatment is mostly achieved during the chronic stage, when the cardiac and/or digestive life-threatening symptoms manifest. Then, the efficacy of both drugs is diminished, and their long administration regimens involve frequently associated adverse effects that compromise treatment compliance. Therefore, the discovery of safer and more effective drugs is an urgent need. Despite its advantages over lately used phenotypic screening, target-based identification of new anti-parasitic molecules has been hampered by incomplete annotation and lack of structures of the parasite protein space. Presently, the AlphaFold Protein Structure Database is home to 19,036 protein models from T. cruzi, which could hold the key to not only describe new therapeutic approaches, but also shed light on molecular mechanisms of action for known compounds. In this proof-of-concept study, we screened the AlphaFold T. cruzi set of predicted protein models to find prospective targets for a pre-selected list of compounds with known anti-trypanosomal activity using docking-based inverse virtual screening. The best receptors (targets) for the most promising ligands were analyzed in detail to address molecular interactions and potential drugs’ mode of action. The results provide insight into the mechanisms of action of the compounds and their targets, and pave the way for new strategies to finding novel compounds or optimize already existing ones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Albert Ros-Lucas
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic - University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Albert Ros-Lucas, ; Nieves Martinez-Peinado, ; Julio Alonso-Padilla,
| | - Nieves Martinez-Peinado
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic - University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Albert Ros-Lucas, ; Nieves Martinez-Peinado, ; Julio Alonso-Padilla,
| | - Jaume Bastida
- Departament de Biologia, Sanitat i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l´Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joaquim Gascón
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic - University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBERINFEC, ISCIII—CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julio Alonso-Padilla
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic - University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBERINFEC, ISCIII—CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Albert Ros-Lucas, ; Nieves Martinez-Peinado, ; Julio Alonso-Padilla,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Microbial storage and its implications for soil ecology. THE ISME JOURNAL 2022; 16:617-629. [PMID: 34593996 PMCID: PMC8857262 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-021-01110-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Organisms throughout the tree of life accumulate chemical resources, in particular forms or compartments, to secure their availability for future use. Here we review microbial storage and its ecological significance by assembling several rich but disconnected lines of research in microbiology, biogeochemistry, and the ecology of macroscopic organisms. Evidence is drawn from various systems, but we pay particular attention to soils, where microorganisms play crucial roles in global element cycles. An assembly of genus-level data demonstrates the likely prevalence of storage traits in soil. We provide a theoretical basis for microbial storage ecology by distinguishing a spectrum of storage strategies ranging from surplus storage (storage of abundant resources that are not immediately required) to reserve storage (storage of limited resources at the cost of other metabolic functions). This distinction highlights that microorganisms can invest in storage at times of surplus and under conditions of scarcity. We then align storage with trait-based microbial life-history strategies, leading to the hypothesis that ruderal species, which are adapted to disturbance, rely less on storage than microorganisms adapted to stress or high competition. We explore the implications of storage for soil biogeochemistry, microbial biomass, and element transformations and present a process-based model of intracellular carbon storage. Our model indicates that storage can mitigate against stoichiometric imbalances, thereby enhancing biomass growth and resource-use efficiency in the face of unbalanced resources. Given the central roles of microbes in biogeochemical cycles, we propose that microbial storage may be influential on macroscopic scales, from carbon cycling to ecosystem stability.
Collapse
|
16
|
Wang X, Wang WX. Intracellular Biotransformation of Cu(II)/Cu(I) Explained High Cu Toxicity to Phytoplankton Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:14772-14781. [PMID: 34647741 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c05408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The toxicity of Cu is related to its redox species, but the differential toxicity of Cu(II) and Cu(I) remains unknown. In the present study, we developed a novel protocol to simultaneously detect the biologically produced extracellular Cu(I) and internalized Cu(II) in a freshwater phytoplankton Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The intracellular Cu(I) was further imaged using a fluorometric probe. Combining these pieces of evidence, we demonstrated that Cu(I) dominated the Cu toxicity in algal cells under Fe-deficient conditions. Our results showed that the labile Cu(I) content increased significantly in the low Fe quota cells. Intracellular biotransformation from Cu(II) to Cu(I) rather than the direct uptake of Cu(I) was responsible for the high Cu toxicity. The abnormal biotransformation from Cu(II) to Cu(I) under Fe deficiency was not resulted from the increase of overall Cu bioaccumulation but was likely due to the change of Cu(II) metabolism. High contents of Cu(II) were accumulated in the normal cells and the low Zn quota cells upon Cu exposure but did not induce cell death, further suggesting that Cu(I) dominated the Cu toxicity to the algae. This is the first study to simultaneously consider the effect of Cu(I) and Cu(II) during Cu exposure in phytoplankton. The results uncovered the underlying mechanisms of high Cu toxicity under Fe deficiency and highlighted the critical role of modulation of Cu metabolism in phytoplankton.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangrui Wang
- School of Energy and Environment and Hong Kong Branch of the Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Wen-Xiong Wang
- School of Energy and Environment and Hong Kong Branch of the Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Müller WEG, Neufurth M, Lieberwirth I, Muñoz-Espí R, Wang S, Schröder HC, Wang X. Triple-target stimuli-responsive anti-COVID-19 face mask with physiological virus-inactivating agents. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:6052-6063. [PMID: 34190748 PMCID: PMC8439182 DOI: 10.1039/d1bm00502b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Conventional face masks to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission are mostly based on a passive filtration principle. Ideally, anti-COVID-19 masks should protect the carrier not only by size exclusion of virus aerosol particles, but also be able to capture and destroy or inactivate the virus. Here we present the proof-of-concept of a filter mat for such a mask, which actively attracts aerosol droplets and kills the virus. The electrospun mats are made of polycaprolactone (PCL) a hydrophilic, functionalizable and biodegradable polyester, into which inorganic polyphosphate (polyP) a physiological biocompatible, biodegradable and antivirally active polymer (chain length, ∼40 Pi units) has been integrated. A soluble Na-polyP as well as amorphous calcium polyP nanoparticles (Ca-polyP-NP) have been used. In this composition, the polyP component of the polyP-PCL mats is stable in aqueous protein-free environment, but capable of transforming into a gel-like coacervate upon contact with divalent cations and protein like mucin present in (virus containing) aerosol droplets. In addition, the Ca-polyP-NP are used as a carrier of tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid) which blocks the function of the SARS-CoV-2 envelope (E) protein, an ion channel forming viroporin. The properties of this novel mask filter mats are as follows: First, to attract and to trap virus-like particles during the polyP coacervate formation induced in situ by aerosol droplets on the spun PCL fibers, as shown here by using SARS-CoV-2 mimicking fluorescent nanoparticles. Second, after disintegration the NP by the aerosol-mucus constituents, to release polyP that binds to and abolishes the function of the receptor binding domain of the viral spike protein. Third, to destroy the virus by releasing tretinoin, as shown by the disruption of virus-mimicking liposomes with the integrated recombinant viral viroporin. It is proposed that these properties, which are inducible (stimuli responsive), will allow the design of antiviral masks that are smart.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Werner E G Müller
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
- NanotecMARIN GmbH, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Meik Neufurth
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
| | - Ingo Lieberwirth
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Rafael Muñoz-Espí
- Institute of Materials Science (ICMUV), Universitat de València, C/Catedràtic José Beltrán 2, 46980 Paterna, València, Spain
| | - Shunfeng Wang
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
| | - Heinz C Schröder
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
- NanotecMARIN GmbH, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Xenotropic and polytropic retrovirus receptor 1 regulates procoagulant platelet polyphosphate. Blood 2021; 137:1392-1405. [PMID: 32932519 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019004617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyphosphate is a procoagulant inorganic polymer of linear-linked orthophosphate residues. Multiple investigations have established the importance of platelet polyphosphate in blood coagulation; however, the mechanistic details of polyphosphate homeostasis in mammalian species remain largely undefined. In this study, xenotropic and polytropic retrovirus receptor 1 (XPR1) regulated polyphosphate in platelets and was implicated in thrombosis in vivo. We used bioinformatic analyses of omics data to identify XPR1 as a major phosphate transporter in platelets. XPR1 messenger RNA and protein expression inversely correlated with intracellular polyphosphate content and release. Pharmacological interference with XPR1 activity increased polyphosphate stores, led to enhanced platelet-driven coagulation, and amplified thrombus formation under flow via the polyphosphate/factor XII pathway. Conditional gene deletion of Xpr1 in platelets resulted in polyphosphate accumulation, accelerated arterial thrombosis, and augmented activated platelet-driven pulmonary embolism without increasing bleeding in mice. These data identify platelet XPR1 as an integral regulator of platelet polyphosphate metabolism and reveal a fundamental role for phosphate homeostasis in thrombosis.
Collapse
|
19
|
Londero VS, Costa-Silva TA, Antar GM, Baitello JB, de Oliveira LVF, Camilo FF, Batista ANL, Batista JM, Tempone AG, Lago JHG. Antitrypanosomal Lactones from Nectandra barbellata. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2021; 84:1489-1497. [PMID: 33857368 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.0c01303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Twigs of Nectandra barbellata were extracted using a solution of the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide (BMImBr) in H2O, assisted by microwave (MAE). After successive chromatographic steps, one sesquiterpene, costic acid, and three new related lactones, (R)-3(7)-Z-3-hexadec-21-enylidene-5-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2-one (1), (R)-3(7)-Z-3-hexadecylidene-5-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2-one (2), and (R)-3(7)-Z-3-docosylidene-5-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2-one (3), were isolated. After structural elucidation using IR, UV, HRESIMS, NMR, ECD, and VCD, compounds 1-3 were tested against trypomastigote forms of Trypanosoma cruzi. The mechanism of action of bioactive isolated compounds was studied using different fluorescent-based approaches to investigate alterations of the plasma membrane, permeability/electric potential (ΔΨp), reactive oxygen species levels, mitochondria (electric membrane potential, ΔΨm/ATP levels), Ca2+ levels, and pH of the acidocalcisomes. In addition, in silico studies predicted no resemblance to pan assay interference compounds (PAINS).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius S Londero
- Institute of Environmental, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Thais A Costa-Silva
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, São Paulo 09210-170, Brazil
| | - Guilherme M Antar
- Department of Botany, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil
| | - João B Baitello
- Dasonomy Division, Instituto Florestal, São Paulo 02377-000, Brazil
| | - Larissa V F de Oliveira
- Institute of Environmental, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Fernanda F Camilo
- Institute of Environmental, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Andrea N L Batista
- Institute of Chemistry, Fluminense Federal University, Rio de Janeiro 24220-900, Brazil
| | - Joao M Batista
- Institute of Science and Technology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo 12231-280, Brazil
| | - Andre G Tempone
- Centre for Parasitology and Mycology, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo 01246-902, Brazil
| | - Joao Henrique G Lago
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, São Paulo 09210-170, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Lander N, Chiurillo MA, Docampo R. Signaling pathways involved in environmental sensing in Trypanosoma cruzi. Mol Microbiol 2021; 115:819-828. [PMID: 33034088 PMCID: PMC8032824 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi is a unicellular parasite and the etiologic agent of Chagas disease. The parasite has a digenetic life cycle alternating between mammalian and insect hosts, where it faces a variety of environmental conditions to which it must adapt in order to survive. The adaptation to these changes is mediated by signaling pathways that coordinate the cellular responses to the new environmental settings. Major environmental changes include temperature, nutrient availability, ionic composition, pH, osmolarity, oxidative stress, contact with host cells and tissues, host immune response, and intracellular life. Some of the signaling pathways and second messengers potentially involved in the response to these changes have been elucidated in recent years and will be the subject of this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Lander
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, and Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Miguel A. Chiurillo
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, and Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Roberto Docampo
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, and Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Molecular characterization and transcriptional regulation of two types of H +-pyrophosphatases in the scuticociliate parasite Philasterides dicentrarchi. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8519. [PMID: 33875762 PMCID: PMC8055999 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88102-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Proton-translocating inorganic pyrophosphatases (H+-PPases) are an ancient family of membrane bound enzymes that couple pyrophosphate (PPi) hydrolysis to H+ translocation across membranes. In this study, we conducted a molecular characterization of two isoenzymes (PdVP1 and PdVP2) located in respectively the alveolar sacs and in the membranes of the intracellular vacuoles of a scuticociliate parasite (Philasterides dicentrarchi) of farmed turbot. We analyzed the genetic expression of the isoenzymes after administration of antiparasitic drugs and after infection in the host. PdVP1 and PdVP2 are encoded by two genes of 2485 and 3069 bp, which respectively contain 3 and 11 exons and express proteins of 746 and 810 aa of molecular mass 78.9 and 87.6 kDa. Topological predictions from isoenzyme sequences indicate the formation of thirteen transmembrane regions (TMRs) for PdVP1 and seventeen TMRs for PdVP2. Protein structure modelling indicated that both isoenzymes are homodimeric, with three Mg2+ binding sites and an additional K+ binding site in PdVP2. The levels of identity and similarity between the isoenzyme sequences are respectively 33.5 and 51.2%. The molecular weights of the native proteins are 158 kDa (PdVP1) and 178 kDa (PdVP2). The isoenzyme sequences are derived from paralogous genes that form a monophyletic grouping with other ciliate species. Genetic expression of the isoenzymes is closely related to the acidification of alveolar sacs (PdVP1) and intracellular vacuoles (PdVP2): antiparasitic drugs inhibit transcription, while infection increases transcription of both isoenzymes. The study findings show that P. dicentrarchi possesses two isoenzymes with H+-PPase activity which are located in acidophilic cell compartment membranes and which are activated during infection in the host and are sensitive to antiparasitic drugs. The findings open the way to using molecular modelling to design drugs for the treatment of scuticociliatosis.
Collapse
|
22
|
Stasic AJ, Dykes EJ, Cordeiro CD, Vella SA, Fazli MS, Quinn S, Docampo R, Moreno SNJ. Ca 2+ entry at the plasma membrane and uptake by acidic stores is regulated by the activity of the V-H + -ATPase in Toxoplasma gondii. Mol Microbiol 2021; 115:1054-1068. [PMID: 33793004 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ca2+ is a universal intracellular signal that regulates many cellular functions. In Toxoplasma gondii, the controlled influx of extracellular and intracellular Ca2+ into the cytosol initiates a signaling cascade that promotes pathogenic processes like tissue destruction and dissemination. In this work, we studied the role of proton transport in cytosolic Ca2+ homeostasis and the initiation of Ca2+ signaling. We used a T. gondii mutant of the V-H+ -ATPase, a pump previously shown to transport protons to the extracellular medium, and to control intracellular pH and membrane potential and we show that proton gradients are important for maintaining resting cytosolic Ca2+ at physiological levels and for Ca2+ influx. Proton transport was also important for Ca2+ storage by acidic stores and, unexpectedly, the endoplasmic reticulum. Proton transport impacted the amount of polyphosphate (polyP), a phosphate polymer that binds Ca2+ and concentrates in acidocalcisomes. This was supported by the co-localization of the vacuolar transporter chaperone 4 (VTC4), the catalytic subunit of the VTC complex that synthesizes polyP, with the V-ATPase in acidocalcisomes. Our work shows that proton transport regulates plasma membrane Ca2+ transport and control acidocalcisome polyP and Ca2+ content, impacting Ca2+ signaling and downstream stimulation of motility and egress in T. gondii.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Stasic
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Georgia, GA, USA
| | - Eric J Dykes
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Georgia, GA, USA.,Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Ciro D Cordeiro
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Georgia, GA, USA.,Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Stephen A Vella
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Georgia, GA, USA
| | - Mojtaba S Fazli
- Department of Computer Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Shannon Quinn
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.,Department of Computer Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Roberto Docampo
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Georgia, GA, USA.,Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Silvia N J Moreno
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Georgia, GA, USA.,Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Waghwani HK, Douglas T. Cytochrome C with peroxidase-like activity encapsulated inside the small DPS protein nanocage. J Mater Chem B 2021; 9:3168-3179. [PMID: 33885621 DOI: 10.1039/d1tb00234a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Nature utilizes self-assembled protein-based structures as subcellular compartments in prokaryotes to sequester catalysts for specialized biochemical reactions. These protein cage structures provide unique isolated environments for the encapsulated enzymes. Understanding these systems is useful in the bioinspired design of synthetic catalytic organelle-like nanomaterials. The DNA binding protein from starved cells (Dps), isolated from Sulfolobus solfataricus, is a 9 nm dodecameric protein cage making it the smallest known naturally occurring protein cage. It is naturally over-expressed in response to oxidative stress. The small size, natural biodistribution to the kidney, and ability to cross the glomerular filtration barrier in in vivo experiments highlight its potential as a synthetic antioxidant. Cytochrome C (CytC) is a small heme protein with peroxidase-like activity involved in the electron transport chain and also plays a critical role in cellular apoptosis. Here we report the encapsulation of CytC inside the 5 nm interior cavity of Dps and demonstrate the catalytic activity of the resultant Dps nanocage with enhanced antioxidant behavior. The small cavity can accommodate a single CytC and this was achieved through self-assembly of chimeric cages comprising Dps subunits and a Dps subunit to which the CytC was fused. For selective isolation of CytC containing Dps cages, we utilized engineered polyhistidine tag present only on the enzyme fused Dps subunits (6His-Dps-CytC). The catalytic activity of encapsulated CytC was studied using guaiacol and 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) as two different peroxidase substrates and compared to the free (unencapsulated) CytC activity. The encapsulated CytC showed better pH dependent catalytic activity compared to free enzyme and provides a proof-of-concept model to engineer these small protein cages for their potential as catalytic nanoreactors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hitesh Kumar Waghwani
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 E Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Denoncourt A, Downey M. Model systems for studying polyphosphate biology: a focus on microorganisms. Curr Genet 2021; 67:331-346. [PMID: 33420907 DOI: 10.1007/s00294-020-01148-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Polyphosphates (polyP) are polymers of inorganic phosphates joined by high-energy bonds to form long chains. These chains are present in all forms of life but were once disregarded as 'molecular fossils'. PolyP has gained attention in recent years following new links to diverse biological roles ranging from energy storage to cell signaling. PolyP research in humans and other higher eukaryotes is limited by a lack of suitable tools and awaits the identification of enzymatic players that would enable more comprehensive studies. Therefore, many of the most important insights have come from single-cell model systems. Here, we review determinants of polyP metabolism, regulation, and function in major microbial systems, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and algae. We highlight key similarities and differences that may aid in our understanding of how polyP impacts cell physiology at a molecular level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alix Denoncourt
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, K1H 8M5, Canada.,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Michael Downey
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, K1H 8M5, Canada. .,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, K1H 8M5, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Hu CX, Zeng J, Hao HN, Xu YXY, Liu F, Liu RD, Long SR, Wang ZQ, Cui J. Biological properties and roles of a Trichinella spiralis inorganic pyrophosphatase in molting and developmental process of intestinal larval stages. Vet Res 2021; 52:6. [PMID: 33413587 PMCID: PMC7791673 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-020-00877-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Inorganic pyrophosphatase (PPase) participates in energy cycle and plays a vital role in hydrolysis of inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi) into inorganic phosphate (Pi). The aim of this study was to investigate the biological properties of a Trichinella spiralis PPase (TsPPase) and its role in larval molting and developmental process. The predicted TsPPase consisted of 367 amino acids with a molecular mass of 41.48 kDa and a pI of 5.76. Amino acid sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis showed that the TsPPase gene encodes a functional family I soluble PPase with the same characteristics as prokaryotic, plant and animal/fungal soluble PPase. The rTsPPase was expressed and purified, it has the activity to catalyze the hydrolysis of PPi to Pi, and the activity was dependent on Mg2+, pH and temperature. The enzymatic activity of rTsPPase was significantly inhibited after its metal binding sites mutation. TsPPase was transcribed and expressed in all T. spiralis phases, especially in muscle larvae (ML) and intestinal infective larvae (IIL). Immunofluorescence assay (IFA) revealed that TsPPase was mainly located in cuticle and stichosome. When the ML and IIL were treated with TsPPase-specific siRNA-279, TsPPase expression and enzymatic activity were obviously reduced, the larval molting and development were also impeded. Intestinal IIL as well as AW burden, IIL molting rates from mice infected with siRNA-treated ML were obviously suppressed. The results indicated that rTsPPase possesses the enzymatic activity of native inorganic pyrophosphatase, and TsPPase plays an important role in development and molting process of intestinal T. spiralis larval stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Xi Hu
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jie Zeng
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Hui Nan Hao
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yang Xiu Yue Xu
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Ruo Dan Liu
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Shao Rong Long
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Zhong Quan Wang
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Jing Cui
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
The IP 3 receptor and Ca 2+ signaling in trypanosomes. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1868:118947. [PMID: 33421534 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.118947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi, and the T. brucei group of parasites cause neglected diseases that affect millions of people around the world. These unicellular microorganisms have complex life cycles involving an insect vector and a mammalian host. Both groups of pathogens possess an inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)/diacylglycerol (DAG) signaling pathway, and an IP3 receptor, but with lineage-specific adaptations that make them different from their mammalian counterparts. The phospholipase C (PLC), which hydrolyzes phosphatidyl inositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) to IP3 is N-terminally myristoylated and palmitoylated. Acidocalcisomes, which are lysosome-related organelles rich in polyphosphate, are the main intracellular Ca2+ stores. The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) localizes to acidocalcisomes instead of the endoplasmic reticulum. The trypanosome IP3R is stimulated by luminal phosphate and pyrophosphate, which are hydrolysis products of polyphosphate (polyP), and inhibited by tripolyphosphate (polyP3), which is the most abundant polyP in acidocalcisomes. Ca2+ signaling is important for host cell invasion and differentiation and to maintain cellular bioenergetics.
Collapse
|
27
|
Scarpelli PH, Pecenin MF, Garcia CRS. Intracellular Ca 2+ Signaling in Protozoan Parasites: An Overview with a Focus on Mitochondria. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22010469. [PMID: 33466510 PMCID: PMC7796463 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ca2+ signaling has been involved in controling critical cellular functions such as activation of proteases, cell death, and cell cycle control. The endoplasmatic reticulum plays a significant role in Ca2+ storage inside the cell, but mitochondria have long been recognized as a fundamental Ca2+ pool. Protozoan parasites such as Plasmodium falciparum, Toxoplasma gondii, and Trypanosoma cruzi display a Ca2+ signaling toolkit with similarities to higher eukaryotes, including the participation of mitochondria in Ca2+-dependent signaling events. This review summarizes the most recent knowledge in mitochondrial Ca2+ signaling in protozoan parasites, focusing on the mechanism involved in mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake by pathogenic protists.
Collapse
|
28
|
Wallnöfer EA, Thurner GC, Kremser C, Talasz H, Stollenwerk MM, Helbok A, Klammsteiner N, Albrecht-Schgoer K, Dietrich H, Jaschke W, Debbage P. Albumin-based nanoparticles as contrast medium for MRI: vascular imaging, tissue and cell interactions, and pharmacokinetics of second-generation nanoparticles. Histochem Cell Biol 2020; 155:19-73. [PMID: 33040183 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-020-01919-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This multidisciplinary study examined the pharmacokinetics of nanoparticles based on albumin-DTPA-gadolinium chelates, testing the hypothesis that these nanoparticles create a stronger vessel signal than conventional gadolinium-based contrast agents and exploring if they are safe for clinical use. Nanoparticles based on human serum albumin, bearing gadolinium and designed for use in magnetic resonance imaging, were used to generate magnet resonance images (MRI) of the vascular system in rats ("blood pool imaging"). At the low nanoparticle doses used for radionuclide imaging, nanoparticle-associated metals were cleared from the blood into the liver during the first 4 h after nanoparticle application. At the higher doses required for MRI, the liver became saturated and kidney and spleen acted as additional sinks for the metals, and accounted for most processing of the nanoparticles. The multiple components of the nanoparticles were cleared independently of one another. Albumin was detected in liver, spleen, and kidneys for up to 2 days after intravenous injection. Gadolinium was retained in the liver, kidneys, and spleen in significant concentrations for much longer. Gadolinium was present as significant fractions of initial dose for longer than 2 weeks after application, and gadolinium clearance was only complete after 6 weeks. Our analysis could not account quantitatively for the full dose of gadolinium that was applied, but numerous organs were found to contain gadolinium in the collagen of their connective tissues. Multiple lines of evidence indicated intracellular processing opening the DTPA chelates and leading to gadolinium long-term storage, in particular inside lysosomes. Turnover of the stored gadolinium was found to occur in soluble form in the kidneys, the liver, and the colon for up to 3 weeks after application. Gadolinium overload poses a significant hazard due to the high toxicity of free gadolinium ions. We discuss the relevance of our findings to gadolinium-deposition diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E A Wallnöfer
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - G C Thurner
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Müllerstrasse 59, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - C Kremser
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - H Talasz
- Division of Clinical Biochemistry, Biocenter, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80-82, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - M M Stollenwerk
- Faculty of Health and Society, Biomedical Laboratory Science, University Hospital MAS, Malmö University, 205 06, Malmö, Sweden
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Müllerstrasse 59, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - A Helbok
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Innsbruck Medical University, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - N Klammsteiner
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Müllerstrasse 59, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - K Albrecht-Schgoer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Institute of Pharmacy, Leopold-Franzens-University Innsbruck, Innrain 80-82/IV, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
- Institute of Cell Genetics, Department for Pharmacology and Genetics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Peter-Mayr-Strasse 1a, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - H Dietrich
- Central Laboratory Animal Facilities, Innsbruck Medical University, Peter-Mayr-Strasse 4a, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - W Jaschke
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - P Debbage
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Müllerstrasse 59, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Sanz-Luque E, Bhaya D, Grossman AR. Polyphosphate: A Multifunctional Metabolite in Cyanobacteria and Algae. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 11:938. [PMID: 32670331 PMCID: PMC7332688 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.00938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Polyphosphate (polyP), a polymer of orthophosphate (PO4 3-) of varying lengths, has been identified in all kingdoms of life. It can serve as a source of chemical bond energy (phosphoanhydride bond) that may have been used by biological systems prior to the evolution of ATP. Intracellular polyP is mainly stored as granules in specific vacuoles called acidocalcisomes, and its synthesis and accumulation appear to impact a myriad of cellular functions. It serves as a reservoir for inorganic PO4 3- and an energy source for fueling cellular metabolism, participates in maintaining adenylate and metal cation homeostasis, functions as a scaffold for sequestering cations, exhibits chaperone function, covalently binds to proteins to modify their activity, and enables normal acclimation of cells to stress conditions. PolyP also appears to have a role in symbiotic and parasitic associations, and in higher eukaryotes, low polyP levels seem to impact cancerous proliferation, apoptosis, procoagulant and proinflammatory responses and cause defects in TOR signaling. In this review, we discuss the metabolism, storage, and function of polyP in photosynthetic microbes, which mostly includes research on green algae and cyanobacteria. We focus on factors that impact polyP synthesis, specific enzymes required for its synthesis and degradation, sequestration of polyP in acidocalcisomes, its role in cellular energetics, acclimation processes, and metal homeostasis, and then transition to its potential applications for bioremediation and medical purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuel Sanz-Luque
- Department of Plant Biology, The Carnegie Institution for Science, Stanford, CA, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Devaki Bhaya
- Department of Plant Biology, The Carnegie Institution for Science, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Arthur R. Grossman
- Department of Plant Biology, The Carnegie Institution for Science, Stanford, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Frank C, Jendrossek D. Acidocalcisomes and Polyphosphate Granules Are Different Subcellular Structures in Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Appl Environ Microbiol 2020; 86:e02759-19. [PMID: 32060025 PMCID: PMC7117937 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02759-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Acidocalcisomes are membrane-enclosed, polyphosphate-containing acidic organelles in lower Eukaryota but have also been described for Agrobacterium tumefaciens (M. Seufferheld, M. Vieira, A. Ruiz, C. O. Rodrigues, S. Moreno, and R. Docampo, J Biol Chem 278:29971-29978, 2003, https://doi.org/10.1074/jbc.M304548200). This study aimed at the characterization of polyphosphate-containing acidocalcisomes in this alphaproteobacterium. Unexpectedly, fluorescence microscopic investigation of A. tumefaciens cells using fluorescent dyes and localization of constructed fusions of polyphosphate kinases (PPKs) and of vacuolar H+-translocating pyrophosphatase (HppA) with enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (eYFP) suggested that acidocalcisomes and polyphosphate are different subcellular structures. Acidocalcisomes and polyphosphate granules were frequently located close together, near the cell poles. However, they never shared the same position. Mutant strains of A. tumefaciens with deletions of both ppk genes (Δppk1 Δppk2) were unable to form polyphosphate but still showed cell pole-located eYFP-HppA foci and could be stained with MitoTracker. In conclusion, A. tumefaciens forms polyP granules that are free of a surrounding membrane and thus resemble polyP granules of Ralstonia eutropha and other bacteria. The composition, contents, and function of the subcellular structures that are stainable with MitoTracker and harbor eYFP-HppA remain unclear.IMPORTANCE The uptake of alphaproteobacterium-like cells by ancestors of eukaryotic cells and subsequent conversion of these alphaproteobacterium-like cells to mitochondria are thought to be key steps in the evolution of the first eukaryotic cells. The identification of acidocalcisomes in two alphaproteobacterial species some years ago and the presence of homologs of the vacuolar proton-translocating pyrophosphatase HppA, a marker protein of the acidocalcisome membrane in eukaryotes, in virtually all species within the alphaproteobacteria suggest that eukaryotic acidocalcisomes might also originate from related structures in ancestors of alphaproteobacterial species. Accordingly, alphaproteobacterial acidocalcisomes and eukaryotic acidocalcisomes should have similar features. Since hardly any information is available on bacterial acidocalcisomes, this study aimed at the characterization of organelle-like structures in alphaproteobacterial cells, with A. tumefaciens as an example.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celina Frank
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Dieter Jendrossek
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Schoijet AC, Sternlieb T, Alonso GD. Signal Transduction Pathways as Therapeutic Target for Chagas Disease. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:6572-6589. [PMID: 31218950 DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666190620093029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Trypanosomatids are a group of flagellated unicellular eukaryotes, causing serious human diseases including Chagas disease (Trypanosoma cruzi), sleeping sickness (Trypanosoma brucei spp.) and Leishmaniasis (Leishmania spp.). The second messenger cAMP is involved in numerous and fundamental processes in these parasites including differentiation between stages, proliferation, osmoregulation, oxidative stress and quorum sensing. Interestingly, its signaling pathway is quite different from that of mammals, including structurally different adenylyl cyclases, the shortage of orthologous effector proteins and the absence of G-protein-coupled-receptors, among others. These characteristics make the proteins involved in these transduction pathways good candidates for therapeutic targets. However, the identification of new unknown druggable targets involves extensive research time and is economically very expensive, making difficult the transition from basic research to the clinical phase. Trypanosomatid PDEs have characteristic binding pockets that allow for a differential inhibition from their human orthologs. Modification in the approved drugs for human to convert them into trypanocidal treatments could lead to more effective therapies, shorter lab time and lower costs. In view of the fact that kinetoplastid PDEs are highly conserved with their mammalian counterparts, and since there are already numerous drugs on the market against human PDEs, the drug repositioning approach is highly promising. The development of new technologies, higher government and industrial involvement and more scientists committed to basic investigation, are the key to ultimately find an effective treatment and cure for the neglected tropical diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Cecilia Schoijet
- Laboratorio de Senalizacion y Mecanismos Adaptativos en Tripanosomatidos, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingenieria Genetica y Biologia Molecular "Dr. Hector N. Torres"; Vuelta de Obligado 2490 (C1428ADN), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tamara Sternlieb
- Laboratorio de Senalizacion y Mecanismos Adaptativos en Tripanosomatidos, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingenieria Genetica y Biologia Molecular "Dr. Hector N. Torres"; Vuelta de Obligado 2490 (C1428ADN), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Guillermo Daniel Alonso
- Laboratorio de Senalizacion y Mecanismos Adaptativos en Tripanosomatidos, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingenieria Genetica y Biologia Molecular "Dr. Hector N. Torres"; Vuelta de Obligado 2490 (C1428ADN), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Departamento de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Müller WE, Schröder HC, Wang X. Inorganic Polyphosphates As Storage for and Generator of Metabolic Energy in the Extracellular Matrix. Chem Rev 2019; 119:12337-12374. [PMID: 31738523 PMCID: PMC6935868 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.9b00460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Inorganic polyphosphates (polyP) consist of linear chains of orthophosphate residues, linked by high-energy phosphoanhydride bonds. They are evolutionarily old biopolymers that are present from bacteria to man. No other molecule concentrates as much (bio)chemically usable energy as polyP. However, the function and metabolism of this long-neglected polymer are scarcely known, especially in higher eukaryotes. In recent years, interest in polyP experienced a renaissance, beginning with the discovery of polyP as phosphate source in bone mineralization. Later, two discoveries placed polyP into the focus of regenerative medicine applications. First, polyP shows morphogenetic activity, i.e., induces cell differentiation via gene induction, and, second, acts as an energy storage and donor in the extracellular space. Studies on acidocalcisomes and mitochondria provided first insights into the enzymatic basis of eukaryotic polyP formation. In addition, a concerted action of alkaline phosphatase and adenylate kinase proved crucial for ADP/ATP generation from polyP. PolyP added extracellularly to mammalian cells resulted in a 3-fold increase of ATP. The importance and mechanism of this phosphotransfer reaction for energy-consuming processes in the extracellular matrix are discussed. This review aims to give a critical overview about the formation and function of this unique polymer that is capable of storing (bio)chemically useful energy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Werner E.G. Müller
- ERC Advanced Investigator
Grant Research
Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Heinz C. Schröder
- ERC Advanced Investigator
Grant Research
Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- ERC Advanced Investigator
Grant Research
Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Duesbergweg 6, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Meade JC. P-type transport ATPases in Leishmania and Trypanosoma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 26:69. [PMID: 31782726 PMCID: PMC6884021 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2019069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
P-type ATPases are critical to the maintenance and regulation of cellular ion homeostasis and membrane lipid asymmetry due to their ability to move ions and phospholipids against a concentration gradient by utilizing the energy of ATP hydrolysis. P-type ATPases are particularly relevant in human pathogenic trypanosomatids which are exposed to abrupt and dramatic changes in their external environment during their life cycles. This review describes the complete inventory of ion-motive, P-type ATPase genes in the human pathogenic Trypanosomatidae; eight Leishmania species (L. aethiopica, L. braziliensis, L. donovani, L. infantum, L. major, L. mexicana, L. panamensis, L. tropica), Trypanosoma cruzi and three Trypanosoma brucei subspecies (Trypanosoma brucei brucei TREU927, Trypanosoma brucei Lister strain 427, Trypanosoma brucei gambiense DAL972). The P-type ATPase complement in these trypanosomatids includes the P1B (metal pumps), P2A (SERCA, sarcoplasmic-endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPases), P2B (PMCA, plasma membrane calcium ATPases), P2D (Na+ pumps), P3A (H+ pumps), P4 (aminophospholipid translocators), and P5B (no assigned specificity) subfamilies. These subfamilies represent the P-type ATPase transport functions necessary for survival in the Trypanosomatidae as P-type ATPases for each of these seven subfamilies are found in all Leishmania and Trypanosoma species included in this analysis. These P-type ATPase subfamilies are correlated with current molecular and biochemical knowledge of their function in trypanosomatid growth, adaptation, infectivity, and survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John C Meade
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Guerra ED, Baakdah F, Gourgas O, Tam M, Stevenson MM, Georges E, Bohle DS, Cerruti M. Inorganic ions on hemozoin surface provide a glimpse into Plasmodium biology. J Inorg Biochem 2019; 200:110808. [PMID: 31487576 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2019.110808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In malaria, Plasmodium parasites produce hemozoin (Hz) as a route to detoxify free heme released from the catabolism of hemoglobin. Hz isolated from the parasites is encapsulated in an organic layer constituted by parasite and host components. This organic coating may play a role in Hz formation and in the immunomodulatory properties attributed to Hz, and they may influence the mode of action of antimalarials that block Hz formation. In this work, we analyze the organic layer adhered to Hz, and find Na, Cl, Si, Ca and P present, in addition to organic material. Our results suggest that Na, Cl, and P adsorb during Hz release from the red blood cells, while Si and Ca derive from components present during Hz biomineralization within the digestive vacuole of the parasite. Overall, we show that inorganic elements associated with Hz surface provide insights into the biological functions of Plasmodium parasites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Danae Guerra
- Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B2, Canada
| | - Fadi Baakdah
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Ste Anne de Bellevue, Quebec H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - Ophélie Gourgas
- Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B2, Canada
| | - Mifong Tam
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Mary M Stevenson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Elias Georges
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Ste Anne de Bellevue, Quebec H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - D Scott Bohle
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada
| | - Marta Cerruti
- Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B2, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Galaka T, Falcone BN, Li C, Szajnman SH, Moreno SNJ, Docampo R, Rodriguez JB. Synthesis and biological evaluation of 1-alkylaminomethyl-1,1-bisphosphonic acids against Trypanosoma cruzi and Toxoplasma gondii. Bioorg Med Chem 2019; 27:3663-3673. [PMID: 31296439 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
As an extension of our project aimed at the search for new chemotherapeutic agents against Chagas disease and toxoplasmosis, several 1,1-bisphosphonates were designed, synthesized and biologically evaluated against Trypanosoma cruzi and Toxoplasma gondii, the etiologic agents of these diseases, respectively. In particular, and based on the antiparasitic activity exhibited by 2-alkylaminoethyl-1,1-bisphosphonates targeting farnesyl diphosphate synthase, a series of linear 2-alkylaminomethyl-1,1-bisphosphonic acids (compounds 21-33), that is, the position of the amino group was one carbon closer to the gem-phosphonate moiety, were evaluated as growth inhibitors against the clinically more relevant dividing form (amastigotes) of T. cruzi. Although all of these compounds resulted to be devoid of antiparasitic activity, these results were valuable for a rigorous SAR study. In addition, unexpectedly, the synthetic designed 2-cycloalkylaminoethyl-1,1-bisphosphonic acids 47-49 were free of antiparasitic activity. Moreover, long chain sulfur-containing 1,1-bisphosphonic acids, such as compounds 54-56, 59, turned out to be nanomolar growth inhibitors of tachyzoites of T. gondii. As many bisphosphonate-containing molecules are FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of bone resorption disorders, their potential nontoxicity makes them good candidates to control American trypanosomiasis and toxoplasmosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamila Galaka
- Departamento de Química Orgánica and UMYMFOR (CONICET-FCEyN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Pabellón 2, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EHA Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Bruno N Falcone
- Departamento de Química Orgánica and UMYMFOR (CONICET-FCEyN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Pabellón 2, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EHA Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Catherine Li
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases and Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Sergio H Szajnman
- Departamento de Química Orgánica and UMYMFOR (CONICET-FCEyN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Pabellón 2, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EHA Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvia N J Moreno
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases and Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Roberto Docampo
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases and Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Juan B Rodriguez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica and UMYMFOR (CONICET-FCEyN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Pabellón 2, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EHA Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Martinez-Sotillo N, Pinto-Martínez A, Hejchman E, Benaim G. Antiproliferative effect of a benzofuran derivate based on the structure of amiodarone on Leishmania donovani affecting mitochondria, acidocalcisomes and intracellular Ca 2+ homeostasis. Parasitol Int 2019; 70:112-117. [PMID: 30794871 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2019.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease representing an important problem of public health. Visceral leishmaniasis, resulting from infection with Leishmania donovani, causes considerable mortality and morbidity in the poorest region of the word. At present there is no current effective treatment, since the approved, drugs are expensive and are not free of undesirable side effects. Therefore, there is a need for the identification of new drugs. In this context, the parasite Ca2+ regulatory mechanisms in which mitochondria and acidocalcisomes are involved have been postulated as important targets for several trypanocidal drugs. Thus, amiodarone and dronedarone, common human antiarrythmics, exert its known action on these parasites through the disruption of the intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. AMIODER is a benzofuran derivate based on the structure of amiodarone that recently demonstrates a significant effect on Trypanosoma cruzi. We now report the effect of AMIODER on Leishmania donovani demonstrating that it inhibit the growth of promastigotes and also of amastigotes inside macrophages, the clinically relevant stage of the parasite, obtaining IC50 values significantly lower than those reported for T. cruzi. We also show that this compound disrupted Ca2+ homeostasis in L. donovani, through its action on two organelles involved in the intracellular Ca2+ regulation and on the bioenergetics of the parasite. AMIODER totally collapsed the electrochemical membrane potential of the unique giant mitochondrion and simultaneously induced the alkalinization of acidocalcisomes, driving together to a large increase in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration of the parasite as the main mechanism of action of this benzofurane derivative.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia Martinez-Sotillo
- Instituto de Estudios Avanzados (IDEA), Caracas, Venezuela; Instituto de Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
| | | | - Elżbieta Hejchman
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Gustavo Benaim
- Instituto de Estudios Avanzados (IDEA), Caracas, Venezuela; Instituto de Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Arneth B. Coevolution of the coagulation and immune systems. Inflamm Res 2019; 68:117-123. [PMID: 30604212 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-018-01210-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Higher organisms rely on the coagulation and immune systems to fight disease-causing pathogens and other foreign invaders in the body. Coagulation has an important role as a barrier against foreign bodies, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. The protective responses associated with the coagulation and immune systems can protect the host organism from a wide range of pathogens, such as viruses, parasites, fungi, and even bacteria. AIM The purpose of this paper was to review available research on the evolution of the coagulation and immune systems. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study analyzed evidence from studies that have examined the coagulation and immune systems in the context of evolutionary processes. The articles used in the review were identified from the PsycINFO, CIHAHL, PubMed, Web of Science, and CIHAHL databases. RESULTS Studies have shown that both the coagulation system and the early immune system originated from the same initial system in early organisms. Some researchers argue that hemocytes from lower organisms are the common link from which the immune system and coagulation system developed. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Simple organisms have hemocytes that can carry out both immune response and coagulation processes. Evolution led to the separation of these processes in higher organisms. Furthermore, this divergence resulted in the emergence of thrombocytes and plasmatic coagulation subsystems. These observations explain why there is some form of overlap between immunity and hemostasis, even in advanced organisms such as vertebrates. Several phenomena in clinical medicine related to coagulation and immunity can be explained by this overlap and are consistent with the hypothesis of the coevolution of coagulation and the immune system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Borros Arneth
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, University Hospital of the Universities of Marburg and Giessen UKGM, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Feulgenstr. 12, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
|
39
|
Baker CJ, Smith SA, Morrissey JH. Polyphosphate in thrombosis, hemostasis, and inflammation. Res Pract Thromb Haemost 2019; 3:18-25. [PMID: 30656272 PMCID: PMC6332810 DOI: 10.1002/rth2.12162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
This illustrated review focuses on polyphosphate as a potent modulator of the plasma clotting cascade, with possible roles in hemostasis, thrombosis, and inflammation. Polyphosphates are highly anionic, linear polymers of inorganic phosphates that are widespread throughout biology. Infectious microorganisms accumulate polyphosphates with widely varying polymer lengths (from a few phosphates to over a thousand phosphates long), while activated human platelets secrete polyphosphate with a very narrow size distribution (about 60-100 phosphates long). Work from our lab and others has shown that long-chain polyphosphate is a potent trigger of clotting via the contact pathway, while polyphosphate of the size secreted by platelets accelerates factor V activation, blocks the anticoagulant activity of tissue factor pathway inhibitor, promotes factor XI activation by thrombin, and makes fibrin fibrils thicker and more resistant to fibrinolysis. Polyphosphate also modulates inflammation by triggering bradykinin release, inhibiting the complement system, and modulating endothelial function. Polyphosphate and nucleic acids have similar physical properties and both will trigger the contact pathway-although polyphosphate is orders of magnitude more procoagulant than either DNA or RNA. Important caveats in these studies include observations that nucleic acids and polyphosphate may co-purify, and that these preparations can be contaminated with highly procoagulant microparticles if silica-based purification methods are employed. Polyphosphate has received attention as a possible therapeutic, with some recent studies exploring the use of polyphosphate in a variety of formulations to control bleeding. Other studies are investigating treatments that block polyphosphate function as novel antithrombotics with the possibility of reduced bleeding side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine J. Baker
- Department of Biological ChemistryUniversity of Michigan Medical SchoolAnn ArborMichigan
| | - Stephanie A. Smith
- Department of Biological ChemistryUniversity of Michigan Medical SchoolAnn ArborMichigan
| | - James H. Morrissey
- Department of Biological ChemistryUniversity of Michigan Medical SchoolAnn ArborMichigan
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Ma J, Dai R, Chen M, Khan SJ, Wang Z. Applications of membrane bioreactors for water reclamation: Micropollutant removal, mechanisms and perspectives. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2018; 269:532-543. [PMID: 30195697 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2018.08.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) have attracted attention in water reclamation as a result of the recent technical advances and cost reduction in membranes. However, the increasing occurrence of micropollutants in wastewaters has posed new challenges. Therefore, we reviewed the current state of research to identify the outstanding needs in this field. In general, the fate of micropollutants in MBRs relates to sorption, biodegradation and membrane separation processes. Hydrophobic, nonionized micropollutants are favorable in sorption, and the biological degradation shows higher efficiency at relatively long SRTs (30-40 days) and HRTs (20-30 h), as a result of co-metabolism, metabolism and/or ion trapping. Although the membrane rejection rates for micropollutants are generally minor, final water quality can be improved via combination with other technologies. This review highlights the challenges and perspectives that should be addressed to facilitate the extended use of MBRs for the removal of micropollutants in water reclamation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinxing Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Safety, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China; UNSW Water Research Centre, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Ruobin Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Safety, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Mei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Safety, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Stuart J Khan
- UNSW Water Research Centre, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Safety, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Deng J, Lo YH, Gallagher-Jones M, Chen S, Pryor A, Jin Q, Hong YP, Nashed YSG, Vogt S, Miao J, Jacobsen C. Correlative 3D x-ray fluorescence and ptychographic tomography of frozen-hydrated green algae. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2018; 4:eaau4548. [PMID: 30406204 PMCID: PMC6214637 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aau4548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Accurate knowledge of elemental distributions within biological organisms is critical for understanding their cellular roles. The ability to couple this knowledge with overall cellular architecture in three dimensions (3D) deepens our understanding of cellular chemistry. Using a whole, frozen-hydrated Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cell as an example, we report the development of 3D correlative microscopy through a combination of simultaneous cryogenic x-ray ptychography and x-ray fluorescence microscopy. By taking advantage of a recently developed tomographic reconstruction algorithm, termed GENeralized Fourier Iterative REconstruction (GENFIRE), we produce high-quality 3D maps of the unlabeled alga's cellular ultrastructure and elemental distributions within the cell. We demonstrate GENFIRE's ability to outperform conventional tomography algorithms and to further improve the reconstruction quality by refining the experimentally intended tomographic angles. As this method continues to advance with brighter coherent light sources and more efficient data handling, we expect correlative 3D x-ray fluorescence and ptychographic tomography to be a powerful tool for probing a wide range of frozen-hydrated biological specimens, ranging from small prokaryotes such as bacteria, algae, and parasites to large eukaryotes such as mammalian cells, with applications that include understanding cellular responses to environmental stimuli and cell-to-cell interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junjing Deng
- Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL 60439, USA
| | - Yuan Hung Lo
- Department of Physics and Astronomy and California NanoSystems Institute, University of California Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Marcus Gallagher-Jones
- Department of Physics and Astronomy and California NanoSystems Institute, University of California Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1570, USA
| | - Si Chen
- Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL 60439, USA
| | - Alan Pryor
- Department of Physics and Astronomy and California NanoSystems Institute, University of California Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Qiaoling Jin
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Young Pyo Hong
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Youssef S. G. Nashed
- Mathematics and Computing Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL 60439, USA
| | - Stefan Vogt
- Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL 60439, USA
| | - Jianwei Miao
- Department of Physics and Astronomy and California NanoSystems Institute, University of California Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Corresponding author. (J.M.); (C.J.)
| | - Chris Jacobsen
- Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL 60439, USA
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Corresponding author. (J.M.); (C.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Angelova PR, Iversen KZ, Teschemacher AG, Kasparov S, Gourine AV, Abramov AY. Signal transduction in astrocytes: Localization and release of inorganic polyphosphate. Glia 2018; 66:2126-2136. [PMID: 30260496 PMCID: PMC6282517 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Inorganic polyphosphate (polyP) is present in every cell and is highly conserved from primeval times. In the mammalian cells, polyP plays multiple roles including control of cell bioenergetics and signal transduction. In the brain, polyP mediates signaling between astrocytes via activation of purinergic receptors, however, the mechanisms of polyP release remain unknown. Here we report identification of polyP-containing vesicles in cortical astrocytes and the main triggers that evoke vesicular polyP release. In cultured astrocytes, polyP was localized predominantly within the intracellular vesicular compartments which express vesicular nucleotide transporter VNUT (putative ATP-containing vesicles), but not within the compartments expressing vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VGLUT2). The number of lysosomes which contain polyP was dependent on the conditions of astrocytes. Release of polyP from a proportion of lysosomes could be induced by calcium ionophores. In contrast, polyP release from the VNUT-containing vesicles could be triggered by various physiological stimuli, such as pH changes, polyP induced polyP release and other stimuli which increase [Ca2+ ] i . These data suggest that astrocytes release polyP predominantly via exocytosis from the VNUT-containing vesicles. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Plamena R. Angelova
- Department of Molecular NeuroscienceUCL Institute of Neurology, Queen SquareLondon, WC1N 3BGUnited Kingdom
| | - Kathrine Z. Iversen
- Department of Molecular NeuroscienceUCL Institute of Neurology, Queen SquareLondon, WC1N 3BGUnited Kingdom
| | - Anja G. Teschemacher
- School of Physiology and PharmacologyUniversity of Bristol, University WalkBristol, BS8 1TDUnited Kingdom
| | - Sergey Kasparov
- School of Physiology and PharmacologyUniversity of Bristol, University WalkBristol, BS8 1TDUnited Kingdom
- Baltic Federal University2 Universitetskaya str, Kaliningrad, 236000Russian Federation
| | - Alexander V. Gourine
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, Physiology, and PharmacologyUniversity College LondonGower Street, London, WC1E 6BTUnited Kingdom
| | - Andrey Y. Abramov
- Department of Molecular NeuroscienceUCL Institute of Neurology, Queen SquareLondon, WC1N 3BGUnited Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Kohl K, Zangger H, Rossi M, Isorce N, Lye LF, Owens KL, Beverley SM, Mayer A, Fasel N. Importance of polyphosphate in the Leishmania life cycle. MICROBIAL CELL 2018; 5:371-384. [PMID: 30175107 PMCID: PMC6116282 DOI: 10.15698/mic2018.08.642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Protozoan parasites contain negatively charged polymers of a few up to several hundreds of phosphate residues. In other organisms, these poly-phosphate (polyP) chains serve as an energy source and phosphate reservoir, and have been implicated in adaptation to stress and virulence of pathogenic organisms. In this study, we confirmed first that the polyP polymerase vacuolar transporter chaperone 4 (VTC4) is responsible for polyP synthesis in Leishmania parasites. During Leishmaniain vitro culture, polyP is accumulated in logarithmic growth phase and subsequently consumed once stationary phase is reached. However, polyP is not essential since VTC4-deficient (vtc4-) Leishmania proliferated normally in culture and differentiated into infective metacyclic parasites and into intracellular and axenic amastigotes. In in vivo mouse infections, L. majorVTC4 knockout showed a delay in lesion formation but ultimately gave rise to strong pathology, although we were unable to restore virulence by complementation to confirm this phenotype. Knockdown of VTC4 did not alter the course of L. guyanensis infections in mice, suggesting that polyP was not required for infection, or that very low levels of it suffice for lesion development. At higher temperatures, Leishmania promastigotes highly consumed polyP, and both knockdown or deletion of VTC4 diminished parasite survival. Thus, although polyP was not essential in the life cycle of the parasite, our data suggests a role for polyP in increasing parasite survival at higher temperatures, a situation faced by the parasite when transmitted to humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kid Kohl
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Haroun Zangger
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Matteo Rossi
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Isorce
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Lon-Fye Lye
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Katherine L Owens
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Stephen M Beverley
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Andreas Mayer
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Fasel
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Penen F, Isaure MP, Dobritzsch D, Bertalan I, Castillo-Michel H, Proux O, Gontier E, Le Coustumer P, Schaumlöffel D. Pools of cadmium in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii revealed by chemical imaging and XAS spectroscopy. Metallomics 2018; 9:910-923. [PMID: 28598481 DOI: 10.1039/c7mt00029d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The green micro-alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is commonly used as a model to investigate metallic stress in photosynthetic organisms. The aim of this study was to explore processes implemented by three C. reinhardtii strains to cope with cadmium (Cd), and particularly to evidence Cd sequestration in the cell. For that, we used a combination of subcellular fractionation and chemical imaging (micro X-ray fluorescence (μXRF) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM/X-EDS)) to identify subcellular compartments of Cd accumulation, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) to determine chemical Cd speciation. C. reinhardtii wild type strain 11/32b (wt), a newly design strain (pcs1) expressing a modified phytochelatin synthase in the chloroplast and a cell wall less strain CC400 (cw15) were exposed to 70 μM Cd. At this Cd concentration, cell vitality was not affected, however, the strains showed various strategies to cope with Cd stress. In wt, most of Cd was diffused in the whole cell, and complexed by thiol ligands, while the other part was associated with phosphate in vacuolar Ca polyphosphate granules. Thiol ligands increased with exposure time, confirming their important role in Cd stress. In pcs1, Cd was also present as vacuolar Ca polyphosphate granules, and diffused in the cell as Cd-thiol complexes. In addition, while it should be regarded with caution, a minor proportion of Cd complexed by carboxyl groups, was potentially provided by starch produced around the pyrenoid and in the chloroplast. Results suggested that pcs1 uses thiol compounds such as PC to a lesser extent for Cd sequestration than wt. In cw15, an excretion of Cd, Ca polyphosphate granules has to be considered. Finally, Cd was detected in the pyrenoid of all strains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Penen
- Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour, CNRS, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physico-Chimie pour l'Environnement et les Matériaux (IPREM), UMR 5254, Hélioparc, 2 avenue Pierre Angot, 64053 Pau, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Jojic B, Amodeo S, Bregy I, Ochsenreiter T. Distinct 3' UTRs regulate the life-cycle-specific expression of two TCTP paralogs in Trypanosoma brucei. J Cell Sci 2018; 131:jcs.206417. [PMID: 29661850 PMCID: PMC5992589 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.206417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP; also known as TPT1 in mammals) is highly conserved and ubiquitously expressed in eukaryotes. It is involved in growth and development, cell cycle progression, protection against cellular stresses and apoptosis, indicating the multifunctional role of the protein. Here, for the first time, we characterize the expression and function of TCTP in the human and animal pathogen, Trypanosoma brucei. We identified two paralogs (TCTP1 and TCTP2) that are differentially expressed in the life cycle of the parasite. The genes have identical 5′ untranslated regions (UTRs) and almost identical open-reading frames. The 3′UTRs differ substantially in sequence and length, and are sufficient for the exclusive expression of TCTP1 in procyclic- and TCTP2 in bloodstream-form parasites. Furthermore, we characterize which parts of the 3′UTR are needed for TCTP2 mRNA stability. RNAi experiments demonstrate that TCTP1 and TCTP2 expression is essential for normal cell growth in procyclic- and bloodstream-form parasites, respectively. Depletion of TCTP1 in the procyclic form cells leads to aberrant cell and mitochondrial organelle morphology, as well as enlarged, and a reduced number of, acidocalcisomes. Summary:T. brucei has two TCTP genes that are differentially expressed during the parasite life cycle owing to their different 3′UTRs. TCTP also has a role in regulating cell growth and morphology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Borka Jojic
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | - Simona Amodeo
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland.,Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | - Irina Bregy
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Pinto-Martinez A, Hernández-Rodríguez V, Rodríguez-Durán J, Hejchman E, Benaim G. Anti-Trypanosoma cruzi action of a new benzofuran derivative based on amiodarone structure. Exp Parasitol 2018; 189:8-15. [PMID: 29684665 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2018.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Chagas disease is a neglected tropical affection caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. There is no current effective treatment since the only two available drugs have a limited efficacy and produce side effects. Thus, investigation efforts have been directed to the identification of new drug leads. In this context, Ca2+ regulating mechanisms have been postulated as targets for antiparasitic compounds, since they present paramount differences when compared to host cells. Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic with demonstrated trypanocidal activity acting through the disruption of the parasite intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. We now report the effect of a benzofuran derivative based on the structure of amiodarone on T. cruzi. This derivative was able to inhibit the growth of epimastigotes in culture and of amastigotes inside infected cells, the clinically relevant phase. We also show that this compound, similarly to amiodarone, disrupts Ca2+ homeostasis in T. cruzi epimastigotes, via two organelles involved in the intracellular Ca2+ regulation and the bioenergetics of the parasite. We demonstrate that the benzofuran derivative was able to totally collapse the membrane potential of the unique giant mitochondrion of the parasite and simultaneously produced the alkalinization of the acidocalcisomes. Both effects are evidenced by a large increase in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration of T. cruzi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Elżbieta Hejchman
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Gustavo Benaim
- Instituto de Estudios Avanzados (IDEA), Caracas, Venezuela; Instituto de Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Role of the potassium/lysine cationic center in catalysis and functional asymmetry in membrane-bound pyrophosphatases. Biochem J 2018. [PMID: 29519958 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20180071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Membrane-bound pyrophosphatases (mPPases), which couple pyrophosphate hydrolysis to transmembrane transport of H+ and/or Na+ ions, are divided into K+,Na+-independent, Na+-regulated, and K+-dependent families. The first two families include H+-transporting mPPases (H+-PPases), whereas the last family comprises one Na+-transporting, two Na+- and H+-transporting subfamilies (Na+-PPases and Na+,H+-PPases, respectively), and three H+-transporting subfamilies. Earlier studies of the few available model mPPases suggested that K+ binds to a site located adjacent to the pyrophosphate-binding site, but is substituted by the ε-amino group of an evolutionarily acquired lysine residue in the K+-independent mPPases. Here, we performed a systematic analysis of the K+/Lys cationic center across all mPPase subfamilies. An Ala → Lys replacement in K+-dependent mPPases abolished the K+ dependence of hydrolysis and transport activities and decreased these activities close to the level (4-7%) observed for wild-type enzymes in the absence of monovalent cations. In contrast, a Lys → Ala replacement in K+,Na+-independent mPPases conferred partial K+ dependence on the enzyme by unmasking an otherwise conserved K+-binding site. Na+ could partially replace K+ as an activator of K+-dependent mPPases and the Lys → Ala variants of K+,Na+-independent mPPases. Finally, we found that all mPPases were inhibited by excess substrate, suggesting strong negative co-operativity of active site functioning in these homodimeric enzymes; moreover, the K+/Lys center was identified as part of the mechanism underlying this effect. These findings suggest that the mPPase homodimer possesses an asymmetry of active site performance that may be an ancient prototype of the rotational binding-change mechanism of F-type ATPases.
Collapse
|
48
|
Gulde R, Anliker S, Kohler HPE, Fenner K. Ion Trapping of Amines in Protozoa: A Novel Removal Mechanism for Micropollutants in Activated Sludge. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2018; 52:52-60. [PMID: 29182849 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b03556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
To optimize removal of organic micropollutants from the water cycle, understanding the processes during activated sludge treatment is essential. In this study, we hypothesize that aliphatic amines, which are highly abundant among organic micropollutants, are partly removed from the water phase in activated sludge through ion trapping in protozoa. In ion trapping, which has been extensively investigated in medical research, the neutral species of amine-containing compounds diffuse through the cell membrane and further into acidic vesicles present in eukaryotic cells such as protozoa. There they become trapped because diffusion of the positively charged species formed in the acidic vesicles is strongly hindered. We tested our hypothesis with two experiments. First, we studied the distribution of the fluorescent amine acridine orange in activated sludge by confocal fluorescence imaging. We observed intense fluorescence in distinct compartments of the protozoa, but not in the bacterial biomass. Second, we investigated the distribution of 12 amine-containing and eight control micropollutants in both regular activated sludge and sludge where the protozoa had been inactivated. In contrast to most control compounds, the amine-containing micropollutants displayed a distinctly different behavior in the noninhibited sludge compared to the inhibited one: (i) more removal from the liquid phase; (ii) deviation from first-order kinetics for the removal from the liquid phase; and (iii) higher amounts in the solid phase. These results provide strong evidence that ion trapping in protozoa occurs and that it is an important removal mechanism for amine-containing micropollutants in batch experiments with activated sludge that has so far gone unnoticed. We expect that our findings will trigger further investigations on the importance of this process in full-scale wastewater treatment systems, including its relevance for accumulation of ammonium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebekka Gulde
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology , 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Anliker
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology , 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, ETH Zürich , 8092 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Hans-Peter E Kohler
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology , 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, ETH Zürich , 8092 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Kathrin Fenner
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology , 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, ETH Zürich , 8092 Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Zürich , 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Müller WEG, Ackermann M, Wang S, Neufurth M, Muñoz-Espí R, Feng Q, Schröder HC, Wang X. Inorganic polyphosphate induces accelerated tube formation of HUVEC endothelial cells. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:21-32. [PMID: 28770290 PMCID: PMC11105250 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-017-2601-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the effect of inorganic polyphosphate (polyP) on the initial phase of angiogenesis and vascularization was investigated, applying the HUVEC cell tube formation assay. PolyP is a physiological and high energy phosphate polymer which has been proposed to act as a metabolic fuel in the extracellular space with only a comparably low ATP content. The experiments revealed that polyP accelerates tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), seeded onto a solidified basement membrane extract matrix which contains polyP-metabolizing alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. This effect is abolished by co-addition of apyrase, which degrades ATP to AMP and inorganic phosphate. The assumption that ATP, derived from polyP, activates HUVEC cells leading to tube formation was corroborated by experiments showing that addition of polyP to the cells causes a strong rise of ATP level in the culture medium. Finally, we show that at a later stage of cultivation of HUVEC cells, after 3 d, polyP causes a strong enhancement of the expression of the genes encoding for the two major matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) released by endothelial cells during tube formation, MMP-9 and MMP-2. This stimulatory effect is again abrogated by addition of apyrase together with polyP. From these results, we propose that polyP is involved either directly or indirectly in energy supply, via ALP-mediated transfer of energy-rich phosphate under ATP formation. This ATP is utilized for the activation and oriented migration of endothelial cells and for the matrix organization during the initial phases of tube formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Werner E G Müller
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Duesbergweg 6, 55128, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Maximilian Ackermann
- Institute of Functional and Clinical Anatomy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Johann Joachim Becher Weg 13, 55099, Mainz, Germany
| | - Shunfeng Wang
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Duesbergweg 6, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Meik Neufurth
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Duesbergweg 6, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Rafael Muñoz-Espí
- Institute of Materials Science (ICMUV), Universitat de València, C/Catedràtic José, Beltrán 2, Paterna, 46980, València, Spain
| | - Qingling Feng
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials of Ministry of Education of China, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Heinz C Schröder
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Duesbergweg 6, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- ERC Advanced Investigator Grant Research Group at the Institute for Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Duesbergweg 6, 55128, Mainz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Mühlroth A, Winge P, El Assimi A, Jouhet J, Maréchal E, Hohmann-Marriott MF, Vadstein O, Bones AM. Mechanisms of Phosphorus Acquisition and Lipid Class Remodeling under P Limitation in a Marine Microalga. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2017; 175:1543-1559. [PMID: 29051196 PMCID: PMC5717724 DOI: 10.1104/pp.17.00621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms of phosphorus (P) limitation are of great interest for understanding algal production in aquatic ecosystems. Previous studies point to P limitation-induced changes in lipid composition. As, in microalgae, the molecular mechanisms of this specific P stress adaptation remain unresolved, we reveal a detailed phospholipid-recycling scheme in Nannochloropsis oceanica and describe important P acquisition genes based on highly corresponding transcriptome and lipidome data. Initial responses to P limitation showed increased expression of genes involved in P uptake and an expansion of the P substrate spectrum based on purple acid phosphatases. Increase in P trafficking displayed a rearrangement between compartments by supplying P to the chloroplast and carbon to the cytosol for lipid synthesis. We propose a novel phospholipid-recycling scheme for algae that leads to the rapid reduction of phospholipids and synthesis of the P-free lipid classes. P mobilization through membrane lipid degradation is mediated mainly by two glycerophosphoryldiester phosphodiesterases and three patatin-like phospholipases A on the transcriptome level. To compensate for low phospholipids in exponential growth, N. oceanica synthesized sulfoquinovosyldiacylglycerol and diacylglyceroltrimethylhomoserine. In this study, it was shown that an N. oceanica strain has a unique repertoire of genes that facilitate P acquisition and the degradation of phospholipids compared with other stramenopiles. The novel phospholipid-recycling scheme opens new avenues for metabolic engineering of lipid composition in algae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Mühlroth
- Department of Biology, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Per Winge
- Department of Biology, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Aimen El Assimi
- Department of Biology, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Juliette Jouhet
- Laboratoire de Physiologie Cellulaire Végétale, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Eric Maréchal
- Laboratoire de Physiologie Cellulaire Végétale, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Martin F Hohmann-Marriott
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Olav Vadstein
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Atle M Bones
- Department of Biology, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| |
Collapse
|