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Abou-Ghali M, Lallemand-Breitenbach V. PML Nuclear bodies: the cancer connection and beyond. Nucleus 2024; 15:2321265. [PMID: 38411156 PMCID: PMC10900273 DOI: 10.1080/19491034.2024.2321265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Promyelocytic leukemia (PML) nuclear bodies, membrane-less organelles in the nucleus, play a crucial role in cellular homeostasis. These dynamic structures result from the assembly of scaffolding PML proteins and various partners. Recent crystal structure analyses revealed essential self-interacting domains, while liquid-liquid phase separation contributes to their formation. PML bodies orchestrate post-translational modifications, particularly stress-induced SUMOylation, impacting target protein functions. Serving as hubs in multiple signaling pathways, they influence cellular processes like senescence. Dysregulation of PML expression contributes to diseases, including cancer, highlighting their significance. Therapeutically, PML bodies are promising targets, exemplified by successful acute promyelocytic leukemia treatment with arsenic trioxide and retinoic acid restoring PML bodies. Understanding their functions illuminates both normal and pathological cellular physiology, guiding potential therapies. This review explores recent advancements in PML body biogenesis, biochemical activity, and their evolving biological roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majdouline Abou-Ghali
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université 11 PSL, Paris, France
- Saint-Louis Research Institute, Paris, France
| | - Valérie Lallemand-Breitenbach
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université 11 PSL, Paris, France
- Saint-Louis Research Institute, Paris, France
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2
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Chen F, Li X, Guo W, Wang Y, Guo M, Shum HC. Size Scaling of Condensates in Multicomponent Phase Separation. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:16000-16009. [PMID: 38809420 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c02906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Constant proportionalities between cells and their intracellular organelles have been widely observed in various types of cells, known as intracellular size scaling. However, the mechanism underlying the size scaling and its modulation by environmental factors in multicomponent systems remain poorly understood. Here, we study the size scaling of membrane-less condensates using microdroplet-encapsulated minimalistic condensates formed by droplet microfluidics and mean-field theory. We demonstrate that the size scaling of condensates is an inherent characteristic of liquid-liquid phase separation. This concept is supported by experiments showing the occurrence of size scaling phenomena in various condensate systems and a generic lever rule acquired from mean-field theory. Moreover, it is found that the condensate-to-microdroplet scaling ratio can be affected by the solute and salt concentrations, with good agreement between experiments and predictions by theory. Notably, we identify a noise buffering mechanism whereby condensates composed of large macromolecules effectively maintain constant volumes and counteract concentration fluctuations of small molecules. This mechanism is achieved through the dynamic rearrangement of small molecules in and out of membrane-free interfaces. Our work provides crucial insights into understanding mechanistic principles that govern the size of cells and intracellular organelles as well as associated biological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feipeng Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong (SAR) 999077, China
| | - Xiufeng Li
- Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong (SAR) 999077, China
- College of Food Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong (SAR) 999077, China
- Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong (SAR) 999077, China
| | - Yuchao Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong (SAR) 999077, China
| | - Ming Guo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Ho Cheung Shum
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong (SAR) 999077, China
- Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong (SAR) 999077, China
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3
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Kodan N, Hussaini R, Weber SC, Kondev J, Mohapatra L. Transcription templated assembly of the nucleolus in the C. elegans embryo. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.06.597440. [PMID: 38895351 PMCID: PMC11185672 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.06.597440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The nucleolus is a multicomponent structure made of RNA and proteins that serves as the site of ribosome biogenesis within the nucleus. It has been extensively studied as a prototype of a biomolecular condensate whose assembly is driven by phase separation. While the steady-state size of the nucleolus is quantitatively accounted for by the thermodynamics of phase separation, we show that experimental measurements of the assembly dynamics are inconsistent with a simple model of a phase-separating system relaxing to its equilibrium state. Instead, we show that the dynamics are well described by a model in which the transcription of ribosomal RNA actively drives nucleolar assembly. We find that our model of active transcription-templated assembly quantitatively accounts for the rapid kinetics observed in early embryos at different developmental stages, and for different RNAi perturbations of embryo size. Our model predicts a scaling of the time to assembly with the volume of the nucleus to the one-third power, which is confirmed by experimental data. Our study highlights the role of active processes such as transcription in controlling the placement and timing of assembly of membraneless organelles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishant Kodan
- School of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY 14623, USA
| | - Rabeya Hussaini
- Department of Physics, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Stephanie C Weber
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1B1, Canada
- Department of Physics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2T8, Canada
| | - Jane Kondev
- Department of Physics, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA 02454, USA
| | - Lishibanya Mohapatra
- School of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY 14623, USA
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4
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Manohar S, Neurohr GE. Too big not to fail: emerging evidence for size-induced senescence. FEBS J 2024; 291:2291-2305. [PMID: 37986656 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Cellular senescence refers to a permanent and stable state of cell cycle exit. This process plays an important role in many cellular functions, including tumor suppression. It was first noted that senescence is associated with increased cell size in the early 1960s; however, how this contributes to permanent cell cycle exit was poorly understood until recently. In this review, we discuss new findings that identify increased cell size as not only a consequence but also a cause of permanent cell cycle exit. We highlight recent insights into how increased cell size alters normal cellular physiology and creates homeostatic imbalances that contribute to senescence induction. Finally, we focus on the potential clinical implications of these findings in the context of cell cycle arrest-causing cancer therapeutics and speculate on how tumor cell size changes may impact outcomes in patients treated with these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandhya Manohar
- Department of Biology, Institute for Biochemistry, ETH Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Gabriel E Neurohr
- Department of Biology, Institute for Biochemistry, ETH Zürich, Switzerland
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5
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Lee M, Moon HC, Jeong H, Kim DW, Park HY, Shin Y. Optogenetic control of mRNA condensation reveals an intimate link between condensate material properties and functions. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3216. [PMID: 38622120 PMCID: PMC11018775 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47442-x] [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: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates, often assembled through phase transition mechanisms, play key roles in organizing diverse cellular activities. The material properties of condensates, ranging from liquid droplets to solid-like glasses or gels, are key features impacting the way resident components associate with one another. However, it remains unclear whether and how different material properties would influence specific cellular functions of condensates. Here, we combine optogenetic control of phase separation with single-molecule mRNA imaging to study relations between phase behaviors and functional performance of condensates. Using light-activated condensation, we show that sequestering target mRNAs into condensates causes translation inhibition. Orthogonal mRNA imaging reveals highly transient nature of interactions between individual mRNAs and condensates. Tuning condensate composition and material property towards more solid-like states leads to stronger translational repression, concomitant with a decrease in molecular mobility. We further demonstrate that β-actin mRNA sequestration in neurons suppresses spine enlargement during chemically induced long-term potentiation. Our work highlights how the material properties of condensates can modulate functions, a mechanism that may play a role in fine-tuning the output of condensate-driven cellular activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyungseok C Moon
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyeonjeong Jeong
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Dong Wook Kim
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Yoon Park
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA.
| | - Yongdae Shin
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.
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6
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King MR, Ruff KM, Lin AZ, Pant A, Farag M, Lalmansingh JM, Wu T, Fossat MJ, Ouyang W, Lew MD, Lundberg E, Vahey MD, Pappu RV. Macromolecular condensation organizes nucleolar sub-phases to set up a pH gradient. Cell 2024; 187:1889-1906.e24. [PMID: 38503281 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Nucleoli are multicomponent condensates defined by coexisting sub-phases. We identified distinct intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs), including acidic (D/E) tracts and K-blocks interspersed by E-rich regions, as defining features of nucleolar proteins. We show that the localization preferences of nucleolar proteins are determined by their IDRs and the types of RNA or DNA binding domains they encompass. In vitro reconstitutions and studies in cells showed how condensation, which combines binding and complex coacervation of nucleolar components, contributes to nucleolar organization. D/E tracts of nucleolar proteins contribute to lowering the pH of co-condensates formed with nucleolar RNAs in vitro. In cells, this sets up a pH gradient between nucleoli and the nucleoplasm. By contrast, juxta-nucleolar bodies, which have different macromolecular compositions, featuring protein IDRs with very different charge profiles, have pH values that are equivalent to or higher than the nucleoplasm. Our findings show that distinct compositional specificities generate distinct physicochemical properties for condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R King
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Biomolecular Condensates, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kiersten M Ruff
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Biomolecular Condensates, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Andrew Z Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Biomolecular Condensates, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Avnika Pant
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Biomolecular Condensates, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Mina Farag
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Biomolecular Condensates, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jared M Lalmansingh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Biomolecular Condensates, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Tingting Wu
- Center for Biomolecular Condensates, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Electrical and Systems Engineering, James F. McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Martin J Fossat
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Biomolecular Condensates, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Wei Ouyang
- Department of Bioengineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Science for Life Laboratory, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Matthew D Lew
- Center for Biomolecular Condensates, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Electrical and Systems Engineering, James F. McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Emma Lundberg
- Department of Bioengineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Science for Life Laboratory, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michael D Vahey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Biomolecular Condensates, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rohit V Pappu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Biomolecular Condensates, James McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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7
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Ghosh S, Douglas JF. Phase separation in the presence of fractal aggregates. J Chem Phys 2024; 160:104903. [PMID: 38469910 DOI: 10.1063/5.0190196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation in diverse manufacturing and biological contexts often occurs in the presence of aggregated particles or complex-shaped structures that do not actively participate in the phase separation process, but these "background" structures can serve to direct the macroscale phase separation morphology by their local symmetry-breaking presence. We perform Cahn-Hilliard phase-field simulations in two dimensions to investigate the morphological evolution, wetting, and domain growth phenomena during the phase separation of a binary mixture in contact with model fractal aggregates. Our simulations reveal that phase separation initially accelerates around the fractal due to the driving force of wetting, leading to the formation of the target composition patterns about the fractals, as previously observed for circular particles. After the formation of a wetting layer on the fractal, however, we observe a dramatic slowing-down in the kinetics of phase separation, and the characteristic domain size eventually "pins" to a finite value or approaches an asymptotic scaling regime as an ordinary phase if the phase separation loses memory of the aggregates when the scale of phase separation becomes much larger than the aggregate. Furthermore, we perform simulations to examine the effects of compositional interference between fractals with a view to elucidating interesting novel morphological features in the phase-separating mixture. Our findings should be helpful in understanding the qualitative aspects of the phase separation processes in mixtures containing particle aggregates relevant for coating, catalyst, adhesive, and electronic applications as well as in diverse biological contexts, where phase separation occurs in the presence of irregular heterogeneities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriyo Ghosh
- Metallurgical & Materials Engineering Department, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Jack F Douglas
- Materials Science & Engineering Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, USA
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8
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Wang X, Liu J, Mao C, Mao Y. Phase separation-mediated biomolecular condensates and their relationship to tumor. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:143. [PMID: 38383403 PMCID: PMC10880379 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01518-9] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Phase separation is a cellular phenomenon where macromolecules aggregate or segregate, giving rise to biomolecular condensates resembling "droplets" and forming distinct, membrane-free compartments. This process is pervasive in biological cells, contributing to various essential cellular functions. However, when phase separation goes awry, leading to abnormal molecular aggregation, it can become a driving factor in the development of diseases, including tumor. Recent investigations have unveiled the intricate connection between dysregulated phase separation and tumor pathogenesis, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic target. This article provides an overview of recent phase separation research, with a particular emphasis on its role in tumor, its therapeutic implications, and outlines avenues for further exploration in this intriguing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - Jiameng Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - Chaoming Mao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
| | - Yufei Mao
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
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9
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Miyata K, Iwasaki W. Seq2Phase: language model-based accurate prediction of client proteins in liquid-liquid phase separation. BIOINFORMATICS ADVANCES 2023; 4:vbad189. [PMID: 38205268 PMCID: PMC10777356 DOI: 10.1093/bioadv/vbad189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Motivation Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) enables compartmentalization in cells without biological membranes. LLPS plays essential roles in membraneless organelles such as nucleoli and p-bodies, helps regulate cellular physiology, and is linked to amyloid formation. Two types of proteins, scaffolds and clients, are involved in LLPS. However, computational methods for predicting LLPS client proteins from amino-acid sequences remain underdeveloped. Results Here, we present Seq2Phase, an accurate predictor of LLPS client proteins. Information-rich features are extracted from amino-acid sequences by a deep-learning technique, Transformer, and fed into supervised machine learning. Predicted client proteins contained known LLPS regulators and showed localization enrichment into membraneless organelles, confirming the validity of the prediction. Feature analysis revealed that scaffolds and clients have different sequence properties and that textbook knowledge of LLPS-related proteins is biased and incomplete. Seq2Phase achieved high accuracies across human, mouse, yeast, and plant, showing that the method is not overfitted to specific species and has broad applicability. We predict that more than hundreds or thousands of LLPS client proteins remain undiscovered in each species and that Seq2Phase will advance our understanding of still enigmatic molecular and physiological bases of LLPS as well as its roles in disease. Availability and implementation The software codes in Python underlying this article are available at https://github.com/IwasakiLab/Seq2Phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Miyata
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
| | - Wataru Iwasaki
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba 277-0882, Japan
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan
- Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
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10
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Zheng LW, Liu CC, Yu KD. Phase separations in oncogenesis, tumor progressions and metastasis: a glance from hallmarks of cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:123. [PMID: 38110976 PMCID: PMC10726551 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01522-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a novel principle for interpreting precise spatiotemporal coordination in living cells through biomolecular condensate (BMC) formation via dynamic aggregation. LLPS changes individual molecules into membrane-free, droplet-like BMCs with specific functions, which coordinate various cellular activities. The formation and regulation of LLPS are closely associated with oncogenesis, tumor progressions and metastasis, the specific roles and mechanisms of LLPS in tumors still need to be further investigated at present. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the conditions of LLPS and identify mechanisms involved in abnormal LLPS in cancer processes, including tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis from the perspective of cancer hallmarks. We have also reviewed the clinical applications of LLPS in oncologic areas. This systematic summary of dysregulated LLPS from the different dimensions of cancer hallmarks will build a bridge for determining its specific functions to further guide basic research, finding strategies to intervene in LLPS, and developing relevant therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le-Wei Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Cui-Cui Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ke-Da Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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11
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Gao G, Sumrall ES, Pitchiaya S, Bitzer M, Alberti S, Walter NG. Biomolecular condensates in kidney physiology and disease. Nat Rev Nephrol 2023; 19:756-770. [PMID: 37752323 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-023-00767-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
The regulation and preservation of distinct intracellular and extracellular solute microenvironments is crucial for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. In mammals, the kidneys control bodily salt and water homeostasis. Specifically, the urine-concentrating mechanism within the renal medulla causes fluctuations in extracellular osmolarity, which enables cells of the kidney to either conserve or eliminate water and electrolytes, depending on the balance between intake and loss. However, relatively little is known about the subcellular and molecular changes caused by such osmotic stresses. Advances have shown that many cells, including those of the kidney, rapidly (within seconds) and reversibly (within minutes) assemble membraneless, nano-to-microscale subcellular assemblies termed biomolecular condensates via the biophysical process of hyperosmotic phase separation (HOPS). Mechanistically, osmotic cell compression mediates changes in intracellular hydration, concentration and molecular crowding, rendering HOPS one of many related phase-separation phenomena. Osmotic stress causes numerous homo-multimeric proteins to condense, thereby affecting gene expression and cell survival. HOPS rapidly regulates specific cellular biochemical processes before appropriate protective or corrective action by broader stress response mechanisms can be initiated. Here, we broadly survey emerging evidence for, and the impact of, biomolecular condensates in nephrology, where initial concentration buffering by HOPS and its subsequent cellular escalation mechanisms are expected to have important implications for kidney physiology and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoming Gao
- Biophysics Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Emily S Sumrall
- Biophysics Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Markus Bitzer
- Department of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Simon Alberti
- Technische Universität Dresden, Biotechnology Center (BIOTEC) and Center for Molecular and Cellular Engineering (CMCB), Dresden, Germany
| | - Nils G Walter
- Department of Chemistry and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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12
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Liu S, Wu R, Chen L, Deng K, Ou X, Lu X, Li M, Liu C, Chen S, Fu Y, Xu A. CPSF6 regulates alternative polyadenylation and proliferation of cancer cells through phase separation. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113197. [PMID: 37777964 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells usually exhibit shortened 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) due to alternative polyadenylation (APA) to promote cell proliferation and migration. Upregulated CPSF6 leads to a systematic prolongation of 3' UTRs, but CPSF6 expression in tumors is typically higher than that in healthy tissues. This contradictory observation suggests that it is necessary to investigate the underlying mechanism by which CPSF6 regulates APA switching in cancer. Here, we find that CPSF6 can undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), and elevated LLPS is associated with the preferential usage of the distal poly(A) sites. CLK2, a kinase upregulated in cancer cells, destructs CPSF6 LLPS by phosphorylating its arginine/serine-like domain. The reduction of CPSF6 LLPS can lead to a shortened 3' UTR of cell-cycle-related genes and accelerate cell proliferation. These results suggest that CPSF6 LLPS, rather than its expression level, may be responsible for APA regulation in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susu Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Runze Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Liutao Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Ke Deng
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Xin Ou
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Xin Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Mengxia Li
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Chao Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Shangwu Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Yonggui Fu
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China.
| | - Anlong Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China; School of Life Science, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P.R. China.
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13
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Cai Z, Mei S, Zhou L, Ma X, Wuyun Q, Yan J, Ding H. Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation Sheds New Light upon Cardiovascular Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15418. [PMID: 37895097 PMCID: PMC10607581 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015418] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a biophysical process that mediates the precise and complex spatiotemporal coordination of cellular processes. Proteins and nucleic acids are compartmentalized into micron-scale membrane-less droplets via LLPS. These droplets, termed biomolecular condensates, are highly dynamic, have concentrated components, and perform specific functions. Biomolecular condensates have been observed to organize diverse key biological processes, including gene transcription, signal transduction, DNA damage repair, chromatin organization, and autophagy. The dysregulation of these biological activities owing to aberrant LLPS is important in cardiovascular diseases. This review provides a detailed overview of the regulation and functions of biomolecular condensates, provides a comprehensive depiction of LLPS in several common cardiovascular diseases, and discusses the revolutionary therapeutic perspective of modulating LLPS in cardiovascular diseases and new treatment strategies relevant to LLPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Cai
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Shuai Mei
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xiaozhu Ma
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Qidamugai Wuyun
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jiangtao Yan
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
- Genetic Diagnosis Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Hu Ding
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
- Genetic Diagnosis Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
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14
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Liu Q, Yi D, Ding J, Mao Y, Wang S, Ma L, Li Q, Wang J, Zhang Y, Zhao J, Guo S, Liu Z, Guo F, Zhao D, Liang C, Li X, Peng X, Cen S. MOV10 recruits DCP2 to decap human LINE-1 RNA by forming large cytoplasmic granules with phase separation properties. EMBO Rep 2023; 24:e56512. [PMID: 37437058 PMCID: PMC10481665 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202256512] [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: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Long interspersed element 1 (LINE-1) is the only active autonomous mobile element in the human genome. Its transposition can exert deleterious effects on the structure and function of the host genome and cause sporadic genetic diseases. Tight control of LINE-1 mobilization by the host is crucial for genetic stability. In this study, we report that MOV10 recruits the main decapping enzyme DCP2 to LINE-1 RNA and forms a complex of MOV10, DCP2, and LINE-1 RNP, exhibiting liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) properties. DCP2 cooperates with MOV10 to decap LINE-1 RNA, which causes degradation of LINE-1 RNA and thus reduces LINE-1 retrotransposition. We here identify DCP2 as one of the key effector proteins determining LINE-1 replication, and elucidate an LLPS mechanism that facilitates the anti-LINE-1 action of MOV10 and DCP2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Dongrong Yi
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Jiwei Ding
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Yang Mao
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Shujie Wang
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Ling Ma
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Quanjie Li
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Jing Wang
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Yongxin Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Jianyuan Zhao
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Saisai Guo
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Zhenlong Liu
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General HospitalMcGill UniversityMontrealQCCanada
| | - Fei Guo
- Institute of Pathogen BiologyChinese Academy of Medical ScienceBeijingChina
| | - Dongbing Zhao
- National Cancer CenterChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Chen Liang
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General HospitalMcGill UniversityMontrealQCCanada
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
| | - Xiaozhong Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical Primate Research Center, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesSchool of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Shan Cen
- Institute of Medicinal BiotechnologyChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical SchoolBeijingChina
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15
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Freeman TF, Zhao Q, Surya A, Rothe R, Cenik ES. Ribosome biogenesis disruption mediated chromatin structure changes revealed by SRAtac, a customizable end to end analysis pipeline for ATAC-seq. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:512. [PMID: 37658321 PMCID: PMC10472662 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09576-y] [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: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The nucleolus is a large nuclear body that serves as the primary site for ribosome biogenesis. Recent studies have suggested that it also plays an important role in organizing chromatin architecture. However, to establish a causal relationship between nucleolar ribosome assembly and chromatin architecture, genetic tools are required to disrupt nucleolar ribosome biogenesis. In this study, we used ATAC-seq to investigate changes in chromatin accessibility upon specific depletion of two ribosome biogenesis components, RPOA-2 and GRWD-1, in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. To facilitate the analysis of ATAC-seq data, we introduced two tools: SRAlign, an extensible NGS data processing workflow, and SRAtac, a customizable end-to-end ATAC-seq analysis pipeline. Our results revealed highly comparable changes in chromatin accessibility following both RPOA-2 and GRWD-1 perturbations. However, we observed a weak correlation between changes in chromatin accessibility and gene expression. While our findings corroborate the idea of a feedback mechanism between ribosomal RNA synthesis, nucleolar ribosome large subunit biogenesis, and chromatin structure during the L1 stage of C. elegans development, they also prompt questions regarding the functional impact of these alterations on gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor F Freeman
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Qiuxia Zhao
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Agustian Surya
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Reed Rothe
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Elif Sarinay Cenik
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
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16
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Xu D, Chen X, Kuang Y, Hong M, Xu T, Wang K, Huang X, Fu C, Ruan K, Zhu C, Feng X, Guang S. rRNA intermediates coordinate the formation of nucleolar vacuoles in C. elegans. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112915. [PMID: 37537842 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112915] [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: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The nucleolus is the most prominent membraneless organelle within the nucleus. How the nucleolar structure is regulated is poorly understood. Here, we identified two types of nucleoli in C. elegans. Type I nucleoli are spherical and do not have visible nucleolar vacuoles (NoVs), and rRNA transcription and processing factors are evenly distributed throughout the nucleolus. Type II nucleoli contain vacuoles, and rRNA transcription and processing factors exclusively accumulate in the periphery rim. The NoV contains nucleoplasmic proteins and is capable of exchanging contents with the nucleoplasm. The high-order structure of the nucleolus is dynamically regulated in C. elegans. Faithful rRNA processing is important to prohibit NoVs. The depletion of 27SA2 rRNA processing factors resulted in NoV formation. The inhibition of RNA polymerase I (RNAPI) transcription and depletion of two conserved nucleolar factors, nucleolin and fibrillarin, prohibits the formation of NoVs. This finding provides a mechanism to coordinate structure maintenance and gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demin Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Xiangyang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Yan Kuang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Minjie Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Ting Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Ke Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Xinya Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Chuanhai Fu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Ke Ruan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Chengming Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China.
| | - Xuezhu Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China.
| | - Shouhong Guang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The USTC RNA Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China.
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17
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Jones CE, Forsburg SL. Impact of 1,6-hexanediol on Schizosaccharomyces pombe genome stability. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2023; 13:jkad123. [PMID: 37284815 PMCID: PMC10411564 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkad123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Phase separation is a major mechanism of macromolecular condensation within cells. A frequently chosen tool for global disruption of phase separation via weak hydrophobic interactions is treatment with 1,6-hexanediol. This study evaluates the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of treating live fission yeast with 1,6-hexanediol. We find that 1,6-hexanediol causes a drastic decrease in cell survival and growth rate. We also see a reduction in HP1 protein foci and increase in DNA damage foci. However, there is no evidence for increased genomic instability in two classically phase-separated domains, the heterochromatic pericentromere and the nucleolar rDNA repeats. This study reveals that 1,6-hexanediol is a blunt tool for phase separation inhibition and its secondary effects must be taken into consideration during its in vivo use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chance E Jones
- Section of Molecular & Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Susan L Forsburg
- Section of Molecular & Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
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18
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Thewes FC, Krüger M, Sollich P. Composition Dependent Instabilities in Mixtures with Many Components. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2023; 131:058401. [PMID: 37595221 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.131.058401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the phase behavior of mixtures with many components is important in many contexts, including as a key step toward a physics-based description of intracellular compartmentalization. Here, we study phase ordering instabilities in a paradigmatic model that represents the complexity of-e.g., biological-mixtures via random second virial coefficients. Using tools from free probability theory we obtain the exact spinodal curve and the nature of instabilities for a mixture with an arbitrary composition, thus lifting an important restriction in previous work. We show that, by controlling the concentration of only a few components, one can systematically change the nature of the spinodal instability and achieve demixing for realistic scenarios by a strong composition imbalance amplification. This results from a nontrivial interplay of interaction complexity and entropic effects due to the nonuniform composition. Our approach can be extended to include additional systematic interactions, leading to a competition between different forms of demixing as density is varied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe C Thewes
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Matthias Krüger
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Peter Sollich
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- King's College London, Department of Mathematics, Strand, London WC2R 2LS, United Kingdom
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19
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Jevtic Z, Allram M, Grebien F, Schwaller J. Biomolecular Condensates in Myeloid Leukemia: What Do They Tell Us? Hemasphere 2023; 7:e923. [PMID: 37388925 PMCID: PMC10306439 DOI: 10.1097/hs9.0000000000000923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have suggested that several oncogenic and tumor-suppressive proteins carry out their functions in the context of specific membrane-less cellular compartments. As these compartments, generally referred to as onco-condensates, are specific to tumor cells and are tightly linked to disease development, the mechanisms of their formation and maintenance have been intensively studied. Here we review the proposed leukemogenic and tumor-suppressive activities of nuclear biomolecular condensates in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We focus on condensates formed by oncogenic fusion proteins including nucleoporin 98 (NUP98), mixed-lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1, also known as KMT2A), mutated nucleophosmin (NPM1c) and others. We also discuss how altered condensate formation contributes to malignant transformation of hematopoietic cells, as described for promyelocytic leukemia protein (PML) in PML::RARA-driven acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) and other myeloid malignancies. Finally, we discuss potential strategies for interfering with the molecular mechanisms related to AML-associated biomolecular condensates, as well as current limitations of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zivojin Jevtic
- Department of Biomedicine (DBM), University Children’s Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Melanie Allram
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florian Grebien
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Juerg Schwaller
- Department of Biomedicine (DBM), University Children’s Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland
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20
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Ramm B, Schumacher D, Harms A, Heermann T, Klos P, Müller F, Schwille P, Søgaard-Andersen L. Biomolecular condensate drives polymerization and bundling of the bacterial tubulin FtsZ to regulate cell division. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3825. [PMID: 37380708 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39513-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell division is spatiotemporally precisely regulated, but the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. In the social bacterium Myxococcus xanthus, the PomX/PomY/PomZ proteins form a single megadalton-sized complex that directly positions and stimulates cytokinetic ring formation by the tubulin homolog FtsZ. Here, we study the structure and mechanism of this complex in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrate that PomY forms liquid-like biomolecular condensates by phase separation, while PomX self-assembles into filaments generating a single large cellular structure. The PomX structure enriches PomY, thereby guaranteeing the formation of precisely one PomY condensate per cell through surface-assisted condensation. In vitro, PomY condensates selectively enrich FtsZ and nucleate GTP-dependent FtsZ polymerization and bundle FtsZ filaments, suggesting a cell division site positioning mechanism in which the single PomY condensate enriches FtsZ to guide FtsZ-ring formation and division. This mechanism shares features with microtubule nucleation by biomolecular condensates in eukaryotes, supporting this mechanism's ancient origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Ramm
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152, Martinsried, Germany.
- Department of Physics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, 08544, USA.
| | - Dominik Schumacher
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Andrea Harms
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Tamara Heermann
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Philipp Klos
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Müller
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Petra Schwille
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152, Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Lotte Søgaard-Andersen
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany.
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21
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Chen P, Levy DL. Regulation of organelle size and organization during development. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023; 133:53-64. [PMID: 35148938 PMCID: PMC9357868 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
During early embryogenesis, as cells divide in the developing embryo, the size of intracellular organelles generally decreases to scale with the decrease in overall cell size. Organelle size scaling is thought to be important to establish and maintain proper cellular function, and defective scaling may lead to impaired development and disease. However, how the cell regulates organelle size and organization are largely unanswered questions. In this review, we summarize the process of size scaling at both the cell and organelle levels and discuss recently discovered mechanisms that regulate this process during early embryogenesis. In addition, we describe how some recently developed techniques and Xenopus as an animal model can be used to investigate the underlying mechanisms of size regulation and to uncover the significance of proper organelle size scaling and organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Chen
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China.
| | - Daniel L Levy
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA.
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22
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Jin X, Tanaka H, Jin M, Fujita K, Homma H, Inotsume M, Yong H, Umeda K, Kodera N, Ando T, Okazawa H. PQBP5/NOL10 maintains and anchors the nucleolus under physiological and osmotic stress conditions. Nat Commun 2023; 14:9. [PMID: 36599853 PMCID: PMC9813255 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35602-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Polyglutamine binding protein 5 (PQBP5), also called nucleolar protein 10 (NOL10), binds to polyglutamine tract sequences and is expressed in the nucleolus. Using dynamic imaging of high-speed atomic force microscopy, we show that PQBP5/NOL10 is an intrinsically disordered protein. Super-resolution microscopy and correlative light and electron microscopy method show that PQBP5/NOL10 makes up the skeletal structure of the nucleolus, constituting the granule meshwork in the granular component area, which is distinct from other nucleolar substructures, such as the fibrillar center and dense fibrillar component. In contrast to other nucleolar proteins, which disperse to the nucleoplasm under osmotic stress conditions, PQBP5/NOL10 remains in the nucleolus and functions as an anchor for reassembly of other nucleolar proteins. Droplet and thermal shift assays show that the biophysical features of PQBP5/NOL10 remain stable under stress conditions, explaining the spatial role of this protein. PQBP5/NOL10 can be functionally depleted by sequestration with polyglutamine disease proteins in vitro and in vivo, leading to the pathological deformity or disappearance of the nucleolus. Taken together, these findings indicate that PQBP5/NOL10 is an essential protein needed to maintain the structure of the nucleolus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocen Jin
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Hikari Tanaka
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Meihua Jin
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Kyota Fujita
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Hidenori Homma
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Maiko Inotsume
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Huang Yong
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Kenichi Umeda
- Nano Life Science Institute, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Kodera
- Nano Life Science Institute, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Toshio Ando
- Nano Life Science Institute, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Okazawa
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan.
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan.
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23
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Abstract
Phase separation is a key mechanism for intracellular organization, driving the segregation of biomolecules into distinct condensates. Intracellular condensates play diverse functional roles including gene expression, stress response, and cell signaling. Technologies that enable the control of intracellular phase separation can be highly useful not only for a better understanding of the biophysical principles of phase separation processes but also for engineering novel condensates. Here, we describe an optogenetic approach for spatiotemporal control of phase separation in living cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaelim Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongdae Shin
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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24
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Alemasova EE, Lavrik OI. A sePARate phase? Poly(ADP-ribose) versus RNA in the organization of biomolecular condensates. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:10817-10838. [PMID: 36243979 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Condensates are biomolecular assemblies that concentrate biomolecules without the help of membranes. They are morphologically highly versatile and may emerge via distinct mechanisms. Nucleic acids-DNA, RNA and poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) play special roles in the process of condensate organization. These polymeric scaffolds provide multiple specific and nonspecific interactions during nucleation and 'development' of macromolecular assemblages. In this review, we focus on condensates formed with PAR. We discuss to what extent the literature supports the phase separation origin of these structures. Special attention is paid to similarities and differences between PAR and RNA in the process of dynamic restructuring of condensates during their functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizaveta E Alemasova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, SB RAS, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Olga I Lavrik
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, SB RAS, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.,Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
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25
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Do S, Lee C, Lee T, Kim DN, Shin Y. Engineering DNA-based synthetic condensates with programmable material properties, compositions, and functionalities. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabj1771. [PMID: 36240277 PMCID: PMC9565806 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abj1771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates participate in diverse cellular processes, ranging from gene regulation to stress survival. Bottom-up engineering of synthetic condensates advances our understanding of the organizing principle of condensates. It also enables the synthesis of artificial systems with novel functions. However, building synthetic condensates with a predictable organization and function remains challenging. Here, we use DNA as a building block to create synthetic condensates that are assembled through phase separation. The programmability of intermolecular interactions between DNA molecules enables the control over various condensate properties including assembly, composition, and function. Similar to the way intracellular condensates are organized, DNA clients are selectively partitioned into cognate condensates. We demonstrate that the synthetic condensates can accelerate DNA strand displacement reactions and logic gate operation by concentrating specific reaction components. We envision that the DNA-based condensates could help the realization of the high-order functions required to build more life-like artificial systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungho Do
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Chanseok Lee
- Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Taehyun Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Nyun Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Engineering Research, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Corresponding author. (Y.S.); (D.-N.K.)
| | - Yongdae Shin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Corresponding author. (Y.S.); (D.-N.K.)
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26
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Miné-Hattab J, Liu S, Taddei A. Repair Foci as Liquid Phase Separation: Evidence and Limitations. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:1846. [PMID: 36292731 PMCID: PMC9602295 DOI: 10.3390/genes13101846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In response to DNA double strand breaks (DSB), repair proteins accumulate at damaged sites, forming membrane-less condensates or "foci". The formation of these foci and their disassembly within the proper time window are essential for genome integrity. However, how these membrane-less sub-compartments are formed, maintained and disassembled remains unclear. Recently, several studies across different model organisms proposed that DNA repair foci form via liquid phase separation. In this review, we discuss the current research investigating the physical nature of repair foci. First, we present the different models of condensates proposed in the literature, highlighting the criteria to differentiate them. Second, we discuss evidence of liquid phase separation at DNA repair sites and the limitations of this model to fully describe structures formed in response to DNA damage. Finally, we discuss the origin and possible function of liquid phase separation for DNA repair processes.
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27
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Ren CL, Shan Y, Zhang P, Ding HM, Ma YQ. Uncovering the molecular mechanism for dual effect of ATP on phase separation in FUS solution. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabo7885. [PMID: 36103543 PMCID: PMC9473584 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abo7885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies reported that adenosine triphosphate (ATP) could inhibit and enhance the phase separation in prion-like proteins. The molecular mechanism underlying such a puzzling phenomenon remains elusive. Here, taking the fused in sarcoma (FUS) solution as an example, we comprehensively reveal the underlying mechanism by which ATP regulates phase separation by combining the semiempirical quantum mechanical method, mean-field theory, and molecular simulation. At the microscopic level, ATP acts as a bivalent or trivalent binder; at the macroscopic level, the reentrant phase separation occurs in dilute FUS solutions, resulting from the ATP concentration-dependent binding ability under different conditions. The ATP concentration for dissolving the protein condensates is about 10 mM, agreeing with experimental results. Furthermore, from a dynamic point of view, the effect of ATP on phase separation is also nonmonotonic. This work provides a clear physical description of the microscopic interaction and macroscopic phase diagram of the ATP-modulated phase separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Lai Ren
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures and Department of Physics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Yue Shan
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures and Department of Physics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Center for Advanced Low-Dimension Materials, College of Material Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Hong-Ming Ding
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Yu-Qiang Ma
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures and Department of Physics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
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28
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Nucleation of the destruction complex on the centrosome accelerates degradation of β-catenin and regulates Wnt signal transmission. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2204688119. [PMID: 36037369 PMCID: PMC9457612 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2204688119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) governs a variety of mesoscale cellular processes. However, less is known about how cells utilize LLPS to drive cellular function. Here, we examined the destruction complex (DC), an organelle which controls Wnt signaling and whose components phase separate. Through a combination of advanced microscopy, CRISPR, computational modeling, and optogenetics, we find that the DC is nucleated by the centrosome and that this nucleation drives efficient signal transduction. Our work not only uncovers a biological function for LLPS but also highlights nucleation as a general method for controlling the function of intracellular condensates. Finally, our findings suggest a thermodynamic coupling between Wnt signal transduction and the cell cycle which could lead to insights into Wnt-driven cancers. Wnt signal transduction is controlled by the destruction complex (DC), a condensate comprising scaffold proteins and kinases that regulate β-catenin stability. Overexpressed DC scaffolds undergo liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS), but DC mesoscale organization at endogenous expression levels and its role in β-catenin processing were previously unknown. Here, we find that DC LLPS is nucleated by the centrosome. Through a combination of CRISPR-engineered custom fluorescent tags, finite element simulations, and optogenetic tools that allow for manipulation of DC concentration and multivalency, we find that centrosomal nucleation drives processing of β-catenin by colocalizing DC components to a single reaction crucible. Enriching GSK3β partitioning on the centrosome controls β-catenin processing and prevents Wnt-driven embryonic stem cell differentiation to mesoderm. Our findings demonstrate the role of nucleators in controlling biomolecular condensates and suggest tight integration between Wnt signal transduction and the cell cycle.
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29
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Lussier-Price M, Wahba HM, Mascle XH, Cappadocia L, Bourdeau V, Gagnon C, Igelmann S, Sakaguchi K, Ferbeyre G, Omichinski J. Zinc controls PML nuclear body formation through regulation of a paralog specific auto-inhibition in SUMO1. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:8331-8348. [PMID: 35871297 PMCID: PMC9371903 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMO proteins are important regulators of many key cellular functions in part through their ability to form interactions with other proteins containing SUMO interacting motifs (SIMs). One characteristic feature of all SUMO proteins is the presence of a highly divergent intrinsically disordered region at their N-terminus. In this study, we examine the role of this N-terminal region of SUMO proteins in SUMO–SIM interactions required for the formation of nuclear bodies by the promyelocytic leukemia (PML) protein (PML-NBs). We demonstrate that the N-terminal region of SUMO1 functions in a paralog specific manner as an auto-inhibition domain by blocking its binding to the phosphorylated SIMs of PML and Daxx. Interestingly, we find that this auto-inhibition in SUMO1 is relieved by zinc, and structurally show that zinc stabilizes the complex between SUMO1 and a phospho-mimetic form of the SIM of PML. In addition, we demonstrate that increasing cellular zinc levels enhances PML-NB formation in senescent cells. Taken together, these results provide important insights into a paralog specific function of SUMO1, and suggest that zinc levels could play a crucial role in regulating SUMO1-SIM interactions required for PML-NB formation and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Lussier-Price
- Département de Biochimie et Médicine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Haytham M Wahba
- Département de Biochimie et Médicine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Beni-Suef University , Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Xavier H Mascle
- Département de Biochimie et Médicine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Laurent Cappadocia
- Département de Biochimie et Médicine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Veronique Bourdeau
- Département de Biochimie et Médicine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Christina Gagnon
- Département de Biochimie et Médicine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Sebastian Igelmann
- Département de Biochimie et Médicine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Kazuyasu Sakaguchi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University , Sapporo, Japan
| | - Gerardo Ferbeyre
- Département de Biochimie et Médicine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - James G Omichinski
- Département de Biochimie et Médicine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC, Canada
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30
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Liquid-liquid phase separation in tumor biology. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:221. [PMID: 35803926 PMCID: PMC9270353 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01076-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a novel principle for explaining the precise spatial and temporal regulation in living cells. LLPS compartmentalizes proteins and nucleic acids into micron-scale, liquid-like, membraneless bodies with specific functions, which were recently termed biomolecular condensates. Biomolecular condensates are executors underlying the intracellular spatiotemporal coordination of various biological activities, including chromatin organization, genomic stability, DNA damage response and repair, transcription, and signal transduction. Dysregulation of these cellular processes is a key event in the initiation and/or evolution of cancer, and emerging evidence has linked the formation and regulation of LLPS to malignant transformations in tumor biology. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the detailed mechanisms of biomolecular condensate formation and biophysical function and review the recent major advances toward elucidating the multiple mechanisms involved in cancer cell pathology driven by aberrant LLPS. In addition, we discuss the therapeutic perspectives of LLPS in cancer research and the most recently developed drug candidates targeting LLPS modulation that can be used to combat tumorigenesis.
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31
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Regulating FUS Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation via Specific Metal Recognition. CHINESE JOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10118-022-2763-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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32
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Size regulation of multiple organelles competing for a limiting subunit pool. PLoS Comput Biol 2022; 18:e1010253. [PMID: 35714135 PMCID: PMC9246132 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1010253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
How cells regulate the size of intracellular structures and organelles is a longstanding question. Recent experiments suggest that size control of intracellular structures is achieved through the depletion of a limiting subunit pool in the cytoplasm. While the limiting pool model ensures organelle-to-cell size scaling, it does not provide a mechanism for robust size control of multiple co-existing structures. Here we develop a generalized theory for size-dependent growth of intracellular structures to demonstrate that robust size control of multiple intracellular structures, competing for a limiting subunit pool, is achieved via a negative feedback between the growth rate and the size of the individual structure. This design principle captures size maintenance of a wide variety of subcellular structures, from cytoskeletal filaments to three-dimensional organelles. We identify the feedback motifs for structure size regulation based on known molecular processes, and compare our theory to existing models of size regulation in biological assemblies. Furthermore, we show that positive feedback between structure size and growth rate can lead to bistable size distribution and spontaneous size selection. Organelle size control is essential for the proper physiological functioning of eukaryotic cells, but the underlying mechanisms of size regulation remain poorly understood. By developing a general theory for organelle size control, we show that robust size control of intracellular structures and organelles is achieved via a negative feedback between individual organelle size and their net growth rates. This design principle not only describes size maintenance of single organelles, but also ensures size stability of multiple co-existing organelles that are built from a limiting pool of subunits. Our results delineate the role of limiting pool as a size scaling mechanism rather than a size control mechanism, supporting the idea that negative feedback control of organelle size via depletion of a limiting subunit pool is not sufficient to maintain the size of multiple competing organelles. In the case of positive feedback between organelle size and growth rate, our model reproduces phenomena such as bistability in organelle size distribution and spontaneous emergence of cell polarity.
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33
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Mittag T, Pappu RV. A conceptual framework for understanding phase separation and addressing open questions and challenges. Mol Cell 2022; 82:2201-2214. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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34
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Lavering ED, Petros IN, Weeks DL. Component analysis of nucleolar protein compartments using Xenopus laevis oocytes. Dev Growth Differ 2022; 64:306-317. [PMID: 35607824 PMCID: PMC9474603 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The nucleolus is a multi‐compartment, non‐membrane‐bound organelle within the nucleus. Nucleolar assembly is influenced by proteins capable of phase separation. Xenopus laevis oocytes contain hundreds of large nucleoli that provide experimental access for nucleoli that is unavailable in other systems. Here we detail methods to streamline the in vivo analysis of the compartmentalization of nucleolar proteins that are suspected of phase separation. The nucleolus is the main hub of ribosome biogenesis and here we present data supporting the division of proteins into nucleolar domains based on their function in ribosome biogenesis. We also describe the use of vital dyes such as Hoechst 33342 and Thioflavin T in nucleolar staining. Additionally, we quantify nucleolar morphology changes induced by heat shock and actinomycin D treatments. We suggest these approaches will be valuable in a variety of studies that seek to better understand the nucleolus, particularly those regarding phase separation. These approaches may also be instructive for other studies on phase separation, especially in the nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily D Lavering
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Irini N Petros
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Daniel L Weeks
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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35
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Calabrese G, Molzahn C, Mayor T. Protein interaction networks in neurodegenerative diseases: from physiological function to aggregation. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102062. [PMID: 35623389 PMCID: PMC9234719 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The accumulation of protein inclusions is linked to many neurodegenerative diseases that typically develop in older individuals, due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In rare familial neurodegenerative disorders, genes encoding for aggregation-prone proteins are often mutated. While the underlying mechanism leading to these diseases still remains to be fully elucidated, efforts in the past 20 years revealed a vast network of protein–protein interactions that play a major role in regulating the aggregation of key proteins associated with neurodegeneration. Misfolded proteins that can oligomerize and form insoluble aggregates associate with molecular chaperones and other elements of the proteolytic machineries that are the frontline workers attempting to protect the cells by promoting clearance and preventing aggregation. Proteins that are normally bound to aggregation-prone proteins can become sequestered and mislocalized in protein inclusions, leading to their loss of function. In contrast, mutations, posttranslational modifications, or misfolding of aggregation-prone proteins can lead to gain of function by inducing novel or altered protein interactions, which in turn can impact numerous essential cellular processes and organelles, such as vesicle trafficking and the mitochondria. This review examines our current knowledge of protein–protein interactions involving several key aggregation-prone proteins that are associated with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We aim to provide an overview of the protein interaction networks that play a central role in driving or mitigating inclusion formation, while highlighting some of the key proteomic studies that helped to uncover the extent of these networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Calabrese
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, V6T 1Z4 Vancouver BC, Canada.
| | - Cristen Molzahn
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, V6T 1Z4 Vancouver BC, Canada
| | - Thibault Mayor
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, V6T 1Z4 Vancouver BC, Canada.
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36
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Yesbolatova AK, Arai R, Sakaue T, Kimura A. Formulation of Chromatin Mobility as a Function of Nuclear Size during C. elegans Embryogenesis Using Polymer Physics Theories. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2022; 128:178101. [PMID: 35570447 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.128.178101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
During early embryogenesis of the nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans, the chromatin motion markedly decreases. Despite its biological implications, the underlying mechanism for this transition was unclear. By combining theory and experiment, we analyze the mean-square displacement (MSD) of the chromatin loci, and demonstrate that MSD-vs-time relationships in various nuclei collapse into a single master curve by normalizing them with the mesh size and the corresponding time scale. This enables us to identify the onset of the entangled dynamics with the size of tube diameter of chromatin polymer in the C. elegans embryo. Our dynamical scaling analysis predicts the transition between unentangled and entangled dynamics of chromatin polymers, the quantitative formula for MSD as a function of nuclear size and timescale, and provides testable hypotheses on chromatin mobility in other cell types and species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiya K Yesbolatova
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Mishima 411-8540, Japan
- Cell Architecture Laboratory, Department of Chromosome Science, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima 411-8540, Japan
| | - Ritsuko Arai
- Cell Architecture Laboratory, Department of Chromosome Science, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima 411-8540, Japan
| | - Takahiro Sakaue
- Department of Physical Sciences, Aoyama Gakuin University, 5-10-1 Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5258, Japan
| | - Akatsuki Kimura
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Mishima 411-8540, Japan
- Cell Architecture Laboratory, Department of Chromosome Science, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima 411-8540, Japan
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37
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Yu X, Zhou L, Wang G, Wang L, Dou H. Hierarchical Structures in Macromolecule-assembled Synthetic Cells. Macromol Rapid Commun 2022; 43:e2100926. [PMID: 35445490 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202100926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Various models of synthetic cells have been developed as researchers have sought to explore the origin of life. Based on the fact that structural complexity is the foundation of higher-order functions, this review will focus on hierarchical structures in synthetic cell models that are inspired by living systems, in which macromolecules are the dominant participants. We discuss the underlying advantages and functions provided by biomimetic higher-order structures from four perspectives, including hierarchical structures in membranes, in the composite construction of membrane-coated artificial cytoplasm, in organelle-like subcellular compartments, as well as in synthetic cell-cell assembled synthetic tissues. In parallel, various feasible driving forces and approaches for the fabrication of such higher-order structures are showcased. Furthermore, we highlight both the implemented and potential applications of biomimetic systems, bottom-up biosynthesis, biomedical tissue engineering, and disease therapy. This thriving field is gradually narrowing the gap between fundamental research and applied science. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Long Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 85 Wujin Road, Shanghai, 200080, P. R. China
| | - Gangyang Wang
- Gangyang Wang, Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 85 Wujin Road, Shanghai, 200080, P. R. China
| | - Lei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Hongjing Dou
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
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38
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Kumar AV, Kang T, Thakurta TG, Ng C, Rogers AN, Larsen MR, Lapierre LR. Exportin 1 modulates life span by regulating nucleolar dynamics via the autophagy protein LGG-1/GABARAP. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabj1604. [PMID: 35363528 PMCID: PMC10938577 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abj1604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Altered nucleolar and ribosomal dynamics are key hallmarks of aging, but their regulation remains unclear. Building on the knowledge that the conserved nuclear export receptor Exportin 1 (XPO-1/XPO1) modulates proteostasis and life span, we systematically analyzed the impact of nuclear export on protein metabolism. Using transcriptomic and subcellular proteomic analyses in nematodes, we demonstrate that XPO-1 modulates the nucleocytoplasmic distribution of key proteins involved in nucleolar dynamics and ribosome function, including fibrillarin (FIB-1/FBL) and RPL-11 (RPL11). Silencing xpo-1 led to marked reduction in global translation, which was accompanied by decreased nucleolar size and lower fibrillarin levels. A targeted screen of known proteostatic mediators revealed that the autophagy protein LGG-1/GABARAP modulates nucleolar size by regulating RPL-11 levels, linking specific protein degradation to ribosome metabolism. Together, our study reveals that nucleolar size and life span are regulated by LGG-1/GABARAP via ribosome protein surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita V. Kumar
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, 185 Meeting St., Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Taewook Kang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Tara G. Thakurta
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, 185 Meeting St., Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Celeste Ng
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, 185 Meeting St., Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Aric N. Rogers
- MDI Biological Laboratory, 159 Old Bar Harbor Rd., Salisbury Cove, ME 04672, USA
| | - Martin R. Larsen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Louis R. Lapierre
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, 185 Meeting St., Providence, RI 02912, USA
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39
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Effects of length-dependent positive feedback on length distributions of microtubules undergoing hydrolysis. J Biosci 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12038-022-00255-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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40
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Garaizar A, Espinosa JR, Joseph JA, Collepardo-Guevara R. Kinetic interplay between droplet maturation and coalescence modulates shape of aged protein condensates. Sci Rep 2022; 12:4390. [PMID: 35293386 PMCID: PMC8924231 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-08130-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates formed by the process of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) play diverse roles inside cells, from spatiotemporal compartmentalisation to speeding up chemical reactions. Upon maturation, the liquid-like properties of condensates, which underpin their functions, are gradually lost, eventually giving rise to solid-like states with potential pathological implications. Enhancement of inter-protein interactions is one of the main mechanisms suggested to trigger the formation of solid-like condensates. To gain a molecular-level understanding of how the accumulation of stronger interactions among proteins inside condensates affect the kinetic and thermodynamic properties of biomolecular condensates, and their shapes over time, we develop a tailored coarse-grained model of proteins that transition from establishing weak to stronger inter-protein interactions inside condensates. Our simulations reveal that the fast accumulation of strongly binding proteins during the nucleation and growth stages of condensate formation results in aspherical solid-like condensates. In contrast, when strong inter-protein interactions appear only after the equilibrium condensate has been formed, or when they accumulate slowly over time with respect to the time needed for droplets to fuse and grow, spherical solid-like droplets emerge. By conducting atomistic potential-of-mean-force simulations of NUP-98 peptides-prone to forming inter-protein [Formula: see text]-sheets-we observe that formation of inter-peptide [Formula: see text]-sheets increases the strength of the interactions consistently with the loss of liquid-like condensate properties we observe at the coarse-grained level. Overall, our work aids in elucidating fundamental molecular, kinetic, and thermodynamic mechanisms linking the rate of change in protein interaction strength to condensate shape and maturation during ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adiran Garaizar
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
| | - Jorge R Espinosa
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
| | - Jerelle A Joseph
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
| | - Rosana Collepardo-Guevara
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK.
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK.
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41
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Harmon TS, Jülicher F. Molecular Assembly Lines in Active Droplets. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2022; 128:108102. [PMID: 35333067 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.128.108102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Large protein complexes are assembled from protein subunits to form a specific structure. In our theoretic work, we propose that assembly into the correct structure could be reliably achieved through an assembly line with a specific sequence of assembly steps. Using droplet interfaces to position compartment boundaries, we show that an assembly line can be self-organized by active droplets. As a consequence, assembly steps can be arranged spatially so that a specific order of assembly is achieved and incorrect assembly is strongly suppressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler S Harmon
- Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, Nöthnitzerstraße 38, 01187 Dresden, Germany
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstraße 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V., Hohestraße 6, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Frank Jülicher
- Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, Nöthnitzerstraße 38, 01187 Dresden, Germany
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Physics of Life, TU Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
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42
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Gu X, Zhuang A, Yu J, Chai P, Jia R, Ruan J. Phase separation drives tumor pathogenesis and evolution: all roads lead to Rome. Oncogene 2022; 41:1527-1535. [PMID: 35132182 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02195-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cells coordinate numerous biochemical reactions in space and time, depending on the subdivision of the intracellular space into functional compartments. Compelling evidence has demonstrated that phase separation induces the formation of membrane-less compartments to partition intracellular substances in a strictly regulated manner and participates in various biological processes. Based on the strong association of cancer with the dysregulation of intracellular physiological processes and the occurrence of phase separation in cancer-associated condensates, phase separation undoubtedly plays a significant role in tumorigenesis. In this review, we summarize the drivers and functions of phase separation, elaborate on the roles of phase separation in tumor pathogenesis and evolution, and propose substantial research and therapeutic prospects for phase separation in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China
| | - Ai Zhuang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China
| | - Peiwei Chai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.
| | - Renbing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.
| | - Jing Ruan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.
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43
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Musacchio A. On the role of phase separation in the biogenesis of membraneless compartments. EMBO J 2022; 41:e109952. [PMID: 35107832 PMCID: PMC8886532 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2021109952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular mechanistic biology has ushered us into the world of life’s building blocks, revealing their interactions in macromolecular complexes and inspiring strategies for detailed functional interrogations. The biogenesis of membraneless cellular compartments, functional mesoscale subcellular locales devoid of strong internal order and delimiting membranes, is among mechanistic biology’s most demanding current challenges. A developing paradigm, biomolecular phase separation, emphasizes solvation of the building blocks through low‐affinity, weakly adhesive unspecific interactions as the driver of biogenesis of membraneless compartments. Here, I discuss the molecular underpinnings of the phase separation paradigm and demonstrate that validating its assumptions is much more challenging than hitherto appreciated. I also discuss that highly specific interactions, rather than unspecific ones, appear to be the main driver of biogenesis of subcellular compartments, while phase separation may be harnessed locally in selected instances to generate material properties tailored for specific functions, as exemplified by nucleocytoplasmic transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Musacchio
- Department of Mechanistic Cell Biology, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
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44
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Effects of random hydrolysis on biofilament length distributions in a shared subunit pool. Biophys J 2022; 121:502-514. [PMID: 34954156 PMCID: PMC8822617 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The sizes of filamentous structures in a cell are often regulated for many physiological processes. A key question in cell biology is how such size control is achieved. Here, we theoretically study the length distributions of multiple filaments, growing by stochastic assembly and disassembly of subunits from a limiting subunit pool. Importantly, we consider a chemical switching of subunits (hydrolysis) prevalent in many biofilaments like microtubules (MTs). We show by simulations of different models that hydrolysis leads to a skewed unimodal length distribution for a single MT. In contrast, hydrolysis can lead to bimodal distributions of individual lengths for two MTs, where individual filaments toggle stochastically between bigger and smaller sizes. For more than two MTs, length distributions are also bimodal, although the bimodality becomes less prominent. We further show that this collective phenomenon is connected with the nonequilibrium nature of hydrolysis, and the bimodality disappears for reversible dynamics. Consistent with earlier theoretical studies, a homogeneous subunit pool, without hydrolysis, cannot control filament lengths. We thus elucidate the role of hydrolysis as a control mechanism on MT length diversity.
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45
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Shin Y. Rich Phase Separation Behavior of Biomolecules. Mol Cells 2022; 45:6-15. [PMID: 34966005 PMCID: PMC8819493 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2021.0204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Phase separation is a thermodynamic process leading to the formation of compositionally distinct phases. For the past few years, numerous works have shown that biomolecular phase separation serves as biogenesis mechanisms of diverse intracellular condensates, and aberrant phase transitions are associated with disease states such as neurodegenerative diseases and cancers. Condensates exhibit rich phase behaviors including multiphase internal structuring, noise buffering, and compositional tunability. Recent studies have begun to uncover how a network of intermolecular interactions can give rise to various biophysical features of condensates. Here, we review phase behaviors of biomolecules, particularly with regard to regular solution models of binary and ternary mixtures. We discuss how these theoretical frameworks explain many aspects of the assembly, composition, and miscibility of diverse biomolecular phases, and highlight how a model-based approach can help elucidate the detailed thermodynamic principle for multicomponent intracellular phase separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongdae Shin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
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46
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Monzon AM, Piovesan D, Fuxreiter M. Molecular Determinants of Selectivity in Disordered Complexes May Shed Light on Specificity in Protein Condensates. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12010092. [PMID: 35053240 PMCID: PMC8773858 DOI: 10.3390/biom12010092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates challenge the classical concepts of molecular recognition. The variable composition and heterogeneous conformations of liquid-like protein droplets are bottlenecks for high-resolution structural studies. To obtain atomistic insights into the organization of these assemblies, here we have characterized the conformational ensembles of specific disordered complexes, including those of droplet-driving proteins. First, we found that these specific complexes exhibit a high degree of conformational heterogeneity. Second, we found that residues forming contacts at the interface also sample many conformations. Third, we found that different patterns of contacting residues form the specific interface. In addition, we observed a wide range of sequence motifs mediating disordered interactions, including charged, hydrophobic and polar contacts. These results demonstrate that selective recognition can be realized by variable patterns of weakly defined interaction motifs in many different binding configurations. We propose that these principles also play roles in determining the selectivity of biomolecular condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Miguel Monzon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (A.M.M.); (D.P.)
| | - Damiano Piovesan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (A.M.M.); (D.P.)
| | - Monika Fuxreiter
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (A.M.M.); (D.P.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Correspondence:
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47
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Kelley FM, Favetta B, Regy RM, Mittal J, Schuster BS. Amphiphilic proteins coassemble into multiphasic condensates and act as biomolecular surfactants. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2109967118. [PMID: 34916288 PMCID: PMC8713756 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2109967118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells contain membraneless compartments that assemble due to liquid-liquid phase separation, including biomolecular condensates with complex morphologies. For instance, certain condensates are surrounded by a film of distinct composition, such as Ape1 condensates coated by a layer of Atg19, required for selective autophagy in yeast. Other condensates are multiphasic, with nested liquid phases of distinct compositions and functions, such as in the case of ribosome biogenesis in the nucleolus. The size and structure of such condensates must be regulated for proper biological function. We leveraged a bioinspired approach to discover how amphiphilic, surfactant-like proteins may contribute to the structure and size regulation of biomolecular condensates. We designed and examined families of amphiphilic proteins comprising one phase-separating domain and one non-phase-separating domain. In particular, these proteins contain the soluble structured domain glutathione S-transferase (GST) or maltose binding protein (MBP), fused to the intrinsically disordered RGG domain from P granule protein LAF-1. When one amphiphilic protein is mixed in vitro with RGG-RGG, the proteins assemble into enveloped condensates, with RGG-RGG at the core and the amphiphilic protein forming the surface film layer. Importantly, we found that MBP-based amphiphiles are surfactants and influence droplet size, with increasing surfactant concentration resulting in smaller droplet radii. In contrast, GST-based amphiphiles at increased concentrations coassemble with RGG-RGG into multiphasic structures. We propose a mechanism for these experimental observations, supported by molecular simulations of a minimalist model. We speculate that surfactant proteins may play a significant role in regulating the structure and function of biomolecular condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fleurie M Kelley
- Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854
| | - Bruna Favetta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854
| | - Roshan Mammen Regy
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | - Jeetain Mittal
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | - Benjamin S Schuster
- Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854;
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48
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Kumar AV, Lapierre LR. Location, location, location: subcellular protein partitioning in proteostasis and aging. Biophys Rev 2021; 13:931-941. [PMID: 35047088 PMCID: PMC8724496 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-021-00890-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic maintenance and cell survival rely on proper protein homeostasis to ensure reliable functions across the cell and to prevent proteome collapse. Maintaining protein folding and solubility is central to proteostasis and is coordinated by protein synthesis, chaperoning, and degradation capacities. An emerging aspect that influences proteostasis is the dynamic protein partitioning across different subcellular structures and compartments. Here, we review recent literature related to nucleocytoplasmic partitioning of proteins, nuclear and cytoplasmic quality control mechanisms, and their impact on the development of age-related diseases. We also highlight new points of entry to modulate spatially-regulated proteostatic mechanisms to delay aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita V. Kumar
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912 USA
| | - Louis R. Lapierre
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912 USA
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49
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Sołtys K, Ożyhar A. Transcription Regulators and Membraneless Organelles Challenges to Investigate Them. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12758. [PMID: 34884563 PMCID: PMC8657783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic cells are composed of different bio-macromolecules that are divided into compartments called organelles providing optimal microenvironments for many cellular processes. A specific type of organelles is membraneless organelles. They are formed via a process called liquid-liquid phase separation that is driven by weak multivalent interactions between particular bio-macromolecules. In this review, we gather crucial information regarding different classes of transcription regulators with the propensity to undergo liquid-liquid phase separation and stress the role of intrinsically disordered regions in this phenomenon. We also discuss recently developed experimental systems for studying formation and properties of membraneless organelles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Sołtys
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland;
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50
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Abstract
Nuclear bodies are membraneless condensates that may form via liquid-liquid phase separation. The viscoelastic chromatin network could impact their stability and may hold the key for understanding experimental observations that defy predictions of classical theories. However, quantitative studies on the role of the chromatin network in phase separation have remained challenging. Using a diploid human genome model parameterized with chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) data, we study the thermodynamics and kinetics of nucleoli formation. Dynamical simulations predict the formation of multiple droplets for nucleolar particles that experience specific interactions with nucleolus-associated domains (NADs). Coarsening dynamics, surface tension, and coalescence kinetics of the simulated droplets are all in quantitative agreement with experimental measurements for nucleoli. Free energy calculations further support that a two-droplet state, often observed for nucleoli in somatic cells, is metastable and separated from the single-droplet state with an entropic barrier. Our study suggests that nucleoli-chromatin interactions facilitate droplets' nucleation but hinder their coarsening due to the coupled motion between droplets and the chromatin network: as droplets coalesce, the chromatin network becomes increasingly constrained. Therefore, the chromatin network supports a nucleation and arrest mechanism to stabilize the multi-droplet state for nucleoli and possibly for other nuclear bodies.
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