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A nexus of intrinsic dynamics underlies translocase priming. Structure 2021; 29:846-858.e7. [PMID: 33852897 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2021.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The cytoplasmic ATPase SecA and the membrane-embedded SecYEG channel assemble to form the Sec translocase. How this interaction primes and catalytically activates the translocase remains unclear. We show that priming exploits a nexus of intrinsic dynamics in SecA. Using atomistic simulations, smFRET, and HDX-MS, we reveal multiple dynamic islands that cross-talk with domain and quaternary motions. These dynamic elements are functionally important and conserved. Central to the nexus is a slender stem through which rotation of the preprotein clamp of SecA is biased by ATPase domain motions between open and closed clamping states. An H-bonded framework covering most of SecA enables multi-tier dynamics and conformational alterations with minimal energy input. As a result, cognate ligands select preexisting conformations and alter local dynamics to regulate catalytic activity and clamp motions. These events prime the translocase for high-affinity reception of non-folded preprotein clients. Dynamics nexuses are likely universal and essential in multi-liganded proteins.
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2
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Crowther JM, Broadhurst M, Laue TM, Jameson GB, Hodgkinson AJ, Dobson RCJ. On the utility of fluorescence-detection analytical ultracentrifugation in probing biomolecular interactions in complex solutions: a case study in milk. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2020; 49:677-685. [PMID: 33052462 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-020-01468-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
β-Lactoglobulin is the most abundant protein in the whey fraction of ruminant milks, yet is absent in human milk. It has been studied intensively due to its impact on the processing and allergenic properties of ruminant milk products. However, the physiological function of β-lactoglobulin remains unclear. Using the fluorescence-detection system within the analytical ultracentrifuge, we observed an interaction involving fluorescently labelled β-lactoglobulin in its native environment, i.e. cow and goat milk, for the first time. Co-elution experiments support that these β-lactoglobulin interactions occur naturally in milk and provide evidence that the interacting partners are immunoglobulins, while further sedimentation velocity experiments confirm that an interaction occurs between these molecules. The identification of these interactions, made possible through the use of fluorescence-detected analytical ultracentrifugation, provides possible clues to the long debated physiological function of this abundant milk protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Crowther
- Biomolecular Interaction Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand.
- The Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
| | - Marita Broadhurst
- Food and Bio-Based Products, AgResearch Limited, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Thomas M Laue
- Center To Advance Molecular Interaction Science, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA
| | - Geoffrey B Jameson
- Biomolecular Interaction Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
- The Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
- School of Fundamental Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Alison J Hodgkinson
- Food and Bio-Based Products, AgResearch Limited, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand.
- On-Farm R&D, Farm Source, Fonterra Co-Operative Group, Hamilton, 3200, New Zealand.
| | - Renwick C J Dobson
- Biomolecular Interaction Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand.
- The Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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3
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Roussel G, White SH. Binding of SecA ATPase monomers and dimers to lipid vesicles. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2019; 1862:183112. [PMID: 31676370 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2019.183112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The Escherichia coli SecA ATPase motor protein is essential for secretion of proteins through the SecYEG translocon into the periplasmic space. Its function relies upon interactions with the surrounding lipid bilayer as well as SecYEG translocon. That negatively charged lipids are required for bilayer binding has been known for >25 years, but little systematic quantitative data is available. We have carried out an extensive investigation of SecA partitioning into large unilamellar vesicles (LUV) using a wide range of lipid and electrolyte compositions, including the principal cytoplasmic salt of E. coli, potassium glutamate, which we have shown stabilizes SecA. The water-to-bilayer transfer free energy is about -7.5 kcal mol-1 for typical E. coli lipid compositions. Although it has been established that SecA is dimeric in the cytoplasm, we find that the most widely cited dimer form (PDB 1M6N) binds only weakly to LUVs formed from E. coli lipids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Roussel
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America
| | - Stephen H White
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America.
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4
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Roussel G, Lindner E, White SH. Stabilization of SecA ATPase by the primary cytoplasmic salt of Escherichia coli. Protein Sci 2019; 28:984-989. [PMID: 30968480 DOI: 10.1002/pro.3619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Much is known about the structure, function, and stability of the SecA motor ATPase that powers the secretion of periplasmic proteins across the inner membrane of Escherichia coli. Most studies of SecA are carried out in buffered sodium or potassium chloride salt solutions. However, the principal intracellular salt of E. coli is potassium glutamate (KGlu), which is known to stabilize folded proteins and protein-nucleic acid complexes. Here we report that KGlu stabilizes SecA, including its dimeric state, and increases its ATPase activity, suggesting that SecA is likely fully folded, stable, and active in vivo at 37°C. Furthermore, KGlu also stabilizes a precursor form of the secreted maltose-binding protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Roussel
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, 92697-4560
| | - Eric Lindner
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, 92697-4560
| | - Stephen H White
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, 92697-4560
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5
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Vandenberk N, Karamanou S, Portaliou AG, Zorzini V, Hofkens J, Hendrix J, Economou A. The Preprotein Binding Domain of SecA Displays Intrinsic Rotational Dynamics. Structure 2018; 27:90-101.e6. [PMID: 30471924 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
SecA converts ATP energy to protein translocation work. Together with the membrane-embedded SecY channel it forms the bacterial protein translocase. How secretory proteins bind to SecA and drive conformational cascades to promote their secretion remains unknown. To address this, we focus on the preprotein binding domain (PBD) of SecA. PBD crystalizes in three distinct states, swiveling around its narrow stem. Here, we examined whether PBD displays intrinsic dynamics in solution using single-molecule Förster resonance energy transfer (smFRET). Unique cysteinyl pairs on PBD and apposed domains were labeled with donor/acceptor dyes. Derivatives were analyzed using pulsed interleaved excitation and multi-parameter fluorescence detection. The PBD undergoes significant rotational motions, occupying at least three distinct states in dimeric and four in monomeric soluble SecA. Nucleotides do not affect smFRET-detectable PBD dynamics. These findings lay the foundations for single-molecule dissection of translocase mechanics and suggest models for possible PBD involvement during catalysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels Vandenberk
- KU Leuven, Department of Chemistry, Division for Molecular Imaging and Photonics, Laboratory for Photochemistry and Spectroscopy, Celestijnenlaan 200F, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Spyridoula Karamanou
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Laboratory for Molecular Bacteriology, Herestraat 49, Gasthuisberg Campus, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Athina G Portaliou
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Laboratory for Molecular Bacteriology, Herestraat 49, Gasthuisberg Campus, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Valentina Zorzini
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Laboratory for Molecular Bacteriology, Herestraat 49, Gasthuisberg Campus, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Hofkens
- KU Leuven, Department of Chemistry, Division for Molecular Imaging and Photonics, Laboratory for Photochemistry and Spectroscopy, Celestijnenlaan 200F, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jelle Hendrix
- KU Leuven, Department of Chemistry, Division for Molecular Imaging and Photonics, Laboratory for Photochemistry and Spectroscopy, Celestijnenlaan 200F, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium; Dynamic Bioimaging Lab, Advanced Optical Microscopy Centre, Biomedical Research Institute, Agoralaan C (BIOMED), Hasselt University, B-3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - Anastassios Economou
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Laboratory for Molecular Bacteriology, Herestraat 49, Gasthuisberg Campus, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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6
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Crane JM, Randall LL. The Sec System: Protein Export in Escherichia coli. EcoSal Plus 2017; 7:10.1128/ecosalplus.ESP-0002-2017. [PMID: 29165233 PMCID: PMC5807066 DOI: 10.1128/ecosalplus.esp-0002-2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In Escherichia coli, proteins found in the periplasm or the outer membrane are exported from the cytoplasm by the general secretory, Sec, system before they acquire stably folded structure. This dynamic process involves intricate interactions among cytoplasmic and membrane proteins, both peripheral and integral, as well as lipids. In vivo, both ATP hydrolysis and proton motive force are required. Here, we review the Sec system from the inception of the field through early 2016, including biochemical, genetic, and structural data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennine M. Crane
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Linda L. Randall
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
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Binepal G, Gill K, Crowley P, Cordova M, Brady LJ, Senadheera DB, Cvitkovitch DG. Trk2 Potassium Transport System in Streptococcus mutans and Its Role in Potassium Homeostasis, Biofilm Formation, and Stress Tolerance. J Bacteriol 2016; 198:1087-100. [PMID: 26811321 PMCID: PMC4800877 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00813-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Potassium (K(+)) is the most abundant cation in the fluids of dental biofilm. The biochemical and biophysical functions of K(+) and a variety of K(+) transport systems have been studied for most pathogenic bacteria but not for oral pathogens. In this study, we establish the modes of K(+) acquisition in Streptococcus mutans and the importance of K(+) homeostasis for its virulence attributes. The S. mutans genome harbors four putative K(+) transport systems that included two Trk-like transporters (designated Trk1 and Trk2), one glutamate/K(+) cotransporter (GlnQHMP), and a channel-like K(+) transport system (Kch). Mutants lacking Trk2 had significantly impaired growth, acidogenicity, aciduricity, and biofilm formation. [K(+)] less than 5 mM eliminated biofilm formation in S. mutans. The functionality of the Trk2 system was confirmed by complementing an Escherichia coli TK2420 mutant strain, which resulted in significant K(+) accumulation, improved growth, and survival under stress. Taken together, these results suggest that Trk2 is the main facet of the K(+)-dependent cellular response of S. mutans to environment stresses. IMPORTANCE Biofilm formation and stress tolerance are important virulence properties of caries-causing Streptococcus mutans. To limit these properties of this bacterium, it is imperative to understand its survival mechanisms. Potassium is the most abundant cation in dental plaque, the natural environment of S. mutans. K(+) is known to function in stress tolerance, and bacteria have specialized mechanisms for its uptake. However, there are no reports to identify or characterize specific K(+) transporters in S. mutans. We identified the most important system for K(+) homeostasis and its role in the biofilm formation, stress tolerance, and growth. We also show the requirement of environmental K(+) for the activity of biofilm-forming enzymes, which explains why such high levels of K(+) would favor biofilm formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gursonika Binepal
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kamal Gill
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paula Crowley
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Martha Cordova
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - L Jeannine Brady
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Dilani B Senadheera
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dennis G Cvitkovitch
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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8
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Prabudiansyah I, Driessen AJM. The Canonical and Accessory Sec System of Gram-positive Bacteria. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2016; 404:45-67. [DOI: 10.1007/82_2016_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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9
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A Naturally Occurring Repeat Protein with High Internal Sequence Identity Defines a New Class of TPR-like Proteins. Structure 2015; 23:2055-65. [PMID: 26439765 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2015.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 07/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Linear repeat proteins often have high structural similarity and low (∼25%) pairwise sequence identities (PSI) among modules. We identified a unique P. anserina (Pa) sequence with tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) homology, which contains longer (42 residue) repeats (42PRs) with an average PSI >91%. We determined the crystal structure of five tandem Pa 42PRs to 1.6 Å, and examined the stability and solution properties of constructs containing three to six Pa 42PRs. Compared with 34-residue TPRs (34PRs), Pa 42PRs have a one-turn extension of each helix, and bury more surface area. Unfolding transitions shift to higher denaturant concentration and become sharper as repeats are added. Fitted Ising models show Pa 42PRs to be more cooperative than consensus 34PRs, with increased magnitudes of intrinsic and interfacial free energies. These results demonstrate the tolerance of the TPR motif to length variation, and provide a basis to understand the effects of helix length on intrinsic/interfacial stability.
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10
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In Vitro Interaction of the Housekeeping SecA1 with the Accessory SecA2 Protein of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128788. [PMID: 26047312 PMCID: PMC4457860 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The majority of proteins that are secreted across the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane leave the cell via the Sec pathway, which in its minimal form consists of the dimeric ATP-driven motor protein SecA that associates with the protein-conducting membrane pore SecYEG. Some Gram-positive bacteria contain two homologues of SecA, termed SecA1 and SecA2. SecA1 is the essential housekeeping protein, whereas SecA2 is not essential but is involved in the translocation of a subset of proteins, including various virulence factors. Some SecA2 containing bacteria also harbor a homologous SecY2 protein that may form a separate translocase. Interestingly, mycobacteria contain only one SecY protein and thus both SecA1 and SecA2 are required to interact with SecYEG, either individually or together as a heterodimer. In order to address whether SecA1 and SecA2 cooperate during secretion of SecA2 dependent proteins, we examined the oligomeric state of SecA1 and SecA2 of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and their interactions with SecA2 and the cognate SecA1, respectively. We conclude that both SecA1 and SecA2 individually form homodimers in solution but when both proteins are present simultaneously, they form dissociable heterodimers.
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Wowor AJ, Yan Y, Auclair SM, Yu D, Zhang J, May ER, Gross ML, Kendall DA, Cole JL. Analysis of SecA dimerization in solution. Biochemistry 2014; 53:3248-60. [PMID: 24786965 PMCID: PMC4030788 DOI: 10.1021/bi500348p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
![]()
The Sec pathway mediates translocation
of protein across the inner
membrane of bacteria. SecA is a motor protein that drives translocation
of preprotein through the SecYEG channel. SecA reversibly dimerizes
under physiological conditions, but different dimer interfaces have
been observed in SecA crystal structures. Here, we have used biophysical
approaches to address the nature of the SecA dimer that exists in
solution. We have taken advantage of the extreme salt sensitivity
of SecA dimerization to compare the rates of hydrogen–deuterium
exchange of the monomer and dimer and have analyzed the effects of
single-alanine substitutions on dimerization affinity. Our results
support the antiparallel dimer arrangement observed in one of the
crystal structures of Bacillus subtilis SecA. Additional
residues lying within the preprotein binding domain and the C-terminus
are also protected from exchange upon dimerization, indicating linkage
to a conformational transition of the preprotein binding domain from
an open to a closed state. In agreement with this interpretation,
normal mode analysis demonstrates that the SecA dimer interface influences
the global dynamics of SecA such that dimerization stabilizes the
closed conformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy J Wowor
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut , Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
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12
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Gouridis G, Karamanou S, Sardis MF, Schärer MA, Capitani G, Economou A. Quaternary dynamics of the SecA motor drive translocase catalysis. Mol Cell 2014; 52:655-66. [PMID: 24332176 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2013.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2013] [Revised: 09/15/2013] [Accepted: 10/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Most secretory preproteins exit bacterial cells through the protein translocase, comprising the SecYEG channel and the dimeric peripheral ATPase motor SecA. Energetic coupling to work remains elusive. We now demonstrate that translocation is driven by unusually dynamic quaternary changes in SecA. The dimer occupies several successive states with distinct protomer arrangements. SecA docks on SecYEG as a dimer and becomes functionally asymmetric. Docking occurs via only one protomer. The second protomer allosterically regulates downstream steps. Binding of one preprotein signal peptide to the SecYEG-docked SecA protomer elongates the SecA dimer and triggers the translocase holoenzyme to obtain a lower activation energy conformation. ATP hydrolysis monomerizes the triggered SecA dimer, causing mature chain trapping and processive translocation. This is a unique example of one protein exploiting quaternary dynamics to become a substrate receptor, a "loading clamp," and a "processive motor." This mechanism has widespread implications on protein translocases, chaperones, and motors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgos Gouridis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (FORTH), University of Crete, P.O. Box 1385, Iraklio, Crete 71110, Greece
| | - Spyridoula Karamanou
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (FORTH), University of Crete, P.O. Box 1385, Iraklio, Crete 71110, Greece; Rega Institute, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marios Frantzeskos Sardis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (FORTH), University of Crete, P.O. Box 1385, Iraklio, Crete 71110, Greece; Department of Biology, University of Crete, P.O. Box 1385, Iraklio, Crete 71110, Greece
| | | | - Guido Capitani
- Paul Scherrer Institute, CH-5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Anastassios Economou
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (FORTH), University of Crete, P.O. Box 1385, Iraklio, Crete 71110, Greece; Department of Biology, University of Crete, P.O. Box 1385, Iraklio, Crete 71110, Greece; Rega Institute, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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Chatzi KE, Sardis MF, Economou A, Karamanou S. SecA-mediated targeting and translocation of secretory proteins. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2014; 1843:1466-74. [PMID: 24583121 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2014.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Revised: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
More than 30 years of research have revealed that the dynamic nanomotor SecA is a central player in bacterial protein secretion. SecA associates with the SecYEG channel and transports polypeptides post-translationally to the trans side of the cytoplasmic membrane. It comprises a helicase-like ATPase core coupled to two domains that provide specificity for preprotein translocation. Apart from SecYEG, SecA associates with multiple ligands like ribosomes, nucleotides, lipids, chaperones and preproteins. It exerts its essential contribution in two phases. First, SecA, alone or in concert with chaperones, helps mediate the targeting of the secretory proteins from the ribosome to the membrane. Next, at the membrane it converts chemical energy to mechanical work and translocates preproteins through the SecYEG channel. SecA is a highly dynamic enzyme, it exploits disorder-order kinetics, swiveling and dissociation of domains and dimer to monomer transformations that are tightly coupled with its catalytic function. Preprotein signal sequences and mature domains exploit these dynamics to manipulate the nanomotor and thus achieve their export at the expense of metabolic energy. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Protein trafficking and secretion in bacteria. Guest Editors: Anastassios Economou and Ross Dalbey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina E Chatzi
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, FORTH, University of Crete, PO Box 1385, GR-711 10 Iraklio, Crete, Greece; KU Leuven, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Molecular Bacteriology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marios Frantzeskos Sardis
- KU Leuven, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Molecular Bacteriology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anastassios Economou
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, FORTH, University of Crete, PO Box 1385, GR-711 10 Iraklio, Crete, Greece; Department of Biology, University of Crete, PO Box 1385, GR-711 10 Iraklio, Crete, Greece; KU Leuven, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Molecular Bacteriology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Spyridoula Karamanou
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, FORTH, University of Crete, PO Box 1385, GR-711 10 Iraklio, Crete, Greece; KU Leuven, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Molecular Bacteriology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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14
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D'Lima NG, Teschke CM. ADP-dependent conformational changes distinguish Mycobacterium tuberculosis SecA2 from SecA1. J Biol Chem 2013; 289:2307-17. [PMID: 24297168 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.533323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In bacteria, most secreted proteins are exported through the SecYEG translocon by the SecA ATPase motor via the general secretion or "Sec" pathway. The identification of an additional SecA protein, particularly in Gram-positive pathogens, has raised important questions about the role of SecA2 in both protein export and establishment of virulence. We previously showed in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis, the accessory SecA2 protein possesses ATPase activity that is required for bacterial survival in host macrophages, highlighting its importance in virulence. Here, we show that SecA2 binds ADP with much higher affinity than SecA1 and releases the nucleotide more slowly. Nucleotide binding also regulates movement of the precursor-binding domain in SecA2, unlike in SecA1 or conventional SecA proteins. This conformational change involving closure of the clamp in SecA2 may provide a mechanism for the cell to direct protein export through the conventional SecA1 pathway under normal growth conditions while preventing ordinary precursor proteins from interacting with the specialized SecA2 ATPase.
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15
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Mapping of the SecA signal peptide binding site and dimeric interface by using the substituted cysteine accessibility method. J Bacteriol 2013; 195:4709-15. [PMID: 23935053 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00661-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
SecA is an ATPase nanomotor critical for bacterial secretory protein translocation. Secretory proteins carry an amino-terminal signal peptide that is recognized and bound by SecA followed by its transfer across the SecYEG translocon. While this process is crucial for the onset of translocation, exactly where the signal peptide interacts with SecA is unclear. SecA protomers also interact among themselves to form dimers in solution, yet the oligomeric interface and the residues involved in dimerization are unknown. To address these issues, we utilized the substituted cysteine accessibility method (SCAM); we generated a library of 23 monocysteine SecA mutants and probed for the accessibility of each mutant cysteine to maleimide-(polyethylene glycol)2-biotin (MPB), a sulfhydryl-labeling reagent, both in the presence and absence of a signal peptide. Dramatic differences in MPB labeling were observed, with a select few mutants located at the preprotein cross-linking domain (PPXD), the helical wing domain (HWD), and the helical scaffold domain (HSD), indicating that the signal peptide binds at the groove formed between these three domains. The exposure of this binding site is varied under different conditions and could therefore provide an ideal mechanism for preprotein transfer into the translocon. We also identified residues G793, A795, K797, and D798 located at the two-helix finger of the HSD to be involved in dimerization. Adenosine-5'-(γ-thio)-triphosphate (ATPγS) alone and, more extensively, in conjunction with lipids and signal peptides strongly favored dimer dissociation, while ADP supports dimerization. This study provides key insight into the structure-function relationships of SecA preprotein binding and dimer dissociation.
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16
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Defining the Escherichia coli SecA dimer interface residues through in vivo site-specific photo-cross-linking. J Bacteriol 2013; 195:2817-25. [PMID: 23585536 DOI: 10.1128/jb.02269-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The motor protein SecA is a core component of the bacterial general secretory (Sec) pathway and is essential for cell viability. Despite evidence showing that SecA exists in a dynamic monomer-dimer equilibrium favoring the dimeric form in solution and in the cytoplasm, there is considerable debate as to the quaternary structural organization of the SecA dimer. Here, a site-directed photo-cross-linking technique was utilized to identify residues on the Escherichia coli SecA (ecSecA) dimer interface in the cytosol of intact cells. The feasibility of this method was demonstrated with residue Leu6, which is essential for ecSecA dimerization based on our analytical ultracentrifugation studies of SecA L6A and shown to form the cross-linked SecA dimer in vivo with p-benzoyl-phenylalanine (pBpa) substituted at position 6. Subsequently, the amino terminus (residues 2 to 11) in the nucleotide binding domain (NBD), Phe263 in the preprotein binding domain (PBD), and Tyr794 and Arg805 in the intramolecular regulator of the ATPase 1 domain (IRA1) were identified to be involved in ecSecA dimerization. Furthermore, the incorporation of pBpa at position 805 did not form a cross-linked dimer in the SecA Δ2-11 context, indicating the possibility that the amino terminus may directly contact Arg805 or that the deletion of residues 2 to 11 alters the topology of the naturally occurring ecSecA dimer.
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Auclair SM, Oliver DB, Mukerji I. Defining the solution state dimer structure of Escherichia coli SecA using Förster resonance energy transfer. Biochemistry 2013; 52:2388-401. [PMID: 23484952 DOI: 10.1021/bi301217t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The Sec machinery constitutes the major pathway for protein translocation in bacteria. SecA is thought to act as a molecular motor driving translocation of the preprotein across the membrane by repeated ATP-driven cycles of insertion and retraction at the translocon channel. SecA is predominately a dimer under physiological conditions; however, its oligomeric state during active protein translocation is still unresolved. Five SecA crystal structures have been determined, each displaying a different dimer interface, suggesting that SecA may adopt different dimer configurations. In this study, a Förster resonance energy transfer approach was utilized with nine functional monocysteine SecA mutants labeled with appropriate dyes to determine the predominant solution state dimer. Three different dye pairs allowed interprotomer distances ranging from 20 to 140 Å to be investigated. Comparison of 15 experimentally determined distances with those predicted from X-ray structures showed the greatest agreement with the Bacillus subtilis SecA antiparallel dimer structure [Hunt, J., Weinkauf, S., Henry, L., Fak, J. J., McNicholas, P., Oliver, D. B., and Deisenhfer, J. (2002) Science 297, 2018-2026]. The binding of two signal peptides to SecA was also examined to determine their effect on SecA dimer structure. We found that the SecA dimer is maintained upon peptide binding; however, the preprotein cross-linking domain (PPXD) and helical wing domain regions experience significant conformational changes, and the PPXD movement is greatly enhanced by binding of an extended signal peptide containing 19 additional residues. Modeling of an "open" antiparallel dimer structure suggests that binding of preprotein to SecA induces an activated open conformation suitable for binding to SecYEG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Auclair
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Molecular Biophysics Program, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT 06459, USA
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18
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Breaking on through to the other side: protein export through the bacterial Sec system. Biochem J 2013; 449:25-37. [PMID: 23216251 DOI: 10.1042/bj20121227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
More than one-third of cellular proteomes traffic into and across membranes. Bacteria have invented several sophisticated secretion systems that guide various proteins to extracytoplasmic locations and in some cases inject them directly into hosts. Of these, the Sec system is ubiquitous, essential and by far the best understood. Secretory polypeptides are sorted from cytoplasmic ones initially due to characteristic signal peptides. Then they are targeted to the plasma membrane by chaperones/pilots. The translocase, a dynamic nanomachine, lies at the centre of this process and acts as a protein-conducting channel with a unique property; allowing both forward transfer of secretory proteins but also lateral release into the lipid bilayer with high fidelity and efficiency. This process, tightly orchestrated at the expense of energy, ensures fundamental cell processes such as membrane biogenesis, cell division, motility, nutrient uptake and environmental sensing. In the present review, we examine this fascinating process, summarizing current knowledge on the structure, function and mechanics of the Sec pathway.
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Two copies of the SecY channel and acidic lipids are necessary to activate the SecA translocation ATPase. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 109:4104-9. [PMID: 22378651 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1117783109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The SecA ATPase associates with the SecY complex to push preproteins across the bacterial membrane. Because a single SecY is sufficient to create the conducting channel, the function of SecY oligomerization remains unclear. Here, we have analyzed the translocation reaction using nanodiscs. We show that one SecY copy is sufficient to bind SecA and the preprotein, but only the SecY dimer together with acidic lipids supports the activation of the SecA translocation ATPase. In discs, the dimer is predominantly arranged in a back-to-back manner and remains active even if a constituent SecY copy is defective for SecA binding. In membrane vesicles and in intact cells, the coproduction of two inactive SecYs, one for channel gating and the other for SecA binding, recreates a functional translocation unit. These results indisputably argue that the SecY dimer is crucial for the activation of SecA, which is necessary for preprotein transport.
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De Bona P, Deshmukh L, Gorbatyuk V, Vinogradova O, Kendall DA. Structural studies of a signal peptide in complex with signal peptidase I cytoplasmic domain: the stabilizing effect of membrane-mimetics on the acquired fold. Proteins 2011; 80:807-17. [PMID: 22113858 DOI: 10.1002/prot.23238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2011] [Revised: 10/12/2011] [Accepted: 10/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A protein destined for export from the cell cytoplasm is synthesized as a preprotein with an amino-terminal signal peptide. In Escherichia coli, typically signal peptides that guide preproteins into the SecYEG protein conduction channel are subsequently removed by signal peptidase I. To understand the mechanism of this critical step, we have assessed the conformation of the signal peptide when bound to signal peptidase by solution nuclear magnetic resonance. We employed a soluble form of signal peptidase, which laks the two transmembrane domains (SPase I Δ2-75), and the E. coli alkaline phosphatase signal peptide. Using a transferred NOE approach, we found clear evidence of a weak peptide-enzyme complex formation. The peptide adopts a U-turn shape originating from the proline residues within the primary sequence that is stabilized by its interaction with the peptidase and leaves key residues of the cleavage region exposed for proteolysis. In dodecylphosphocholine (DPC) micelles the signal peptide also adopts a U-turn shape comparable with that observed in association with the enzyme. In both environments this conformation is stabilized by the signal peptide phenylalanine side chain-interaction with enzyme or lipid mimetic. Moreover, in the presence of DPC, the N-terminal core region residues of the peptide adopt a helical motif and based on PRE (paramagnetic relaxation enhancement) experiments are shown to be buried within the membrane. Taken together, this is consistent with proteolysis of the preprotein occurring while the signal peptide remains in the bilayer and the enzyme active site functioning at the membrane surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo De Bona
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269-3192, USA
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Traffic jam at the bacterial sec translocase: targeting the SecA nanomotor by small-molecule inhibitors. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 18:685-98. [PMID: 21700205 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2011.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2011] [Revised: 04/27/2011] [Accepted: 04/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The rapid rise of drug-resistant bacteria is one of the most serious unmet medical needs facing the world. Despite this increasing problem of antibiotic resistance, the number of different antibiotics available for the treatment of serious infections is dwindling. Therefore, there is an urgent need for new antibacterial drugs, preferably with novel modes of action to potentially avoid cross-resistance with existing antibacterial agents. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to bacterial protein secretion as a potential antibacterial target. Among the different protein secretion pathways that are present in bacterial pathogens, the general protein secretory (Sec) pathway is widely considered as an attractive target for antibacterial therapy. One of the key components of the Sec pathway is the peripheral membrane ATPase SecA, which provides the energy for the translocation of preproteins across the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane. In this review, we will provide an overview of research efforts on the discovery and development of small-molecule SecA inhibitors. Furthermore, recent advances on the structure and function of SecA and their potential impact on antibacterial drug discovery will be discussed.
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Anderson E, Pierre-Louis WS, Wong CJ, Lary JW, Cole JL. Heparin activates PKR by inducing dimerization. J Mol Biol 2011; 413:973-84. [PMID: 21978664 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2011.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2011] [Revised: 09/13/2011] [Accepted: 09/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Protein kinase R (PKR) is an interferon-induced kinase that plays a pivotal role in the innate immunity pathway. PKR is activated to undergo autophosphorylation upon binding to double-stranded RNAs or RNAs that contain duplex regions. Activated PKR phosphorylates the α subunit of eukaryotic initiation factor 2, thereby inhibiting protein synthesis. PKR is also activated by heparin, a highly sulfated glycosaminoglycan. We have used biophysical methods to define the mechanism of PKR activation by heparin. Heparins as short as hexasaccharide bind strongly to PKR and activate autophosphorylation. In contrast to double-stranded RNA, heparin activates PKR by binding to the kinase domain. Analytical ultracentrifugation measurements support a thermodynamic linkage model where heparin binding allosterically enhances PKR dimerization, thereby activating the kinase. These results indicate that PKR can be activated by small molecules and represents a viable target for the development of novel antiviral agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Anderson
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
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Cole JL, Correia JJ, Stafford WF. The use of analytical sedimentation velocity to extract thermodynamic linkage. Biophys Chem 2011; 159:120-8. [PMID: 21703752 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2011.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2011] [Revised: 05/18/2011] [Accepted: 05/18/2011] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
For 25 years, the Gibbs Conference on Biothermodynamics has focused on the use of thermodynamics to extract information about the mechanism and regulation of biological processes. This includes the determination of equilibrium constants for macromolecular interactions by high precision physical measurements. These approaches further reveal thermodynamic linkages to ligand binding events. Analytical ultracentrifugation has been a fundamental technique in the determination of macromolecular reaction stoichiometry and energetics for 85 years. This approach is highly amenable to the extraction of thermodynamic couplings to small molecule binding in the overall reaction pathway. In the 1980s this approach was extended to the use of sedimentation velocity techniques, primarily by the analysis of tubulin-drug interactions by Na and Timasheff. This transport method necessarily incorporates the complexity of both hydrodynamic and thermodynamic nonideality. The advent of modern computational methods in the last 20 years has subsequently made the analysis of sedimentation velocity data for interacting systems more robust and rigorous. Here we review three examples where sedimentation velocity has been useful at extracting thermodynamic information about reaction stoichiometry and energetics. Approaches to extract linkage to small molecule binding and the influence of hydrodynamic nonideality are emphasized. These methods are shown to also apply to the collection of fluorescence data with the new Aviv FDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- James L Cole
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Storrs, CT 06269, USA
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SecA, a remarkable nanomachine. Cell Mol Life Sci 2011; 68:2053-66. [PMID: 21479870 PMCID: PMC3101351 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-011-0681-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2011] [Revised: 03/22/2011] [Accepted: 03/28/2011] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Biological cells harbor a variety of molecular machines that carry out mechanical work at the nanoscale. One of these nanomachines is the bacterial motor protein SecA which translocates secretory proteins through the protein-conducting membrane channel SecYEG. SecA converts chemically stored energy in the form of ATP into a mechanical force to drive polypeptide transport through SecYEG and across the cytoplasmic membrane. In order to accommodate a translocating polypeptide chain and to release transmembrane segments of membrane proteins into the lipid bilayer, SecYEG needs to open its central channel and the lateral gate. Recent crystal structures provide a detailed insight into the rearrangements required for channel opening. Here, we review our current understanding of the mode of operation of the SecA motor protein in concert with the dynamic SecYEG channel. We conclude with a new model for SecA-mediated protein translocation that unifies previous conflicting data.
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