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El Salamouni NS, Cater JH, Spenkelink LM, Yu H. Nanobody engineering: computational modelling and design for biomedical and therapeutic applications. FEBS Open Bio 2024. [PMID: 38898362 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Nanobodies, the smallest functional antibody fragment derived from camelid heavy-chain-only antibodies, have emerged as powerful tools for diverse biomedical applications. In this comprehensive review, we discuss the structural characteristics, functional properties, and computational approaches driving the design and optimisation of synthetic nanobodies. We explore their unique antigen-binding domains, highlighting the critical role of complementarity-determining regions in target recognition and specificity. This review further underscores the advantages of nanobodies over conventional antibodies from a biosynthesis perspective, including their small size, stability, and solubility, which make them ideal candidates for economical antigen capture in diagnostics, therapeutics, and biosensing. We discuss the recent advancements in computational methods for nanobody modelling, epitope prediction, and affinity maturation, shedding light on their intricate antigen-binding mechanisms and conformational dynamics. Finally, we examine a direct example of how computational design strategies were implemented for improving a nanobody-based immunosensor, known as a Quenchbody. Through combining experimental findings and computational insights, this review elucidates the transformative impact of nanobodies in biotechnology and biomedical research, offering a roadmap for future advancements and applications in healthcare and diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehad S El Salamouni
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Australia
| | - Jordan H Cater
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Australia
| | - Lisanne M Spenkelink
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Australia
| | - Haibo Yu
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology, University of Wollongong, Australia
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2
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Lagoutte P, Bourhis JM, Mariano N, Gueguen-Chaignon V, Vandroux D, Moali C, Vadon-Le Goff S. Mono- and Bi-specific Nanobodies Targeting the CUB Domains of PCPE-1 Reduce the Proteolytic Processing of Fibrillar Procollagens. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168667. [PMID: 38901640 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2024.168667] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
The excessive deposition of fibrillar collagens is a hallmark of fibrosis. Collagen fibril formation requires proteolytic maturations by Procollagen N- and C-proteinases (PNPs and PCPs) to remove the N- and C-propeptides which maintain procollagens in the soluble form. Procollagen C-Proteinase Enhancer-1 (PCPE-1, a glycoprotein composed of two CUB domains and one NTR domain) is a regulatory protein that activates the C-terminal processing of procollagens by the main PCPs. It is often up-regulated in fibrotic diseases and represents a promising target for the development of novel anti-fibrotic strategies. Here, our objective was to develop the first antagonists of PCPE-1, based on the nanobody scaffold. Using both an in vivo selection through the immunization of a llama and an in vitro selection with a synthetic library, we generated 18 nanobodies directed against the CUB domains of PCPE1, which carry its enhancing activity. Among them, I5 from the immune library and H4 from the synthetic library have a high affinity for PCPE-1 and inhibit its interaction with procollagens. The crystal structure of the complex formed by PCPE-1, H4 and I5 showed that they have distinct epitopes and enabled the design of a biparatopic fusion, the diabody diab-D1. Diab-D1 has a sub-nanomolar affinity for PCPE-1 and is a potent antagonist of its activity, preventing the stimulation of procollagen cleavage in vitro. Moreover, Diab-D1 is also effective in reducing the proteolytic maturation of procollagen I in cultures of human dermal fibroblasts and hence holds great promise as a tool to modulate collagen deposition in fibrotic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscillia Lagoutte
- Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Tissue Biology and Therapeutic Engineering Laboratory, LBTI, UMR5305, F-69367 Lyon, France
| | - Jean-Marie Bourhis
- Institut de Biologie Structurale, University Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, F-38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Natacha Mariano
- Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Tissue Biology and Therapeutic Engineering Laboratory, LBTI, UMR5305, F-69367 Lyon, France
| | - Virginie Gueguen-Chaignon
- Protein Science Facility, SFR BioSciences, Univ Lyon, CNRS UAR3444, Inserm US8, ENS de Lyon, F-69367 Lyon, France
| | | | - Catherine Moali
- Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Tissue Biology and Therapeutic Engineering Laboratory, LBTI, UMR5305, F-69367 Lyon, France
| | - Sandrine Vadon-Le Goff
- Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Tissue Biology and Therapeutic Engineering Laboratory, LBTI, UMR5305, F-69367 Lyon, France.
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3
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Gelová Z, Ingles-Prieto A, Bohstedt T, Frommelt F, Chi G, Chang YN, Garcia J, Wolf G, Azzollini L, Tremolada S, Scacioc A, Hansen JS, Serrano I, Droce A, Bernal JC, Burgess-Brown NA, Carpenter EP, Dürr KL, Kristensen P, Geertsma ER, Štefanić S, Scarabottolo L, Wiedmer T, Puetter V, Sauer DB, Superti-Furga G. Protein Binder Toolbox for Studies of Solute Carrier Transporters. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168665. [PMID: 38878854 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2024.168665] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Transporters of the solute carrier superfamily (SLCs) are responsible for the transmembrane traffic of the majority of chemical substances in cells and tissues and are therefore of fundamental biological importance. As is often the case with membrane proteins that can be heavily glycosylated, a lack of reliable high-affinity binders hinders their functional analysis. Purifying and reconstituting transmembrane proteins in their lipidic environments remains challenging and standard approaches to generate binders for multi-transmembrane proteins, such as SLCs, channels or G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are lacking. While generating protein binders to 27 SLCs, we produced full length protein or cell lines as input material for binder generation by selected binder generation platforms. As a result, we obtained 525 binders for 22 SLCs. We validated the binders with a cell-based validation workflow using immunofluorescent and immunoprecipitation methods to process all obtained binders. Finally, we demonstrated the potential applications of the binders that passed our validation pipeline in structural, biochemical, and biological applications using the exemplary protein SLC12A6, an ion transporter relevant in human disease. With this work, we were able to generate easily renewable and highly specific binders against SLCs, which will greatly facilitate the study of this neglected protein family. We hope that the process will serve as blueprint for the generation of binders against the entire superfamily of SLC transporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Gelová
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alvaro Ingles-Prieto
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tina Bohstedt
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Fabian Frommelt
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gamma Chi
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Julio Garcia
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gernot Wolf
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Andreea Scacioc
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jesper S Hansen
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Iciar Serrano
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Aida Droce
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - Nicola A Burgess-Brown
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Elisabeth P Carpenter
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Katharina L Dürr
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Peter Kristensen
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Eric R Geertsma
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
| | - Saša Štefanić
- Nanobody Service Facility, University of Zurich, AgroVet-Strickhof, Eschikon, Switzerland
| | | | - Tabea Wiedmer
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - David B Sauer
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Giulio Superti-Furga
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria; Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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4
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Eden T, Schaffrath AZ, Wesolowski J, Stähler T, Tode N, Richter N, Schäfer W, Hambach J, Hermans-Borgmeyer I, Woens J, Le Gall CM, Wendler S, Linke-Winnebeck C, Stobbe M, Budnicki I, Wanney A, Heitz Y, Schimmelpfennig L, Schweitzer L, Zimmer D, Stahl E, Seyfried F, Gebhardt AJ, Dieckow L, Riecken K, Fehse B, Bannas P, Magnus T, Verdoes M, Figdor CG, Hartlepp KF, Schleer H, Füner J, Tomas NM, Haag F, Rissiek B, Mann AM, Menzel S, Koch-Nolte F. Generation of nanobodies from transgenic 'LamaMice' lacking an endogenous immunoglobulin repertoire. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4728. [PMID: 38830864 PMCID: PMC11148044 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48735-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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to their exceptional solubility and stability, nanobodies have emerged as powerful building blocks for research tools and therapeutics. However, their generation in llamas is cumbersome and costly. Here, by inserting an engineered llama immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) locus into IgH-deficient mice, we generate a transgenic mouse line, which we refer to as 'LamaMouse'. We demonstrate that LamaMice solely express llama IgH molecules without association to Igκ or λ light chains. Immunization of LamaMice with AAV8, the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, IgE, IgG2c, and CLEC9A enabled us to readily select respective target-specific nanobodies using classical hybridoma and phage display technologies, single B cell screening, and direct cloning of the nanobody-repertoire into a mammalian expression vector. Our work shows that the LamaMouse represents a flexible and broadly applicable platform for a facilitated selection of target-specific nanobodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Eden
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alessa Z Schaffrath
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Janusz Wesolowski
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Stähler
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Natalie Tode
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nathalie Richter
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Waldemar Schäfer
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julia Hambach
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Irm Hermans-Borgmeyer
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jannis Woens
- Research Department Cell and Gene Therapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Camille M Le Gall
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sabrina Wendler
- ChromoTek GmbH, Martinsried, Germany - A part of Proteintech Group, Martinsried, Germany
| | | | - Martina Stobbe
- ChromoTek GmbH, Martinsried, Germany - A part of Proteintech Group, Martinsried, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Fabienne Seyfried
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anna J Gebhardt
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lynn Dieckow
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kristoffer Riecken
- Research Department Cell and Gene Therapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Boris Fehse
- Research Department Cell and Gene Therapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Peter Bannas
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tim Magnus
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martijn Verdoes
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Carl G Figdor
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Klaus F Hartlepp
- ChromoTek GmbH, Martinsried, Germany - A part of Proteintech Group, Martinsried, Germany
| | | | | | - Nicola M Tomas
- III. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Friedrich Haag
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Björn Rissiek
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anna M Mann
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Menzel
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Core Facility Nanobodies, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Friedrich Koch-Nolte
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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5
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Jones SA, Ruprecht JJ, Crichton PG, Kunji ERS. Structural mechanisms of mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 regulation in thermogenesis. Trends Biochem Sci 2024; 49:506-519. [PMID: 38565497 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2024.03.005] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
In mitochondria, the oxidation of nutrients is coupled to ATP synthesis by the generation of a protonmotive force across the mitochondrial inner membrane. In mammalian brown adipose tissue (BAT), uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1, SLC25A7), a member of the SLC25 mitochondrial carrier family, dissipates the protonmotive force by facilitating the return of protons to the mitochondrial matrix. This process short-circuits the mitochondrion, generating heat for non-shivering thermogenesis. Recent cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of human UCP1 have provided new molecular insights into the inhibition and activation of thermogenesis. Here, we discuss these structures, describing how purine nucleotides lock UCP1 in a proton-impermeable conformation and rationalizing potential conformational changes of this carrier in response to fatty acid activators that enable proton leak for thermogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A Jones
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Keith Peters Building, Cambridge, CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Jonathan J Ruprecht
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Keith Peters Building, Cambridge, CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Paul G Crichton
- Biomedical Research Centre, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Edmund R S Kunji
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Keith Peters Building, Cambridge, CB2 0XY, UK.
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6
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Rödström KEJ, Cloake A, Sörmann J, Baronina A, Smith KHM, Pike ACW, Ang J, Proks P, Schewe M, Holland-Kaye I, Bushell SR, Elliott J, Pardon E, Baukrowitz T, Owens RJ, Newstead S, Steyaert J, Carpenter EP, Tucker SJ. Extracellular modulation of TREK-2 activity with nanobodies provides insight into the mechanisms of K2P channel regulation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4173. [PMID: 38755204 PMCID: PMC11099193 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48536-2] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Potassium channels of the Two-Pore Domain (K2P) subfamily, KCNK1-KCNK18, play crucial roles in controlling the electrical activity of many different cell types and represent attractive therapeutic targets. However, the identification of highly selective small molecule drugs against these channels has been challenging due to the high degree of structural and functional conservation that exists not only between K2P channels, but across the whole K+ channel superfamily. To address the issue of selectivity, here we generate camelid antibody fragments (nanobodies) against the TREK-2 (KCNK10) K2P K+ channel and identify selective binders including several that directly modulate channel activity. X-ray crystallography and CryoEM data of these nanobodies in complex with TREK-2 also reveal insights into their mechanisms of activation and inhibition via binding to the extracellular loops and Cap domain, as well as their suitability for immunodetection. These structures facilitate design of a biparatropic inhibitory nanobody with markedly improved sensitivity. Together, these results provide important insights into TREK channel gating and provide an alternative, more selective approach to modulation of K2P channel activity via their extracellular domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin E J Rödström
- Clarendon Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Alexander Cloake
- Clarendon Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Janina Sörmann
- Clarendon Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Agnese Baronina
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kathryn H M Smith
- Clarendon Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ashley C W Pike
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jackie Ang
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Peter Proks
- Clarendon Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Marcus Schewe
- Institute of Physiology, Medical Faculty, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Simon R Bushell
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jenna Elliott
- Clarendon Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Els Pardon
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, VIB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas Baukrowitz
- Institute of Physiology, Medical Faculty, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Raymond J Owens
- The Rosalind Franklin Institute, Harwell Campus, Didcot, UK
- Division of Structural Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Simon Newstead
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- OXION Initiative in Ion Channels and Disease, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jan Steyaert
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, VIB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elisabeth P Carpenter
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- OXION Initiative in Ion Channels and Disease, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Stephen J Tucker
- Clarendon Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- OXION Initiative in Ion Channels and Disease, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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7
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Valentino RJ, Nair SG, Volkow ND. Neuroscience in addiction research. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:453-459. [PMID: 37947883 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02713-7] [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: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The prevention and treatment of addiction (moderate to severe substance use disorder-SUD) have remained challenging because of the dynamic and complex interactions between multiple biological and social determinants that shape SUD. The pharmacological landscape is ever changing and the use of multiple drugs is increasingly common, requiring an unraveling of pharmacological interactions to understand the effects. There are different stages in the trajectory from drug use to addiction that are characterized by distinct cognitive and emotional features. These are directed by different neurobiological processes that require identification and characterization including those that underlie the high co-morbidity with other disorders. Finally, there is substantial individual variability in the susceptibility to develop SUD because there are multiple determinants, including genetics, sex, developmental trajectories and times of drug exposures, and psychosocial and environmental factors including commercial determinants that influence drug availability. Elucidating how these factors interact to determine risk is essential for identifying the biobehavioral basis of addiction and developing prevention and treatment strategies. Basic research is tasked with addressing each of these challenges. The recent proliferation of technological advances that allow for genetic manipulation, visualization of molecular reactions and cellular activity in vivo, multiscale whole brain mapping across the life span, and the mining of massive data sets including multimodality human brain imaging are accelerating our ability to understand how the brain functions and how drugs influence it. Here, we highlight how the application of these tools to the study of addiction promises to illuminate its neurobiological basis and guide strategies for prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita J Valentino
- National Institute On Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Sunila G Nair
- National Institute On Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nora D Volkow
- National Institute On Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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8
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Galicia C, Guaitoli G, Fislage M, Gloeckner CJ, Versées W. Structural insights into the GTP-driven monomerization and activation of a bacterial LRRK2 homolog using allosteric nanobodies. eLife 2024; 13:RP94503. [PMID: 38666771 PMCID: PMC11052575 DOI: 10.7554/elife.94503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Roco proteins entered the limelight after mutations in human LRRK2 were identified as a major cause of familial Parkinson's disease. LRRK2 is a large and complex protein combining a GTPase and protein kinase activity, and disease mutations increase the kinase activity, while presumably decreasing the GTPase activity. Although a cross-communication between both catalytic activities has been suggested, the underlying mechanisms and the regulatory role of the GTPase domain remain unknown. Several structures of LRRK2 have been reported, but structures of Roco proteins in their activated GTP-bound state are lacking. Here, we use single-particle cryo-electron microscopy to solve the structure of a bacterial Roco protein (CtRoco) in its GTP-bound state, aided by two conformation-specific nanobodies: NbRoco1 and NbRoco2. This structure presents CtRoco in an active monomeric state, featuring a very large GTP-induced conformational change using the LRR-Roc linker as a hinge. Furthermore, this structure shows how NbRoco1 and NbRoco2 collaborate to activate CtRoco in an allosteric way. Altogether, our data provide important new insights into the activation mechanism of Roco proteins, with relevance to LRRK2 regulation, and suggest new routes for the allosteric modulation of their GTPase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Galicia
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, VIBBrusselsBelgium
| | - Giambattista Guaitoli
- German Center for Neurodegenerative DiseasesTübingenGermany
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Center for Ophthalmology, University of TübingenTübingenGermany
| | - Marcus Fislage
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, VIBBrusselsBelgium
| | - Christian Johannes Gloeckner
- German Center for Neurodegenerative DiseasesTübingenGermany
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Center for Ophthalmology, University of TübingenTübingenGermany
| | - Wim Versées
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, VIBBrusselsBelgium
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9
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Mueller-Dieckmann C, Grinzato A, Effantin G, Fenel D, Flot D, Schoehn G, Leonard G, Kandiah E. From solution to structure: empowering inclusive cryo-EM with a pre-characterization pipeline for biological samples. J Appl Crystallogr 2024; 57:602-605. [PMID: 38596739 PMCID: PMC11001406 DOI: 10.1107/s1600576724001717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
In addressing the challenges faced by laboratories and universities with limited (or no) cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) infrastructure, the ESRF, in collaboration with the Grenoble Institute for Structural Biology (IBS), has implemented the cryo-EM Solution-to-Structure (SOS) pipeline. This inclusive process, spanning grid preparation to high-resolution data collection, covers single-particle analysis and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET). Accessible through a rolling access route, proposals undergo scientific merit and technical feasibility evaluations. Stringent feasibility criteria demand robust evidence of sample homogeneity. Two distinct entry points are offered: users can either submit purified protein samples for comprehensive processing or initiate the pipeline with already vitrified cryo-EM grids. The SOS pipeline integrates negative stain imaging (exclusive to protein samples) as a first quality step, followed by cryo-EM grid preparation, grid screening and preliminary data collection for single-particle analysis, or only the first two steps for cryo-ET. In both cases, if the screening steps are successfully completed, high-resolution data collection will be carried out using a Titan Krios microscope equipped with a latest-generation direct electron counting detector coupled to an energy filter. The SOS pipeline thus emerges as a comprehensive and efficient solution, further democratizing access to cryo-EM research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Mueller-Dieckmann
- Structural Biology, European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble 38000, France
| | - Alessandro Grinzato
- Structural Biology, European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble 38000, France
| | | | - Daphna Fenel
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, IBS, Grenoble 38000, France
| | - David Flot
- Structural Biology, European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble 38000, France
| | - Guy Schoehn
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, IBS, Grenoble 38000, France
| | - Gordon Leonard
- Structural Biology, European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble 38000, France
| | - Eaazhisai Kandiah
- Structural Biology, European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble 38000, France
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10
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Rasheed MA, Mohy-Ud-Din R, Anwar T, Faiz M. A novel cell biological tool to explain mechanics and dynamics in fission yeast. J Basic Microbiol 2024; 64:e2300605. [PMID: 38168868 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202300605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The Rho guanosine triphosphatase hydrolase enzyme (GTPase) is required for the control of the actin cytoskeleton, but its activation in vivo condition is unknown. The study's goal was to find a new synthetic nanobody VHH (P-36 tagged with mNeonGreen) that interacts strongly with the Rho GTPase. We present the first novel synthetic nanobody, VHH (P-36 tagged with mNeonGreen), tested in fission yeast cells and found to have a particular interaction with Rho1GTPase. Plasmids were constructed by using of certain enzymes to digest the pDUAL-pef1a vector plasmid to produce a protein that was encoded by cloned genes. A varied VHH library was created synthetically, then transformed into yeast cells, and positive clones were chosen using chemical agents. To investigate protein interactions and cellular reactions, several studies were carried out, such as live cell imaging, growth curve analysis, coimmunoprecipitation, structural analysis, and cell therapies. Prism and RStudio were used for the statistical analysis. The presence of VHH (P-36) has no effect on the growth pattern making it an appropriate model for studying cytokinesis in vivo. According to a computational biological study, its affinity to interact with Rho1GTPase with all the complementarity-determining region (CDR) regions found on VHH (P-36) is extremely strong. We were able to track its subcellular target by localization using a fluorescent confocal microscope, ensuring the maintenance of cell polarity and morphology. Spheroplast analysis revealed a circular-shaped cell with an even distribution of Rho1 tagged VHH (P-36), indicating that the interaction occurs near the plasma membrane. The introduction of latrunculin-A (Lat-A) disrupted Rho GTPase localization, demonstrating the control over actin production, and the cell did not show evidence of mitotic phase commencement while Lat-A was present. Finally, this important biological tool can aid in our understanding of the mechanics and dynamics of cytokinesis in relation to Rho1GTPase.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raza Mohy-Ud-Din
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Bio-Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Tehreem Anwar
- Lahore Medical Research Center LLP, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Faiz
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Informatics, Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences BUITEMS, Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan
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11
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Cushing VI, Koh AF, Feng J, Jurgaityte K, Bondke A, Kroll SHB, Barbazanges M, Scheiper B, Bahl AK, Barrett AGM, Ali S, Kotecha A, Greber BJ. High-resolution cryo-EM of the human CDK-activating kinase for structure-based drug design. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2265. [PMID: 38480681 PMCID: PMC10937634 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46375-9] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Rational design of next-generation therapeutics can be facilitated by high-resolution structures of drug targets bound to small-molecule inhibitors. However, application of structure-based methods to macromolecules refractory to crystallization has been hampered by the often-limiting resolution and throughput of cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM). Here, we use high-resolution cryo-EM to determine structures of the CDK-activating kinase, a master regulator of cell growth and division, in its free and nucleotide-bound states and in complex with 15 inhibitors at up to 1.8 Å resolution. Our structures provide detailed insight into inhibitor interactions and networks of water molecules in the active site of cyclin-dependent kinase 7 and provide insights into the mechanisms contributing to inhibitor selectivity, thereby providing the basis for rational design of next-generation therapeutics. These results establish a methodological framework for the use of high-resolution cryo-EM in structure-based drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria I Cushing
- The Institute of Cancer Research, Chester Beatty Laboratories, 237 Fulham Road, London, SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Adrian F Koh
- Materials and Structural Analysis Division, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Achtseweg Noord 5, 5651, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Junjie Feng
- The Institute of Cancer Research, Chester Beatty Laboratories, 237 Fulham Road, London, SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Kaste Jurgaityte
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | | | | | - Marion Barbazanges
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Institut Parisien de Chimie Moléculaire, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 4 Place Jussieu, 75252, Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Bodo Scheiper
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Ash K Bahl
- Carrick Therapeutics, Nova UCD, Bellfield Innovation Park, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | | | - Simak Ali
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK.
| | - Abhay Kotecha
- Materials and Structural Analysis Division, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Achtseweg Noord 5, 5651, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Basil J Greber
- The Institute of Cancer Research, Chester Beatty Laboratories, 237 Fulham Road, London, SW3 6JB, UK.
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12
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Zhang S, Fan Z, Liu J. Generation and characterization of nanobodies targeting GPCR. BIOPHYSICS REPORTS 2024; 10:22-30. [PMID: 38737476 PMCID: PMC11079602 DOI: 10.52601/bpr.2023.230026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large family of cell membrane proteins that are important targets for drug discovery. Nanobodies, also known as VHH (variable domains of heavy chain-only antibodies, HcAbs) antibodies, are small antibody fragments derived from camelids that have gained significant attention as potential therapeutics for targeting GPCRs due to their advantages over conventional antibodies. However, there are challenges in developing nanobodies targeting GPCRs, among which epitope accessibility is the most significant because the cell membrane partially shields the GPCR surface. We developed a universal protocol for making nanobodies targeting GPCRs using the cell membrane extract of GPCR-overexpressing HEK293 cells as the llama/alpaca immunization antigen. We constructed an immune VHH library and identified nanobodies by phage display bio-panning. The monoclonal nanobodies were recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli (E. coli) and purified to characterize their binding potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenglan Zhang
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou 510005, China
| | - Zhiran Fan
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou 510005, China
| | - Jianfeng Liu
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou 510005, China
- Cellular Signaling laboratory, International Research Center for Sensory Biology and Technology of MOST, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of MOE, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
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13
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Tawfeeq C, Song J, Khaniya U, Madej T, Wang J, Youkharibache P, Abrol R. Towards a structural and functional analysis of the immunoglobulin-fold proteome. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2024; 138:135-178. [PMID: 38220423 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2023.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The immunoglobulin fold (Ig fold) domain is a super-secondary structural motif consisting of a sandwich with two layers of β-sheets that is present in many proteins with very diverse biological functions covering a wide range of physiological processes. This domain presents a modular architecture built with β strands connected by variable length loops that has a highly conserved structural core of four β-strands and quite variable β-sheet extensions in the two sandwich layers that enable both divergent and convergent evolutionary mechanisms in the known Ig fold proteome. The central role of this Ig fold's structural plasticity in the evolutionary success of antibodies in our immune system is well established. Nature has also utilized this Ig fold in all domains of life in many different physiological contexts that go way beyond the immune system. Here we will present a structural and functional overview of the utilization of the Ig fold in different biological processes and in different cellular contexts to highlight some of the innumerable ways that this structural motif can interact in multidomain proteins to enable their diversity of functions. This includes shareable specific protein structure visualizations behind those functions that serve as starting points for further explorations of the biomolecular interactions spanning the Ig fold proteome. This overview also highlights how this Ig fold is being utilized through natural adaptation, engineering, and even building from scratch for a range of biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caesar Tawfeeq
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University Northridge, Northridge, United States
| | - James Song
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Umesh Khaniya
- Cancer Data Science Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Thomas Madej
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Jiyao Wang
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Philippe Youkharibache
- Cancer Data Science Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States.
| | - Ravinder Abrol
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University Northridge, Northridge, United States.
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14
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Lensink MF, Brysbaert G, Raouraoua N, Bates PA, Giulini M, Honorato RV, van Noort C, Teixeira JMC, Bonvin AMJJ, Kong R, Shi H, Lu X, Chang S, Liu J, Guo Z, Chen X, Morehead A, Roy RS, Wu T, Giri N, Quadir F, Chen C, Cheng J, Del Carpio CA, Ichiishi E, Rodriguez‐Lumbreras LA, Fernandez‐Recio J, Harmalkar A, Chu L, Canner S, Smanta R, Gray JJ, Li H, Lin P, He J, Tao H, Huang S, Roel‐Touris J, Jimenez‐Garcia B, Christoffer CW, Jain AJ, Kagaya Y, Kannan H, Nakamura T, Terashi G, Verburgt JC, Zhang Y, Zhang Z, Fujuta H, Sekijima M, Kihara D, Khan O, Kotelnikov S, Ghani U, Padhorny D, Beglov D, Vajda S, Kozakov D, Negi SS, Ricciardelli T, Barradas‐Bautista D, Cao Z, Chawla M, Cavallo L, Oliva R, Yin R, Cheung M, Guest JD, Lee J, Pierce BG, Shor B, Cohen T, Halfon M, Schneidman‐Duhovny D, Zhu S, Yin R, Sun Y, Shen Y, Maszota‐Zieleniak M, Bojarski KK, Lubecka EA, Marcisz M, Danielsson A, Dziadek L, Gaardlos M, Gieldon A, Liwo A, Samsonov SA, Slusarz R, Zieba K, Sieradzan AK, Czaplewski C, Kobayashi S, Miyakawa Y, Kiyota Y, Takeda‐Shitaka M, Olechnovic K, Valancauskas L, Dapkunas J, Venclovas C, Wallner B, Yang L, Hou C, He X, Guo S, Jiang S, Ma X, Duan R, Qui L, Xu X, Zou X, Velankar S, Wodak SJ. Impact of AlphaFold on structure prediction of protein complexes: The CASP15-CAPRI experiment. Proteins 2023; 91:1658-1683. [PMID: 37905971 PMCID: PMC10841881 DOI: 10.1002/prot.26609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
We present the results for CAPRI Round 54, the 5th joint CASP-CAPRI protein assembly prediction challenge. The Round offered 37 targets, including 14 homodimers, 3 homo-trimers, 13 heterodimers including 3 antibody-antigen complexes, and 7 large assemblies. On average ~70 CASP and CAPRI predictor groups, including more than 20 automatics servers, submitted models for each target. A total of 21 941 models submitted by these groups and by 15 CAPRI scorer groups were evaluated using the CAPRI model quality measures and the DockQ score consolidating these measures. The prediction performance was quantified by a weighted score based on the number of models of acceptable quality or higher submitted by each group among their five best models. Results show substantial progress achieved across a significant fraction of the 60+ participating groups. High-quality models were produced for about 40% of the targets compared to 8% two years earlier. This remarkable improvement is due to the wide use of the AlphaFold2 and AlphaFold2-Multimer software and the confidence metrics they provide. Notably, expanded sampling of candidate solutions by manipulating these deep learning inference engines, enriching multiple sequence alignments, or integration of advanced modeling tools, enabled top performing groups to exceed the performance of a standard AlphaFold2-Multimer version used as a yard stick. This notwithstanding, performance remained poor for complexes with antibodies and nanobodies, where evolutionary relationships between the binding partners are lacking, and for complexes featuring conformational flexibility, clearly indicating that the prediction of protein complexes remains a challenging problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc F. Lensink
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, UMR8576 – UGSF – Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et FonctionnelleLilleFrance
| | - Guillaume Brysbaert
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, UMR8576 – UGSF – Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et FonctionnelleLilleFrance
| | - Nessim Raouraoua
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, UMR8576 – UGSF – Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et FonctionnelleLilleFrance
| | - Paul A. Bates
- Biomolecular Modeling LaboratoryThe Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
| | - Marco Giulini
- Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Faculty of Science – ChemistryUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Rodrigo V. Honorato
- Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Faculty of Science – ChemistryUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Charlotte van Noort
- Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Faculty of Science – ChemistryUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Joao M. C. Teixeira
- Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Faculty of Science – ChemistryUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Alexandre M. J. J. Bonvin
- Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Faculty of Science – ChemistryUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Ren Kong
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, School of Electrical and Information EngineeringJiangsu University of TechnologyChangzhouChina
| | - Hang Shi
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, School of Electrical and Information EngineeringJiangsu University of TechnologyChangzhouChina
| | - Xufeng Lu
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, School of Electrical and Information EngineeringJiangsu University of TechnologyChangzhouChina
| | - Shan Chang
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, School of Electrical and Information EngineeringJiangsu University of TechnologyChangzhouChina
| | - Jian Liu
- Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Zhiye Guo
- Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Xiao Chen
- Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Alex Morehead
- Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Raj S. Roy
- Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Tianqi Wu
- Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Nabin Giri
- Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Farhan Quadir
- Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Chen Chen
- Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Jianlin Cheng
- Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | | | - Eichiro Ichiishi
- International University of Health and Welfare (IUHV Hospital)Nasushiobara‐CityJapan
| | - Luis A. Rodriguez‐Lumbreras
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Vida y del Vino (ICVV)CSIC ‐ Universidad de La Rioja ‐ Gobierno de La RiojaLogronoSpain
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC)BarcelonaSpain
| | - Juan Fernandez‐Recio
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Vida y del Vino (ICVV)CSIC ‐ Universidad de La Rioja ‐ Gobierno de La RiojaLogronoSpain
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC)BarcelonaSpain
| | - Ameya Harmalkar
- Dept. of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Lee‐Shin Chu
- Dept. of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Sam Canner
- Dept. of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Rituparna Smanta
- Dept. of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Jeffrey J. Gray
- Dept. of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Program in Molecular BiophysicsJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Hao Li
- School of PhysicsHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Peicong Lin
- School of PhysicsHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Jiahua He
- School of PhysicsHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Huanyu Tao
- School of PhysicsHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Sheng‐You Huang
- School of PhysicsHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Jorge Roel‐Touris
- Protein Design and Modeling Lab, Dept. of Structural BiologyMolecular Biology Institute of Barcelona (IBMB‐CSIC)BarcelonaSpain
| | | | | | - Anika J. Jain
- Dept. of Biological SciencesPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
| | - Yuki Kagaya
- Dept. of Biological SciencesPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
| | - Harini Kannan
- Dept. of Biological SciencesPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of BiosciencesIndian Institute of Technology MadrasChennaiIndia
| | - Tsukasa Nakamura
- Dept. of Biological SciencesPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
| | - Genki Terashi
- Dept. of Biological SciencesPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
| | - Jacob C. Verburgt
- Dept. of Biological SciencesPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Dept. of Computer SciencePurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
| | - Zicong Zhang
- Dept. of Computer SciencePurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
| | - Hayato Fujuta
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of BiosciencesIndian Institute of Technology MadrasChennaiIndia
| | | | - Daisuke Kihara
- Dept. of Computer SciencePurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
- Dept. of Biological SciencesPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Surendra S. Negi
- Sealy Center for Structural Biology and Molecular BiophysicsUniversity of Texas Medical BranchGalvestonTexasUSA
| | | | | | - Zhen Cao
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohit Chawla
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)Saudi Arabia
| | - Luigi Cavallo
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)Saudi Arabia
- Department of Chemistry and BiologyUniversity of SalernoFiscianoItaly
| | | | - Rui Yin
- University of Maryland Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology ResearchRockvilleMarylandUSA
- Dept. of Cell Biology and Molecular GeneticsUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Melyssa Cheung
- University of Maryland Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology ResearchRockvilleMarylandUSA
- Dept. of Chemistry and BiochemistryUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Johnathan D. Guest
- University of Maryland Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology ResearchRockvilleMarylandUSA
- Dept. of Cell Biology and Molecular GeneticsUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Jessica Lee
- University of Maryland Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology ResearchRockvilleMarylandUSA
- Dept. of Cell Biology and Molecular GeneticsUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Brian G. Pierce
- University of Maryland Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology ResearchRockvilleMarylandUSA
- Dept. of Cell Biology and Molecular GeneticsUniversity of MarylandCollege ParkMarylandUSA
| | - Ben Shor
- School of Computer Science and EngineeringThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Tomer Cohen
- School of Computer Science and EngineeringThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Matan Halfon
- School of Computer Science and EngineeringThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | | | - Shaowen Zhu
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTexasUSA
| | - Rujie Yin
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTexasUSA
| | - Yuanfei Sun
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTexasUSA
| | - Yang Shen
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTexasUSA
- Department of Computer Science and EngineeringTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTexasUSA
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology and Department of Translational Medical SciencesTexas A&M UniversityHoustonTexasUSA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yuta Miyakawa
- School of PharmacyKitasato UniversityMinato‐kuTokyoJapan
| | - Yasuomi Kiyota
- School of PharmacyKitasato UniversityMinato‐kuTokyoJapan
| | | | - Kliment Olechnovic
- Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences CenterVilnius UniversityVilniusLithuania
| | - Lukas Valancauskas
- Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences CenterVilnius UniversityVilniusLithuania
| | - Justas Dapkunas
- Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences CenterVilnius UniversityVilniusLithuania
| | - Ceslovas Venclovas
- Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences CenterVilnius UniversityVilniusLithuania
| | - Bjorn Wallner
- Bioinformatics Division, Department of Physics, Chemistry, and BiologyLinkoping UniversityLinköpingSweden
| | - Lin Yang
- National Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Advanced Composites in Special Environments, Center for Composite Materials and StructuresHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbinChina
- School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic EngineeringThe University of SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Chengyu Hou
- School of Electronics and Information EngineeringHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbinChina
| | - Xiaodong He
- National Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Advanced Composites in Special Environments, Center for Composite Materials and StructuresHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbinChina
- Shenzhen STRONG Advanced Materials Research Institute Col, LtdShenzhenPeople's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Guo
- National Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Advanced Composites in Special Environments, Center for Composite Materials and StructuresHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbinChina
| | - Shenda Jiang
- National Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Advanced Composites in Special Environments, Center for Composite Materials and StructuresHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbinChina
| | - Xiaoliang Ma
- National Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Advanced Composites in Special Environments, Center for Composite Materials and StructuresHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbinChina
| | - Rui Duan
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research CenterUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Liming Qui
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research CenterUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Xianjin Xu
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research CenterUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Xiaoqin Zou
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research CenterUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Dept. of Physics and AstronomyUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Dept. of BiochemistryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Institute for Data Science and InformaticsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Sameer Velankar
- Protein Data Bank in Europe, European Molecular Biology LaboratoryEuropean Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL‐EBI)HinxtonCambridgeUK
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15
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Frecot DI, Froehlich T, Rothbauer U. 30 years of nanobodies - an ongoing success story of small binders in biological research. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs261395. [PMID: 37937477 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261395] [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] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
A milestone in the field of recombinant binding molecules was achieved 30 years ago with the discovery of single-domain antibodies from which antigen-binding variable domains, better known as nanobodies (Nbs), can be derived. Being only one tenth the size of conventional antibodies, Nbs feature high affinity and specificity, while being highly stable and soluble. In addition, they display accessibility to cryptic sites, low off-target accumulation and deep tissue penetration. Efficient selection methods, such as (semi-)synthetic/naïve or immunized cDNA libraries and display technologies, have facilitated the isolation of Nbs against diverse targets, and their single-gene format enables easy functionalization and high-yield production. This Review highlights recent advances in Nb applications in various areas of biological research, including structural biology, proteomics and high-resolution and in vivo imaging. In addition, we provide insights into intracellular applications of Nbs, such as live-cell imaging, biosensors and targeted protein degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desiree I Frecot
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Markwiesenstrasse 55, 72770 Reutlingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Theresa Froehlich
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
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16
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Sun Z, Wang L, Li L, Sun Y, Zhang D, Zhou S, Li Y, Li X, Qiao H, Cui Q, Lan Z, Meng X, Xu J, Geng Y, Dai Y. Structure basis of two nanobodies neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant by targeting ultra-conservative epitopes. J Struct Biol 2023; 215:107996. [PMID: 37419228 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2023.107996] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
The evolving SARS-CoV-2 Omicron strain has repeatedly caused widespread disease epidemics, and effective antibody drugs continue to be in short supply. Here, we identified a batch of nanobodies with high affinity for receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, separated them into three classes using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and then resolved the crystal structure of the ternary complexes of two non-competing nanobodies (NB1C6 and NB1B5) with RBD using X-ray crystallography. The structures showed that NB1B5 and NB1C6 bind to the left and right flank of the RBD, respectively, and that the binding epitopes are highly conserved cryptic sites in all SARS-CoV-2 mutant strains, as well as that NB1B5 can effectively block the ACE2. These two nanobodies were covalently linked into multivalent and bi-paratopic formats, and have a high affinity and neutralization potency for omicron, potentially inhibiting viral escape. The binding sites of these two nanobodies are relatively conserved, which help guide the structural design of antibodies targeting future variants of SARS-CoV-2 to combat COVID-19 epidemics and pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengchao Sun
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, College of Food Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lingyun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yili Sun
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong 264117, China
| | - Daizhou Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jinan 250101, China
| | - Siyu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Huarui Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qianqian Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhongyun Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiangjing Meng
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jinan 250101, China.
| | - Jianfeng Xu
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, College of Food Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China.
| | - Yong Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Dai
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China; National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/ Cancer Hospital of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Langfang Campus, Langfang, 065001, China.
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17
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Vogt PK, Hart JR, Yang S, Zhou Q, Yang D, Wang MW. Structural and mechanistic insights provided by single particle cryo-EM analysis of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3Kα). Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188947. [PMID: 37394020 PMCID: PMC10530483 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188947] [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: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Recent cryo-electron microscopic (cryo-EM) investigations have succeeded in the analysis of various structural conformations and functional states of PI3Kα, a dimer consisting of the catalytic subunit p110α and the regulatory subunit p85α of class IA of phosphoinositide 3-kinase. High resolution structures have been obtained of the unliganded and of BYL-719-bound PI3Kα. The latter provides information on excessively flexible domains of p85α that are then further analyzed with nanobodies and CXMS (chemical cross-linking, digestion and mass spectrometry). Analysis of p110α helical and kinase domain mutations reveals mutant-specific features that can be linked to the gain of function in enzymatic and signaling activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Vogt
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States of America.
| | - Jonathan R Hart
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States of America
| | - Su Yang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States of America
| | - Qingtong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Dehua Yang
- The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ming-Wei Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Research Center for Deepsea Bioresources, Sanya 572025, China; Department of Chemistry, School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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18
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Katsube S, Willibal K, Vemulapally S, Hariharan P, Tikhonova E, Pardon E, Kaback HR, Steyaert J, Guan L. In vivo and in vitro characterizations of melibiose permease (MelB) conformation-dependent nanobodies reveal sugar-binding mechanisms. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104967. [PMID: 37380079 PMCID: PMC10374971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104967] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium melibiose permease (MelBSt) is a prototype of the Na+-coupled major facilitator superfamily transporters, which are important for the cellular uptake of molecules including sugars and small drugs. Although the symport mechanisms have been well-studied, mechanisms of substrate binding and translocation remain enigmatic. We have previously determined the sugar-binding site of outward-facing MelBSt by crystallography. To obtain other key kinetic states, here we raised camelid single-domain nanobodies (Nbs) and carried out a screening against the WT MelBSt under 4 ligand conditions. We applied an in vivo cAMP-dependent two-hybrid assay to detect interactions of Nbs with MelBSt and melibiose transport assays to determine the effects on MelBSt functions. We found that all selected Nbs showed partial to complete inhibitions of MelBSt transport activities, confirming their intracellular interactions. A group of Nbs (714, 725, and 733) was purified, and isothermal titration calorimetry measurements showed that their binding affinities were significantly inhibited by the substrate melibiose. When titrating melibiose to the MelBSt/Nb complexes, Nb also inhibited the sugar-binding. However, the Nb733/MelBSt complex retained binding to the coupling cation Na+ and also to the regulatory enzyme EIIAGlc of the glucose-specific phosphoenolpyruvate/sugar phosphotransferase system. Further, EIIAGlc/MelBSt complex also retained binding to Nb733 and formed a stable supercomplex. All data indicated that MelBSt trapped by Nbs retained its physiological functions and the trapped conformation is similar to that bound by the physiological regulator EIIAGlc. Therefore, these conformational Nbs can be useful tools for further structural, functional, and conformational analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Katsube
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Katleen Willibal
- VIB Center for Structural Biology Research, VIB, Brussel, Belgium; Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Sangama Vemulapally
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Parameswaran Hariharan
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Elena Tikhonova
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Els Pardon
- VIB Center for Structural Biology Research, VIB, Brussel, Belgium; Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - H Ronald Kaback
- Department of Physiology and Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jan Steyaert
- VIB Center for Structural Biology Research, VIB, Brussel, Belgium; Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Lan Guan
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA.
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19
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Umarje SC, Banerjee SK. Non-traditional approaches for control of antibiotic resistance. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:1113-1135. [PMID: 38007617 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2279644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The drying up of antibiotic pipeline has necessitated the development of alternative therapeutic strategies to control the problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) that is expected to kill 10-million people annually by 2050. Newer therapeutic approaches address the shortcomings of traditional small-molecule antibiotics - the lack of specificity, evolvability, and susceptibility to mutation-based resistance. These 'non-traditional' molecules are biologicals having a complex structure and mode(s) of action that makes them resilient to resistance. AREAS COVERED This review aims to provide information about the non-traditional drug development approaches to tackle the problem of antimicrobial resistance, from the pre-antibiotic era to the latest developments. We have covered the molecules under development in the clinic with literature sourced from reviewed scholarly articles, official company websites involved in innovation of concerned therapeutics, press releases from the regulatory bodies, and clinical trial databases. EXPERT OPINION Formal introduction of non-traditional therapies in general practice can be quick and feasible only if supported with companion diagnostics and used in conjunction with established therapies. Owing to relatively higher development costs, non-traditional therapeutics require more funding as well as well as clarity in regulatory and clinical path. We are hopeful these issues are adequately addressed before AMR develops into a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddharth C Umarje
- Department of Proteomics, AbGenics Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India
- AbGenics Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India
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20
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Jones SA, Gogoi P, Ruprecht JJ, King MS, Lee Y, Zögg T, Pardon E, Chand D, Steimle S, Copeman DM, Cotrim CA, Steyaert J, Crichton PG, Moiseenkova-Bell V, Kunji ER. Structural basis of purine nucleotide inhibition of human uncoupling protein 1. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadh4251. [PMID: 37256948 PMCID: PMC10413660 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh4251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) gives brown adipose tissue of mammals its specialized ability to burn calories as heat for thermoregulation. When activated by fatty acids, UCP1 catalyzes the leak of protons across the mitochondrial inner membrane, short-circuiting the mitochondrion to generate heat, bypassing ATP synthesis. In contrast, purine nucleotides bind and inhibit UCP1, regulating proton leak by a molecular mechanism that is unclear. We present the cryo-electron microscopy structure of the GTP-inhibited state of UCP1, which is consistent with its nonconducting state. The purine nucleotide cross-links the transmembrane helices of UCP1 with an extensive interaction network. Our results provide a structural basis for understanding the specificity and pH dependency of the regulatory mechanism. UCP1 has retained all of the key functional and structural features required for a mitochondrial carrier-like transport mechanism. The analysis shows that inhibitor binding prevents the conformational changes that UCP1 uses to facilitate proton leak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A. Jones
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Keith Peters Building, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Prerana Gogoi
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, 10-124 Smilow Center for Translational Research, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5158, USA
| | - Jonathan J. Ruprecht
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Keith Peters Building, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Martin S. King
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Keith Peters Building, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Yang Lee
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Keith Peters Building, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Thomas Zögg
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, VIB, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Els Pardon
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, VIB, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Deepak Chand
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Keith Peters Building, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Stefan Steimle
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Danielle M. Copeman
- Biomedical Research Centre, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Camila A. Cotrim
- Biomedical Research Centre, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Jan Steyaert
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, VIB, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paul G. Crichton
- Biomedical Research Centre, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Vera Moiseenkova-Bell
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, 10-124 Smilow Center for Translational Research, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5158, USA
| | - Edmund R. S. Kunji
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Keith Peters Building, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
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21
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Li Q, Nemecz Á, Aymé G, Dejean de la Bâtie G, Prevost MS, Pons S, Barilone N, Baachaoui R, Maskos U, Lafaye P, Corringer PJ. Generation of nanobodies acting as silent and positive allosteric modulators of the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:164. [PMID: 37231269 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04779-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR), a potential drug target for treating cognitive disorders, mediates communication between neuronal and non-neuronal cells. Although many competitive antagonists, agonists, and partial-agonists have been found and synthesized, they have not led to effective therapeutic treatments. In this context, small molecules acting as positive allosteric modulators binding outside the orthosteric, acetylcholine, site have attracted considerable interest. Two single-domain antibody fragments, C4 and E3, against the extracellular domain of the human α7-nAChR were generated through alpaca immunization with cells expressing a human α7-nAChR/mouse 5-HT3A chimera, and are herein described. They bind to the α7-nAChR but not to the other major nAChR subtypes, α4β2 and α3β4. E3 acts as a slowly associating positive allosteric modulator, strongly potentiating the acetylcholine-elicited currents, while not precluding the desensitization of the receptor. An E3-E3 bivalent construct shows similar potentiating properties but displays very slow dissociation kinetics conferring quasi-irreversible properties. Whereas, C4 does not alter the receptor function, but fully inhibits the E3-evoked potentiation, showing it is a silent allosteric modulator competing with E3 binding. Both nanobodies do not compete with α-bungarotoxin, localizing at an allosteric extracellular binding site away from the orthosteric site. The functional differences of each nanobody, as well as the alteration of functional properties through nanobody modifications indicate the importance of this extracellular site. The nanobodies will be useful for pharmacological and structural investigations; moreover, they, along with the extracellular site, have a direct potential for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qimeng Li
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3571, Channel-Receptors Unit, Paris, France
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3528, Antibody Engineering Platform, Paris, France
- Lanzhou Institute of Biological Product Co., Lanzhou, China
- Sorbonne Université, Collège Doctoral, Paris, France
| | - Ákos Nemecz
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3571, Channel-Receptors Unit, Paris, France.
| | - Gabriel Aymé
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3528, Antibody Engineering Platform, Paris, France.
| | | | - Marie S Prevost
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3571, Channel-Receptors Unit, Paris, France
| | - Stéphanie Pons
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3571, Integrative Neurobiology of Cholinergic Systems Unit, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Barilone
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3571, Channel-Receptors Unit, Paris, France
| | - Rayen Baachaoui
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3571, Channel-Receptors Unit, Paris, France
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3528, Antibody Engineering Platform, Paris, France
| | - Uwe Maskos
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3571, Integrative Neurobiology of Cholinergic Systems Unit, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Lafaye
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3528, Antibody Engineering Platform, Paris, France
| | - Pierre-Jean Corringer
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3571, Channel-Receptors Unit, Paris, France.
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22
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Contreras MA, Serrano-Rivero Y, González-Pose A, Salazar-Uribe J, Rubio-Carrasquilla M, Soares-Alves M, Parra NC, Camacho-Casanova F, Sánchez-Ramos O, Moreno E. Design and Construction of a Synthetic Nanobody Library: Testing Its Potential with a Single Selection Round Strategy. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28093708. [PMID: 37175117 PMCID: PMC10180287 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28093708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanobodies (Nbs) are single domain antibody fragments derived from heavy-chain antibodies found in members of the Camelidae family. They have become a relevant class of biomolecules for many different applications because of several important advantages such as their small size, high solubility and stability, and low production costs. On the other hand, synthetic Nb libraries are emerging as an attractive alternative to animal immunization for the selection of antigen-specific Nbs. Here, we present the design and construction of a new synthetic nanobody library using the phage display technology, following a structure-based approach in which the three hypervariable loops were subjected to position-specific randomization schemes. The constructed library has a clonal diversity of 108 and an amino acid variability that matches the codon distribution set by design at each randomized position. We have explored the capabilities of the new library by selecting nanobodies specific for three antigens: vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and the glycoprotein complex (GnGc) of Andes virus. To test the potential of the library to yield a variety of antigen-specific Nbs, we introduced a biopanning strategy consisting of a single selection round using stringent conditions. Using this approach, we obtained several binders for each of the target antigens. The constructed library represents a promising nanobody source for different applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Angélica Contreras
- Pharmacology Department, School of Biological Sciences, University of Concepcion, Concepcion 4070386, Chile
| | | | - Alaín González-Pose
- Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Medellin, Medellin 050026, Colombia
| | | | | | - Matheus Soares-Alves
- Pharmacology Department, School of Biological Sciences, University of Concepcion, Concepcion 4070386, Chile
| | - Natalie C Parra
- Pharmacology Department, School of Biological Sciences, University of Concepcion, Concepcion 4070386, Chile
| | - Frank Camacho-Casanova
- Pharmacology Department, School of Biological Sciences, University of Concepcion, Concepcion 4070386, Chile
| | - Oliberto Sánchez-Ramos
- Pharmacology Department, School of Biological Sciences, University of Concepcion, Concepcion 4070386, Chile
| | - Ernesto Moreno
- Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Medellin, Medellin 050026, Colombia
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23
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Harrison PJ, Vecerkova T, Clare DK, Quigley A. A review of the approaches used to solve sub-100 kDa membrane proteins by cryo-electron microscopy. J Struct Biol 2023; 215:107959. [PMID: 37004781 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2023.107959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Membrane proteins (MPs) are essential components of all biological membranes, contributing to key cellular functions that include signalling, molecular transport and energy metabolism. Consequently, MPs are important biomedical targets for therapeutics discovery. Despite hardware and software developments in cryo-electron microscopy, as well as MP sample preparation, MPs smaller than 100 kDa remain difficult to study structurally. Significant investment is required to overcome low levels of naturally abundant protein, MP hydrophobicity as well as conformational and compositional instability. Here we have reviewed the sample preparation approaches that have been taken to successfully express, purify and prepare small MPs for analysis by cryo-EM (those with a total solved molecular weight of under 100 kDa), as well as examining the differing approaches towards data processing and ultimately obtaining a structural solution. We highlight common challenges at each stage in the process as well as strategies that have been developed to overcome these issues. Finally, we discuss future directions and opportunities for the study of sub-100 kDa membrane proteins by cryo-EM.
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24
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Tsitokana ME, Lafon PA, Prézeau L, Pin JP, Rondard P. Targeting the Brain with Single-Domain Antibodies: Greater Potential Than Stated So Far? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032632. [PMID: 36768953 PMCID: PMC9916958 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatments for central nervous system diseases with therapeutic antibodies have been increasingly investigated over the last decades, leading to some approved monoclonal antibodies for brain disease therapies. The detection of biomarkers for diagnosis purposes with non-invasive antibody-based imaging approaches has also been explored in brain cancers. However, antibodies generally display a low capability of reaching the brain, as they do not efficiently cross the blood-brain barrier. As an alternative, recent studies have focused on single-domain antibodies (sdAbs) that correspond to the antigen-binding fragment. While some reports indicate that the brain uptake of these small antibodies is still low, the number of studies reporting brain-penetrating sdAbs is increasing. In this review, we provide an overview of methods used to assess or evaluate brain penetration of sdAbs and discuss the pros and cons that could affect the identification of brain-penetrating sdAbs of therapeutic or diagnostic interest.
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25
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Mollica L, Giachin G. Recognition Mechanisms between a Nanobody and Disordered Epitopes of the Human Prion Protein: An Integrative Molecular Dynamics Study. J Chem Inf Model 2022; 63:531-545. [PMID: 36580661 PMCID: PMC9875307 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.2c01062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy using antibodies to target the aggregation of flexible proteins holds promise for therapeutic interventions in neurodegenerative diseases caused by protein misfolding. Prions or PrPSc, the causal agents of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE), represent a model target for immunotherapies as TSE are prototypical protein misfolding diseases. The X-ray crystal structure of the wild-type (WT) human prion protein (HuPrP) bound to a camelid antibody fragment, denoted as Nanobody 484 (Nb484), has been previously solved. Nb484 was found to inhibit prion aggregation in vitro through a unique mechanism of structural stabilization of two disordered epitopes, that is, the palindromic motif (residues 113-120) and the β2-α2 loop region (residues 164-185). The study of the structural basis for antibody recognition of flexible proteins requires appropriate sampling techniques for the identification of conformational states occurring in disordered epitopes. To elucidate the Nb484-HuPrP recognition mechanisms, here we applied molecular dynamics (MD) simulations complemented with available NMR and X-ray crystallography data collected on the WT HuPrP to describe the conformational spaces occurring on HuPrP prior to Nb484 binding. We observe the experimentally determined binding competent conformations within the ensembles of pre-existing conformational states in solution before binding. We also described the Nb484 recognition mechanisms in two HuPrP carrying a polymorphism (E219K) and a TSE-causing mutation (V210I). Our hybrid approaches allow the identification of dynamic conformational landscapes existing on HuPrP and highly characterized by molecular disorder to identify physiologically relevant and druggable transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Mollica
- Department
of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Segrate, 20090 Milan, Italy,
| | - Gabriele Giachin
- Department
of Chemical Sciences (DiSC), University
of Padua, 35131 Padova, Italy,
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26
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Structure of the human heterodimeric transporter 4F2hc-LAT2 in complex with Anticalin, an alternative binding protein for applications in single-particle cryo-EM. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18269. [PMID: 36310334 PMCID: PMC9618567 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23270-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryo-EM structure determination of relatively small and flexible membrane proteins at high resolution is challenging. Increasing the size and structural features by binding of high affinity proteins to the biomolecular target allows for better particle alignment and may result in structural models of higher resolution and quality. Anticalins are alternative binding proteins to antibodies, which are based on the lipocalin scaffold and show potential for theranostic applications. The human heterodimeric amino acid transporter 4F2hc-LAT2 is a membrane protein complex that mediates transport of certain amino acids and derivatives thereof across the plasma membrane. Here, we present and discuss the cryo-EM structure of human 4F2hc-LAT2 in complex with the anticalin D11vs at 3.2 Å resolution. Relative high local map resolution (2.8-3.0 Å) in the LAT2 substrate binding site together with molecular dynamics simulations indicated the presence of fixed water molecules potentially involved in shaping and stabilizing this region. Finally, the presented work expands the application portfolio of anticalins and widens the toolset of binding proteins to promote high-resolution structure solution by single-particle cryo-EM.
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27
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Wentinck K, Gogou C, Meijer DH. Putting on molecular weight: Enabling cryo-EM structure determination of sub-100-kDa proteins. Curr Res Struct Biol 2022; 4:332-337. [PMID: 36248264 PMCID: PMC9562432 DOI: 10.1016/j.crstbi.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Significant advances in the past decade have enabled high-resolution structure determination of a vast variety of proteins by cryogenic electron microscopy single particle analysis. Despite improved sample preparation, next-generation imaging hardware, and advanced single particle analysis algorithms, small proteins remain elusive for reconstruction due to low signal-to-noise and lack of distinctive structural features. Multiple efforts have therefore been directed at the development of size-increase techniques for small proteins. Here we review the latest methods for increasing effective molecular weight of proteins <100 kDa through target protein binding or target protein fusion - specifically by using nanobody-based assemblies, fusion tags, and symmetric scaffolds. Finally, we summarize these state-of-the-art techniques into a decision-tree to facilitate the design of tailored future approaches, and thus for further exploration of ever-smaller proteins that make up the largest part of the human genome.
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Key Words
- BRIL, cytochromeb562 RIL
- DARPin, Design Ankyrin Repeat Protein
- Fab, antigen binding fragment
- GFP, Green Fluorecent Protein
- GPCR, G protein-coupled receptor
- MW, molecular weight
- Mb, megabody
- Nb, nanobody
- SNR, signal-to-noise ratio
- SPA, single particle analysis
- TM, transmembrane
- cryo-EM, cryogenic electron microscopy
- kDa, kiloDalton
- κOR ICL3, κ-opiod receptor intracellular loop 3
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Qin Q, Liu H, He W, Guo Y, Zhang J, She J, Zheng F, Zhang S, Muyldermans S, Wen Y. Single Domain Antibody application in bacterial infection diagnosis and neutralization. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1014377. [PMID: 36248787 PMCID: PMC9558170 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1014377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing antibiotic resistance to bacterial infections causes a serious threat to human health. Efficient detection and treatment strategies are the keys to preventing and reducing bacterial infections. Due to the high affinity and antigen specificity, antibodies have become an important tool for diagnosis and treatment of various human diseases. In addition to conventional antibodies, a unique class of “heavy-chain-only” antibodies (HCAbs) were found in the serum of camelids and sharks. HCAbs binds to the antigen through only one variable domain Referred to as VHH (variable domain of the heavy chain of HCAbs). The recombinant format of the VHH is also called single domain antibody (sdAb) or nanobody (Nb). Sharks might also have an ancestor HCAb from where SdAbs or V-NAR might be engineered. Compared with traditional Abs, Nbs have several outstanding properties such as small size, high stability, strong antigen-binding affinity, high solubility and low immunogenicity. Furthermore, they are expressed at low cost in microorganisms and amenable to engineering. These superior properties make Nbs a highly desired alternative to conventional antibodies, which are extensively employed in structural biology, unravelling biochemical mechanisms, molecular imaging, diagnosis and treatment of diseases. In this review, we summarized recent progress of nanobody-based approaches in diagnosis and neutralization of bacterial infection and further discussed the challenges of Nbs in these fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Qin
- Department of General Surgery, Center for Microbiome Research of Med-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
- The Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Disease of Ministry of Education, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Future Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Wenbo He
- Department of General Surgery, Center for Microbiome Research of Med-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yucheng Guo
- The Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Disease of Ministry of Education, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Disease of Ministry of Education, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Junjun She
- Department of General Surgery, Center for Microbiome Research of Med-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fang Zheng
- The Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Disease of Ministry of Education, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Sicai Zhang
- Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Future Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yurong Wen
- Department of General Surgery, Center for Microbiome Research of Med-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
- The Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Disease of Ministry of Education, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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29
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Olson KM, Campbell A, Alt A, Traynor JR. Finding the Perfect Fit: Conformational Biosensors to Determine the Efficacy of GPCR Ligands. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:694-709. [PMID: 36110374 PMCID: PMC9469492 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.1c00256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are highly druggable targets that adopt numerous conformations. A ligand's ability to stabilize specific conformation(s) of its cognate receptor determines its efficacy or ability to produce a biological response. Identifying ligands that produce different receptor conformations and potentially discrete pharmacological effects (e.g., biased agonists, partial agonists, antagonists, allosteric modulators) is a major goal in drug discovery and necessary to develop drugs with better effectiveness and fewer side effects. Fortunately, direct measurements of ligand efficacy, via receptor conformational changes are possible with the recent development of conformational biosensors. In this review, we discuss classical efficacy models, including the two-state model, the ternary-complex model, and multistate models. We describe how nanobody-, transducer-, and receptor-based conformational biosensors detect and/or stabilize specific GPCR conformations to identify ligands with different levels of efficacy. In particular, conformational biosensors provide the potential to identify and/or characterize therapeutically desirable but often difficult to measure conformations of receptors faster and better than current methods. For drug discovery/development, several recent proof-of-principle studies have optimized conformational biosensors for high-throughput screening (HTS) platforms. However, their widespread use is limited by the fact that few sensors are reliably capable of detecting low-frequency conformations and technically demanding assay conditions. Nonetheless, conformational biosensors do help identify desirable ligands such as allosteric modulators, biased ligands, or partial agonists in a single assay, representing a distinct advantage over classical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith M. Olson
- Department
of Pharmacology and Edward F Domino Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Life
Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Andra Campbell
- Department
of Pharmacology and Edward F Domino Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Life
Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Andrew Alt
- Department
of Pharmacology and Edward F Domino Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Life
Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - John R. Traynor
- Department
of Pharmacology and Edward F Domino Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, 428 Church Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United
States
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30
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Jamieson SA, Pudjihartono M, Horne CR, Viloria JS, Dunlop JL, McMillan HD, Day RC, Keeshan K, Murphy JM, Mace PD. Nanobodies identify an activated state of the TRIB2 pseudokinase. Structure 2022; 30:1518-1529.e5. [PMID: 36108635 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2022.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Tribbles proteins (TRIB1-3) are pseudokinases that recruit substrates to the COP1 ubiquitin ligase. TRIB2 was the first Tribbles ortholog to be implicated as a myeloid leukemia oncogene, because it recruits the C/EBPα transcription factor for ubiquitination by COP1. Here we report identification of nanobodies that bind the TRIB2 pseudokinase domain with low nanomolar affinity. A crystal structure of the TRIB2-Nb4.103 complex identified the nanobody to bind the N-terminal lobe of TRIB2, enabling specific recognition of TRIB2 in an activated conformation that is similar to the C/EBPα-bound state of TRIB1. Characterization in solution revealed that Nb4.103 can stabilize a TRIB2 pseudokinase domain dimer in a face-to-face manner. Conversely, a distinct nanobody (Nb4.101) binds through a similar epitope but does not readily promote dimerization. In combination, this study identifies features of TRIB2 that could be exploited for the development of inhibitors and nanobody tools for future investigation of TRIB2 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam A Jamieson
- Biochemistry Department, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Michael Pudjihartono
- Biochemistry Department, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Christopher R Horne
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | | | - Jessica L Dunlop
- Biochemistry Department, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Hamish D McMillan
- Biochemistry Department, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Robert C Day
- Biochemistry Department, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Karen Keeshan
- Paul O'Gorman Leukaemia Research Centre, School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - James M Murphy
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Peter D Mace
- Biochemistry Department, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand.
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31
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Correlation between the binding affinity and the conformational entropy of nanobody SARS-CoV-2 spike protein complexes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2205412119. [PMID: 35858383 PMCID: PMC9351521 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2205412119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the structural principles that determine the binding affinity of nanobodies to the spike protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has been difficult. We analyzed electron microscopy maps of nanobody-spike complexes and quantified the conformational entropy of binding. This informed the design of an engineered nanobody with improved binding to the spike protein. This result offers a guiding principle for the rational maturation of nanobodies directed against the spike. High-binding potency nanobodies have been shown to be effective in animal models; thus, this technology could have application in future pandemics. Camelid single-domain antibodies, also known as nanobodies, can be readily isolated from naïve libraries for specific targets but often bind too weakly to their targets to be immediately useful. Laboratory-based genetic engineering methods to enhance their affinity, termed maturation, can deliver useful reagents for different areas of biology and potentially medicine. Using the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein and a naïve library, we generated closely related nanobodies with micromolar to nanomolar binding affinities. By analyzing the structure–activity relationship using X-ray crystallography, cryoelectron microscopy, and biophysical methods, we observed that higher conformational entropy losses in the formation of the spike protein–nanobody complex are associated with tighter binding. To investigate this, we generated structural ensembles of the different complexes from electron microscopy maps and correlated the conformational fluctuations with binding affinity. This insight guided the engineering of a nanobody with improved affinity for the spike protein.
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32
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Cordell P, Carrington G, Curd A, Parker F, Tomlinson D, Peckham M. Affimers and nanobodies as molecular probes and their applications in imaging. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:276020. [PMID: 35848463 PMCID: PMC9450889 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibodies are the most widely used, traditional tool for labelling molecules in cells. In the past five to ten years, many new labelling tools have been developed with significant advantages over the traditional antibody. Here, we focus on nanobodies and the non-antibody binding scaffold proteins called Affimers. We explain how they are generated, selected and produced, and we describe how their small size, high binding affinity and specificity provides them with many advantages compared to antibodies. Of particular importance, their small size enables them to better penetrate dense cytoskeletal regions within cells, as well as tissues, providing them with specific advantage for super-resolution imaging, as they place the fluorophore with a few nanometres of the target protein being imaged. We expect these novel tools to be of broad interest to many cell biologists and anticipate them becoming the tools of choice for super-resolution imaging.
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33
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Laeremans T, Sands ZA, Claes P, De Blieck A, De Cesco S, Triest S, Busch A, Felix D, Kumar A, Jaakola VP, Menet C. Accelerating GPCR Drug Discovery With Conformation-Stabilizing VHHs. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:863099. [PMID: 35677880 PMCID: PMC9170359 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.863099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The human genome encodes 850 G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), half of which are considered potential drug targets. GPCRs transduce extracellular stimuli into a plethora of vital physiological processes. Consequently, GPCRs are an attractive drug target class. This is underlined by the fact that approximately 40% of marketed drugs modulate GPCRs. Intriguingly 60% of non-olfactory GPCRs have no drugs or candidates in clinical development, highlighting the continued potential of GPCRs as drug targets. The discovery of small molecules targeting these GPCRs by conventional high throughput screening (HTS) campaigns is challenging. Although the definition of success varies per company, the success rate of HTS for GPCRs is low compared to other target families (Fujioka and Omori, 2012; Dragovich et al., 2022). Beyond this, GPCR structure determination can be difficult, which often precludes the application of structure-based drug design approaches to arising HTS hits. GPCR structural studies entail the resource-demanding purification of native receptors, which can be challenging as they are inherently unstable when extracted from the lipid matrix. Moreover, GPCRs are flexible molecules that adopt distinct conformations, some of which need to be stabilized if they are to be structurally resolved. The complexity of targeting distinct therapeutically relevant GPCR conformations during the early discovery stages contributes to the high attrition rates for GPCR drug discovery programs. Multiple strategies have been explored in an attempt to stabilize GPCRs in distinct conformations to better understand their pharmacology. This review will focus on the use of camelid-derived immunoglobulin single variable domains (VHHs) that stabilize disease-relevant pharmacological states (termed ConfoBodies by the authors) of GPCRs, as well as GPCR:signal transducer complexes, to accelerate drug discovery. These VHHs are powerful tools for supporting in vitro screening, deconvolution of complex GPCR pharmacology, and structural biology purposes. In order to demonstrate the potential impact of ConfoBodies on translational research, examples are presented of their role in active state screening campaigns and structure-informed rational design to identify de novo chemical space and, subsequently, how such matter can be elaborated into more potent and selective drug candidates with intended pharmacology.
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34
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Li B, Qin X, Mi LZ. Nanobodies: from structure to applications in non-injectable and bispecific biotherapeutic development. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:7110-7122. [PMID: 35535618 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr00306f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The increasing demand for convenient, miniaturized and multifunctional antibodies necessitates the development of novel antigen-recognition molecules for biological and medical studies. Nanobodies, the functional variable regions of camelid heavy-chain-only antibodies, as a new tool, complement the conventional antibodies and are in the stage of rapid development. The outstanding advantages of nanobodies include a stable structure, easy production, excellent water solubility, high affinity toward antigens and low immunogenicity. With promising application potential, nanobodies are now increasingly applied to various studies, including protein structure analysis, microscopic imaging, medical diagnosis, and drug development. The approval of the first nanobody drug Caplacizumab by the FDA disclosed the therapeutic potential of nanobodies. The outbreak of COVID-19 accelerated the development of nanobody drugs in non-injectable and bispecific biotherapeutic applications. Herein, we reviewed recent studies on the nanobody structure, screening and their applications in protein structure analysis and nanobody drugs, especially on non-injectable nanobody and bispecific nanobody development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingxuan Li
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Xiaohong Qin
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Li-Zhi Mi
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China.
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35
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Ji F, Ren J, Vincke C, Jia L, Muyldermans S. Nanobodies: From Serendipitous Discovery of Heavy Chain-Only Antibodies in Camelids to a Wide Range of Useful Applications. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2022; 2446:3-17. [PMID: 35157266 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2075-5_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The presence of unique heavy chain-only antibodies (HCAbs) in camelids was discovered at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB, Brussels, Belgium) at a time when many researchers were exploring the cloning and expression of smaller antigen-binding fragments (Fv and Fab) from hybridoma-derived antibodies. The potential importance of this discovery was anticipated, and efforts were immediately undertaken to understand the emergence and ontogeny of these HCAbs as well as to investigate the applications of the single-domain antigen-binding variable domains of HCAbs (nanobodies). Nanobodies were demonstrated to possess multiple biochemical and biophysical advantages over other antigen-binding antibody fragments and alternative scaffolds. Today, nanobodies have a significant and growing impact on research, biotechnology, and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangling Ji
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Imaging, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Jun Ren
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Imaging, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Cécile Vincke
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lingyun Jia
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Imaging, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Imaging, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, China. .,Cellular and Molecular Immunology Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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36
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Liu B, Yang D. Easily Established and Multifunctional Synthetic Nanobody Libraries as Research Tools. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031482. [PMID: 35163405 PMCID: PMC8835997 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanobodies, or VHHs, refer to the antigen-binding domain of heavy-chain antibodies (HCAbs) from camelids. They have been widely used as research tools for protein purification and structure determination due to their small size, high specificity, and high stability, overcoming limitations with conventional antibody fragments. However, animal immunization and subsequent retrieval of antigen-specific nanobodies are expensive and complicated. Construction of synthetic nanobody libraries using DNA oligonucleotides is a cost-effective alternative for immunization libraries and shows great potential in identifying antigen-specific or even conformation-specific nanobodies. This review summarizes and analyses synthetic nanobody libraries in the current literature, including library design and biopanning methods, and further discusses applications of antigen-specific nanobodies obtained from synthetic libraries to research.
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37
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Matsuzaki Y, Kajiwara K, Aoki W, Ueda M. Production of Single-Domain Antibodies in Pichia pastoris. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2446:181-203. [PMID: 35157274 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2075-5_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Single-domain antibodies (sdAbs) are binders that consist of a single immunoglobulin domain. SdAbs have gained importance as therapeutics, diagnostic reagents, and research tools. Functional sdAbs are commonly produced in Escherichia coli, which is a simple and widely used host for production of recombinant proteins. However, there are drawbacks of the E. coli expression system, including the potential for misfolded recombinant proteins and pyrogenic contamination with toxic lipopolysaccharides. Pichia pastoris is an alternative host for the production of heterologous proteins because of its high recombinant protein yields and the ability to produce soluble, properly folded proteins without lipopolysaccharide contamination. Here, we describe a method to produce sdAbs in P. pastoris. We present methods for the cloning of sdAb-encoding genes into a P. pastoris expression vector, production and purification of sdAbs, and measurement of sdAb-binding kinetics. Functional sdAbs are easily and routinely obtained using these methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusei Matsuzaki
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kaho Kajiwara
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Wataru Aoki
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Core Research for Evolutionary Science and Technology (CREST), Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuyoshi Ueda
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
- Core Research for Evolutionary Science and Technology (CREST), Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Tokyo, Japan.
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38
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Gulezian E, Crivello C, Bednenko J, Zafra C, Zhang Y, Colussi P, Hussain S. Membrane protein production and formulation for drug discovery. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2021; 42:657-674. [PMID: 34270922 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2021.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Integral membrane proteins (MPs) are important drug targets across most fields of medicine, but historically have posed a major challenge for drug discovery due to difficulties in producing them in functional forms. We review the state of the art in drug discovery strategies using recombinant multipass MPs, and outline methods to successfully express, stabilize, and formulate them for small-molecule and monoclonal antibody therapeutics development. Advances in structure-based drug design and high-throughput screening are allowing access to previously intractable targets such as ion channels and transporters, propelling the field towards the development of highly specific therapies targeting desired conformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Gulezian
- TetraGenetics Inc., 91 Mystic Street, Arlington, MA 02474, USA
| | | | - Janna Bednenko
- TetraGenetics Inc., 91 Mystic Street, Arlington, MA 02474, USA
| | - Claudia Zafra
- TetraGenetics Inc., 91 Mystic Street, Arlington, MA 02474, USA
| | - Yihui Zhang
- TetraGenetics Inc., 91 Mystic Street, Arlington, MA 02474, USA
| | - Paul Colussi
- TetraGenetics Inc., 91 Mystic Street, Arlington, MA 02474, USA
| | - Sunyia Hussain
- TetraGenetics Inc., 91 Mystic Street, Arlington, MA 02474, USA.
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39
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Architecture of cell-cell junctions in situ reveals a mechanism for bacterial biofilm inhibition. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2109940118. [PMID: 34321357 PMCID: PMC8346871 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2109940118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Many bacteria, including the major human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are naturally found in multicellular, antibiotic-tolerant biofilm communities, in which cells are embedded in an extracellular matrix of polymeric molecules. Cell-cell interactions within P. aeruginosa biofilms are mediated by CdrA, a large, membrane-associated adhesin present in the extracellular matrix of biofilms, regulated by the cytoplasmic concentration of cyclic diguanylate. Here, using electron cryotomography of focused ion beam-milled specimens, we report the architecture of CdrA molecules in the extracellular matrix of P. aeruginosa biofilms at intact cell-cell junctions. Combining our in situ observations at cell-cell junctions with biochemistry, native mass spectrometry, and cellular imaging, we demonstrate that CdrA forms an extended structure that projects from the outer membrane to tether cells together via polysaccharide binding partners. We go on to show the functional importance of CdrA using custom single-domain antibody (nanobody) binders. Nanobodies targeting the tip of functional cell-surface CdrA molecules could be used to inhibit bacterial biofilm formation or disrupt preexisting biofilms in conjunction with bactericidal antibiotics. These results reveal a functional mechanism for cell-cell interactions within bacterial biofilms and highlight the promise of using inhibitors targeting biofilm cell-cell junctions to prevent or treat problematic, chronic bacterial infections.
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40
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Rathinaswamy MK, Fleming KD, Dalwadi U, Pardon E, Harris NJ, Yip CK, Steyaert J, Burke JE. HDX-MS-optimized approach to characterize nanobodies as tools for biochemical and structural studies of class IB phosphoinositide 3-kinases. Structure 2021; 29:1371-1381.e6. [PMID: 34348129 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
There is considerable interest in developing antibodies as modulators of signaling pathways. One of the most important signaling pathways in higher eukaryotes is the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway, which plays fundamental roles in growth, metabolism, and immunity. The class IB PI3K, PI3Kγ, is a heterodimeric complex composed of a catalytic p110γ subunit bound to a p101 or p84 regulatory subunit. PI3Kγ is a critical component in multiple immune signaling processes and is dependent on activation by Ras and G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to mediate its cellular roles. Here we describe the rapid and efficient characterization of multiple PI3Kγ binding single-chain camelid nanobodies using hydrogen-deuterium exchange (HDX) mass spectrometry (MS) for structural and biochemical studies. We identify nanobodies that stimulated lipid kinase activity, block Ras activation, and specifically inhibited p101-mediated GPCR activation. Overall, our work reveals insight into PI3Kγ regulation and identifies sites that may be exploited for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj K Rathinaswamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Kaelin D Fleming
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Udit Dalwadi
- Life Sciences Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Els Pardon
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium; VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, VIB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Noah J Harris
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Calvin K Yip
- Life Sciences Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jan Steyaert
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium; VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, VIB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - John E Burke
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8W 2Y2, Canada; Life Sciences Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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41
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A Novel Nanobody Precisely Visualizes Phosphorylated Histone H2AX in Living Cancer Cells under Drug-Induced Replication Stress. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133317. [PMID: 34282773 PMCID: PMC8267817 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary γ-H2AX, a phosphorylated variant of histone H2A, is a widely used biomarker of DNA replication stress. To develop an immunological probe able to detect and track γ-H2AX in live cancer cells, we have isolated single domain antibodies (called nanobodies) that are easily expressed as functional recombinant proteins and here we report the extensive characterization of a novel nanobody that specifically recognizes γ-H2AX. The interaction of this nanobody with the C-terminal end of γ-H2AX was determined by X-ray crystallography. Moreover, the generation of a bivalent nanobody allowed us to precisely detect γ-H2AX foci in drug-treated cells as efficiently as with commercially available conventional antibodies. Furthermore, we tracked γ-H2AX foci in live cells upon intracellular delivery of the bivalent nanobody fused to the red fluorescent protein dTomato, making, consequently, this new cost-effective reagent useful for studying drug-induced replication stress in both fixed and living cancer cells. Abstract Histone H2AX phosphorylated at serine 139 (γ-H2AX) is a hallmark of DNA damage, signaling the presence of DNA double-strand breaks and global replication stress in mammalian cells. While γ-H2AX can be visualized with antibodies in fixed cells, its detection in living cells was so far not possible. Here, we used immune libraries and phage display to isolate nanobodies that specifically bind to γ-H2AX. We solved the crystal structure of the most soluble nanobody in complex with the phosphopeptide corresponding to the C-terminus of γ-H2AX and show the atomic constituents behind its specificity. We engineered a bivalent version of this nanobody and show that bivalency is essential to quantitatively visualize γ-H2AX in fixed drug-treated cells. After labelling with a chemical fluorophore, we were able to detect γ-H2AX in a single-step assay with the same sensitivity as with validated antibodies. Moreover, we produced fluorescent nanobody-dTomato fusion proteins and applied a transduction strategy to visualize with precision γ-H2AX foci present in intact living cells following drug treatment. Together, this novel tool allows performing fast screenings of genotoxic drugs and enables to study the dynamics of this particular chromatin modification in individual cancer cells under a variety of conditions.
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Abstract
Members of the mitochondrial carrier family [solute carrier family 25 (SLC25)] transport nucleotides, amino acids, carboxylic acids, fatty acids, inorganic ions, and vitamins across the mitochondrial inner membrane. They are important for many cellular processes, such as oxidative phosphorylation of lipids and sugars, amino acid metabolism, macromolecular synthesis, ion homeostasis, cellular regulation, and differentiation. Here, we describe the functional elements of the transport mechanism of mitochondrial carriers, consisting of one central substrate-binding site and two gates with salt-bridge networks on either side of the carrier. Binding of the substrate during import causes three gate elements to rotate inward, forming the cytoplasmic network and closing access to the substrate-binding site from the intermembrane space. Simultaneously, three core elements rock outward, disrupting the matrix network and opening the substrate-binding site to the matrix side of the membrane. During export, substrate binding triggers conformational changes involving the same elements but operating in reverse.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J Ruprecht
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, Keith Peters Building, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, United Kingdom; ,
| | - E R S Kunji
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, Keith Peters Building, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, United Kingdom; ,
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43
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Van Campenhout R, Muyldermans S, Vinken M, Devoogdt N, De Groof TW. Therapeutic Nanobodies Targeting Cell Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins: A High-Risk/High-Gain Endeavor. Biomolecules 2021; 11:63. [PMID: 33418902 PMCID: PMC7825061 DOI: 10.3390/biom11010063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell plasma membrane proteins are considered as gatekeepers of the cell and play a major role in regulating various processes. Transport proteins constitute a subclass of cell plasma membrane proteins enabling the exchange of molecules and ions between the extracellular environment and the cytosol. A plethora of human pathologies are associated with the altered expression or dysfunction of cell plasma membrane transport proteins, making them interesting therapeutic drug targets. However, the search for therapeutics is challenging, since many drug candidates targeting cell plasma membrane proteins fail in (pre)clinical testing due to inadequate selectivity, specificity, potency or stability. These latter characteristics are met by nanobodies, which potentially renders them eligible therapeutics targeting cell plasma membrane proteins. Therefore, a therapeutic nanobody-based strategy seems a valid approach to target and modulate the activity of cell plasma membrane transport proteins. This review paper focuses on methodologies to generate cell plasma membrane transport protein-targeting nanobodies, and the advantages and pitfalls while generating these small antibody-derivatives, and discusses several therapeutic nanobodies directed towards transmembrane proteins, including channels and pores, adenosine triphosphate-powered pumps and porters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raf Van Campenhout
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.C.); (M.V.)
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.C.); (M.V.)
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Timo W.M. De Groof
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium;
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44
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Kermani AA. A guide to membrane protein X‐ray crystallography. FEBS J 2020; 288:5788-5804. [DOI: 10.1111/febs.15676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ali A. Kermani
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology University of Michigan Ann Arbor MI USA
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45
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Uhlemann EME, Yu CH, Patry J, Dolgova N, Lutsenko S, Muyldermans S, Dmitriev OY. Nanobodies against the metal binding domains of ATP7B as tools to study copper transport in the cell. Metallomics 2020; 12:1941-1950. [PMID: 33094790 DOI: 10.1039/d0mt00191k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Nanobodies are genetically engineered single domain antibodies derived from the unusual heavy-chain only antibodies found in llamas and camels. The small size of the nanobodies and flexible selection schemes make them uniquely versatile tools for protein biochemistry and cell biology. We have developed a panel of nanobodies against the metal binding domains of the human copper transporter ATP7B, a multidomain membrane protein with a complex regulation of enzymatic activity and intracellular localization. To enable the use of the nanobodies as tools to investigate copper transport in the cell, we characterized their binding sites and affinity by isothermal titration calorimetry and NMR. We have identified nanobodies against each of the first four metal binding domains of ATP7B, with a wide affinity range, as evidenced by dissociation constants from below 10-9 to 10-6 M. We found both the inhibitory and activating nanobodies among those tested. The diverse properties of the nanobodies make the panel useful for the structural studies of ATP7B, immunoaffinity purification of the protein, modulation of its activity in the cell, protein dynamics studies, and as mimics of copper chaperone ATOX1, the natural interaction partner of ATP7B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria E Uhlemann
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
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46
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Abstract
Unique, functional, homodimeric heavy chain-only antibodies, devoid of light chains, are circulating in the blood of Camelidae. These antibodies recognize their cognate antigen via one single domain, known as VHH or Nanobody. This serendipitous discovery made three decades ago has stimulated a growing number of researchers to generate highly specific Nanobodies against a myriad of targets. The small size, strict monomeric state, robustness, and easy tailoring of these Nanobodies have inspired many groups to design innovative Nanobody-based multi-domain constructs to explore novel applications. As such, Nanobodies have been employed as an exquisite research tool in structural, cell, and developmental biology. Furthermore, Nanobodies have demonstrated their benefit for more sensitive diagnostic tests. Finally, several Nanobody-based constructs have been designed to develop new therapeutic products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Muyldermans
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; .,Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Imaging, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
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47
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Modular transient nanoclustering of activated β2-adrenergic receptors revealed by single-molecule tracking of conformation-specific nanobodies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:30476-30487. [PMID: 33214152 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2007443117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
None of the current superresolution microscopy techniques can reliably image the changes in endogenous protein nanoclustering dynamics associated with specific conformations in live cells. Single-domain nanobodies have been invaluable tools to isolate defined conformational states of proteins, and we reasoned that expressing these nanobodies coupled to single-molecule imaging-amenable tags could allow superresolution analysis of endogenous proteins in discrete conformational states. Here, we used anti-GFP nanobodies tagged with photoconvertible mEos expressed as intrabodies, as a proof-of-concept to perform single-particle tracking on a range of GFP proteins expressed in live cells, neurons, and small organisms. We next expressed highly specialized nanobodies that target conformation-specific endogenous β2-adrenoreceptor (β2-AR) in neurosecretory cells, unveiling real-time mobility behaviors of activated and inactivated endogenous conformers during agonist treatment in living cells. We showed that activated β2-AR (Nb80) is highly immobile and organized in nanoclusters. The Gαs-GPCR complex detected with Nb37 displayed higher mobility with surprisingly similar nanoclustering dynamics to that of Nb80. Activated conformers are highly sensitive to dynamin inhibition, suggesting selective targeting for endocytosis. Inactivated β2-AR (Nb60) molecules are also largely immobile but relatively less sensitive to endocytic blockade. Expression of single-domain nanobodies therefore provides a unique opportunity to capture highly transient changes in the dynamic nanoscale organization of endogenous proteins.
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48
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Cheloha RW, Harmand TJ, Wijne C, Schwartz TU, Ploegh HL. Exploring cellular biochemistry with nanobodies. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:15307-15327. [PMID: 32868455 PMCID: PMC7650250 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.rev120.012960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Reagents that bind tightly and specifically to biomolecules of interest remain essential in the exploration of biology and in their ultimate application to medicine. Besides ligands for receptors of known specificity, agents commonly used for this purpose are monoclonal antibodies derived from mice, rabbits, and other animals. However, such antibodies can be expensive to produce, challenging to engineer, and are not necessarily stable in the context of the cellular cytoplasm, a reducing environment. Heavy chain-only antibodies, discovered in camelids, have been truncated to yield single-domain antibody fragments (VHHs or nanobodies) that overcome many of these shortcomings. Whereas they are known as crystallization chaperones for membrane proteins or as simple alternatives to conventional antibodies, nanobodies have been applied in settings where the use of standard antibodies or their derivatives would be impractical or impossible. We review recent examples in which the unique properties of nanobodies have been combined with complementary methods, such as chemical functionalization, to provide tools with unique and useful properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross W Cheloha
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thibault J Harmand
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Charlotte Wijne
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thomas U Schwartz
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hidde L Ploegh
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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49
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de Beer MA, Giepmans BNG. Nanobody-Based Probes for Subcellular Protein Identification and Visualization. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:573278. [PMID: 33240044 PMCID: PMC7667270 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.573278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding how building blocks of life contribute to physiology is greatly aided by protein identification and cellular localization. The two main labeling approaches developed over the past decades are labeling with antibodies such as immunoglobulin G (IgGs) or use of genetically encoded tags such as fluorescent proteins. However, IgGs are large proteins (150 kDa), which limits penetration depth and uncertainty of target position caused by up to ∼25 nm distance of the label created by the chosen targeting approach. Additionally, IgGs cannot be easily recombinantly modulated and engineered as part of fusion proteins because they consist of multiple independent translated chains. In the last decade single domain antigen binding proteins are being explored in bioscience as a tool in revealing molecular identity and localization to overcome limitations by IgGs. These nanobodies have several potential benefits over routine applications. Because of their small size (15 kDa), nanobodies better penetrate during labeling procedures and improve resolution. Moreover, nanobodies cDNA can easily be fused with other cDNA. Multidomain proteins can thus be easily engineered consisting of domains for targeting (nanobodies) and visualization by fluorescence microscopy (fluorescent proteins) or electron microscopy (based on certain enzymes). Additional modules for e.g., purification are also easily added. These nanobody-based probes can be applied in cells for live-cell endogenous protein detection or may be purified prior to use on molecules, cells or tissues. Here, we present the current state of nanobody-based probes and their implementation in microscopy, including pitfalls and potential future opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marit A de Beer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Ben N G Giepmans
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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50
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Bharat TAM, von Kügelgen A, Alva V. Molecular Logic of Prokaryotic Surface Layer Structures. Trends Microbiol 2020; 29:405-415. [PMID: 33121898 PMCID: PMC8559796 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2020.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Most prokaryotic cells are encased in a surface layer (S-layer) consisting of a paracrystalline array of repeating lattice-forming proteins. S-layer proteins populate a vast and diverse sequence space, performing disparate functions in prokaryotic cells, including cellular defense, cell-shape maintenance, and regulation of import and export of materials. This article highlights recent advances in the understanding of S-layer structure and assembly, made possible by rapidly evolving structural and cell biology methods. We underscore shared assembly principles revealed by recent work and discuss a common molecular framework that may be used to understand the structural organization of S-layer proteins across bacteria and archaea. Despite enormous sequence diversity in surface (S)-layer proteins, structural diversity is much lower than previously thought. S-layer proteins have a bipartite arrangement with a lattice-forming and an anchoring segment. Novel structural biology methods are revealing the architectures of S-layers in situ. S-layer assembly across prokaryotes is tightly coupled to the cell cycle, including the cell division machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanmay A M Bharat
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK; Central Oxford Structural Microscopy and Imaging Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK.
| | - Andriko von Kügelgen
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK; Central Oxford Structural Microscopy and Imaging Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Vikram Alva
- Department of Protein Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Max-Planck-Ring 5, Tübingen 72076, Germany.
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