Serendipitous discovery and X-ray structure of a human phosphate binding apolipoprotein

Shell Matrix Protein N38 of Pinctada fucata, Inducing Vaterite Formation, Extends the DING Protein to the Mollusca World

In the animal kingdom, DING proteins were only found in Chordata and Aschelminthes. At present study, a potential DING protein, matrix protein N38, was isolated and purified from the shell of Pinctada fucata. Tandem mass spectrometry analysis revealed that 14 peptide segments matched between N38 and human phosphate-binding protein (HPBP). HPBP belongs to the DING protein family and has a "DINGGG-" sequence, which is considered a "signature" of HPBP. In this study, the mass spectrometry analysis results showed that N38 had a "DIDGGG-" sequence; this structure is a mutation from the "DINGGG-" structure, which is a distinctive feature of the DING protein family. The role of N38 during calcium carbonate formation was explored through the in vitro crystallization experiment. The results of scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectrum analysis indicated that N38 induced vaterite formation. These findings revealed that N38 might regulate and participate in the precise control of the crystal growth of the shell, providing new clues for biomineralization mechanisms in P. fucata and DING protein family studies. In addition, this study helped extend the research of DING protein to the Mollusca world.

Structures of two novel crystal forms of Aspergillus oryzae alpha amylase (taka-amylase)

The structures of Aspergillus oryzae α-amylase were determined in a tetragonal crystal, having one molecule as asymmetric unit, and a monoclinic crystal with two molecules as asymmetric unit. Both crystal forms were obtained from trace contaminants of an old commercial lipase preparation. Structures were determined and refined to 1.65 Å and 1.43 Å resolution respectively. The latter crystal has a non-crystallographic (NCS) twofold axis within the asymmetric unit. Glycosylation at Asn197 is evident, and in the tetragonal crystal can be seen to include three, partially disordered sugar residues following the initial N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG). Superposition of the tetragonal crystal model on the α-amylases from Bacillus subtilis (PDB:1BAG), pig pancreas (PDB:3L2L), and barley (PDB:1AMY), show a high degree of coincidence, particularly for the (β/α)₈-barrel domains, and especially within the active site. Using this structural agreement between amylases, we extrapolated the binding model of a six residue, limit dextrin found in pig pancreas α-amylase to the A. oryzae enzyme model, which predicts substrate interacting amino acid residues.

DING Proteins Extend to the Extremophilic World

The DING proteins are ubiquitous in the three domains of life, from mesophiles to thermo- and hyperthermophiles. They belong to a family of more than sixty members and have a characteristic N-terminus, DINGGG, which is considered a "signature" of these proteins. Structurally, they share a highly conserved phosphate binding site, and a three dimensional organization resembling the "Venus Flytrap", both reminding the ones of PstS proteins. They have unusually high sequence conservation, even between distantly related species. Nevertheless despite that the genomes of most of these species have been sequenced, the DING gene has not been reported for all the relative characterized DING proteins. Identity of known DING proteins has been confirmed immunologically and, in some cases, by N-terminal sequence analysis. Only a few of the DING proteins have been purified and biochemically characterized. DING proteins are heterogeneous for their wide range of biological activities and some show different activities not always correlated with each other. Most of them have been originally identified for different biological properties, or rather for binding to phosphate and also to other ligands. Their involvement in pathologies is described. This review is an update of the most recent findings on old and new DING proteins.

Thiamine Mono- and Diphosphate Phosphatases in Bovine Brain Synaptosomes

Neurodegenerative diseases are accompanied by changes in the activity of thiamine mono- and diphosphate phosphatases, but molecular identification of these mammalian enzymes is incomplete. In this work, the protein fraction of bovine brain synaptosomes displaying phosphatase activity toward thiamine derivatives was subjected to affinity chromatography on thiamine-Sepharose. Protein fractions eluted with thiamine (pH 7.4 or 5.6), NaCl, and urea were assayed for the phosphatase activity against thiamine monophosphate (ThMP), thiamine diphosphate (ThDP), and structurally similar purine nucleotides. Proteins in each fraction were identified by mass spectrometry using the SwissProt database for all organisms because of insufficient annotation of the bovine genome. Peptides of two annotated bacterial phosphatases, alkaline phosphatase L from the DING protein family and exopolyphosphatase, were identified in the acidic thiamine eluate. The abundance of peptides of alkaline phosphatase L and exopolyphosphatase in the eluted fractions correlated with ThMPase and ThDPase activities, respectively. The elution profiles of the ThMPase and ThDPase activities differed from the elution profiles of nucleotide phosphatases, thus indicating the specificity of these enzymes toward thiamine derivatives. The search for mammalian DING phosphatases in the eluates from thiamine-Sepharose revealed X-DING-CD4, mostly eluted by the acidic thiamine solution (pH 5.6). The identified exopolyphosphatase demonstrated structural similarity with apyrases possessing the ThDPase activity. The obtained results demonstrate that mammalian DING proteins and apyrases exhibit ThMPase and ThDPase activity, respectively.

Association between serum paraoxonase 1 activity and its polymorphisms with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Human serum paraoxonase (PON) is an enzyme that is synthesized by the liver and enters the bloodstream, and it is transmitted by high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) is a hydrolytic enzyme with a wide range of substrates and the ability to protect against lipid oxidation. In this study, due to the activity of PON1 in the brain and its antioxidant effects on the reduction of neurological disorders in the central nervous system, the role of PON1 and its polymorphisms related to multiple sclerosis has been examined to enhance treatment methods.

METHODS

This article is a systematic review. In this study, the role of PON1 and its polymorphisms in multiple sclerosis (MS) has been investigated. Articles published in Persian and international databases of SID, Google Scholar, ISI (WoS), Magiran, PubMed, Scopus, IranDoc, Science Direct, and Iran Medix were examined, using the search keywords of Paraoxonase 1, polymorphism, multiple sclerosis, and PON1.

RESULTS

PON1 is undoubtedly a potential factor in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis, and it plays an important role in protecting antioxidants in the blood. Oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation are factors in the pathogenesis of MS. Both inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress have a detrimental effect on PON1. However, reducing the activity of PON1 may help to restore the pathogenesis of the disease.

CONCLUSION

Decreased PON1 activity and PON1 polymorphism are associated with several neurological diseases, including ischemic stroke, white matter lesions (WMLs), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), dementia, and Parkinson's disease. PON1-55M alleles in Italians and PON1-192Q alleles in Poles were associated with a high risk of MS. Moreover, PON1-55 and PON1-192 polymorphisms were not associated with MS onset age, nor its evolutionary type.

Phosphate-binding protein from Polaromonas JS666: purification, characterization, crystallization and sulfur SAD phasing

Phosphate-binding proteins (PBPs) are key proteins that belong to the bacterial ABC-type phosphate transporters. PBPs are periplasmic (or membrane-anchored) proteins that capture phosphate anions from the environment and release them to the transmembrane transporter. Recent work has suggested that PBPs have evolved for high affinity as well as high selectivity. In particular, a short, unique hydrogen bond between the phosphate anion and an aspartate residue has been shown to be critical for selectivity, yet is not strictly conserved in PBPs. Here, the PBP from Polaromonas JS666 is focused on. Interestingly, this PBP is predicted to harbor different phosphate-binding residues to currently known PBPs. Here, it is shown that the PBP from Polaromonas JS666 is capable of binding phosphate, with a maximal binding activity at pH 8. Its structure is expected to reveal its binding-cleft configuration as well as its phosphate-binding mode. Here, the expression, purification, characterization, crystallization and X-ray diffraction data collection to 1.35 Å resolution of the PBP from Polaromonas JS666 are reported.

Biochemical characterization and immunolocalization studies of a Capsicum chinense Jacq. protein fraction containing DING proteins and anti-microbial activity

The DING protein family consists of proteins of great biological importance due to their ability to inhibit carcinogenic cell growth. A DING peptide with Mr ∼7.57 kDa and pI ∼5.06 was detected in G10P1.7.57, a protein fraction from Capsicum chinense Jacq. seeds. Amino acid sequencing of the peptide produced three smaller peptides showing identity to the DING protein family. G10P1.7.57 displayed a phosphatase activity capable of dephosphorylating different phosphorylated substrates and inhibited the growth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells. Western immunoblotting with a custom-made polyclonal antibody raised against a sequence (ITYMSPDYAAPTLAGLDDATK), derived from the ∼7.57 kDa polypeptide, immunodetected an ∼ 39 kDa polypeptide in G10P1.7.57. Purification by electroelution followed by amino acid sequencing of the ∼39 kDa polypeptide yielded seven new peptide sequences and an additional one identical to that of the initially identified peptide. Western immunoblotting of soluble proteins from C. chinense seeds and leaves revealed the presence of the ∼39 kDa polypeptide at all developmental stages, with increased accumulation when the organs reached maturity. Immunolocalization using Dabsyl chloride- or Alexa fluor 488-conjugated antibodies revealed a specific fluorescent signal in the cell cytoplasm at all developmental stages, giving support to the idea that the ∼39 kDa polypeptide is a soluble DING protein. Thus, we have identified and characterized a protein fraction with a DING protein from C. chinense.

The 1.1 Å resolution structure of a periplasmic phosphate-binding protein fromStenotrophomonas maltophilia: a crystallization contaminant identified by molecular replacement using the entire Protein Data Bank

During efforts to crystallize the enzyme 2,4-dihydroxyacetophenone dioxygenase (DAD) fromAlcaligenessp. 4HAP, a small number of strongly diffracting protein crystals were obtained after two years of crystal growth in one condition. The crystals diffracted synchrotron radiation to almost 1.0 Å resolution and were, until recently, assumed to be formed by the DAD protein. However, when another crystal form of this enzyme was eventually solved at lower resolution, molecular replacement using this new structure as the search model did not give a convincing solution with the original atomic resolution data set. Hence, it was considered that these crystals might have arisen from a protein impurity, although molecular replacement using the structures of common crystallization contaminants as search models again failed. A script to perform molecular replacement usingMOLREPin which the first chain of every structure in the PDB was used as a search model was run on a multi-core cluster. This identified a number of prokaryotic phosphate-binding proteins as scoring highly in theMOLREPpeak lists. Calculation of an electron-density map at 1.1 Å resolution based on the solution obtained with PDB entry 2q9t allowed most of the amino acids to be identified visually and built into the model. ABLASTsearch then indicated that the molecule was most probably a phosphate-binding protein fromStenotrophomonas maltophilia(UniProt ID B4SL31; gene ID Smal_2208), and fitting of the corresponding sequence to the atomic resolution map fully corroborated this. Proteins in this family have been linked to the virulence of antibiotic-resistant strains of pathogenic bacteria and with biofilm formation. The structure of theS. maltophiliaprotein has been refined to anRfactor of 10.15% and anRfreeof 12.46% at 1.1 Å resolution. The molecule adopts the type II periplasmic binding protein (PBP) fold with a number of extensively elaborated loop regions. A fully dehydrated phosphate anion is bound tightly between the two domains of the protein and interacts with conserved residues and a number of helix dipoles.

Stubborn contaminants: influence of detergents on the purity of the multidrug ABC transporter BmrA

Despite the growing interest in membrane proteins, their crystallization remains a major challenge. In the course of a crystallographic study on the multidrug ATP-binding cassette transporter BmrA, mass spectral analyses on samples purified with six selected detergents revealed unexpected protein contamination visible for the most part on overloaded SDS-PAGE. A major contamination from the outer membrane protein OmpF was detected in purifications with Foscholine 12 (FC12) but not with Lauryldimethylamine-N-oxide (LDAO) or any of the maltose-based detergents. Consequently, in the FC12 purified BmrA, OmpF easily crystallized over BmrA in a new space group, and whose structure is reported here. We therefore devised an optimized protocol to eliminate OmpF during the FC12 purification of BmrA. On the other hand, an additional band visible at ∼110 kDa was detected in all samples purified with the maltose-based detergents. It contained AcrB that crystallized over BmrA despite its trace amounts. Highly pure BmrA preparations could be obtained using either a ΔacrAB E. coli strain and n-dodecyl-β-D-maltopyranoside, or a classical E. coli strain and lauryl maltose neopentyl glycol for the overexpression and purification, respectively. Overall our results urge to incorporate a proteomics-based purity analysis into quality control checks prior to commencing crystallization assays of membrane proteins that are notoriously arduous to crystallize. Moreover, the strategies developed here to selectively eliminate obstinate contaminants should be applicable to the purification of other membrane proteins overexpressed in E. coli.

Biochemical, kinetic, and in silico characterization of DING protein purified from probiotic lactic acid bacteria Pediococcus acidilactici NCDC 252

DING proteins are intriguing proteins characterized by conserved N-terminal sequence. In spite of unusually high sequence conservation even between distantly related species, DING proteins exhibit outstanding functional diversity. An extracellular caseinolytic alkaline enzyme was purified to homogeneity from a probiotic lactic acid bacteria Pediococcus acidilactici NCDC 252 using a simple procedure involving ammonium sulphate precipitation and gel filtration chromatography. This was purified 45.72-fold with a yield and specific activity of 43.5 % and 250 U/mg, respectively. The calculated molecular weight was 38.7 and 38.9 kDa by MALDI and SDS-PAGE, respectively, and pI was 7.77. The enzyme exhibited optimal activity at pH 8.0 and 40 °C. It was considerably stable up to pH 12. For casein, the enzyme had K m of 20 μM with V max of 26 U/ml. The enzyme was resistant to organic solvents but sensitive to DTNB and EDTA that confirmed it as thiol protein with involvement of metal ions in catalysis. Its tryptic peptide fragments showed 95 % similarity with eukaryotic DING, i.e., human phosphate binding protein (HPBP). Homology-based structure evaluation using HBPB as template revealed both to be structurally conserved and also possessing conserved phosphate binding motifs.

Ancestral mutations as a tool for solubilizing proteins: The case of a hydrophobic phosphate-binding protein

Stable and soluble proteins are ideal candidates for functional and structural studies. Unfortunately, some proteins or enzymes can be difficult to isolate, being sometimes poorly expressed in heterologous systems, insoluble and/or unstable. Numerous methods have been developed to address these issues, from the screening of various expression systems to the modification of the target protein itself. Here we use a hydrophobic, aggregation-prone, phosphate-binding protein (HPBP) as a case study. We describe a simple and fast method that selectively uses ancestral mutations to generate a soluble, stable and functional variant of the target protein, here named sHPBP. This variant is highly expressed in Escherichia coli, is easily purified and its structure was solved at much higher resolution than its wild-type progenitor (1.3 versus 1.9 Å, respectively).

Crystal structure analysis, overexpression and refolding behaviour of a DING protein with single mutation

After crystallization of a certain protein-RNA complex, well diffracting crystals were obtained. However, the asymmetric unit of the crystal was too small to locate any components. Mass spectrometry and X-ray crystal structure analysis showed that it was a member of the DING protein family (HPBP). Surprisingly, the structure of HPBP reported previously was also determined accidentally as a contaminant, suggesting that HPBP has a strong tendency to crystallize. Furthermore, DING proteins were reported to relate in disease. These observations suggest that DING has potential for application in a wide range of research fields. To enable further analyses, a system for preparation of HPBP was constructed. As HPBP was expressed in insoluble form in Escherichia coli, it was unfolded chemically and refolded. Finally, a very high yield preparation method was constructed, in which 43 mg of HPBP was obtained from 1 L of culture. Furthermore, to evaluate the validity of refolding, its crystal structure was determined at 1.03 Å resolution. The determined structure was identical to the native structure, in which two disulfide bonds were recovered correctly and a phosphate ion was captured. Based on these results, it was concluded that the refolded HPBP recovers its structure correctly.

DING proteins: numerous functions, elusive genes, a potential for health

DING proteins, named after their conserved N-terminus, form an overlooked protein family whose members were generally discovered through serendipity. It is characterized by an unusually high sequence conservation, even between distantly related species, and by an outstanding diversity of activities and ligands. They all share a demonstrated capacity to bind phosphate with high affinity or at least a predicted phosphate-binding site. However, DING protein genes are conspicuously absent from databases. The many novel family members identified in recent years have confirmed that DING proteins are ubiquitous not only in animals and plants but probably also in prokaryotes. At the functional level, there is increasing evidence that they participate in many health-related processes such as cancers as well as bacterial (Pseudomonas) and viral (HIV) infections, by mechanisms that are now beginning to be understood. They thus represent potent targets for the development of novel therapeutic approaches, especially against HIV. The few genomic sequences that are now available are starting to give some clues on why DING protein genes and mRNAs are well conserved and difficult to clone. This could open a new era of research, of both fundamental and applied importance.

DING proteins from phylogenetically different species share high degrees of sequence and structure homology and block transcription of HIV-1 LTR promoter

Independent research groups reported that DING protein homologues isolated from bacterial, plant and human cells demonstrate the anti-HIV-1 activity. This might indicate that diverse organisms utilize a DING-mediated broad-range protective innate immunity response to pathogen invasion, and that this mechanism is effective also against HIV-1. We performed structural analyses and evaluated the anti-HIV-1 activity for four DING protein homologues isolated from different species. Our data show that bacterial PfluDING, plant p38SJ (pDING), human phosphate binding protein (HPBP) and human extracellular DING from CD4 T cells (X-DING-CD4) share high degrees of structure and sequence homology. According to earlier reports on the anti-HIV-1 activity of pDING and X-DING-CD4, other members of this protein family from bacteria and humans were able to block transcription of HIV-1 and replication of virus in cell based assays. The efficacy studies for DING-mediated HIV-1 LTR and HIV-1 replication blocking activity showed that the LTR transcription inhibitory concentration 50 (IC₅₀) values ranged from 0.052–0.449 ng/ml; and the HIV-1 replication IC₅₀ values ranged from 0.075–0.311 ng/ml. Treatment of cells with DING protein alters the interaction between p65-NF-κB and HIV-1 LTR. Our data suggest that DING proteins may be part of an innate immunity defense against pathogen invasion; the conserved structure and activity makes them appealing candidates for development of a novel therapeutics targeting HIV-1 transcription.

Pseudomonas DING proteins as human transcriptional regulators and HIV-1 antagonists

Background

Anti-HIV-1 therapy depends upon multiple agents that target different phases of the viral replication cycle. Recent reports indicate that plant and human DING proteins are unique in targeting viral gene transcription as the basis of their anti-HIV-1 therapy.

Methods

Two cloned DING genes from Pseudomonas were transiently expressed in human cells, and effects on NFκB-mediated transcription, HIV-1 transcription, and HIV-1 production were measured.

Results

Both DING proteins elevated NFκB-mediated transcription. In microglial cells, one protein, from P. aeruginosa PA14, suppressed HIV-1 transcription; the other protein, from P. fluorescens SBW25, was inactive. The PA14DING protein also reduces HIV-1 production in microglial cells.

Conclusions

Structural differences between the two DING proteins highlight regions of the PA14DING protein essential to the anti-HIV-1 activity, and may guide the design of therapeutic agents.

Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of a DING protein from Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA14

DING proteins form an emergent family of proteins consisting of an increasing number of homologues that have been identified in all kingdoms of life. They belong to the superfamily of phosphate-binding proteins and exhibit a high affinity for phosphate. In eukaryotes, DING proteins have been isolated by virtue of their implication in several diseases and biological processes. Some of them are potent inhibitors of HIV-1 replication/transcription, raising the question of their potential involvement in the human defence system. Recently, a protein from Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain PA14, named PA14DING or LapC, belonging to the DING family has been identified. The structure of PA14DING, combined with detailed biochemical characterization and comparative analysis with available DING protein structures, will be helpful in understanding the structural determinants implicated in the inhibition of HIV-1 by DING proteins. Here, the expression, purification and crystallization of PA14DING and the collection of X-ray data to 1.9 Å resolution are reported.

Type II-dependent secretion of a Pseudomonas aeruginosa DING protein

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic bacterial pathogen that uses a wide range of protein secretion systems to interact with its host. Genes encoding the PAO1 Hxc type II secretion system are linked to genes encoding phosphatases (LapA/LapB). Microarray genotyping suggested that Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolates, including urinary tract (JJ692) and blood (X13273) isolates, lacked the lapA/lapB genes. Instead, we show that they carry a gene encoding a protein of the PstS family. This protein, which we call LapC, also has significant similarities with LapA/LapB. LapC belongs to the family of DING proteins and displays the canonical DINGGG motif within its N terminus. DING proteins are members of a prokaryotic phosphate binding protein superfamily. We show that LapC is secreted in an Hxc-dependent manner and is under the control of the PhoB response regulator. The genetic organization hxc-lapC found in JJ692 and X13273 is similar to PA14, which is the most frequent P. aeruginosa genotype. While the role of LapA, LapB and LapC proteins remains unclear in P. aeruginosa pathogenesis, they are likely to be part of a phosphate scavenging or sensing system needed to survive and thrive when low phosphate environments are encountered within the host.

The level of DING proteins is increased in HIV-infected patients: in vitro and in vivo studies

DING proteins constitute an interesting family, owing to their intriguing and important activities. However, after a decade of research, little is known about these proteins. In humans, at least five different DING proteins have been identified, which were implicated in important biological processes and diseases, including HIV. Indeed, recent data from different research groups have highlighted the anti-HIV activity of some DING representatives. These proteins share the ability to inhibit the transcriptional step of HIV-1, a key step of the viral cycle that is not yet targeted by the current therapies. Since such proteins have been isolated from humans, we undertook a comprehensive study that focuses on the relationship between these proteins and HIV-infection in an infectious context. Hence, we developed a home-made ELISA for the quantification of the concentration of DING proteins in human serum. Using this method, we were able to determine the concentration of DING proteins in healthy and HIV-infected patients. Interestingly, we observed a significant increase of the concentration of DING proteins in non treated and treated HIV-infected patients compared to controls. In addition, cell cultures infected with HIV also show an increased expression of DING proteins, ruling out the possible role of antiretroviral treatment in the increase of the expression of DING proteins. In conclusion, results from this study show that the organism reacts to HIV-infection by an overexpression of DING proteins.

Homology modeling of human serum paraoxonase1 and its molecular interaction studies with aspirin and cefazolin

Human serum paraoxonase1 (HuPON1) belongs to the family of A-esterases (EC.3.1.8.1). It is associated with HDL particle and prevents atherosclerosis by cleaving lipid hydroperoxides and other proatherogenic molecules of oxidized low density lipoproteins (LDL). Since the precise structure of HuPON1 is not yet available, the structure-function relationship between HuPON1 and activators/inhibitors is still unknown. Therefore, a theoretical model of HuPON1 was generated using homology modelling and precise molecular interactions of an activator aspirin and an inhibitor cefazolin with PON1 were studied using Autodock software. The ligand binding residues were found to be similar to the predicted active site residues. Both cefazolin and aspirin were found to dock in the vicinity of the predicted active sites of PON1; cefazolin bound at residues N166, S193 and Y71, while aspirin at residues N309, I310 and L311. Binding region in the PON1 by prediction (3D2GO server) and docking studies provide useful insight into mechanism of substrate and inhibitor binding to the enzyme active site.

Human-Phosphate-Binding-Protein inhibits HIV-1 gene transcription and replication

The Human Phosphate-Binding protein (HPBP) is a serendipitously discovered lipoprotein that binds phosphate with high affinity. HPBP belongs to the DING protein family, involved in various biological processes like cell cycle regulation. We report that HPBP inhibits HIV-1 gene transcription and replication in T cell line, primary peripherical blood lymphocytes and primary macrophages. We show that HPBP is efficient in naïve and HIV-1 AZT-resistant strains. Our results revealed HPBP as a new and potent anti HIV molecule that inhibits transcription of the virus, which has not yet been targeted by HAART and therefore opens new strategies in the treatment of HIV infection.

Phosphate sensing

Human phosphate homeostasis is regulated at the level of intestinal absorption of phosphate from the diet, release of phosphate through bone resorption, and renal phosphate excretion, and involves the actions of parathyroid hormone, 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D, and fibroblast growth factor 23 to maintain circulating phosphate levels within a narrow normal range, which is essential for numerous cellular functions, for the growth of tissues and for bone mineralization. Prokaryotic and single cellular eukaryotic organisms such as bacteria and yeast "sense" ambient phosphate with a multi-protein complex located in their plasma membrane, which modulates the expression of genes important for phosphate uptake and metabolism (pho pathway). Database searches based on amino acid sequence conservation alone have been unable to identify metazoan orthologs of the bacterial and yeast phosphate sensors. Thus, little is known about how human and other metazoan cells sense inorganic phosphate to regulate the effects of phosphate on cell metabolism ("metabolic" sensing) or to regulate the levels of extracellular phosphate through feedback system(s) ("endocrine" sensing). Whether the "metabolic" and the "endocrine" sensor use the same or different signal transduction cascades is unknown. This article will review the bacterial and yeast phosphate sensors, and then discuss what is currently known about the metabolic and endocrine effects of phosphate in multicellular organisms and human beings.

Know your dose: RADDOSE

The program RADDOSE is widely used to compute the dose absorbed by a macromolecular crystal during an X-ray diffraction experiment. A number of factors affect the absorbed dose, including the incident X-ray flux density, the photon energy and the composition of the macromolecule and of the buffer in the crystal. An experimental dose limit for macromolecular crystallography (MX) of 30 MGy at 100 K has been reported, beyond which the biological information obtained may be compromised. Thus, for the planning of an optimized diffraction experiment the estimation of dose has become an additional tool. A number of approximations were made in the original version of RADDOSE. Recently, the code has been modified in order to take into account fluorescent X-ray escape from the crystal (version 2) and the inclusion of incoherent (Compton) scattering into the dose calculation is now reported (version 3). The Compton cross-section, although negligible at the energies currently commonly used in MX, should be considered in dose calculations for incident energies above 20 keV. Calculations using version 3 of RADDOSE reinforce previous studies that predict a reduction in the absorbed dose when data are collected at higher energies compared with data collected at 12.4 keV. Hence, a longer irradiation lifetime for the sample can be achieved at these higher energies but this is at the cost of lower diffraction intensities. The parameter 'diffraction-dose efficiency', which is the diffracted intensity per absorbed dose, is revisited in an attempt to investigate the benefits and pitfalls of data collection using higher and lower energy radiation, particularly for thin crystals.

Eukaryotic DING proteins are endogenous: an immunohistological study in mouse tissues

Background

DING proteins encompass an intriguing protein family first characterized by their conserved N-terminal sequences. Some of these proteins seem to have key roles in various human diseases, e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, HIV suppression. Although this protein family seems to be ubiquitous in eukaryotes, their genes are consistently lacking from genomic databases. Such a lack has considerably hampered functional studies and has fostered therefore the hypothesis that DING proteins isolated from eukaryotes were in fact prokaryotic contaminants.

Principal Findings

In the framework of our study, we have performed a comprehensive immunological detection of DING proteins in mice. We demonstrate that DING proteins are present in all tissues tested as isoforms of various molecular weights (MWs). Their intracellular localization is tissue-dependant, being exclusively nuclear in neurons, but cytoplasmic and nuclear in other tissues. We also provide evidence that germ-free mouse plasma contains as much DING protein as wild-type.

Significance

Hence, data herein provide a valuable basis for future investigations aimed at eukaryotic DING proteins, revealing that these proteins seem ubiquitous in mouse tissue. Our results strongly suggest that mouse DING proteins are endogenous. Moreover, the determination in this study of the precise cellular localization of DING proteins constitute a precious evidence to understand their molecular involvements in their related human diseases.

p38SJ, a novel DINGG protein protects neuronal cells from alcohol induced injury and death

Ethanol induces neuronal cell injury and death by dysregulating several signaling events that are controlled, in part, by activation of MAPK/ERK1/2 and/or inactivation of its corresponding phosphatase, PP1. Recently, we have purified a novel protein of 38 kDa in size, p38SJ, from a callus culture of Hypericum perforatum, which belongs to an emerging DINGG family of proteins with phosphate binding activity. Here, we show that treatment of neuronal cells with p38SJ protects cells against injury induced by exposure to ethanol. Furthermore, pre-treatment of neuronal cells with p38SJ diminishes the level of the pro-apoptotic protein Bax and some events associated with apoptosis such as caspase 3 cleavage. In addition, by inducing stress, alcohol can elevate production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that leads to a decrease in the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Our results showed that p38SJ restores the activity of SOD in the ethanol treated neuronal cells. These observations provide a novel biological tool for developing new approaches for preventing neuronal cell death induced by ethanol and possibly treatment of neurological disorders associated with alcohol abuse.

Evidence for phosphatase activity of p27SJ and its impact on the cell cycle

p27SJ, a novel protein isolated from St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), belongs to an emerging family of DING proteins that are related to a prokaryotic phosphate-binding protein superfamily. Here we demonstrate that p27SJ exhibits phosphatase activity and that its expression in cells decreases the level of phosphorylated Erk1/2, a key protein of several signaling pathways. Treatment of p27SJ-expressing cells with phosphatase inhibitors including okadaic acid, maintained Erk1/2 in its phosphorylated form, suggesting that dephosphorylation of Erk1/2 is mediated by p27SJ. Further, expression of p27SJ affects Erk1/2 downstream regulatory targets such as STAT3 and CREB. Moreover, the level of expression of cyclin A that associates with active ERK1/2 and is regulated by CREB, was modestly reduced in p27SJ-expressing cells. Accordingly, results from in vitro kinase assays revealed a noticeable decrease in the activity of cyclin A in cells expressing p27SJ. Cell cycle analysis demonstrated dysregulation at S and G2/M phases in cells expressing p27SJ, supporting the notion that a decline in cyclin A activity by p27SJ has a biological impact on cell growth. These observations provide evidence that p27SJ alters the state of Erk1/2 phosphorylation, and impacts several biological events associated with cell growth and function.

Identification of X-DING-CD4, a new member of human DING protein family that is secreted by HIV-1 resistant CD4(+) T cells and has anti-viral activity

We reported previously the anti-viral activity named HRF (HIV-1 Resistance Factor) secreted by HIV-1 resistant cells. This work describes the identification of HRF from cell culture supernatant of HRF-producing cells (HRF(+) cells). Employing the proteomics and cell based activity assay we recovered ten peptides sharing 80-93% sequence homology with other eukaryotic DING proteins; discrete amino acid characteristics found in our material suggested that HRF is a new member of DING proteins family and consequently we designated it as X-DING-CD4 (extracellular DING from CD4(+) T cells). The presence of X-DING-CD4 in the extracellular compartment of HRF(+) but not control HRF(-) cells was confirmed by specific anti-X-DING-CD4 antibody. Similar as the un-fractionated HRF(+) cell culture supernatant, the purified X-DING-CD4 blocked transcription of HIV-1 LTR-promoted expression of luciferase gene and replication of HIV-1 in MAGI cells. The X-DING-CD4 -mediated anti-viral activity in MAGI cells could be blocked by specific antibody.

Elucidation of the phosphate binding mode of DING proteins revealed by subangstrom X-ray crystallography

PfluDING is a bacterial protein isolated from Pseudomonas fluorescens that belongs to the DING protein family, which is ubiquitous in eukaryotes and extends to prokaryotes. DING proteins and PfluDING have very similar topologies to phosphate Solute Binding Proteins (SBPs). The three-dimensional structure of PfluDING was obtained at subangstrom resolution (0.88 and 0.98 A) at two different pH's (4.5 and 8.5), allowing us to discuss the hydrogen bond network that sequesters the phosphate ion in the binding site. From this high resolution data, we experimentally elucidated the molecular basis of phosphate binding in phosphate SBPs. The phosphate ion is tightly bound to the protein via 12 hydrogen bonds between phosphate oxygen atoms and OH and NH groups of the protein. The proton on one oxygen atom of the phosphate dianion forms a 2.5 A low barrier hydrogen bond with an aspartate, with the energy released by forming this strong bond ensuring the specificity for the dianion even at pH 4.5. In particular, contrary to previous theories on phosphate SBPs, accurate electrostatic potential calculations show that the binding cleft is positively charged. PfluDING structures reveal that only dibasic phosphate binds to the protein at both acidic and basic phosphate, suggesting that the protein binding site environment stabilizes the HPO(4)(2-) form of phosphate.

For whom the bell tolls? DING proteins in health and disease

DING proteins, identified mainly by their eponymous N-terminal sequences, are ubiquitous in living organisms. Amongst bacteria, they are common in pseudomonads, and have been characterised with respect to genetics and structure. They form part of a wider family of phosphate-binding proteins, with emerging roles in phosphate acquisition and pathogenicity. Many DING proteins have been isolated in eukaryotes, in which they have been associated with very diverse biological activities, often in the context of possible signalling roles. Disease states in which DING proteins have been implicated include rheumatoid arthritis, lithiasis, atherosclerosis, some tumours and tumour-associated cachexia, and bacterial and viral adherence. Complete genetic and structural characterisation of eukaryotic DING genes and proteins is still lacking, though the phosphate-binding site seems to be conserved. Whether as bacterial proteins related to bacterial pathogenicity, or as eukaryotic components of biochemical signalling systems, DING proteins require further study.

The DING family of proteins: ubiquitous in eukaryotes, but where are the genes?

PstS and DING proteins are members of a superfamily of secreted, high-affinity phosphate-binding proteins. Whereas microbial PstS have a well-defined role in phosphate ABC transporters, the physiological function of DING proteins, named after their DINGGG N termini, still needs to be determined. PstS and DING proteins co-exist in some Pseudomonas strains, to which they confer a highly adhesive and virulent phenotype. More than 30 DING proteins have now been purified, mostly from eukaryotes. They are often associated with infections or with dysregulation of cell proliferation. Consequently, eukaryotic DING proteins could also be involved in cell-cell communication or adherence. The ubiquitous presence in eukaryotes of proteins structurally and functionally related to bacterial virulence factors is intriguing, as is the absence of eukaryotic genes encoding DING proteins in databases. DING proteins in eukaryotes could originate from unidentified commensal or symbiotic bacteria and could contribute to essential functions. Alternatively, DING proteins could be encoded by eukaryotic genes sharing special features that prevent their cloning. Both hypotheses are discussed.

The ADP-ribosylating thermozyme from Sulfolobus solfataricus is a DING protein

The partial amino acid sequence of the sulfolobal thermoprotein biochemically characterized as poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase-like enzyme overlaps those of DING proteins. This group of proteins, widely occurring in animals, plants and eubacteria, shows a characteristic and highly conserved N-terminus, DINGGGATL. The sequence of the N-terminal region and of the analyzed tryptic peptides of the sulfolobal thermozyme shows a high similarity with most of the DING proteins from databases. This is the first example of a DING protein from a sulfolobal source.

Detection and characterization of a sialoglycosylated bacterial ABC-type phosphate transporter protein from patients with visceral leishmaniasis

We report the discovery and characterization of a glycosylated bacterial ABC-type phosphate transporter isolated from the peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) fraction of patients with visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Three disease-associated 9-O-acetylated sialoglycoproteins (9-O-AcSGPs) of 19, 56 and 65 kDa, respectively, had been identified and their purity, apparent mass and pI established by SDS-PAGE and isoelectric focusing. Western blot analyses showed that the 9-O-acetylated sialic acid is linked via alpha2-->6 linkage to a subterminal N-acetylgalactosamine. For the 56 kDa protein, N- as well as O-glycosylations were demonstrated by specific glycosidase treatment and found to account for more than 9 kDa of the protein mass. The presence of sialic acids was further confirmed through thin layer chromatography, fluorimetric HPLC and electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry. The protein was identified by mass spectrometry and de novo sequencing of five tryptic fragments as a periplasmic ABC-type phosphate transporter of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The amino acid sequences of the assigned peptides had 83-100% identity with the NCBI entry for a Pseudomonas transporter protein. Based on the recently reported X-ray structure of a human phosphate-binding protein, we predicted a 3D structural model for the 56 kDa protein using homology and threading methods. The most probable N- and O-glycosylation sites were identified by combinations of sequence motif-searching bioinformatics tools, solvent accessibility calculations, structural environment analyses and mass spectrometric data. This is the first reported glycosylation as well as sialylation of the periplasmic component of an ABC-type phosphate transporter protein and of one of few identified bacterial glycoproteins.

A high throughput serum paraoxonase assay for discovery of small molecule modulators of PON1 activity

PON1 has been demonstrated to be the serum enzyme responsible for detoxifying organophosphate chemical weapons and plays a protective role against atherosclerosis. In order to identify small molecules that modulate PON1 activity in serum, we developed a high throughput kinetic absorbance assay using mouse serum and the organophosphate paraoxon. The IC(50) value obtained for the known PON1 inhibitor, 2-hydroxyquinoline, matched the value reported for purified PON1. A compound library was screened resulting in no confirmed activators, but 12 confirmed inhibitors. Seven of these hits also inhibited purified human PON1. One compound was only two-fold less potent than 2-hydroxyquinoline in the serum assay, but 10-fold more potent against purified PON1. This compound (IC(50) = 420 nM) may be useful towards a chemical probe for PON1. Therefore, this assay has utility as a high throughput assay for discovery of small molecule modulators of PON1 activity that maintain activity in serum.

Structure-function aspects of PstS in multi-drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa

The increasing prevalence of multi-drug-resistant (MDR) strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa among critically ill humans is of significant concern. In the current study, we show that MDR clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa representing three distinct genotypes that display high virulence against intestinal epithelial cells, form novel appendage-like structures on their cell surfaces. These appendages contain PstS, an extracellular phosphate binding protein. Using anti-PstS antibodies, we determined that the PstS-rich appendages in MDR strains are involved in adherence to and disruption of the integrity of cultured intestinal epithelial cell monolayers. The outer surface-expressed PstS protein was also identified to be present in P. aeruginosa MPAO1, although to a lesser degree, and its role in conferring an adhesive and barrier disruptive phenotype against intestinal epithelial cells was confirmed using an isogenic DeltaPstS mutant. Formation of the PstS rich appendages was induced during phosphate limitation and completely suppressed in phosphate-rich media. Injection of MDR strains directly into the intestinal tract of surgically injured mice, a known model of phosphate limitation, caused high mortality rates (60%-100%). Repletion of intestinal phosphate in this model completely prevented mortality. Finally, significantly less outer surface PstS was observed in the MPAO1 mutant DeltaHxcR thus establishing a role for the alternative type II secretion system Hxc in outer surface PstS expression. Gene expression analysis performed by RT-PCR confirmed this finding and further demonstrated abundant expression of pstS analogous to pa5369, pstS analogous to pa0688/pa14-55410, and hxcX in MDR strains. Taken together, these studies provide evidence that outer surface PstS expression confers a highly virulent phenotype of MDR isolates against the intestinal epithelium that alters their adhesive and barrier disrupting properties against the intestinal epithelium.

Stabilization of the active form(s) of human paraoxonase by human phosphate-binding protein

While there is a consensus that human PON1 (paraoxonase-1) has a protective role, its primary biological function remains unclear. A protective role against poisoning by organophosphates [OPs (organophosphorus compounds)] drove earlier works. Clinical interest has recently focused on a protective role of PON1 against vascular diseases. PON1 resides mainly on HDL (high-density lipoprotein) particles, and converging recent works show that both its activities and stability dramatically depend on this versatile and dynamic molecular environment. The discovery that HPBP (human phosphate-binding protein) has a firm tendency to associate with PON1 has steered new directions for characterizing PON1 functional state(s). Storage stability studies provided evidence that HPBP is involved in maintaining physiologically active PON1 conformation(s). Thermal stability studies showed that human PON1 is remarkably thermostable and that its association with HPBP strongly contributes to slowing down the denaturation rate. A hybrid PON1, displaying mutations that stabilized recombinant enzyme expressed in Escherichia coli, was shown to be more thermostable than natural human PON1. Predictably, its stability was unaffected by the presence of HPBP. Synergistic efforts on characterizing natural PON1 and rPON1 (recombinant PON1) provide information for the design of future stable mutants of PON1-based bioscavengers to be used as safe and effective countermeasures to challenge OPs. Maintaining a stable environment for such administrable human rPON1 should, at least, preserve the anti-atherogenic activity of the enzyme.

Proteins related to St. John's Wort p27SJ, a suppressor of HIV-1 expression, are ubiquitous in plants

Proteins belonging to the family of DING proteins are ubiquitous in animals and several of them are associated with various diseases. Their presence in a few plant species has previously been reported and the St John's Wort DING protein was recently described as an inhibitor of HIV replication and transcription. However, data about DING protein occurrence in plants and their biochemical properties remain almost nonexistent. We describe methods for the purification of DING proteins from plants that may have general applicability since they are not dependent upon specific affinity ligands, contrary to previously described protocols. Cibacron Blue chromatography, sometimes preceded by an ion-exchange chromatographic step, is suitable for most plant extracts. DING proteins were purified from various species and cell types and their identity was confirmed immunologically and, in some cases, by N-terminal sequence analysis, indicating that they are ubiquitous in the plant kingdom. They are associated with the cell wall and sometimes secreted in the medium for in vitro grown cells. High-molecular-weight DING precursors were often observed. Internal peptides were also sequenced, as a prelude to gene cloning experiments.

Creation of a bi-directional protein transduction system for suppression of HIV-1 expression by p27SJ

p27SJ is a novel protein from a callus culture of St. John's wort that modulates transcription of the HIV-1 promoter in several mammalian cells [Darbinian-Sarkissian, N., Darbinyan, A., Otte, J., Radhakrishnan, S., Sawaya, B.E., Arzumanyan, A., Chipitsyna, G., Popov, Y., Rappaport, J., Amini, S., Khalili, K., 2006. p27(SJ), a novel protein from St. John's wort, that suppresses expression of HIV-1 genome. Gene Ther. 13, 288-295]. Here, we armed p27SJ with signals from Ig-kappa light chain that allow its efficient excretion from the cells, and from HIV-1 Tat that facilitates its uptake by other cells for its utilization by a protein transduction method. We demonstrate that treatment of cells containing the HIV-1 LTR with conditioned media from cells expressing the armed p27SJ ((exc)p27SJ(upt)) results in suppression of the viral activation by the C/EBPbeta transcription factor. Once imported into the cells, (exc)p27SJ(upt) impacts the nuclear localization of C/EBPbeta and by retaining the protein in the cytoplasm affects its DNA binding and hence transcriptional activity. The armed p27SJ also inhibits Tat-induced activation of the LTR and decreases the level of viral replication in promonocytic cells including U-937 and T-lymphocytic cells. Our observations introduce a new bi-directional protein transduction system with a broad spectrum of applications for manufacturing therapeutic peptides by a specific group of cells called donor, and delivery to the target cells named recipient. Furthermore, our results support the utility of soluble p27SJ in suppressing transcription and replication of HIV-1 by interfering with the function of cellular proteins such as C/EBPbeta and viral activators including Tat.

Genetic characterization of psp encoding the DING protein in Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25

Background

DING proteins constitute a conserved and broadly distributed set of proteins found in bacteria, fungi, plants and animals (including humans). Characterization of DING proteins from animal and plant tissues indicated ligand-binding ability suggesting a role for DING proteins in cell signaling and biomineralization. Surprisingly, the genes encoding DING proteins in eukaryotes have not been identified in the eukaryotic genome or EST databases. Recent discovery of a DING homologue (named Psp here) in the genome of Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25 provided a unique opportunity to investigate the physiological roles of DING proteins. P. fluorescens SBW25 is a model bacterium that can efficiently colonize plant surfaces and enhance plant health. In this report we genetically characterize Psp with a focus on conditions under which psp is expressed and the protein exported.

Results

Psp is closely related to the periplasmic P_i binding component of the ABC-type phosphate transporter system (Pst). psp is flanked by a gene cluster predicted to function as a type II protein secretion system (Hxc). Deletion analysis combined with chromosomally integrated 'lacZ fusions showed that both psp and pstC are induced by P_i limitation and that pstC is required for competitive growth of the bacterium in P_i limited medium. hxcR is not regulated by P_i limitation. Psp was detected (using anti-DING serum) in the supernatant of wild-type culture but was greatly reduced in the supernatant of an isogenic strain carrying an hxcR mutation (ΔhxcR). A promoter fusion between hxcR and a promoterless copy of a gene ('dapB) essential for growth in the plant environment showed that expression of hxcR is elevated during colonization of sugar beet seedlings. A similar analysis of psp showed that it is not induced in the plant environment.

Conclusion

Psp gene is expressed under conditions of P_i limitation. It is an exoprotein secreted mainly via the Hxc type II secretion system, whose expression is elevated on plant surfaces. We propose that Psp is involved in extracellular scavenging of phosphates, which are subsequently taken up by the cell-bound Pst transport system.

Synthetic Model of the Phosphate Binding Protein: Solid-State Structure and Solution-Phase Anion Binding Properties of a Large Oligopyrrolic Macrocycle

The macrocyclic receptors 4-6 were synthesized via the anion-templated condensation of appropriately chosen dialdehyde and diamine building blocks. Whereas all three products could be obtained directly via the appropriate choice of reaction conditions, the larger [3+3] product, 6, which incorporates three of each precursor subunit, could also be obtained conveniently via an indirect procedure involving ring expansion of the smaller [2+2] macrocycle 4. As detailed earlier (Sessler, J. L.; Katayev, E. A.; Pantos, G. D.; Reshetova, M. D.; Khrustalev, V. N.; Lynch, V. M.; Ustynyuk, Y. A. Angew. Chem. 2005, 117, 7552-7556; Angew. Chem., Int. Ed. 2005, 44, 7386-7390), this ring expansion occurs under thermodynamic control in the presence of HSO4- and H2PO4- anions in acetonitrile solution and serves to effect the conversion of 4 to 6. An analysis of the X-ray crystal structure of complex 6H22+.HPO42- revealed a strong resemblance to the active site of the phosphate binding protein (PBP) with similar structural analogies being drawn between the active site of the sulfate binding protein (SBP) and the corresponding hydrogensulfate anion complex. In both cases, the anions are bound in a 1:1 fashion in the solid state through a complementary hydrogen bond network involving both the receptor 6 and the anions. UV-vis spectroscopic titrations provide support for the conclusion that macrocycle 6 binds the hydrogensulfate and dihydrogenphosphate anion (studied as the corresponding tetrabutylammonium salts) with high selectivity and affinity in acetonitrile (log Ka for the first binding interaction approaching 7), albeit with different receptor-to-anion binding stoichiometries (1:1 vs 1:3 for HSO4- and H2PO4-, respectively).

Stability of highly purified human paraoxonase (PON1): Association with human phosphate binding protein (HPBP) is essential for preserving its active conformation(s)

The biological role of human paraoxonase (PON1) remains unclear, whilst there is a consensus that the enzyme has a protective influence. A toxicological role, protecting from environmental poisoning by organophosphate derivatives drove earlier works, and more recently, clinical interest has focused on a protective role in vascular disease. PON1 resides essentially on HDL particles, a complex and dynamic molecular environment. Our recent discovery of the human phosphate binding protein (HPBP), displaying a firm propensity to associate with PON1, has steered new directions for characterizing PON1 functional state. Here, we report investigations on the effect of HPBP on oligomerization, storage and thermal stability of PON1. We found that purified PON1 is as a mixture of at least two states, and that the absence of HPBP favors homo-oligomerization of PON1 into state(s) of higher molecular size. We showed that HPBP allows stabilizing active conformation(s) of PON1 disencumbered of its natural environment. We also showed that PON1 exhibits intrinsically a remarkable thermal stability, and that the association of HPBP strongly contributes to slow the denaturation rate. A hybrid recombinant PON1 was shown more thermostable than the human enzyme, and its stability was unaffected by the presence of HPBP. Altogether, the results strongly encourage further study of the human enzyme.

Crystallization, diffraction data collection and preliminary crystallographic analysis of DING protein from Pseudomonas fluorescens

PfluDING is a phosphate-binding protein expressed in Pseudomonas fluorescens. This protein is clearly distinct from the bacterial ABC transporter soluble phosphate-binding protein PstS and is more homologous to eukaryotic DING proteins. Interestingly, bacterial DING proteins have only been detected in certain Pseudomonas species. Although DING proteins seem to be ubiquitous in eukaryotes, they are systematically absent from eukaryotic genomic databases and thus are still quite mysterious and poorly characterized. PfluDING displays mitogenic activity towards human cells and binds various ligands such as inorganic phosphate, pyrophosphate, nucleotide triphosphates and cotinine. Here, the crystallization of PfluDING is reported in a monoclinic space group (P2(1)), with typical unit-cell parameters a = 36.7, b = 123.7, c = 40.8 A, alpha = 90, beta = 116.7, gamma = 90 degrees. Preliminary crystallographic analysis reveals good diffraction quality for these crystals and a 1.43 A resolution data set has been collected.

Structure-function relationships in a bacterial DING protein

A recombinant DING protein from Pseudomonas fluorescens has been previously shown to have a phosphate-binding site, and to be mitogenic for human cells. Here we report the three-dimensional structure of the protein, confirming a close similarity to the "Venus flytrap" structure seen in other human and bacterial phosphate-binding proteins. Site-directed mutagenesis confirms the role of a key residue involved in phosphate binding, and that the mitogenic activity is not dependent on this property. Deletion of one of the two hinged domains that constitute the Venus flytrap also eliminates phosphate binding whilst enhancing mitogenic activity.

Human paraoxonase: A promising approach for pre-treatment and therapy of organophosphorus poisoning

The limited efficiency of medical countermeasures against poisoning by nerve agent justifies efforts to find new prophylactic means and new antidotes. The concept of bioscavengers has emerged as an alternative approach to pharmacological pre- and post-exposure treatments. Catalytic scavengers are enzymes displaying a turnover with OPs as substrates, allowing rapid and efficient protection using administration of small doses. Several reasons have endorsed human paraoxonase (PON1) to be a pertinent candidate as catalytic bioscavenger. The physiological function of PON1 has not yet been unambiguously identified. Considered as a promiscuous enzyme, PON1 appears to be primarily a lactonase and also displays an anti-atherogenic activity closely linked to its localization on HDL particles. A HDL-associated phosphate transporter termed human phosphate binding protein (HPBP) was found to be a partner of natural human PON. In the absence of its natural environment (or mimicry by detergents), human PON1 is unstable and tends to aggregate. Converging data indicate that both the activity and the stability of PON1 are dramatically dependent on the HDL component molecular environment, including HPBP. Therefore, biochemical and physiological characterization of PON1-HPBP complexes, the environment allowing retaining functional enzyme state(s), and the thermal and storage stability of PON1 are mandatory. Synergistic efforts on characterization of recombinant hybrid PON1 expressed in E. coli and natural human PON1 provide information for the future rational design of stable mutants of PON1-based catalytic scavengers to be used as safe and effective countermeasures to OP intoxication.