1
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Butterfield ER, Obado SO, Scutts SR, Zhang W, Chait BT, Rout MP, Field MC. A lineage-specific protein network at the trypanosome nuclear envelope. Nucleus 2024; 15:2310452. [PMID: 38605598 PMCID: PMC11018031 DOI: 10.1080/19491034.2024.2310452] [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: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The nuclear envelope (NE) separates translation and transcription and is the location of multiple functions, including chromatin organization and nucleocytoplasmic transport. The molecular basis for many of these functions have diverged between eukaryotic lineages. Trypanosoma brucei, a member of the early branching eukaryotic lineage Discoba, highlights many of these, including a distinct lamina and kinetochore composition. Here, we describe a cohort of proteins interacting with both the lamina and NPC, which we term lamina-associated proteins (LAPs). LAPs represent a diverse group of proteins, including two candidate NPC-anchoring pore membrane proteins (POMs) with architecture conserved with S. cerevisiae and H. sapiens, and additional peripheral components of the NPC. While many of the LAPs are Kinetoplastid specific, we also identified broadly conserved proteins, indicating an amalgam of divergence and conservation within the trypanosome NE proteome, highlighting the diversity of nuclear biology across the eukaryotes, increasing our understanding of eukaryotic and NPC evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samson O. Obado
- Laboratory of Cellular and Structural Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Simon R. Scutts
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Wenzhu Zhang
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry and Gaseous Ion Chemistry, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian T. Chait
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry and Gaseous Ion Chemistry, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael P. Rout
- Laboratory of Cellular and Structural Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mark C. Field
- School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
- Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Parasitology, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
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2
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Koper K, Han SW, Kothadia R, Salamon H, Yoshikuni Y, Maeda HA. Multisubstrate specificity shaped the complex evolution of the aminotransferase family across the tree of life. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2405524121. [PMID: 38885378 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2405524121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Aminotransferases (ATs) are an ancient enzyme family that play central roles in core nitrogen metabolism, essential to all organisms. However, many of the AT enzyme functions remain poorly defined, limiting our fundamental understanding of the nitrogen metabolic networks that exist in different organisms. Here, we traced the deep evolutionary history of the AT family by analyzing AT enzymes from 90 species spanning the tree of life (ToL). We found that each organism has maintained a relatively small and constant number of ATs. Mapping the distribution of ATs across the ToL uncovered that many essential AT reactions are carried out by taxon-specific AT enzymes due to wide-spread nonorthologous gene displacements. This complex evolutionary history explains the difficulty of homology-based AT functional prediction. Biochemical characterization of diverse aromatic ATs further revealed their broad substrate specificity, unlike other core metabolic enzymes that evolved to catalyze specific reactions today. Interestingly, however, we found that these AT enzymes that diverged over billion years share common signatures of multisubstrate specificity by employing different nonconserved active site residues. These findings illustrate that AT family enzymes had leveraged their inherent substrate promiscuity to maintain a small yet distinct set of multifunctional AT enzymes in different taxa. This evolutionary history of versatile ATs likely contributed to the establishment of robust and diverse nitrogen metabolic networks that exist throughout the ToL. The study provides a critical foundation to systematically determine diverse AT functions and underlying nitrogen metabolic networks across the ToL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaan Koper
- Department of Botany, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Sang-Woo Han
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Department of Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Chungju 27478, South Korea
| | - Ramani Kothadia
- The US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Hugh Salamon
- The US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Yasuo Yoshikuni
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
- The US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Biological Systems and Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Global Center for Food, Land, and Water Resources, Research Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan 060-8589
- Institute of Global Innovation Research, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8538, Japan
| | - Hiroshi A Maeda
- Department of Botany, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
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3
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Zhao H, Meng L, Hikida H, Ogata H. Eukaryotic genomic data uncover an extensive host range of mirusviruses. Curr Biol 2024; 34:2633-2643.e3. [PMID: 38806056 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.04.085] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
A recent marine metagenomic study has revealed the existence of a novel group of viruses designated mirusviruses, which are proposed to form an evolutionary link between two realms of double-stranded DNA viruses, Varidnaviria and Duplodnaviria. Metagenomic data suggest that mirusviruses infect microeukaryotes in the photic layer of the ocean, but their host range remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the presence of mirusvirus marker genes in 1,901 publicly available eukaryotic genome assemblies, mainly derived from unicellular eukaryotes, to identify potential hosts of mirusviruses. Mirusvirus marker sequences were identified in 915 assemblies spanning 227 genera across eight supergroups of eukaryotes. The habitats of the putative mirusvirus hosts included not only marine but also other diverse environments. Among the major capsid protein (MCP) signals in the genome assemblies, we identified 85 sequences that showed high sequence and structural similarities to reference mirusvirus MCPs. A phylogenetic analysis of these sequences revealed their distant evolutionary relationships with the seven previously reported mirusvirus clades. Most of the scaffolds with these MCP sequences encoded multiple mirusvirus homologs, suggesting that mirusviral infection contributes to the alteration of the host genome. We also identified three circular mirusviral genomes within the genomic data of the oil-producing thraustochytrid Schizochytrium sp. and the endolithic green alga Ostreobium quekettii. Overall, mirusviruses probably infect a wide spectrum of eukaryotes and are more diverse than previously reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongda Zhao
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Lingjie Meng
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Hikida
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Ogata
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan.
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4
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Tedersoo L, Hosseyni Moghaddam MS, Mikryukov V, Hakimzadeh A, Bahram M, Nilsson RH, Yatsiuk I, Geisen S, Schwelm A, Piwosz K, Prous M, Sildever S, Chmolowska D, Rueckert S, Skaloud P, Laas P, Tines M, Jung JH, Choi JH, Alkahtani S, Anslan S. EUKARYOME: the rRNA gene reference database for identification of all eukaryotes. Database (Oxford) 2024; 2024:baae043. [PMID: 38865431 PMCID: PMC11168333 DOI: 10.1093/database/baae043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Molecular identification of micro- and macroorganisms based on nuclear markers has revolutionized our understanding of their taxonomy, phylogeny and ecology. Today, research on the diversity of eukaryotes in global ecosystems heavily relies on nuclear ribosomal RNA (rRNA) markers. Here, we present the research community-curated reference database EUKARYOME for nuclear ribosomal 18S rRNA, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and 28S rRNA markers for all eukaryotes, including metazoans (animals), protists, fungi and plants. It is particularly useful for the identification of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi as it bridges the four commonly used molecular markers-ITS1, ITS2, 18S V4-V5 and 28S D1-D2 subregions. The key benefits of this database over other annotated reference sequence databases are that it is not restricted to certain taxonomic groups and it includes all rRNA markers. EUKARYOME also offers a number of reference long-read sequences that are derived from (meta)genomic and (meta)barcoding-a unique feature that can be used for taxonomic identification and chimera control of third-generation, long-read, high-throughput sequencing data. Taxonomic assignments of rRNA genes in the database are verified based on phylogenetic approaches. The reference datasets are available in multiple formats from the project homepage, http://www.eukaryome.org.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leho Tedersoo
- Mycology and Microbiology Center, University of Tartu, Liivi 2, Tartu 50400, Estonia
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Liivi 2, Tartu 50400, Estonia
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, PO Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Vladimir Mikryukov
- Mycology and Microbiology Center, University of Tartu, Liivi 2, Tartu 50400, Estonia
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Liivi 2, Tartu 50400, Estonia
| | - Ali Hakimzadeh
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Liivi 2, Tartu 50400, Estonia
| | - Mohammad Bahram
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Liivi 2, Tartu 50400, Estonia
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Ulls väg 16, Uppsala 75651, Sweden
| | - R Henrik Nilsson
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Gothenburg Global Biodiversity Centre, University of Gothenburg, Box 461, Göteborg 40530, Sweden
| | - Iryna Yatsiuk
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Liivi 2, Tartu 50400, Estonia
| | - Stefan Geisen
- Laboratory of Nematology, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, Wageningen 6708PB, The Netherlands
| | - Arne Schwelm
- Laboratory of Nematology, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, Wageningen 6708PB, The Netherlands
- Department of Environment, Soils and Land-Use, Teagasc, Oak Park House, Wexford R93 XE12, Ireland
| | - Kasia Piwosz
- National Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kołłątaja 1, Gdynia 81332, Poland
| | - Marko Prous
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Liivi 2, Tartu 50400, Estonia
- Ecology and Genetics Research Unit, University of Oulu, Box 8000, Oulu 90014, Finland
| | - Sirje Sildever
- Department of Marine Systems, Tallinn University of Technology, Mäealuse 14a, Tallinn 12618, Estonia
| | - Dominika Chmolowska
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sławkowska 17, Kraków 31016, Poland
| | - Sonja Rueckert
- Eukaryotic Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstraße 1, Essen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 45141, Germany
| | - Pavel Skaloud
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Benatska 2, Praha 12800, Czech Republic
| | - Peeter Laas
- Department of Marine Systems, Tallinn University of Technology, Mäealuse 14a, Tallinn 12618, Estonia
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, Tartu 50400, Estonia
| | - Marco Tines
- Department for Biological Sciences, Institute for Ecology, Evolution, and Diversity, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 13, Frankfurt am Main 60438, Germany
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Georg-Voigt-Straße 14-16, Frankfurt am Main 60325, Germany
| | - Jae-Ho Jung
- Department of Biology, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Jukheon-gil 7, Gangneung 25457, South Korea
| | - Ji Hye Choi
- Department of Biology, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Jukheon-gil 7, Gangneung 25457, South Korea
| | - Saad Alkahtani
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, PO Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sten Anslan
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Liivi 2, Tartu 50400, Estonia
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5
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Terui R, Berger SE, Sambel LA, Song D, Chistol G. Single-molecule imaging reveals the mechanism of bidirectional replication initiation in metazoa. Cell 2024:S0092-8674(24)00533-6. [PMID: 38866019 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.05.024] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Metazoan genomes are copied bidirectionally from thousands of replication origins. Replication initiation entails the assembly and activation of two CMG helicases (Cdc45⋅Mcm2-7⋅GINS) at each origin. This requires several replication firing factors (including TopBP1, RecQL4, and DONSON) whose exact roles are still under debate. How two helicases are correctly assembled and activated at each origin is a long-standing question. By visualizing the recruitment of GINS, Cdc45, TopBP1, RecQL4, and DONSON in real time, we uncovered that replication initiation is surprisingly dynamic. First, TopBP1 transiently binds to the origin and dissociates before the start of DNA synthesis. Second, two Cdc45 are recruited together, even though Cdc45 alone cannot dimerize. Next, two copies of DONSON and two GINS simultaneously arrive at the origin, completing the assembly of two CMG helicases. Finally, RecQL4 is recruited to the CMG⋅DONSON⋅DONSON⋅CMG complex and promotes DONSON dissociation and CMG activation via its ATPase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riki Terui
- Chemical and Systems Biology Department, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Scott E Berger
- Biophysics Program, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Larissa A Sambel
- Chemical and Systems Biology Department, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Dan Song
- Chemical and Systems Biology Department, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Gheorghe Chistol
- Chemical and Systems Biology Department, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Biophysics Program, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Cancer Biology Program, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; BioX Interdisciplinary Institute, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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6
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Karbstein K, Kösters L, Hodač L, Hofmann M, Hörandl E, Tomasello S, Wagner ND, Emerson BC, Albach DC, Scheu S, Bradler S, de Vries J, Irisarri I, Li H, Soltis P, Mäder P, Wäldchen J. Species delimitation 4.0: integrative taxonomy meets artificial intelligence. Trends Ecol Evol 2024:S0169-5347(23)00296-3. [PMID: 38849221 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2023.11.002] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Although species are central units for biological research, recent findings in genomics are raising awareness that what we call species can be ill-founded entities due to solely morphology-based, regional species descriptions. This particularly applies to groups characterized by intricate evolutionary processes such as hybridization, polyploidy, or asexuality. Here, challenges of current integrative taxonomy (genetics/genomics + morphology + ecology, etc.) become apparent: different favored species concepts, lack of universal characters/markers, missing appropriate analytical tools for intricate evolutionary processes, and highly subjective ranking and fusion of datasets. Now, integrative taxonomy combined with artificial intelligence under a unified species concept can enable automated feature learning and data integration, and thus reduce subjectivity in species delimitation. This approach will likely accelerate revising and unraveling eukaryotic biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Karbstein
- Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry, Department of Biogeochemical Integration, 07745 Jena, Germany.
| | - Lara Kösters
- Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry, Department of Biogeochemical Integration, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Ladislav Hodač
- Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry, Department of Biogeochemical Integration, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Martin Hofmann
- Technical University of Ilmenau, Institute for Computer and Systems Engineering, 98693 Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Elvira Hörandl
- University of Göttingen, Albrecht-von-Haller Institute for Plant Sciences, Department of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants (with Herbarium), 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Salvatore Tomasello
- University of Göttingen, Albrecht-von-Haller Institute for Plant Sciences, Department of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants (with Herbarium), 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Natascha D Wagner
- University of Göttingen, Albrecht-von-Haller Institute for Plant Sciences, Department of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants (with Herbarium), 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Brent C Emerson
- Institute of Natural Products and Agrobiology (IPNA-CSIC), Island Ecology and Evolution Research Group, 38206 La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Dirk C Albach
- Carl von Ossietzky-Universität Oldenburg, Institute of Biology and Environmental Science, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Scheu
- University of Göttingen, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute of Zoology and Anthropology, 37073 Göttingen, Germany; University of Göttingen, Centre of Biodiversity and Sustainable Land Use (CBL), 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sven Bradler
- University of Göttingen, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute of Zoology and Anthropology, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jan de Vries
- University of Göttingen, Institute for Microbiology and Genetics, Department of Applied Bioinformatics, 37077 Göttingen, Germany; University of Göttingen, Campus Institute Data Science (CIDAS), 37077 Göttingen, Germany; University of Göttingen, Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Department of Applied Bioinformatics, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Iker Irisarri
- Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change (LIB), Centre for Molecular Biodiversity Research, Phylogenomics Section, Museum of Nature, 20146 Hamburg, Germany
| | - He Li
- Eastern China Conservation Centre for Wild Endangered Plant Resources, Chenshan Botanical Garden, 201602 Shanghai, China
| | - Pamela Soltis
- University of Florida, Florida Museum of Natural History, 32611 Gainesville, USA
| | - Patrick Mäder
- Technical University of Ilmenau, Institute for Computer and Systems Engineering, 98693 Ilmenau, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv), Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstrasse 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Philosophenweg 16, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Jana Wäldchen
- Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry, Department of Biogeochemical Integration, 07745 Jena, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv), Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstrasse 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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7
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Henderson TC, Garcia-Gimeno L, Beasley CE, Fry NW, Bess J, Brown MW. High above the rest: standing behaviors in the amoebae of Sappinia and Thecamoeba. Eur J Protistol 2024; 94:126082. [PMID: 38703601 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejop.2024.126082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Many terrestrial microbes have evolved cell behaviors that help them rise above their substrate, often to facilitate dispersal. One example of these behaviors is found in the amoebae of Sappinia pedata, which actively lift most of their cell mass above the substrate, known as standing. This standing behavior was first described in S. pedata in the 1890s from horse dung isolates but never molecularly characterized from dung. Our study expands this understanding, revealing the first molecularly confirmed S. pedata from herbivore dung in Mississippi, USA, and describing a new species, Sappinia dangeardi n. sp., with larger trophozoite cells. Additionally, we isolated another standing amoeba, Thecamoeba homeri n. sp., from soil, exhibiting a previously unreported "doughnut shape" transient behavior. In S. dangeardi n. sp., we discovered that standing is likely triggered by substrate drying, and that actin filaments actively localize in the "stalk" to support the standing cells, as observed through confocal microscopy. While the purpose of standing behaviors has not been investigated, we hypothesize it is energetically expensive and therefore a significant evolutionary strategy in these organisms. Overall, this study emphasizes behavioral adaptations to terrestrial environments within Amoebozoa, stressing the importance of diverse laboratory conditions that replicate natural habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan C Henderson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Lucia Garcia-Gimeno
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Charles E Beasley
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Nicholas W Fry
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Jayden Bess
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Matthew W Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA.
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8
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Zwahlen SM, Hayward JA, Maguire CS, Qin AR, van Dooren GG. A myzozoan-specific protein is an essential membrane-anchoring component of the succinate dehydrogenase complex in Toxoplasma parasites. Open Biol 2024; 14:230463. [PMID: 38835243 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.230463] [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: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) is a protein complex that functions in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and the electron transport chain of mitochondria. In most eukaryotes, SDH is highly conserved and comprises the following four subunits: SdhA and SdhB form the catalytic core of the complex, while SdhC and SdhD anchor the complex in the membrane. Toxoplasma gondii is an apicomplexan parasite that infects one-third of humans worldwide. The genome of T. gondii encodes homologues of the catalytic subunits SdhA and SdhB, although the physiological role of the SDH complex in the parasite and the identity of the membrane-anchoring subunits are poorly understood. Here, we show that the SDH complex contributes to optimal proliferation and O2 consumption in the disease-causing tachyzoite stage of the T. gondii life cycle. We characterize a small membrane-bound subunit of the SDH complex called mitochondrial protein ookinete developmental defect (MPODD), which is conserved among myzozoans, a phylogenetic grouping that incorporates apicomplexan parasites and their closest free-living relatives. We demonstrate that TgMPODD is essential for SDH activity and plays a key role in attaching the TgSdhA and TgSdhB proteins to the membrane anchor of the complex. Our findings highlight a unique and important feature of mitochondrial energy metabolism in apicomplexan parasites and their relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraya M Zwahlen
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University , Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Jenni A Hayward
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University , Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Capella S Maguire
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University , Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Alex R Qin
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University , Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Giel G van Dooren
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University , Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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9
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Hou S, Tang T, Cheng S, Liu Y, Xia T, Chen T, Fuhrman J, Sun F. DeepMicroClass sorts metagenomic contigs into prokaryotes, eukaryotes and viruses. NAR Genom Bioinform 2024; 6:lqae044. [PMID: 38711860 PMCID: PMC11071121 DOI: 10.1093/nargab/lqae044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Sequence classification facilitates a fundamental understanding of the structure of microbial communities. Binary metagenomic sequence classifiers are insufficient because environmental metagenomes are typically derived from multiple sequence sources. Here we introduce a deep-learning based sequence classifier, DeepMicroClass, that classifies metagenomic contigs into five sequence classes, i.e. viruses infecting prokaryotic or eukaryotic hosts, eukaryotic or prokaryotic chromosomes, and prokaryotic plasmids. DeepMicroClass achieved high performance for all sequence classes at various tested sequence lengths ranging from 500 bp to 100 kbps. By benchmarking on a synthetic dataset with variable sequence class composition, we showed that DeepMicroClass obtained better performance for eukaryotic, plasmid and viral contig classification than other state-of-the-art predictors. DeepMicroClass achieved comparable performance on viral sequence classification with geNomad and VirSorter2 when benchmarked on the CAMI II marine dataset. Using a coastal daily time-series metagenomic dataset as a case study, we showed that microbial eukaryotes and prokaryotic viruses are integral to microbial communities. By analyzing monthly metagenomes collected at HOT and BATS, we found relatively higher viral read proportions in the subsurface layer in late summer, consistent with the seasonal viral infection patterns prevalent in these areas. We expect DeepMicroClass will promote metagenomic studies of under-appreciated sequence types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengwei Hou
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Marine and Environmental Biology, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Tianqi Tang
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Siliangyu Cheng
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Yuanhao Liu
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Tian Xia
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ting Chen
- Department of Computer Science and Technology, Institute of Artificial Intelligence & BNRist, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Jed A Fuhrman
- Marine and Environmental Biology, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Fengzhu Sun
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
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10
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De Hoest-Thompson C, Marugan-Hernandez V, Dessens JT. Plasmodium LCCL domain-containing modular proteins have their origins in the ancestral alveolate. Open Biol 2024; 14:230451. [PMID: 38862023 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.230451] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium species encode a unique set of six modular proteins named LCCL lectin domain adhesive-like proteins (LAPs) that operate as a complex and that are essential for malaria parasite transmission from mosquito to vertebrate. LAPs possess complex architectures obtained through unique assemblies of conserved domains associated with lipid, protein and carbohydrate interactions, including the name-defining LCCL domain. Here, we assessed the prevalence of Plasmodium LAP orthologues across eukaryotic life. Our findings show orthologous conservation in all apicomplexans, with lineage-specific repertoires acquired through differential lap gene loss and duplication. Besides Apicomplexa, LAPs are found in their closest relatives: the photosynthetic chromerids, which encode the broadest repertoire including a novel membrane-bound LCCL protein. LAPs are notably absent from other alveolate lineages (dinoflagellates, perkinsids and ciliates), but are encoded by predatory colponemids, a sister group to the alveolates. These results reveal that the LAPs are much older than previously thought and pre-date not only the Apicomplexa but the Alveolata altogether.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Johannes T Dessens
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London WC1E 7HT, UK
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11
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Kerckhofs E, Schubert D. Conserved functions of chromatin regulators in basal Archaeplastida. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 118:1301-1311. [PMID: 37680033 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.16446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Chromatin is a dynamic network that regulates genome organization and gene expression. Different types of chromatin regulators are highly conserved among Archaeplastida, including unicellular algae, while some chromatin genes are only present in land plant genomes. Here, we review recent advances in understanding the function of conserved chromatin factors in basal land plants and algae. We focus on the role of Polycomb-group genes which mediate H3K27me3-based silencing and play a role in balancing gene dosage and regulating haploid-to-diploid transitions by tissue-specific repression of the transcription factors KNOX and BELL in many representatives of the green lineage. Moreover, H3K27me3 predominantly occupies repetitive elements which can lead to their silencing in a unicellular alga and basal land plants, while it covers mostly protein-coding genes in higher land plants. In addition, we discuss the role of nuclear matrix constituent proteins as putative functional lamin analogs that are highly conserved among land plants and might have an ancestral function in stress response regulation. In summary, our review highlights the importance of studying chromatin regulation in a wide range of organisms in the Archaeplastida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Kerckhofs
- Epigenetics of Plants, Institute for Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Schubert
- Epigenetics of Plants, Institute for Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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12
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von Känel C, Oeljeklaus S, Wenger C, Stettler P, Harsman A, Warscheid B, Schneider A. Intermembrane space-localized TbTim15 is an essential subunit of the single mitochondrial inner membrane protein translocase of trypanosomes. Mol Microbiol 2024; 121:1112-1126. [PMID: 38622999 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.15262] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
All mitochondria import >95% of their proteins from the cytosol. This process is mediated by protein translocases in the mitochondrial membranes, whose subunits are generally highly conserved. Most eukaryotes have two inner membrane protein translocases (TIMs) that are specialized to import either presequence-containing or mitochondrial carrier proteins. In contrast, the parasitic protozoan Trypanosoma brucei has a single TIM complex consisting of one conserved and five unique subunits. Here, we identify candidates for new subunits of the TIM or the presequence translocase-associated motor (PAM) using a protein-protein interaction network of previously characterized TIM and PAM subunits. This analysis reveals that the trypanosomal TIM complex contains an additional trypanosomatid-specific subunit, designated TbTim15. TbTim15 is associated with the TIM complex, lacks transmembrane domains, and localizes to the intermembrane space. TbTim15 is essential for procyclic and bloodstream forms of trypanosomes. It contains two twin CX9C motifs and mediates import of both presequence-containing and mitochondrial carrier proteins. While the precise function of TbTim15 in mitochondrial protein import is unknown, our results are consistent with the notion that it may function as an import receptor for the non-canonical trypanosomal TIM complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne von Känel
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Silke Oeljeklaus
- Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Biochemistry II, Theodor Boveri-Institute, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Wenger
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Philip Stettler
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anke Harsman
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Bettina Warscheid
- Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Biochemistry II, Theodor Boveri-Institute, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - André Schneider
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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13
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Krueger-Hadfield SA. Let's talk about sex: Why reproductive systems matter for understanding algae. JOURNAL OF PHYCOLOGY 2024; 60:581-597. [PMID: 38743848 DOI: 10.1111/jpy.13462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Sex is a crucial process that has molecular, genetic, cellular, organismal, and population-level consequences for eukaryotic evolution. Eukaryotic life cycles are composed of alternating haploid and diploid phases but are constrained by the need to accommodate the phenotypes of these different phases. Critical gaps in our understanding of evolutionary drivers of the diversity in algae life cycles include how selection acts to stabilize and change features of the life cycle. Moreover, most eukaryotes are partially clonal, engaging in both sexual and asexual reproduction. Yet, our understanding of the variation in their reproductive systems is largely based on sexual reproduction in animals or angiosperms. The relative balance of sexual versus asexual reproduction not only controls but also is in turn controlled by standing genetic variability, thereby shaping evolutionary trajectories. Thus, we must quantitatively assess the consequences of the variation in life cycles on reproductive systems. Algae are a polyphyletic group spread across many of the major eukaryotic lineages, providing powerful models by which to resolve this knowledge gap. There is, however, an alarming lack of data about the population genetics of most algae and, therefore, the relative frequency of sexual versus asexual processes. For many algae, the occurrence of sexual reproduction is unknown, observations have been lost in overlooked papers, or data on population genetics do not yet exist. This greatly restricts our ability to forecast the consequences of climate change on algal populations inhabiting terrestrial, aquatic, and marine ecosystems. This perspective summarizes our extant knowledge and provides some future directions to pursue broadly across micro- and macroalgal species.
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14
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Delmas CEL, Bancal MO, Leyronas C, Robin MH, Vidal T, Launay M. Monitoring the phenology of plant pathogenic fungi: why and how? Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024; 99:1075-1084. [PMID: 38287495 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13058] [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: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Phenology is a key adaptive trait of organisms, shaping biotic interactions in response to the environment. It has emerged as a critical topic with implications for societal and economic concerns due to the effects of climate change on species' phenological patterns. Fungi play essential roles in ecosystems, and plant pathogenic fungi have significant impacts on global food security. However, the phenology of plant pathogenic fungi, which form a huge and diverse clade of organisms, has received limited attention in the literature. This diversity may have limited the use of a common language for comparisons and the integration of phenological data for these taxonomic groups. Here, we delve into the concept of 'phenology' as applied to plant pathogenic fungi and explore the potential drivers of their phenology, including environmental factors and the host plant. We present the PhenoFun scale, a phenological scoring system suitable for use with all fungi and fungus-like plant pathogens. It offers a standardised and common tool for scientists studying the presence, absence, or predominance of a particular phase, the speed of phenological phase succession, and the synchronism shift between pathogenic fungi and their host plants, across a wide range of environments and ecosystems. The application of the concept of 'phenology' to plant pathogenic fungi and the use of a phenological scoring system involves focusing on the interacting processes between the pathogenic fungi, their hosts, and their biological, physical, and chemical environment, occurring during the life cycle of the pathogen. The goal is to deconstruct the processes involved according to a pattern orchestrated by the fungus's phenology. Such an approach will improve our understanding of the ecology and evolution of such organisms, help to understand and anticipate plant disease epidemics and their future evolution, and make it possible to optimise management models, and to encourage the adoption of cropping practices designed from this phenological perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marie-Odile Bancal
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, UMR Ecosys, Palaiseau, 91120, France
| | | | - Marie-Hélène Robin
- INRAE, INPT, ENSAT, EI Purpan, University of Toulouse, UMR AGIR, Castanet Tolosan, F-31326, France
| | - Tiphaine Vidal
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, UR Bioger, Palaiseau, 91120, France
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15
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Cox RM, Papoulas O, Shril S, Lee C, Gardner T, Battenhouse AM, Lee M, Drew K, McWhite CD, Yang D, Leggere JC, Durand D, Hildebrandt F, Wallingford JB, Marcotte EM. Ancient eukaryotic protein interactions illuminate modern genetic traits and disorders. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.26.595818. [PMID: 38853926 PMCID: PMC11160598 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.26.595818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
All eukaryotes share a common ancestor from roughly 1.5 - 1.8 billion years ago, a single-celled, swimming microbe known as LECA, the Last Eukaryotic Common Ancestor. Nearly half of the genes in modern eukaryotes were present in LECA, and many current genetic diseases and traits stem from these ancient molecular systems. To better understand these systems, we compared genes across modern organisms and identified a core set of 10,092 shared protein-coding gene families likely present in LECA, a quarter of which are uncharacterized. We then integrated >26,000 mass spectrometry proteomics analyses from 31 species to infer how these proteins interact in higher-order complexes. The resulting interactome describes the biochemical organization of LECA, revealing both known and new assemblies. We analyzed these ancient protein interactions to find new human gene-disease relationships for bone density and congenital birth defects, demonstrating the value of ancestral protein interactions for guiding functional genetics today.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael M Cox
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Ophelia Papoulas
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Shirlee Shril
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Chanjae Lee
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Tynan Gardner
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Anna M Battenhouse
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Muyoung Lee
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Kevin Drew
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Claire D McWhite
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - David Yang
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Janelle C Leggere
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Dannie Durand
- Department of Biological Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, 4400 5th Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Friedhelm Hildebrandt
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - John B Wallingford
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Edward M Marcotte
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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16
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Madhuri S, Lepetit B, Fürst AH, Kroth PG. A Knockout of the Photoreceptor PtAureo1a Results in Altered Diel Expression of Diatom Clock Components. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1465. [PMID: 38891274 PMCID: PMC11174801 DOI: 10.3390/plants13111465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Plants and algae use light not only for driving photosynthesis but also to sense environmental cues and to adjust their circadian clocks via photoreceptors. Aureochromes are blue-light-dependent photoreceptors that also function as transcription factors, possessing both a LOV and a bZIP domain. Aureochromes so far have only been detected in Stramenopile algae, which include the diatoms. Four paralogues of aureochromes have been identified in the pennate model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum: PtAureo1a, 1b, 1c, and 2. While it was shown recently that diatoms have a diel rhythm, the molecular mechanisms and components regulating it are still largely unknown. Diel gene expression analyses of wild-type P. tricornutum, a PtAureo1a knockout strain, and the respective PtAureo1 complemented line revealed that all four aureochromes have a different diel regulation and that PtAureo1a has a strong co-regulatory influence on its own transcription, as well as on that of other genes encoding different blue-light photoreceptors (CPF1, 2 and 4), proteins involved in photoprotection (Lhcx1), and specific bHLH transcription factors (RITMO1). Some of these genes completely lost their circadian expression in the PtAureo1a KO mutant. Our results suggest a major involvement of aureochromes in the molecular clock of diatoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Peter G. Kroth
- Fachbereich Biologie, Universität Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; (S.M.); (B.L.); (A.H.F.)
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17
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Pyrihová E, King MS, King AC, Toleco MR, van der Giezen M, Kunji ERS. A mitochondrial carrier transports glycolytic intermediates to link cytosolic and mitochondrial glycolysis in the human gut parasite Blastocystis. eLife 2024; 13:RP94187. [PMID: 38780415 PMCID: PMC11115451 DOI: 10.7554/elife.94187] [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: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Stramenopiles form a clade of diverse eukaryotic organisms, including multicellular algae, the fish and plant pathogenic oomycetes, such as the potato blight Phytophthora, and the human intestinal protozoan Blastocystis. In most eukaryotes, glycolysis is a strictly cytosolic metabolic pathway that converts glucose to pyruvate, resulting in the production of NADH and ATP (Adenosine triphosphate). In contrast, stramenopiles have a branched glycolysis in which the enzymes of the pay-off phase are located in both the cytosol and the mitochondrial matrix. Here, we identify a mitochondrial carrier in Blastocystis that can transport glycolytic intermediates, such as dihydroxyacetone phosphate and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate, across the mitochondrial inner membrane, linking the cytosolic and mitochondrial branches of glycolysis. Comparative analyses with the phylogenetically related human mitochondrial oxoglutarate carrier (SLC25A11) and dicarboxylate carrier (SLC25A10) show that the glycolytic intermediate carrier has lost its ability to transport the canonical substrates malate and oxoglutarate. Blastocystis lacks several key components of oxidative phosphorylation required for the generation of mitochondrial ATP, such as complexes III and IV, ATP synthase, and ADP/ATP carriers. The presence of the glycolytic pay-off phase in the mitochondrial matrix generates ATP, which powers energy-requiring processes, such as macromolecular synthesis, as well as NADH, used by mitochondrial complex I to generate a proton motive force to drive the import of proteins and molecules. Given its unique substrate specificity and central role in carbon and energy metabolism, the carrier for glycolytic intermediates identified here represents a specific drug and pesticide target against stramenopile pathogens, which are of great economic importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Pyrihová
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, The Keith Peters BuildingCambridgeUnited Kingdom
- University of Stavanger, Department of Chemistry, Bioscience, and Environmental EngineeringStavangerNorway
| | - Martin S King
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, The Keith Peters BuildingCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Alannah C King
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, The Keith Peters BuildingCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - M Rey Toleco
- University of Stavanger, Department of Chemistry, Bioscience, and Environmental EngineeringStavangerNorway
| | - Mark van der Giezen
- University of Stavanger, Department of Chemistry, Bioscience, and Environmental EngineeringStavangerNorway
- Research Department Stavanger University HospitalStavangerNorway
| | - Edmund RS Kunji
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, The Keith Peters BuildingCambridgeUnited Kingdom
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18
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Lagunas-Rangel FA. Exploration of Giardia small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) and their possible microRNA derivatives. Parasitology 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38767317 DOI: 10.1017/s003118202400060x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that are abundant in the nucleoli of eukaryotic cells and play a crucial role in various aspects of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) maturation, including modifications such as 2′-O-methylation or pseudouridylation. On the other hand, Giardia duodenalis is a microaerophilic, flagellated, binucleate protozoan responsible for causing giardiasis. Although numerous snoRNAs have been detected in Giardia, their investigation remains limited. Nevertheless, they have been found to play a crucial role in the rRNA precursor processing pathway and influence other cellular functions. In addition, it has been proposed that some microRNAs are generated from these snoRNAs through excision by the Giardia endoribonuclease Dicer. These microRNAs are believed to contribute to the regulation of antigenic variation, which allows the parasite to evade the host immune response. Specifically, they play a role in modulating variant-specific surface proteins (VSPs) and other cysteine-rich surface antigens (CSAs). The main objective of this study was to bring together the available data on snoRNAs in Giardia, uncovering their functions in various processes and their importance on a global scale. In addition, the research delved into potential microRNAs speculated to originate from snoRNAs, exploring their impact on cellular processes.
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19
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Rork AM, Bala AS, Renner T. Dynamic evolution of the mTHF gene family associated with primary metabolism across life. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:432. [PMID: 38693486 PMCID: PMC11064299 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10159-8] [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: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The folate cycle of one-carbon (C1) metabolism, which plays a central role in the biosynthesis of nucleotides and amino acids, demonstrates the significance of metabolic adaptation. We investigated the evolutionary history of the methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase (mTHF) gene family, one of the main drivers of the folate cycle, across life. RESULTS Through comparative genomic and phylogenetic analyses, we found that several lineages of Archaea lacked domains vital for folate cycle function such as the mTHF catalytic and NAD(P)-binding domains of FolD. Within eukaryotes, the mTHF gene family diversified rapidly. For example, several duplications have been observed in lineages including the Amoebozoa, Opisthokonta, and Viridiplantae. In a common ancestor of Opisthokonta, FolD and FTHFS underwent fusion giving rise to the gene MTHFD1, possessing the domains of both genes. CONCLUSIONS Our evolutionary reconstruction of the mTHF gene family associated with a primary metabolic pathway reveals dynamic evolution, including gene birth-and-death, gene fusion, and potential horizontal gene transfer events and/or amino acid convergence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Rork
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, 16802, USA.
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, 47907, USA.
| | - Arthi S Bala
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, 16802, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
- School of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
| | - Tanya Renner
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, 16802, USA.
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20
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Barbosa M, Lefler FW, Berthold DE, Gettys LA, Leary JK, Laughinghouse HD. Macrophyte coverage drives microbial community structure and interactions in a shallow sub-tropical lake. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 923:171414. [PMID: 38442760 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Shallow lakes are typically dominated by macrophytes, which have important functional roles regulating trophic conditions and creating biological habitat. Macrophytes have been shown to strongly influence water chemistry and shape microbial communities in shallow lakes. In Florida, many large, shallow lakes are dominated by alien invasive, submersed macrophytes, such as hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata [L.F.] Royle) and are intensively managed to reduce infestations and contain the spread of these alien invasive macrophytes. In this study, we investigated the effects of large (40 ha) herbicidal and mechanical control treatments on a large lake located in Central Florida that resulted in the reduction of Hydrilla and concomitant changes in water chemistry and microbial communities (both bacteria and protists [microbial eukaryotes]). We observed a considerable decrease in macrophyte coverage associated with plant control treatments as well as a temporal change in macrophyte coverage in Lake Tohopekaliga. We found that changes in macrophyte coverage, regardless of treatment type, significantly affected the water chemistry of the lake, resulting in a sharp increase of chlorophyll a concentration as well as an increase in turbidity with the decrease of macrophyte coverage. Moreover, the decline in macrophytes led to decreases in microbial community diversity with over-representation of phototrophic functional groups. Specifically, we observed an increase in cyanobacteria with the decrease in macrophyte coverage. Our study highlights the advantages and disadvantages of macrophyte control. Although there was an initial decrease in macrophyte coverage associated with the chemical and mechanical control of aquatic plants, after a few months, we found a considerable increase in coverage. In addition, the increase of cyanobacterial relative abundance demonstrates the possible consequences of aquatic plant control such as cyanobacterial blooms if there is a continued decline of macrophytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximiliano Barbosa
- Agronomy Department, Ft. Lauderdale Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, 3205 College Avenue, Davie, FL 33314, USA
| | - Forrest W Lefler
- Agronomy Department, Ft. Lauderdale Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, 3205 College Avenue, Davie, FL 33314, USA
| | - David E Berthold
- Agronomy Department, Ft. Lauderdale Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, 3205 College Avenue, Davie, FL 33314, USA
| | - Lyn A Gettys
- Agronomy Department, Ft. Lauderdale Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, 3205 College Avenue, Davie, FL 33314, USA
| | - James K Leary
- UF/IFAS Center of Aquatic and Invasive Plants, University of Florida, 7922 NW 71 St, Gainesville, FL 32653, USA
| | - H Dail Laughinghouse
- Agronomy Department, Ft. Lauderdale Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, 3205 College Avenue, Davie, FL 33314, USA.
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21
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Rapp E, Wolf M. 18S rDNA sequence-structure phylogeny of the eukaryotes simultaneously inferred from sequences and their individual secondary structures. BMC Res Notes 2024; 17:124. [PMID: 38693573 PMCID: PMC11064340 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-024-06786-9] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The eukaryotic tree of life has been subject of numerous studies ever since the nineteenth century, with more supergroups and their sister relations being decoded in the last years. In this study, we reconstructed the phylogeny of eukaryotes using complete 18S rDNA sequences and their individual secondary structures simultaneously. After the sequence-structure data was encoded, it was automatically aligned and analyzed using sequence-only as well as sequence-structure approaches. We present overall neighbor-joining trees of 211 eukaryotes as well as the respective profile neighbor-joining trees, which helped to resolve the basal branching pattern. A manually chosen subset was further inspected using neighbor-joining, maximum parsimony, and maximum likelihood analyses. Additionally, the 75 and 100 percent consensus structures of the subset were predicted. RESULTS All sequence-structure approaches show improvements compared to the respective sequence-only approaches: the average bootstrap support per node of the sequence-structure profile neighbor-joining analyses with 90.3, was higher than the average bootstrap support of the sequence-only profile neighbor-joining analysis with 73.9. Also, the subset analyses using sequence-structure data were better supported. Furthermore, more subgroups of the supergroups were recovered as monophyletic and sister group relations were much more comparable to results as obtained by multi-marker analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Rapp
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Wolf
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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22
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van der Gulik PTS, Hoff WD, Speijer D. The contours of evolution: In defence of Darwin's tree of life paradigm. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2400012. [PMID: 38436469 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202400012] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Both the concept of a Darwinian tree of life (TOL) and the possibility of its accurate reconstruction have been much criticized. Criticisms mostly revolve around the extensive occurrence of lateral gene transfer (LGT), instances of uptake of complete organisms to become organelles (with the associated subsequent gene transfer to the nucleus), as well as the implications of more subtle aspects of the biological species concept. Here we argue that none of these criticisms are sufficient to abandon the valuable TOL concept and the biological realities it captures. Especially important is the need to conceptually distinguish between organismal trees and gene trees, which necessitates incorporating insights of widely occurring LGT into modern evolutionary theory. We demonstrate that all criticisms, while based on important new findings, do not invalidate the TOL. After considering the implications of these new insights, we find that the contours of evolution are best represented by a TOL.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wouter D Hoff
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Dave Speijer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Jones JDG, Staskawicz BJ, Dangl JL. The plant immune system: From discovery to deployment. Cell 2024; 187:2095-2116. [PMID: 38670067 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.03.045] [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: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Plant diseases cause famines, drive human migration, and present challenges to agricultural sustainability as pathogen ranges shift under climate change. Plant breeders discovered Mendelian genetic loci conferring disease resistance to specific pathogen isolates over 100 years ago. Subsequent breeding for disease resistance underpins modern agriculture and, along with the emergence and focus on model plants for genetics and genomics research, has provided rich resources for molecular biological exploration over the last 50 years. These studies led to the identification of extracellular and intracellular receptors that convert recognition of extracellular microbe-encoded molecular patterns or intracellular pathogen-delivered virulence effectors into defense activation. These receptor systems, and downstream responses, define plant immune systems that have evolved since the migration of plants to land ∼500 million years ago. Our current understanding of plant immune systems provides the platform for development of rational resistance enhancement to control the many diseases that continue to plague crop production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D G Jones
- Sainsbury Lab, University of East Anglia, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK.
| | - Brian J Staskawicz
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology and Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Jeffery L Dangl
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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24
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Barz S, Hofmann K, Reggiori F, Kraft C. Beyond the C-terminal Glycine of ATG8 Proteins - The Story of Some Neglected Amino Acids. J Mol Biol 2024:168588. [PMID: 38663545 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2024.168588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
ATG8 proteins form a family of small ubiquitin-like modifiers, well-known for their importance in both macroautophagy and autophagy-independent processes. A unique feature of this protein family is their conjugation to membrane lipids through the covalent attachment of a glycine residue at the C-terminus of ATG8 proteins. Notably, most ATG8 proteins are expressed with additional amino acids at their C-terminus, shielding the key glycine residue. Consequently, lipidation requires the activation of the ATG8 precursors through proteolytic cleavage, known as priming. ATG4 proteases catalyze this priming process, and under physiological conditions, unprimed forms of ATG8 are not detected. This raises the question about the purpose of the C-terminal extension of ATG8 proteins. While the roles of lipidated and free, primed ATG8 proteins have been extensively studied, the potential function of their precursor form or the priming process itself remains largely unexplored. Here, we summarize information from existing literature and our own experiments to contribute to the understanding of these neglected amino acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Barz
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kay Hofmann
- Institute for Genetics, University of Cologne, 50674 Cologne, Germany
| | - Fulvio Reggiori
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Allé 4, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Claudine Kraft
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; CIBSS - Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.
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25
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Filgueiras JPC, Zámocký M, Turchetto-Zolet AC. Unraveling the evolutionary origin of the P5CS gene: a story of gene fusion and horizontal transfer. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1341684. [PMID: 38693917 PMCID: PMC11061531 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1341684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The accumulation of proline in response to the most diverse types of stress is a widespread defense mechanism. In prokaryotes, fungi, and certain unicellular eukaryotes (green algae), the first two reactions of proline biosynthesis occur through two distinct enzymes, γ-glutamyl kinase (GK E.C. 2.7.2.11) and γ-glutamyl phosphate reductase (GPR E.C. 1.2.1.41), encoded by two different genes, ProB and ProA, respectively. Plants, animals, and a few unicellular eukaryotes carry out these reactions through a single bifunctional enzyme, the Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthase (P5CS), which has the GK and GPR domains fused. To better understand the origin and diversification of the P5CS gene, we use a robust phylogenetic approach with a broad sampling of the P5CS, ProB and ProA genes, including species from all three domains of life. Our results suggest that the collected P5CS genes have arisen from a single fusion event between the ProA and ProB gene paralogs. A peculiar fusion event occurred in an ancestral eukaryotic lineage and was spread to other lineages through horizontal gene transfer. As for the diversification of this gene family, the phylogeny of the P5CS gene in plants shows that there have been multiple independent processes of duplication and loss of this gene, with the duplications being related to old polyploidy events.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Pedro Carmo Filgueiras
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Department of Genetics, Institute of Biosciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Marcel Zámocký
- Laboratory of Phylogenomic Ecology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Andreia Carina Turchetto-Zolet
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Department of Genetics, Institute of Biosciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
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26
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Cronan JE. Lipoic acid attachment to proteins: stimulating new developments. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024:e0000524. [PMID: 38624243 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00005-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYLipoic acid-modified proteins are essential for central metabolism and pathogenesis. In recent years, the Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis lipoyl assembly pathways have been modified and extended to archaea and diverse eukaryotes including humans. These extensions include a new pathway to insert the key sulfur atoms of lipoate, several new pathways of lipoate salvage, and a novel use of lipoic acid in sulfur-oxidizing bacteria. Other advances are the modification of E. coli LplA for studies of protein localization and protein-protein interactions in cell biology and in enzymatic removal of lipoate from lipoyl proteins. Finally, scenarios have been put forth for the evolution of lipoate assembly in archaea.
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Affiliation(s)
- John E Cronan
- Department of Microbiology, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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27
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Link F, Borges A, Karo O, Jungblut M, Müller T, Meyer-Natus E, Krüger T, Sachs S, Jones NG, Morphew M, Sauer M, Stigloher C, McIntosh JR, Engstler M. Continuous endosomes form functional subdomains and orchestrate rapid membrane trafficking in trypanosomes. eLife 2024; 12:RP91194. [PMID: 38619530 PMCID: PMC11018342 DOI: 10.7554/elife.91194] [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: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Endocytosis is a common process observed in most eukaryotic cells, although its complexity varies among different organisms. In Trypanosoma brucei, the endocytic machinery is under special selective pressure because rapid membrane recycling is essential for immune evasion. This unicellular parasite effectively removes host antibodies from its cell surface through hydrodynamic drag and fast endocytic internalization. The entire process of membrane recycling occurs exclusively through the flagellar pocket, an extracellular organelle situated at the posterior pole of the spindle-shaped cell. The high-speed dynamics of membrane flux in trypanosomes do not seem compatible with the conventional concept of distinct compartments for early endosomes (EE), late endosomes (LE), and recycling endosomes (RE). To investigate the underlying structural basis for the remarkably fast membrane traffic in trypanosomes, we employed advanced techniques in light and electron microscopy to examine the three-dimensional architecture of the endosomal system. Our findings reveal that the endosomal system in trypanosomes exhibits a remarkably intricate structure. Instead of being compartmentalized, it constitutes a continuous membrane system, with specific functions of the endosome segregated into membrane subdomains enriched with classical markers for EE, LE, and RE. These membrane subdomains can partly overlap or are interspersed with areas that are negative for endosomal markers. This continuous endosome allows fast membrane flux by facilitated diffusion that is not slowed by multiple fission and fusion events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Link
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Biocentre, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Alyssa Borges
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Biocentre, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Oliver Karo
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Biocentre, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Marvin Jungblut
- Department of Biotechnology & Biophysics, Biocentre, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Thomas Müller
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Biocentre, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Elisabeth Meyer-Natus
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Biocentre, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Timothy Krüger
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Biocentre, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Stefan Sachs
- Department of Biotechnology & Biophysics, Biocentre, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Nicola G Jones
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Biocentre, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Mary Morphew
- Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology, University of Colorado BoulderBoulderUnited States
| | - Markus Sauer
- Department of Biotechnology & Biophysics, Biocentre, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | | | - J Richard McIntosh
- Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology, University of Colorado BoulderBoulderUnited States
| | - Markus Engstler
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Biocentre, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
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28
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Edelbroek B, Kjellin J, Biryukova I, Liao Z, Lundberg T, Noegel A, Eichinger L, Friedländer M, Söderbom F. Evolution of microRNAs in Amoebozoa and implications for the origin of multicellularity. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:3121-3136. [PMID: 38375870 PMCID: PMC11014262 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important and ubiquitous regulators of gene expression in both plants and animals. They are thought to have evolved convergently in these lineages and hypothesized to have played a role in the evolution of multicellularity. In line with this hypothesis, miRNAs have so far only been described in few unicellular eukaryotes. Here, we investigate the presence and evolution of miRNAs in Amoebozoa, focusing on species belonging to Acanthamoeba, Physarum and dictyostelid taxonomic groups, representing a range of unicellular and multicellular lifestyles. miRNAs that adhere to both the stringent plant and animal miRNA criteria were identified in all examined amoebae, expanding the total number of protists harbouring miRNAs from 7 to 15. We found conserved miRNAs between closely related species, but the majority of species feature only unique miRNAs. This shows rapid gain and/or loss of miRNAs in Amoebozoa, further illustrated by a detailed comparison between two evolutionary closely related dictyostelids. Additionally, loss of miRNAs in the Dictyostelium discoideum drnB mutant did not seem to affect multicellular development and, hence, demonstrates that the presence of miRNAs does not appear to be a strict requirement for the transition from uni- to multicellular life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Edelbroek
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala Biomedical Centre, Uppsala University, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jonas Kjellin
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala Biomedical Centre, Uppsala University, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Inna Biryukova
- Science for Life Laboratory, The Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Zhen Liao
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala Biomedical Centre, Uppsala University, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Torgny Lundberg
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala Biomedical Centre, Uppsala University, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Angelika A Noegel
- Centre for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Ludwig Eichinger
- Centre for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Marc R Friedländer
- Science for Life Laboratory, The Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Söderbom
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala Biomedical Centre, Uppsala University, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden
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29
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Lagunas-Rangel FA. Giardia telomeres and telomerase. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:179. [PMID: 38584235 PMCID: PMC10999387 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08200-6] [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: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis, the protozoan responsible for giardiasis, is a significant contributor to millions of diarrheal diseases worldwide. Despite the availability of treatments for this parasitic infection, therapeutic failures are alarmingly frequent. Thus, there is a clear need to identify new therapeutic targets. Giardia telomeres were previously identified, but our understanding of these structures and the critical role played by Giardia telomerase in maintaining genomic stability and its influence on cellular processes remains limited. In this regard, it is known that all Giardia chromosomes are capped by small telomeres, organized and protected by specific proteins that regulate their functions. To counteract natural telomere shortening and maintain high proliferation, Giardia exhibits constant telomerase activity and employs additional mechanisms, such as the formation of G-quadruplex structures and the involvement of transposable elements linked to telomeric repeats. Thus, this study aims to address the existing knowledge gap by compiling the available information (until 2023) about Giardia telomeres and telomerase, focusing on highlighting the distinctive features within this parasite. Furthermore, the potential feasibility of targeting Giardia telomeres and/or telomerase as an innovative therapeutic strategy is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Alejandro Lagunas-Rangel
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, BMC Box 593, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden.
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, San Pedro Zacatenco, Gustavo A. Madero, 07360, Mexico City, Mexico.
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30
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Eiler DR, Wimberly BT, Bilodeau DY, Taliaferro JM, Reigan P, Rissland OS, Kieft JS. The Giardia lamblia ribosome structure reveals divergence in several biological pathways and the mode of emetine function. Structure 2024; 32:400-410.e4. [PMID: 38242118 PMCID: PMC10997490 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2023.12.015] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Giardia lamblia is a deeply branching protist and a human pathogen. Its unusual biology presents the opportunity to explore conserved and fundamental molecular mechanisms. We determined the structure of the G. lamblia 80S ribosome bound to tRNA, mRNA, and the antibiotic emetine by cryo-electron microscopy, to an overall resolution of 2.49 Å. The structure reveals rapidly evolving protein and nucleotide regions, differences in the peptide exit tunnel, and likely altered ribosome quality control pathways. Examination of translation initiation factor binding sites suggests these interactions are conserved despite a divergent initiation mechanism. Highlighting the potential of G. lamblia to resolve conserved biological principles; our structure reveals the interactions of the translation inhibitor emetine with the ribosome and mRNA, thus providing insight into the mechanism of action for this widely used antibiotic. Our work defines key questions in G. lamblia and motivates future experiments to explore the diversity of eukaryotic gene regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Eiler
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Brian T Wimberly
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Danielle Y Bilodeau
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; RNA BioScience Initiative, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - J Matthew Taliaferro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; RNA BioScience Initiative, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Philip Reigan
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Olivia S Rissland
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; RNA BioScience Initiative, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Jeffrey S Kieft
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; RNA BioScience Initiative, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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31
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Eme L, Tamarit D. Microbial Diversity and Open Questions about the Deep Tree of Life. Genome Biol Evol 2024; 16:evae053. [PMID: 38620144 PMCID: PMC11018274 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evae053] [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] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
In this perspective, we explore the transformative impact and inherent limitations of metagenomics and single-cell genomics on our understanding of microbial diversity and their integration into the Tree of Life. We delve into the key challenges associated with incorporating new microbial lineages into the Tree of Life through advanced phylogenomic approaches. Additionally, we shed light on enduring debates surrounding various aspects of the microbial Tree of Life, focusing on recent advances in some of its deepest nodes, such as the roots of bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes. We also bring forth current limitations in genome recovery and phylogenomic methodology, as well as new avenues of research to uncover additional key microbial lineages and resolve the shape of the Tree of Life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Eme
- Ecologie Systématique Evolution, CNRS, Université Paris-Saclay, AgroParisTech, Gif sur-Yvette, France
| | - Daniel Tamarit
- Theoretical Biology and Bioinformatics, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584CH, The Netherlands
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32
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Gile GH. Protist symbionts of termites: diversity, distribution, and coevolution. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024; 99:622-652. [PMID: 38105542 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13038] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
The symbiosis between termites and their hindgut protists is mutually obligate and vertically inherited. It was established by the late Jurassic in the cockroach ancestors of termites as they transitioned to wood feeding. Since then, protist symbionts have been transmitted from host generation to host generation by proctodeal trophallaxis (anal feeding). The protists belong to multiple lineages within the eukaryotic superphylum Metamonada. Most of these lineages have evolved large cells with complex morphology, unlike the non-termite-associated Metamonada. The species richness and taxonomic composition of symbiotic protist communities varies widely across termite lineages, especially within the deep-branching clade Teletisoptera. In general, closely related termites tend to harbour closely related protists, and deep-branching termites tend to harbour deep-branching protists, reflecting their broad-scale co-diversification. A closer view, however, reveals a complex distribution of protist lineages across hosts. Some protist taxa are common, some are rare, some are widespread, and some are restricted to a single host family or genus. Some protist taxa can be found in only a few, distantly related, host species. Thus, the long history of co-diversification in this symbiosis has been complicated by lineage-specific loss of symbionts, transfer of symbionts from one host lineage to another, and by independent diversification of the symbionts relative to their hosts. This review aims to introduce the biology of this important symbiosis and serve as a gateway to the diversity and systematics literature for both termites and protists. A searchable database with all termite-protist occurrence records and taxonomic references is provided as a supplementary file to encourage and facilitate new research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian H Gile
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
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33
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Liffner B, Absalon S. Expansion microscopy of apicomplexan parasites. Mol Microbiol 2024; 121:619-635. [PMID: 37571814 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.15135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Apicomplexan parasites comprise significant pathogens of humans, livestock and wildlife, but also represent a diverse group of eukaryotes with interesting and unique cell biology. The study of cell biology in apicomplexan parasites is complicated by their small size, and historically this has required the application of cutting-edge microscopy techniques to investigate fundamental processes like mitosis or cell division in these organisms. Recently, a technique called expansion microscopy has been developed, which rather than increasing instrument resolution like most imaging modalities, physically expands a biological sample. In only a few years since its development, a derivative of expansion microscopy known as ultrastructure-expansion microscopy (U-ExM) has been widely adopted and proven extremely useful for studying cell biology of Apicomplexa. Here, we review the insights into apicomplexan cell biology that have been enabled through the use of U-ExM, with a specific focus on Plasmodium, Toxoplasma and Cryptosporidium. Further, we summarize emerging expansion microscopy modifications and modalities and forecast how these may influence the field of parasite cell biology in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Liffner
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Sabrina Absalon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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34
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Kapsetaki SE, Cisneros LH, Maley CC. Cell-in-cell phenomena across the tree of life. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7535. [PMID: 38553457 PMCID: PMC10980697 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57528-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Cells in obligately multicellular organisms by definition have aligned fitness interests, minimum conflict, and cannot reproduce independently. However, some cells eat other cells within the same body, sometimes called cell cannibalism. Such cell-in-cell events have not been thoroughly discussed in the framework of major transitions to multicellularity. We performed a systematic screening of 508 articles, from which we chose 115 relevant articles in a search for cell-in-cell events across the tree of life, the age of cell-in-cell-related genes, and whether cell-in-cell events are associated with normal multicellular development or cancer. Cell-in-cell events are found across the tree of life, from some unicellular to many multicellular organisms, including non-neoplastic and neoplastic tissue. Additionally, out of the 38 cell-in-cell-related genes found in the literature, 14 genes were over 2.2 billion years old, i.e., older than the common ancestor of some facultatively multicellular taxa. All of this suggests that cell-in-cell events may have originated before the origins of obligate multicellularity. Thus, our results show that cell-in-cell events exist in obligate multicellular organisms, but are not a defining feature of them. The idea of eradicating cell-in-cell events from obligate multicellular organisms as a way of treating cancer, without considering that cell-in-cell events are also part of normal development, should be abandoned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania E Kapsetaki
- Arizona Cancer Evolution Center, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA.
- Biodesign Center for Biocomputing, Security and Society, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA.
- Department of Biology, School of Arts and Sciences, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA.
| | - Luis H Cisneros
- Arizona Cancer Evolution Center, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Biodesign Center for Biocomputing, Security and Society, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Carlo C Maley
- Arizona Cancer Evolution Center, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Biodesign Center for Biocomputing, Security and Society, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Biodesign Center for Mechanisms of Evolution, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
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35
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Loreto ES, Tondolo JSM, Zanette RA. Treating Pythiosis with Antibacterial Drugs Targeting Protein Synthesis: An Overview. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:234. [PMID: 38667905 PMCID: PMC11051233 DOI: 10.3390/jof10040234] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This review article explores the effectiveness of antibacterial drugs that inhibit protein synthesis in treating pythiosis, a difficult-to-treat infection caused by Pythium insidiosum. The article highlights the susceptibility of P. insidiosum to antibacterial drugs, such as macrolides, oxazolidinones, and tetracyclines. We examine various studies, including in vitro tests, experimental infection models, and clinical case reports. Based on our synthesis of these findings, we highlight the potential of these drugs in managing pythiosis, primarily when combined with surgical interventions. The review emphasizes the need for personalized treatment strategies and further research to establish standardized testing protocols and optimize therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erico S. Loreto
- Sobresp Faculty of Health Sciences, 520 Appel Street, Santa Maria 97015-030, RS, Brazil;
| | - Juliana S. M. Tondolo
- Sobresp Faculty of Health Sciences, 520 Appel Street, Santa Maria 97015-030, RS, Brazil;
| | - Régis A. Zanette
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 2600 Ramiro Barcelos Street, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil;
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36
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Burgunter-Delamare B, Shetty P, Vuong T, Mittag M. Exchange or Eliminate: The Secrets of Algal-Bacterial Relationships. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:829. [PMID: 38592793 PMCID: PMC10974524 DOI: 10.3390/plants13060829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Algae and bacteria have co-occurred and coevolved in common habitats for hundreds of millions of years, fostering specific associations and interactions such as mutualism or antagonism. These interactions are shaped through exchanges of primary and secondary metabolites provided by one of the partners. Metabolites, such as N-sources or vitamins, can be beneficial to the partner and they may be assimilated through chemotaxis towards the partner producing these metabolites. Other metabolites, especially many natural products synthesized by bacteria, can act as toxins and damage or kill the partner. For instance, the green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii establishes a mutualistic partnership with a Methylobacterium, in stark contrast to its antagonistic relationship with the toxin producing Pseudomonas protegens. In other cases, as with a coccolithophore haptophyte alga and a Phaeobacter bacterium, the same alga and bacterium can even be subject to both processes, depending on the secreted bacterial and algal metabolites. Some bacteria also influence algal morphology by producing specific metabolites and micronutrients, as is observed in some macroalgae. This review focuses on algal-bacterial interactions with micro- and macroalgal models from marine, freshwater, and terrestrial environments and summarizes the advances in the field. It also highlights the effects of temperature on these interactions as it is presently known.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertille Burgunter-Delamare
- Matthias Schleiden Institute of Genetics, Bioinformatics and Molecular Botany, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany; (P.S.); (T.V.)
| | - Prateek Shetty
- Matthias Schleiden Institute of Genetics, Bioinformatics and Molecular Botany, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany; (P.S.); (T.V.)
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Trang Vuong
- Matthias Schleiden Institute of Genetics, Bioinformatics and Molecular Botany, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany; (P.S.); (T.V.)
| | - Maria Mittag
- Matthias Schleiden Institute of Genetics, Bioinformatics and Molecular Botany, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany; (P.S.); (T.V.)
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany
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Fang T, Szklarczyk D, Hachilif R, von Mering C. Enhancing coevolutionary signals in protein-protein interaction prediction through clade-wise alignment integration. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6009. [PMID: 38472223 PMCID: PMC10933411 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55655-9] [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: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) play essential roles in most biological processes. The binding interfaces between interacting proteins impose evolutionary constraints that have successfully been employed to predict PPIs from multiple sequence alignments (MSAs). To construct MSAs, critical choices have to be made: how to ensure the reliable identification of orthologs, and how to optimally balance the need for large alignments versus sufficient alignment quality. Here, we propose a divide-and-conquer strategy for MSA generation: instead of building a single, large alignment for each protein, multiple distinct alignments are constructed under distinct clades in the tree of life. Coevolutionary signals are searched separately within these clades, and are only subsequently integrated using machine learning techniques. We find that this strategy markedly improves overall prediction performance, concomitant with better alignment quality. Using the popular DCA algorithm to systematically search pairs of such alignments, a genome-wide all-against-all interaction scan in a bacterial genome is demonstrated. Given the recent successes of AlphaFold in predicting direct PPIs at atomic detail, a discover-and-refine approach is proposed: our method could provide a fast and accurate strategy for pre-screening the entire genome, submitting to AlphaFold only promising interaction candidates-thus reducing false positives as well as computation time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Fang
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Damian Szklarczyk
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Radja Hachilif
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christian von Mering
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Rivera J, Valerdi-Negreros JC, Vázquez-Enciso DM, Argueta-Zepeda FS, Vinuesa P. Phylogenomic, structural, and cell biological analyses reveal that Stenotrophomonas maltophilia replicates in acidified Rab7A-positive vacuoles of Acanthamoeba castellanii. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0298823. [PMID: 38319117 PMCID: PMC10913462 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02988-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba species are clinically relevant free-living amoebae (FLA) ubiquitously found in soil and water bodies. Metabolically active trophozoites graze on diverse microbes via phagocytosis. However, functional studies on Rab GTPases (Rabs), which are critical for controlling vesicle trafficking and maturation, are scarce for this FLA. This knowledge gap can be partly explained by the limited genetic tools available for Acanthamoeba cell biology. Here, we developed plasmids to generate fusions of A. castellanii strain Neff proteins to the N- or C-termini of mEGFP and mCherry2. Phylogenomic and structural analyses of the 11 Neff Rab7 paralogs found in the RefSeq assembly revealed that eight of them had non-canonical sequences. After correcting the gene annotation for the Rab7A ortholog, we generated a line stably expressing an mEGFP-Rab7A fusion, demonstrating its correct localization to acidified macropinocytic and phagocytic vacuoles using fluorescence microscopy live cell imaging (LCI). Direct labeling of live Stenotrophomonas maltophilia ESTM1D_MKCAZ16_6a (Sm18) cells with pHrodo Red, a pH-sensitive dye, demonstrated that they reside within acidified, Rab7A-positive vacuoles. We constructed new mini-Tn7 delivery plasmids and tagged Sm18 with constitutively expressed mScarlet-I. Co-culture experiments of Neff trophozoites with Sm18::mTn7TC1_Pc_mScarlet-I, coupled with LCI and microplate reader assays, demonstrated that Sm18 underwent multiple replication rounds before reaching the extracellular medium via non-lytic exocytosis. We conclude that S. maltophilia belongs to the class of bacteria that can use amoeba as an intracellular replication niche within a Stenotrophomonas-containing vacuole that interacts extensively with the endocytic pathway.IMPORTANCEDiverse Acanthamoeba lineages (genotypes) are of increasing clinical concern, mainly causing amoebic keratitis and granulomatous amebic encephalitis among other infections. S. maltophilia ranks among the top 10 most prevalent multidrug-resistant opportunistic nosocomial pathogens and is a recurrent member of the microbiome hosted by Acanthamoeba and other free-living amoebae. However, little is known about the molecular strategies deployed by Stenotrophomonas for an intracellular lifestyle in amoebae and other professional phagocytes such as macrophages, which allow the bacterium to evade the immune system and the action of antibiotics. Our plasmids and easy-to-use microtiter plate co-culture assays should facilitate investigations into the cellular microbiology of Acanthamoeba interactions with Stenotrophomonas and other opportunistic pathogens, which may ultimately lead to the discovery of new molecular targets and antimicrobial therapies to combat difficult-to-treat infections caused by these ubiquitous microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Rivera
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Julio C. Valerdi-Negreros
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Diana M. Vázquez-Enciso
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
- Programa de Maestría y Doctorado en Ciencias Bioquímicas, UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Fulvia-Stefany Argueta-Zepeda
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
- Programa de Maestría y Doctorado en Ciencias Bioquímicas, UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pablo Vinuesa
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
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Suzuki-Tellier S, Kiørboe T, Simpson AGB. The function of the feeding groove of 'typical excavate' flagellates. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2024; 71:e13016. [PMID: 38108228 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.13016] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Phagotrophic flagellates are the main consumers of bacteria and picophytoplankton. Despite their ecological significance in the 'microbial loop', many of their predation mechanisms remain unclear. 'Typical excavates' bear a ventral groove, where prey is captured for ingestion. The consequences of feeding through a 'semi-rigid' furrow on the prey size range have not been explored. An unidentified moving element called 'the wave' that sweeps along the bottom of the groove toward the site of phagocytosis has been observed in a few species; its function is unclear. We investigated the presence, behavior, and function of the wave in four species from the three excavate clades (Discoba, Metamonada, and Malawimonadida) and found it present in all studied cases, suggesting the potential homology of this feature across all three groups. The wave displayed a species-specific behavior and was crucial for phagocytosis. The morphology of the feeding groove had an upper-prey size limit for successful prey captures, but smaller particles were not constrained. Additionally, the ingestion efficiencies were species dependent. By jointly studying these feeding traits, we speculate on adaptations to differences in food availability to better understand their ecological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sei Suzuki-Tellier
- Centre for Ocean Life, DTU Aqua, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Thomas Kiørboe
- Centre for Ocean Life, DTU Aqua, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Alastair G B Simpson
- Department of Biology, and Centre for Comparative Genomics and Evolutionary Bioinformatics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Zhang P, Huang M, Chen C, Hu K, Ke J, Liu M, Xiao Y, Liu X. Contrasting roles of fungal and oomycete pathogens in mediating nitrogen addition and winter grazing effects on biomass. Ecology 2024; 105:e4254. [PMID: 38272568 DOI: 10.1002/ecy.4254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Both bottom-up and top-down processes modulate plant communities. Fungal and oomycete pathogens are most common in global grasslands, and due to differences in their physiology, function, host range, and life cycles, they may differentially affect plants (in both intensity and direction). However, how fungal and oomycete pathogens regulate bottom-up and top-down effects on plant community biomass remains unclear. To this end, we conducted a 3-year field experiment in an alpine meadow incorporating mammalian herbivore exclosure, fungicide/oomyceticide application, and nitrogen addition treatments. We arranged 12 blocks with half randomly assigned to be mammalian herbivore exclosures (fenced to exclude grazing sheep), and the other half were fenced most of the year but not in winter (winter grazing control). Six 2.5 × 2.5 m square plots were established in each block, with each of the six plots assigned as control, nitrogen addition, fungicide application, oomyceticide application, nitrogen addition + fungicide application, and nitrogen addition + oomyceticide application. We found that fungicide application significantly increased plant community biomass (mainly Poaceae species) under nitrogen addition and promoted the bottom-up effect of nitrogen addition on plant community biomass by altering the community-weighted mean of plant height (via species turnover). Meanwhile, oomyceticide application significantly increased plant community biomass (mainly Poaceae species) when mammalian herbivores were excluded and weakened the top-down effect of winter grazing on plant community biomass by driving intraspecific variation in plant height. Our results highlight that fungal and oomycete pathogens play important (but differing) roles in mediating the effects of nutrient availability and higher trophic levels on plant community biomass. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that plant pathogen-related modulation of plant community biomass is achieved by alterations to plant height. Overall, this study combines both community and disease ecology to reveal complex interactions among higher trophic levels and their potential impacts on terrestrial ecosystem functioning under human disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P. R. China
| | - Mengjiao Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P. R. China
| | - Chaorui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P. R. China
| | - Kui Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P. R. China
| | - Junsheng Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P. R. China
| | - Mu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yao Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P. R. China
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41
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Balan T, Lerner LK, Holoch D, Duharcourt S. Small-RNA-guided histone modifications and somatic genome elimination in ciliates. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2024; 15:e1848. [PMID: 38605483 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Transposable elements and other repeats are repressed by small-RNA-guided histone modifications in fungi, plants and animals. The specificity of silencing is achieved through base-pairing of small RNAs corresponding to the these genomic loci to nascent noncoding RNAs, which allows the recruitment of histone methyltransferases that methylate histone H3 on lysine 9. Self-reinforcing feedback loops enhance small RNA production and ensure robust and heritable repression. In the unicellular ciliate Paramecium tetraurelia, small-RNA-guided histone modifications lead to the elimination of transposable elements and their remnants, a definitive form of repression. In this organism, germline and somatic functions are separated within two types of nuclei with different genomes. At each sexual cycle, development of the somatic genome is accompanied by the reproducible removal of approximately a third of the germline genome. Instead of recruiting a H3K9 methyltransferase, small RNAs corresponding to eliminated sequences tether Polycomb Repressive Complex 2, which in ciliates has the unique property of catalyzing both lysine 9 and lysine 27 trimethylation of histone H3. These histone modifications that are crucial for the elimination of transposable elements are thought to guide the endonuclease complex, which triggers double-strand breaks at these specific genomic loci. The comparison between ciliates and other eukaryotes underscores the importance of investigating small-RNAs-directed chromatin silencing in a diverse range of organisms. This article is categorized under: Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > RNAi: Mechanisms of Action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Balan
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Institut Jacques Monod, Paris, France
| | | | - Daniel Holoch
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Institut Jacques Monod, Paris, France
- Institut Curie, INSERM U934/CNRS UMR 3215, Paris Sciences et Lettres Research University, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
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42
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Lee C, Maier W, Jiang YY, Nakano K, Lechtreck KF, Gaertig J. Global and local functions of the Fused kinase ortholog CdaH in intracellular patterning in Tetrahymena. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261256. [PMID: 37667859 PMCID: PMC10565251 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ciliates assemble numerous microtubular structures into complex cortical patterns. During ciliate division, the pattern is duplicated by intracellular segmentation that produces a tandem of daughter cells. In Tetrahymena thermophila, the induction and positioning of the division boundary involves two mutually antagonistic factors: posterior CdaA (cyclin E) and anterior CdaI (Hippo kinase). Here, we characterized the related cdaH-1 allele, which confers a pleiotropic patterning phenotype including an absence of the division boundary and an anterior-posterior mispositioning of the new oral apparatus. CdaH is a Fused or Stk36 kinase ortholog that localizes to multiple sites that correlate with the effects of its loss, including the division boundary and the new oral apparatus. CdaH acts downstream of CdaA to induce the division boundary and drives asymmetric cytokinesis at the tip of the posterior daughter. CdaH both maintains the anterior-posterior position of the new oral apparatus and interacts with CdaI to pattern ciliary rows within the oral apparatus. Thus, CdaH acts at multiple scales, from induction and positioning of structures on the cell-wide polarity axis to local organelle-level patterning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinkyu Lee
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Wolfgang Maier
- Bioinformatics, University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Yu-Yang Jiang
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Kentaro Nakano
- Degree Programs in Biology, Graduate School of Science and Technology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Karl F. Lechtreck
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Jacek Gaertig
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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Rengefors K, Annenkova N, Wallenius J, Svensson M, Kremp A, Ahrén D. Population genomic analyses reveal that salinity and geographic isolation drive diversification in a free-living protist. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4986. [PMID: 38424140 PMCID: PMC10904836 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55362-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Protists make up the vast diversity of eukaryotic life and play a critical role in biogeochemical cycling and in food webs. Because of their small size, cryptic life cycles, and large population sizes, our understanding of speciation in these organisms is very limited. We performed population genomic analyses on 153 strains isolated from eight populations of the recently radiated dinoflagellate genus Apocalathium, to explore the drivers and mechanisms of speciation processes. Species of this genus inhabit both freshwater and saline habitats, lakes and seas, and are found in cold temperate environments across the world. RAD sequencing analyses revealed that the populations were overall highly differentiated, but morphological similarity was not congruent with genetic similarity. While geographic isolation was to some extent coupled to genetic distance, this pattern was not consistent. Instead, we found evidence that the environment, specifically salinity, is a major factor in driving ecological speciation in Apocalathium. While saline populations were unique in loci coupled to genes involved in osmoregulation, freshwater populations appear to lack these. Our study highlights that adaptation to freshwater through loss of osmoregulatory genes may be an important speciation mechanism in free-living aquatic protists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Rengefors
- Department of Biology, Lund University, 223 62, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Nataliia Annenkova
- Department of Biology, Lund University, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Science, Tikhoretsky Avenue 4, St. Petersburg, 194064, Russia
| | - Joel Wallenius
- Department of Biology, Lund University, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
| | - Marie Svensson
- Department of Biology, Lund University, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
| | - Anke Kremp
- Biology Department, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemuende, Seestr. 15, 18119, Rostock, Germany
| | - Dag Ahrén
- Department of Biology, Lund University, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
- National Bioinformatics Infrastructure Sweden (NBIS), SciLifeLab, Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Stijlemans B, De Baetselier P, Van Molle I, Lecordier L, Hendrickx E, Romão E, Vincke C, Baetens W, Schoonooghe S, Hassanzadeh-Ghassabeh G, Korf H, Wallays M, Pinto Torres JE, Perez-Morga D, Brys L, Campetella O, Leguizamón MS, Claes M, Hendrickx S, Mabille D, Caljon G, Remaut H, Roelants K, Magez S, Van Ginderachter JA, De Trez C. Q586B2 is a crucial virulence factor during the early stages of Trypanosoma brucei infection that is conserved amongst trypanosomatids. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1779. [PMID: 38413606 PMCID: PMC10899635 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46067-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Human African trypanosomiasis or sleeping sickness, caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei, is characterized by the manipulation of the host's immune response to ensure parasite invasion and persistence. Uncovering key molecules that support parasite establishment is a prerequisite to interfere with this process. We identified Q586B2 as a T. brucei protein that induces IL-10 in myeloid cells, which promotes parasite infection invasiveness. Q586B2 is expressed during all T. brucei life stages and is conserved in all Trypanosomatidae. Deleting the Q586B2-encoding Tb927.6.4140 gene in T. brucei results in a decreased peak parasitemia and prolonged survival, without affecting parasite fitness in vitro, yet promoting short stumpy differentiation in vivo. Accordingly, neutralization of Q586B2 with newly generated nanobodies could hamper myeloid-derived IL-10 production and reduce parasitemia. In addition, immunization with Q586B2 delays mortality upon a challenge with various trypanosomes, including Trypanosoma cruzi. Collectively, we uncovered a conserved protein playing an important regulatory role in Trypanosomatid infection establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoit Stijlemans
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Patrick De Baetselier
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Inge Van Molle
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Laurence Lecordier
- Biology of Membrane Transport Laboratory, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Erika Hendrickx
- Laboratory of Molecular Parasitology, IBMM, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Ema Romão
- VIB Nanobody Core, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cécile Vincke
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wendy Baetens
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Hannelie Korf
- Laboratory of Hepatology, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marie Wallays
- Laboratory of Hepatology, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joar E Pinto Torres
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - David Perez-Morga
- Laboratory of Molecular Parasitology, IBMM, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Gosselies, Belgium
- Center for Microscopy and Molecular Imaging (CMMI), Université Libre de Bruxelles, Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Lea Brys
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Oscar Campetella
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María S Leguizamón
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mathieu Claes
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology, and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sarah Hendrickx
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology, and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Dorien Mabille
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology, and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Guy Caljon
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology, and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Han Remaut
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kim Roelants
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stefan Magez
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of Biomedical Research, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Jo A Van Ginderachter
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Carl De Trez
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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He Z, Wu M, Tian H, Wang L, Hu Y, Han F, Zhou J, Wang Y, Zhou L. Euglena's atypical respiratory chain adapts to the discoidal cristae and flexible metabolism. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1628. [PMID: 38388527 PMCID: PMC10884005 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46018-z] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Euglena gracilis, a model organism of the eukaryotic supergroup Discoba harbouring also clinically important parasitic species, possesses diverse metabolic strategies and an atypical electron transport chain. While structures of the electron transport chain complexes and supercomplexes of most other eukaryotic clades have been reported, no similar structure is currently available for Discoba, limiting the understandings of its core metabolism and leaving a gap in the evolutionary tree of eukaryotic bioenergetics. Here, we report high-resolution cryo-EM structures of Euglena's respirasome I + III2 + IV and supercomplex III2 + IV2. A previously unreported fatty acid synthesis domain locates on the tip of complex I's peripheral arm, providing a clear picture of its atypical subunit composition identified previously. Individual complexes are re-arranged in the respirasome to adapt to the non-uniform membrane curvature of the discoidal cristae. Furthermore, Euglena's conformationally rigid complex I is deactivated by restricting ubiquinone's access to its substrate tunnel. Our findings provide structural insights for therapeutic developments against euglenozoan parasite infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxiang He
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Critical Care Medicine of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Mengchen Wu
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Critical Care Medicine of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Hongtao Tian
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Critical Care Medicine of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Liangdong Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yiqi Hu
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Critical Care Medicine of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fangzhu Han
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Critical Care Medicine of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jiancang Zhou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
| | - Yong Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- The Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base on Engineering Biology, International Campus of Zhejiang University, Haining, 314400, China.
| | - Long Zhou
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Critical Care Medicine of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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Zhang Y, Li H, Wang Y, Nie M, Zhang K, Pan J, Zhang Y, Ye Z, Zufall RA, Lynch M, Long H. Mitogenomic architecture and evolution of the soil ciliates Colpoda. mSystems 2024; 9:e0116123. [PMID: 38259100 PMCID: PMC10878089 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.01161-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Colpoda are cosmopolitan unicellular eukaryotes primarily inhabiting soil and benefiting plant growth, but they remain one of the least understood taxa in genetics and genomics within the realm of ciliated protozoa. Here, we investigate the architecture of de novo assembled mitogenomes of six Colpoda species, using long-read sequencing and involving 36 newly isolated natural strains in total. The mitogenome sizes span from 43 to 63 kbp and typically contain 28-33 protein-coding genes. They possess a linear structure with variable telomeres and central repeats, with one Colpoda elliotti strain isolated from Tibet harboring the longest telomeres among all studied ciliates. Phylogenomic analyses reveal that Colpoda species started to diverge more than 326 million years ago, eventually evolving into two distinct groups. Collinearity analyses also reveal significant genomic divergences and a lack of long collinear blocks. One of the most notable features is the exceptionally high level of gene rearrangements between mitochondrial genomes of different Colpoda species, dominated by gene loss events. Population-level mitogenomic analysis on natural strains also demonstrates high sequence divergence, regardless of geographic distance, but the gene order remains highly conserved within species, offering a new species identification criterion for Colpoda species. Furthermore, we identified underlying heteroplasmic sites in the majority of strains of three Colpoda species, albeit without a discernible recombination signal to account for this heteroplasmy. This comprehensive study systematically unveils the mitogenomic structure and evolution of these ancient and ecologically significant Colpoda ciliates, thus laying the groundwork for a deeper understanding of the evolution of unicellular eukaryotes.IMPORTANCEColpoda, one of the most widespread ciliated protozoa in soil, are poorly understood in regard to their genetics and evolution. Our research revealed extreme mitochondrial gene rearrangements dominated by gene loss events, potentially leading to the streamlining of Colpoda mitogenomes. Surprisingly, while interspecific rearrangements abound, our population-level mitogenomic study revealed a conserved gene order within species, offering a potential new identification criterion. Phylogenomic analysis traced their lineage over 326 million years, revealing two distinct groups. Substantial genomic divergence might be associated with the lack of extended collinear blocks and relaxed purifying selection. This study systematically reveals Colpoda ciliate mitogenome structures and evolution, providing insights into the survival and evolution of these vital soil microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, KLMME, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Haichao Li
- Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, KLMME, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yaohai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, KLMME, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Mu Nie
- Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, KLMME, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Kexin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, KLMME, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jiao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, KLMME, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, KLMME, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- School of Mathematics Science, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zhiqiang Ye
- School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Rebecca A. Zufall
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Michael Lynch
- Biodesign Center for Mechanisms of Evolution, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Hongan Long
- Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity (Ministry of Education), Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, KLMME, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
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Tushir S, Jhanwar P, Benda M, Horáčková V, Doležal P, Tatu U. In vivo Validation of Hsp90 Trans-splicing in Giardia lamblia: Highlighting the Role of Cis-elements. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168440. [PMID: 38218367 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2024.168440] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Giardia lambliacauses giardiasis, one of the most common human infectious diseases globally. Previous studies from our lab have shown that hsp90 gene ofGiardia is split into two halves, namely hspN and hspC. The independent pre-mRNAs of these split genes join by trans-splicing, producing a full-length Hsp90 (FlHsp90) mRNA. Genetic manipulation of the participating genes is necessary to understand the mechanism and significance of such trans-splicing based expression of Hsp90. In this study, we have performed transfection based exogenous expression of hspN and/or hspC in G. lamblia. We electroporated a plasmid containing the Avi-tagged hspN component of Hsp90 and examined its fate in G. lamblia. We show that the exogenously expressed hspN RNA gets trans-spliced to endogenously expressed hspC RNA, giving rise to a hybrid-FlHsp90. We highlight the importance of cis-elements in this trans-splicing reaction through mutational analysis. The episomal plasmid carrying deletions in the intronic region of hspN, showed inhibition of the trans-splicing reaction.Additionally, exogenous hspC RNA also followed the same fate as of exogenous hspN, while upon co-transfection with episomal hspN, they underwent trans-splicing with each other. Using eGFP as a test protein, we have shown that intronic sequences of hsp90 gene can guide trans-splicing mediated repair of any associated exonic sequences. Our study provides in vivo validation of Hsp90 trans-splicing, showing crucial role of cis-elements and importantly highlights the potential of hsp90 intronic sequences to function as a minimal splicing tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheetal Tushir
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Pratima Jhanwar
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Martin Benda
- Dept. of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, BIOCEV, Charles University, Czech Republic
| | - Vendula Horáčková
- Dept. of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, BIOCEV, Charles University, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Doležal
- Dept. of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, BIOCEV, Charles University, Czech Republic
| | - Utpal Tatu
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India.
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Jinkerson RE, Poveda-Huertes D, Cooney EC, Cho A, Ochoa-Fernandez R, Keeling PJ, Xiang T, Andersen-Ranberg J. Biosynthesis of chlorophyll c in a dinoflagellate and heterologous production in planta. Curr Biol 2024; 34:594-605.e4. [PMID: 38157859 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.12.068] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Chlorophyll c is a key photosynthetic pigment that has been used historically to classify eukaryotic algae. Despite its importance in global photosynthetic productivity, the pathway for its biosynthesis has remained elusive. Here we define the CHLOROPHYLL C SYNTHASE (CHLCS) discovered through investigation of a dinoflagellate mutant deficient in chlorophyll c. CHLCSs are proteins with chlorophyll a/b binding and 2-oxoglutarate-Fe(II) dioxygenase (2OGD) domains found in peridinin-containing dinoflagellates; other chlorophyll c-containing algae utilize enzymes with only the 2OGD domain or an unknown synthase to produce chlorophyll c. 2OGD-containing synthases across dinoflagellate, diatom, cryptophyte, and haptophyte lineages form a monophyletic group, 8 members of which were also shown to produce chlorophyll c. Chlorophyll c1 to c2 ratios in marine algae are dictated in part by chlorophyll c synthases. CHLCS heterologously expressed in planta results in the accumulation of chlorophyll c1 and c2, demonstrating a path to augment plant pigment composition with algal counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert E Jinkerson
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Center for Plant Cell Biology, Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| | - Daniel Poveda-Huertes
- Department of Plant and Environmental Science, University of Copenhagen, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth C Cooney
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Anna Cho
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Rocio Ochoa-Fernandez
- Department of Plant and Environmental Science, University of Copenhagen, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Patrick J Keeling
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Tingting Xiang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| | - Johan Andersen-Ranberg
- Department of Plant and Environmental Science, University of Copenhagen, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
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Del Campo J, Carlos-Oliveira M, Čepička I, Hehenberger E, Horák A, Karnkowska A, Kolisko M, Lara E, Lukeš J, Pánek T, Piwosz K, Richter DJ, Škaloud P, Sutak R, Tachezy J, Hampl V. The protist cultural renaissance. Trends Microbiol 2024; 32:128-131. [PMID: 38102035 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2023.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Protists are key players in the biosphere. Here, we provide a perspective on integrating protist culturing with omics approaches, imaging, and high-throughput single-cell manipulation strategies, concluding with actions required for a successful return of the golden age of protist culturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Del Campo
- Biodiversity Program, Institut de Biologia Evolutiva (CSIC - Universitat Pompeu Fabra), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Maria Carlos-Oliveira
- Functional Genomics and Evolution Program, Institut de Biologia Evolutiva (CSIC - Universitat Pompeu Fabra), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Ivan Čepička
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Elisabeth Hehenberger
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Aleš Horák
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Department of Molecular Biology, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Anna Karnkowska
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Martin Kolisko
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Department of Molecular Biology, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Enrique Lara
- Department of Mycology, Real Jardín Botánico-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Department of Molecular Biology, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Pánek
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Kasia Piwosz
- Department of Fisheries Oceanography and Marine Ecology, National Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Daniel J Richter
- Functional Genomics and Evolution Program, Institut de Biologia Evolutiva (CSIC - Universitat Pompeu Fabra), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Pavel Škaloud
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Robert Sutak
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, BIOCEV, Charles University, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Tachezy
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, BIOCEV, Charles University, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimír Hampl
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, BIOCEV, Charles University, Vestec, Czech Republic
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50
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Bowles AMC, Williamson CJ, Williams TA, Donoghue PCJ. Cryogenian Origins of Multicellularity in Archaeplastida. Genome Biol Evol 2024; 16:evae026. [PMID: 38333966 PMCID: PMC10883732 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evae026] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Earth was impacted by global glaciations during the Cryogenian (720 to 635 million years ago; Ma), events invoked to explain both the origins of multicellularity in Archaeplastida and radiation of the first land plants. However, the temporal relationship between these environmental and biological events is poorly established, due to a paucity of molecular and fossil data, precluding resolution of the phylogeny and timescale of archaeplastid evolution. We infer a time-calibrated phylogeny of early archaeplastid evolution based on a revised molecular dataset and reappraisal of the fossil record. Phylogenetic topology testing resolves deep archaeplastid relationships, identifying two clades of Viridiplantae and placing Bryopsidales as sister to the Chlorophyceae. Our molecular clock analysis infers an origin of Archaeplastida in the late-Paleoproterozoic to early-Mesoproterozoic (1712 to 1387 Ma). Ancestral state reconstruction of cytomorphological traits on this time-calibrated tree reveals many of the independent origins of multicellularity span the Cryogenian, consistent with the Cryogenian multicellularity hypothesis. Multicellular rhodophytes emerged 902 to 655 Ma while crown-Anydrophyta (Zygnematophyceae and Embryophyta) originated 796 to 671 Ma, broadly compatible with the Cryogenian plant terrestrialization hypothesis. Our analyses resolve the timetree of Archaeplastida with age estimates for ancestral multicellular archaeplastids coinciding with the Cryogenian, compatible with hypotheses that propose a role of Snowball Earth in plant evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M C Bowles
- School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1SS, UK
- Bristol Palaeobiology Group, School of Biological Sciences and School of Earth Sciences, Life Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK
| | | | - Tom A Williams
- Bristol Palaeobiology Group, School of Biological Sciences and School of Earth Sciences, Life Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK
| | - Philip C J Donoghue
- Bristol Palaeobiology Group, School of Biological Sciences and School of Earth Sciences, Life Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK
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