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Székely E, Molnár M, Lihi N, Várnagy K. Characterization of Copper(II) and Zinc(II) Complexes of Peptides Mimicking the CuZnSOD Enzyme. Molecules 2024; 29:795. [PMID: 38398547 PMCID: PMC10892282 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29040795] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides are short cationic peptides that are present on biological surfaces susceptible to infection, and they play an important role in innate immunity. These peptides, like other compounds with antimicrobial activity, often have significant superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. One direction of our research is the characterization of peptides modeling the CuZnSOD enzyme and the determination of their biological activity, and these results may contribute to the development of novel antimicrobial peptides. In the framework of this research, we have synthesized 10, 15, and 16-membered model peptides containing the amino acid sequence corresponding to the Cu(II) and Zn(II) binding sites of the CuZnSOD enzyme, namely the Zn(II)-binding HVGD sequence (80-83. fragments), the Cu(II)-binding sequence HVH (fragments 46-48), and the histidine (His63), which links the two metal ions as an imidazolate bridge: Ac-FHVHEGPHFN-NH2 (L1(10)), Ac-FHVHAGPHFNGGHVG-NH2 (L2(15)), and Ac-FHVHEGPHFNGGHVGD-NH2 (L3(16)). pH-potentiometric, UV-Vis-, and CD-spectroscopy studies of the Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cu(II)-Zn(II) mixed complexes of these peptides were performed, and the SOD activity of the complexes was determined. The binding sites preferred by Cu(II) and Zn(II) were identified by means of CD-spectroscopy. From the results obtained for these systems, it can be concluded that in equimolar solution, the -(NGG)HVGD- sequence of the peptides is the preferred binding site for copper(II) ion. However, in the presence of both metal ions, according to the native enzyme, the -HVGD- sequence offers the main binding site for Zn(II), while the majority of Cu(II) binds to the -FHVH- sequence. Based on the SOD activity assays, complexes of the 15- and 16-membered peptide have a significant SOD activity. Although this activity is smaller than that of the native CuZnSOD enzyme, the complexes showed better performance in the degradation of superoxide anion than other SOD mimics. Thus, the incorporation of specific amino acid sequences mimicking the CuZnSOD enzyme increases the efficiency of model systems in the catalytic decomposition of superoxide anion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Katalin Várnagy
- Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, University of Debrecen, Egyetem Square 1, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
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Dong Z, Zhang X, Zhang Q, Tangthianchaichana J, Guo M, Du S, Lu Y. Anticancer Mechanisms and Potential Anticancer Applications of Antimicrobial Peptides and Their Nano Agents. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:1017-1039. [PMID: 38317847 PMCID: PMC10840538 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s445333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Traditional chemotherapy is one of the main methods of cancer treatment, which is largely limited by severe side effects and frequent development of multi-drug resistance by cancer cells. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with high efficiency and low toxicity, as one of the most promising new drugs to replace chemoradiotherapy, have become a current research hotspot, attracting the attention of worldwide researchers. AMPs are natural-source small peptides from the innate immune system, and certain AMPs can selectively kill a broad spectrum of cancer cells while exhibiting less damage to normal cells. Although it involves intracellular mechanisms, AMPs exert their anti-cancer effects mainly through membrane destruction effect; thus, AMPs also hold unique advantages in fighting drug-resistant cancer cells. However, the poor stability and hemolytic toxicity of peptides limit their clinical application. Fortunately, functionalized nanoparticles have many possibilities in overcoming the shortcomings of AMPs, which provides a huge prospect for better application of AMPs. In this paper, we briefly introduce the characteristics and different sources of AMPs, review and summarize the mechanisms of action and the research status of AMPs used as an anticancer therapy, and finally focus on the further use of AMPs nano agents in the anti-cancer direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Dong
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Research and Development Centre in Beijing, CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Limited, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinyu Zhang
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jakkree Tangthianchaichana
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Mingxue Guo
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shouying Du
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yang Lu
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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In silico design of antimicrobial oligopeptides based on 3D-QSAR modeling and bioassay evaluation. Med Chem Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00044-021-02789-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Brady D, Grapputo A, Romoli O, Sandrelli F. Insect Cecropins, Antimicrobial Peptides with Potential Therapeutic Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E5862. [PMID: 31766730 PMCID: PMC6929098 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20235862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The alarming escalation of infectious diseases resistant to conventional antibiotics requires urgent global actions, including the development of new therapeutics. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent potential alternatives in the treatment of multi-drug resistant (MDR) infections. Here, we focus on Cecropins (Cecs), a group of naturally occurring AMPs in insects, and on synthetic Cec-analogs. We describe their action mechanisms and antimicrobial activity against MDR bacteria and other pathogens. We report several data suggesting that Cec and Cec-analog peptides are promising antibacterial therapeutic candidates, including their low toxicity against mammalian cells, and anti-inflammatory activity. We highlight limitations linked to the use of peptides as therapeutics and discuss methods overcoming these constraints, particularly regarding the introduction of nanotechnologies. New formulations based on natural Cecs would allow the development of drugs active against Gram-negative bacteria, and those based on Cec-analogs would give rise to therapeutics effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. Cecs and Cec-analogs might be also employed to coat biomaterials for medical devices as an approach to prevent biomaterial-associated infections. The cost of large-scale production is discussed in comparison with the economic and social burden resulting from the progressive diffusion of MDR infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Brady
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (D.B.); (A.G.); (O.R.)
| | - Alessandro Grapputo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (D.B.); (A.G.); (O.R.)
| | - Ottavia Romoli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (D.B.); (A.G.); (O.R.)
- Institut Pasteur de la Guyane, 23 Avenue Pasteur, 97306 Cayenne, French Guiana, France
| | - Federica Sandrelli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (D.B.); (A.G.); (O.R.)
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Wu Q, Patočka J, Kuča K. Insect Antimicrobial Peptides, a Mini Review. Toxins (Basel) 2018; 10:toxins10110461. [PMID: 30413046 PMCID: PMC6267271 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10110461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 247] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are crucial effectors of the innate immune system. They provide the first line of defense against a variety of pathogens. AMPs display synergistic effects with conventional antibiotics, and thus present the potential for combined therapies. Insects are extremely resistant to bacterial infections. Insect AMPs are cationic and comprise less than 100 amino acids. These insect peptides exhibit an antimicrobial effect by disrupting the microbial membrane and do not easily allow microbes to develop drug resistance. Currently, membrane mechanisms underlying the antimicrobial effects of AMPs are proposed by different modes: the barrel-stave mode, toroidal-pore, carpet, and disordered toroidal-pore are the typical modes. Positive charge quantity, hydrophobic property and the secondary structure of the peptide are important for the antibacterial activity of AMPs. At present, several structural families of AMPs from insects are known (defensins, cecropins, drosocins, attacins, diptericins, ponericins, metchnikowins, and melittin), but new AMPs are frequently discovered. We reviewed the biological effects of the major insect AMPs. This review will provide further information that facilitates the study of insect AMPs and shed some light on novel microbicides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghua Wu
- College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434025, China.
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
| | - Jiří Patočka
- Department of Radiology and Toxicology, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, University of South Bohemia, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
- Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
| | - Kamil Kuča
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
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Studies on the interactions of neutral Galleria mellonella cecropin D with living bacterial cells. Amino Acids 2018; 51:175-191. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-018-2641-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Venom of Parasitoid Pteromalus puparum Impairs Host Humoral Antimicrobial Activity by Decreasing Host Cecropin and Lysozyme Gene Expression. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:52. [PMID: 26907346 PMCID: PMC4773805 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8020052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Revised: 01/30/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Insect host/parasitoid interactions are co-evolved systems in which host defenses are balanced by parasitoid mechanisms to disable or hide from host immune effectors. Here, we report that Pteromalus puparum venom impairs the antimicrobial activity of its host Pieris rapae. Inhibition zone results showed that bead injection induced the antimicrobial activity of the host hemolymph but that venom inhibited it. The cDNAs encoding cecropin and lysozyme were screened. Relative quantitative PCR results indicated that all of the microorganisms and bead injections up-regulated the transcript levels of the two genes but that venom down-regulated them. At 8 h post bead challenge, there was a peak in the transcript level of the cecropin gene, whereas the peak of lysozyme gene occurred at 24 h. The transcripts levels of the two genes were higher in the granulocytes and fat body than in other tissues. RNA interference decreased the transcript levels of the two genes and the antimicrobial activity of the pupal hemolymph. Venom injections similarly silenced the expression of the two genes during the first 8 h post-treatment in time- and dose-dependent manners, after which the silence effects abated. Additionally, recombinant cecropin and lysozyme had no significant effect on the emergence rate of pupae that were parasitized by P. puparum females. These findings suggest one mechanism of impairing host antimicrobial activity by parasitoid venom.
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Tassanakajon A, Somboonwiwat K, Amparyup P. Sequence diversity and evolution of antimicrobial peptides in invertebrates. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2015; 48:324-341. [PMID: 24950415 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2014.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Revised: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 05/31/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are evolutionarily ancient molecules that act as the key components in the invertebrate innate immunity against invading pathogens. Several AMPs have been identified and characterized in invertebrates, and found to display considerable diversity in their amino acid sequence, structure and biological activity. AMP genes appear to have rapidly evolved, which might have arisen from the co-evolutionary arms race between host and pathogens, and enabled organisms to survive in different microbial environments. Here, the sequence diversity of invertebrate AMPs (defensins, cecropins, crustins and anti-lipopolysaccharide factors) are presented to provide a better understanding of the evolution pattern of these peptides that play a major role in host defense mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anchalee Tassanakajon
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Biology and Genomics of Shrimp, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
| | - Kunlaya Somboonwiwat
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Biology and Genomics of Shrimp, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Piti Amparyup
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Biology and Genomics of Shrimp, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), 113 Paholyothin Road, Klong 1, Klong Luang, Pathumthani 12120, Thailand
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10
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Kim SR, Hong MY, Park SW, Choi KH, Yun EY, Goo TW, Kang SW, Suh HJ, Kim I, Hwang JS. Characterization and cDNA cloning of a cecropin-like antimicrobial peptide, papiliocin, from the swallowtail butterfly, Papilio xuthus. Mol Cells 2010; 29:419-23. [PMID: 20213310 DOI: 10.1007/s10059-010-0050-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2009] [Revised: 12/29/2009] [Accepted: 12/31/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cecropin is a well-studied antimicrobial peptide that is synthesized in fat body cells and hemocytes of insects in response to hypodermic injury or bacterial infection. A 503 bp cDNA encoding for a cecropin-like peptide was isolated by employing annealing control primer (ACP)-based differential display PCR and 5'-RACE with immunized Papilio xuthus larvae. The open reading frame of the isolated cDNA encoded for a 62-amino acid prepropeptide with a putative 22-residue signal peptide, a 2-residue propeptide, and a 38-residue mature peptide with a theoretical mass of 4060.89 Da. The deduced amino acid sequence of the peptide evidenced a significant degree of identity with other lepidopteran cecropins. This peptide was named papiliocin. RTPCR results revealed that the papiliocin transcript was detected at significant levels after injection with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). On the basis of the deduced amino acid sequence of papiliocin, a 38-mer mature peptide was chemically synthesized via the Fmoc method, and its antimicrobial activity was analyzed. The synthetic papiliocin peptide evidenced a broad spectrum of activity against fungi, Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and also evidenced no hemolytic activity against human red blood cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Ryul Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Rural Development Administration, Suwon, 441-100, Korea
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11
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Barandoc KP, Kim J, Kim Y. Cotesia plutellae bracovirus suppresses expression of an antimicrobial peptide, cecropin, in the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, challenged by bacteria. J Microbiol 2010; 48:117-23. [PMID: 20221739 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-009-9261-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2008] [Accepted: 09/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
An endoparasitoid wasp, Cotesia plutellae, induces significant immunosuppression of host insect, Plutella xylostella. This study was focused on suppression in humoral immune response of P. xylostella parasitized by C. plutellae. An EST database of P. xylostella provided a putative cecropin gene (PxCec) which is 627 bp long and encodes 66 amino acids. A signal peptide (22 amino acids) is predicted and two putative O-glycosylation sites in threonine are located at positions 58 and 64. Without bacterial infection, PxCec was expressed in pupa and adult stages but not in the egg and larval stages. Upon bacterial challenge, however, the larvae expressed PxCec as early as 3 h post infection (PI) and maintained high expression levels at 12-24 h PI. By 48 h PI, its expression noticeably diminished. All tested tissues of bacteria-infected P. xylostella showed PxCec expression. However, other microbes, such as virus and fungus, did not induce the PxCec expression. Parasitization by C. plutellae suppressed the expression of PxCec in response to bacterial challenge. Among the parasitic factors of C. plutellae, its symbiotic virus (C. plutellae bracovirus: CpBV) alone was able to inhibit the expression of PxCec of P. xylostella challenged by bacteria. These results indicate that PxCec expression is regulated by both immune and developmental processes in P. xylostella. The parasitization by C. plutellae inhibited the expression of PxCec by the wasp's symbiotic virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen P Barandoc
- Department of Bioresource Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, Republic of Korea
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Brown SE, Howard A, Kasprzak AB, Gordon KH, East PD. The discovery and analysis of a diverged family of novel antifungal moricin-like peptides in the wax moth Galleria mellonella. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2008; 38:201-212. [PMID: 18207081 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2007.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2007] [Revised: 10/18/2007] [Accepted: 10/30/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Screening for components with antifungal activity in the hemolymph of immune-stimulated Galleria mellonella larvae led to the identification of four novel moricin-like peptides (A, B, C3 and D). Subsequently, eight moricin-like peptide genes (A, B, C1-5 and D) were isolated and shown to code for seven unique peptides (mature C4 and C5 are identical). These genes contained single introns which varied from 180 to 1090bp. The moricin-like peptides were particularly active against filamentous fungi, preventing the growth of Fusarium graminearum at 3 microg/ml, and were also active against yeasts, gram positive bacteria and gram negative bacteria. Searches of the databases identified 30 moricin-like peptide genes which code for 23 unique mature peptides, all belonging to the Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies). The first comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of the moricin-like peptides suggested that they fall into two basic classes which diverged a long time ago. The peptides have since diversified extensively through a high level of gene duplication within species, as seen in G. mellonella and Bombyx mori. The restriction of moricin-like peptides to the Lepidoptera combined with their potent antifungal activity suggests that this diverse peptide family may play a role in the defence response of moths and butterflies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan E Brown
- CSIRO Entomology, GPO Box 1700, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia.
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13
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. AV, . SR, . GRK. Antibacterial Activity of Crab Haemolymph on Clinical Pathogens. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.3923/tasr.2008.174.181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Hilpert K, Fjell CD, Cherkasov A. Short linear cationic antimicrobial peptides: screening, optimizing, and prediction. Methods Mol Biol 2008; 494:127-159. [PMID: 18726572 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-59745-419-3_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The problem of pathogenic antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa is worsening, demonstrating the urgent need for new therapeutics that are effective against multidrug-resistant bacteria. One potential class of substances is cationic antimicrobial peptides. More than 1000 natural occurring peptides have been described so far. These peptides are short (less than 50 amino acids long), cationic, amphiphilic, demonstrate different three-dimensional structures, and appear to have different modes of action. A new screening assay was developed to characterize and optimize short antimicrobial peptides. This assay is based on peptides synthesized on cellulose, combined with a bacterium, where a luminescence gene cassette was introduced. With help of this method tens of thousands of peptides can be screened per year. Information gained by this high-throughput screening can be used in quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSAR) analysis. QSAR analysis attempts to correlate chemical structure to measurement of biological activity using statistical methods. QSAR modeling of antimicrobial peptides to date has been based on predicting differences between peptides that are highly similar. The studies have largely addressed differences in lactoferricin and protegrin derivatives or similar de novo peptides. The mathematical models used to relate the QSAR descriptors to biological activity have been linear models such as principle component analysis or multivariate linear regression. However, with the development of high-throughput peptide synthesis and an antibacterial activity assay, the numbers of peptides and sequence diversity able to be studied have increased dramatically. Also, "inductive" QSAR descriptors have been recently developed to accurately distinguish active from inactive drug-like activity in small compounds. "Inductive" QSAR in combination with more complex mathematical modeling algorithms such as artificial neural networks (ANNs) may yield powerful new methods for in silico identification of novel antimicrobial peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Hilpert
- Centre for Microbial Diseases and Immunity Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Hultmark D. Drosophila as a model system for antibacterial peptides. CIBA FOUNDATION SYMPOSIUM 2007; 186:107-19; discussion 120-2. [PMID: 7768147 DOI: 10.1002/9780470514658.ch7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
As a defence against bacteria, infected insects synthesize cecropins and a large number of other bactericidal proteins and peptides. To understand this response and its possible relationship with similar systems in mammals, we need to characterize the induced components and how they act, as well as how this antibacterial response is initiated. To study the molecular basis for this response we cloned the genes for cecropins and other bactericidal peptides from Drosophila, 14 genes in total. The cecropin genes were selected as convenient markers for the immune response because they are strongly induced by different microbial substances. In contrast the lysozyme gene family is constitutively expressed in the digestive tract. We have developed an inducible blood cell line from Drosophila for studying the immune response in vitro. Using this system we are now investigating the function of membrane proteins and signal pathways in the transcriptional activation of immune genes in Drosophila.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Hultmark
- Department of Molecular Biology, Stockholm University, Sweden
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16
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Wang L, Li Z, Du C, Chen W, Pang Y. Characterization and expression of a cecropin-like gene from Helicoverpa armigera. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2007; 148:417-25. [PMID: 17900955 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2007.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2007] [Revised: 07/23/2007] [Accepted: 07/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A cDNA encoding a cecropin-like antibacterial peptide was obtained by RT-PCR from cotton budworm (Helicoverpa armigera). The cloned cDNA consists of 773 nucleotides with a 192 bp open reading frame encoding a peptide of 63 aa, which is comprised of a 21 aa signal peptide and a 42 amino acids mature peptide. The amino acid sequence of the mature peptide is highly similar to those D-type cecropins. The peptide was named as HacD. RT-PCR revealed that the transcript of HacD gene was inducible and could be detected in fatbodies, midguts, hemocytes and Malpighian tubules. HacD was highly expressed in E. coli M15 by fusing with green fluorescent protein (GFP). After purification, desalting and cleavage with factor Xa, HacD was released and showed antibacterial activity to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The genomic DNA of HacD was amplified by TAIL-PCR. NF-kappaB and NF-IL6 binding sites were found in the 5'-upstream regulatory region of HacD gene. EMSA (electrophoretic mobility shift assay) revealed that nuclear proteins from the immunized larvae could bind to the NF-kappaB site, but no nuclear proteins were found to bind to the NF-IL6 site. It was proposed that the NF-kappaB site might contribute to the expression of HacD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
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Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides are ancient components of the innate immune system and have been isolated from organisms spanning the phylogenetic spectrum. Over an evolutionary time span, these peptides have retained potency, in the face of highly mutable target microorganisms. This fact suggests important coevolutionary influences in the host-pathogen relationship. Despite their diverse origins, the majority of antimicrobial peptides have common biophysical parameters that are likely essential for activity, including small size, cationicity, and amphipathicity. Although more than 900 different antimicrobial peptides have been characterized, most can be grouped as belonging to one of three structural classes: (1) linear, often of alpha-helical propensity; (2) cysteine stabilized, most commonly conforming to beta-sheet structure; and (3) those with one or more predominant amino acid residues, but variable in structure. Interestingly, these biophysical and structural features are retained in ribosomally as well as nonribosomally synthesized peptides. Therefore, it appears that a relatively limited set of physicochemical features is required for antimicrobial peptide efficacy against a broad spectrum of microbial pathogens. During the past several years, a number of themes have emerged within the field of antimicrobial peptide immunobiology. One developing area expands upon known microbicidal mechanisms of antimicrobial peptides to include targets beyond the plasma membrane. Examples include antimicrobial peptide activity involving structures such as extracellular polysaccharide and cell wall components, as well as the identification of an increasing number of intracellular targets. Additional areas of interest include an expanding recognition of antimicrobial peptide multifunctionality, and the identification of large antimicrobial proteins, and antimicrobial peptide or protein fragments derived thereof. The following discussion highlights such recent developments in antimicrobial peptide immunobiology, with an emphasis on the biophysical aspects of host-defense polypeptide action and mechanisms of microbial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nannette Y Yount
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90509, USA
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Rosenfeld Y, Barra D, Simmaco M, Shai Y, Mangoni ML. A synergism between temporins toward Gram-negative bacteria overcomes resistance imposed by the lipopolysaccharide protective layer. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:28565-74. [PMID: 16867990 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m606031200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Temporins are short and homologous antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) isolated from the frog skin of Rana genus. To date, very little is known about the biological significance of the presence of closely related AMPs in single living organisms. Here we addressed this question using temporins A, B, and L isolated from Rana temporaria. We found that temporins A and B are only weakly active toward Gram-negative bacteria. However, a marked synergism occurs when each is mixed with temporin L. To shed light on the underlying mechanisms involved in these activities, we used various experimental strategies to investigate: (i) the effect of the peptides' interaction on both the viability and membrane permeability of intact bacteria and spheroplasts; (ii) their interaction with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and the effect of LPS on the oligomeric state of temporins, alone or combining one with another; (iii) their structure in solution and when bound to LPS, by using circular dichroism and ATR-FTIR spectroscopies. Our data reveal that temporin L synergizes with A and B by preventing their oligomerization in LPS. This should promote their translocation across the outer membrane into the cytoplasmic membrane. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that explains how a combination of native AMPs from the same species can overcome bacterial resistance imposed by the LPS leaflet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosef Rosenfeld
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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Gandhe AS, Arunkumar KP, John SH, Nagaraju J. Analysis of bacteria-challenged wild silkmoth, Antheraea mylitta (lepidoptera) transcriptome reveals potential immune genes. BMC Genomics 2006; 7:184. [PMID: 16857061 PMCID: PMC1559613 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-7-184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2006] [Accepted: 07/21/2006] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the recent years a strong resemblance has been observed between the insect immune system and the mammalian innate immune mechanisms suggesting their common origin. Among the insects, only the dipterans (Drosophila and various mosquito species) have been widely investigated for their immune responses towards diverse pathogens. In the present study we constructed and analysed the immune transcriptome of the lepidopteran Antheraea mylitta, an economically important Indian tasar silkmoth with a view to unravel the potential immune-related genes and pathways. Results An expressed sequence tag (EST) library was constructed from mRNA obtained from fat bodies of A. mylitta larvae that had been challenged by infection with Escherichia coli cells. We identified 719 unique ESTs from a total of 1412 sequences so generated. A third of the transcriptome showed similarity with previously characterized immune-related genes that included both the known and putative immune genes. Of the four putative novel defence proteins (DFPs) annotated by PSI-BLAST three showed similarity to extracellular matrix proteins from vertebrates implicated in innate immunity, while the fourth was similar to, yet distinct from, the anti-microbial protein cecropin. Finally, we analysed the expression profiles of 15 potential immune-related genes, and the majority of them were induced more prominently with E. coli compared to Micrococcus luteus. We also identified several unknown proteins, some of which could have probable immune-related functions based on the results of the ProDom analysis. Conclusion The present study has identified many potential immune-related genes in A. mylitta some of which are vertebrate homologues and others are hitherto unreported putative defence proteins. Several genes were present as members of gene families, as has also been observed in other insect species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana S Gandhe
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, ECIL Road, Nacharam, Hyderabad 500076, India
| | - KP Arunkumar
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, ECIL Road, Nacharam, Hyderabad 500076, India
| | - Serene H John
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, ECIL Road, Nacharam, Hyderabad 500076, India
| | - J Nagaraju
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, ECIL Road, Nacharam, Hyderabad 500076, India
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Yoe SM, Kang CS, Han SS, Bang IS. Characterization and cDNA cloning of hinnavin II, a cecropin family antibacterial peptide from the cabbage butterfly, Artogeia rapae. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2006; 144:199-205. [PMID: 16616565 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2006.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2005] [Revised: 01/08/2006] [Accepted: 02/16/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Hinnavins, together with lysozymes, are the main types of antibacterial peptides/proteins previously isolated from the larval haemolymph of the cabbage butterfly, Artogeia rapae as part of the humoral immune response to a bacterial invasion. One of these antibacterial peptides, named hinnavin II, was purified and characterized after cDNA cloning. The purified hinnavin II was more active against Gram negative than against Gram positive bacteria. Hinnavin II also showed a powerful synergistic effect on the inhibition of bacterial growth with purified lysozyme. The cDNA has a total length of 186 bp with a 114 coding region. The deduced protein sequence contains 38 amino acids with a coding capacity of 4142.8 Da. The result of a multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis with Clustal W indicated that mature hinnavin II showed an approximately 78.9% amino acid sequence identity with cecropin A and originated from a group containing mostly lepidopteran cecropins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Moon Yoe
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, South Korea
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21
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Saito A, Ueda K, Imamura M, Atsumi S, Tabunoki H, Miura N, Watanabe A, Kitami M, Sato R. Purification and cDNA cloning of a cecropin from the longicorn beetle, Acalolepta luxuriosa. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2005; 142:317-23. [PMID: 16165382 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2005.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2005] [Revised: 08/04/2005] [Accepted: 08/08/2005] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We have cloned and characterized a novel antibacterial peptide from the hemolymph of the coleopteran insect Acalolepta luxuriosa, of the superfamily Cerambyocidea. This peptide is active against Micrococcus luteus and Escherichia coli, and the amino acid sequence deduced by cloning of the cDNA identifies it as a coleopteran cecropin. Sequence comparisons and phylogenetic analyses performed using Clustal X suggest that this cecropin is evolutionarily intermediate between dipteran and lepidopteran cecropins. The results of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry indicate that the mature form of this antibacterial peptide is 35 amino acid residues in length and has an amidated C-terminal isoleucine. This report is the first description of a cecropin from a coleopteran insect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayaka Saito
- Graduate School of Bio-Applications and Systems Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Naka-cho 2-24-16, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
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22
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Baldridge GD, Kurtti TJ, Munderloh UG. Susceptibility of Rickettsia monacensis and Rickettsia peacockii to Cecropin A, Ceratotoxin A, and Lysozyme. Curr Microbiol 2005; 51:233-8. [PMID: 16132458 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-005-4532-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2004] [Accepted: 12/11/2004] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Ticks host obligate intracellular bacteria that range from benign symbiotes to virulent human pathogens. The effects on those bacteria of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) involved in arthropod innate immunity to microbial infections are largely unknown. We evaluated effects of AMPs and a c-type lysozyme on host cell-free suspensions of the tick symbiotes Rickettsia monacensis and Rickettsia peacockii with stain-based infectivity and viability assays. Cecropin A at a concentration of 8 muM: had a lethal effect on both rickettsiae while ceratotoxin A was approximately 20-fold less effective. Toxicity of both AMPs was synergized by lysozyme, an enzyme expressed by ticks. Lactoferrin, a transferrin, had no effect on R. monacensis at up to 110 microM. The rickettsiae were less sensitive to the AMPs than is typical of bacteria that grow extracellularly. Our assays may be useful in the study of AMP activity against other obligate intracellular bacteria.
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Quesada H, Ramos-Onsins SE, Aguadé M. Birth-and-death evolution of the Cecropin multigene family in Drosophila. J Mol Evol 2005; 60:1-11. [PMID: 15696364 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-004-0053-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2004] [Accepted: 07/21/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Cecropins are insect antibacterial peptides that are part of the insect humoral immune response and could, therefore, be potential targets of natural selection. In Drosophila, the Cec genes constitute a multigene family whose members are arranged in tandem. The complete Cec family was isolated in two obscura group species: D. subobscura and D. pseudoobscura. The chromosomal regions encompassing the Cec genes were subsequently sequenced and mapped by in situ hybridization. In D. pseudoobscura, as in species of the D. melanogaster complex and in D. virilis, the Cec genes constitute a single cluster with five genes. In D. subobscura, unlike in the rest of the species, the eight members of the family are split into two clusters located in different parts of the same chromosome. Remarkable differences in levels of divergence were observed between copies in both species. The genomic organization and the phylogenetic relationships among members of this family in the genus Drosophila indicate (i) that the presence of two clusters is the derived state of the family, (ii) repeated gene duplication within species, (iii) nonfunctionalization and loss of some Cec copies, and (iv) the presence of both highly divergent and highly similar copies within species. These features are better explained by the birth-and-death model of molecular evolution, which posits that the high instability of the Cec multigene family in Drosophila is simply determined by the duplication rate and the subsequent loss of duplicated loci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humberto Quesada
- Departament de Genètica, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Diagonal 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
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24
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Bradleigh Vinson S, Coates CJ. Differential gene expression between alate and dealate queens in the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2004; 34:937-949. [PMID: 15350613 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2004.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2004] [Accepted: 06/17/2004] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The transition of fire ant queens from alates to dealates, following a mating flight, is associated with numerous important physiological changes. A molecular analysis of gene expression differences that occur between alates and dealates was performed using the suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) method. 983 SSH clones were arrayed and screened by dot blot hybridization, followed by Northern blot analysis for selected clones. Gene expression profiles throughout fire ant development were determined using semi-quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reactions (RT-PCR). The cytochrome c oxidase subunit II and STARS (striated muscle activator of Rho signaling) transcripts were expressed at higher levels in dealates compared to alates and may be involved in the programmed cell death of the flight muscles. Three different vitellogenin genes and two unique yellow g-like genes were identified that may be closely associated with the reproductive system and/or nutrient transport. Two putative antibacterial peptides, abaecin and hymenoptaecin precursors, were highly expressed in dealate queens, suggesting that they are present as an immune system component during this important stage of fire ant development. The genes identified in this study may be utilized as novel targets for fire ant control and will also provide molecular markers for studies of other social insects.
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Gincel D, Haspel G, Libersat F. Channel-forming activity in the venom of the cockroach-hunting wasp, Ampulex compressa. Toxicon 2004; 43:721-7. [PMID: 15109893 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2004.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The parasitoid solitary wasp Ampulex compressa uses the cockroach Periplaneta americana as a food supply for its larvae. To subdue its prey, the wasp injects a venom cocktail into the brain of the cockroach. We investigated channel activity of A. compressa venom by collecting venom and incorporating it into a planar lipid bilayer. The venom, reconstituted into the bilayer, showed ion channel activity, forming a fast-fluctuating channel with a small conductance of 20+/-0.1pS, with no voltage sensitivity. These channels were not observed when the venom was digested with proteases before application to the bilayer, but were not affected by exposure to protease after their incorporation into the bilayer, indicating that the active venom component is a peptide. The channels were found to be cation selective with similar selectivity for the monovalent cations K(+), Li(+) and Na(+), but showed high selectivity against anions (Cl(-)) and divalent cations (Ca(2+) and Mg(2+)). This study is the first demonstration and biophysical characterization of channel activity in the venom of A. compressa. The possible functional significance of this channel activity is discussed in light of the unusual nature of the effects of this wasp venom on the behavior of its prey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Gincel
- Department of Life Sciences, Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel.
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26
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Douglas SE, Patrzykat A, Pytyck J, Gallant JW. Identification, structure and differential expression of novel pleurocidins clustered on the genome of the winter flounder, Pseudopleuronectes americanus (Walbaum). EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 2003; 270:3720-30. [PMID: 12950255 DOI: 10.1046/j.1432-1033.2003.03758.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides form one of the first lines of defense against invading pathogens by killing the microorganisms and/or mobilizing the host innate immune system. Although over 800 antimicrobial peptides have been isolated from many different species, especially insects, few have been reported from marine fish. Sequence analysis of two genomic clones (15.6 and 12.5 kb) from the winter flounder, Pseudopleuronectes americanus (Walbaum) resulted in the identification of multiple clustered genes for novel pleurocidin-like antimicrobial peptides. Four genes and three pseudogenes (Psi) are encoded in these clusters, all of which have similar intron/exon boundaries but specify putative antimicrobial peptides differing in sequence. Pseudogenes are easily detectable but have incorrect initiator codons (ACG) and often contain a frameshift(s). Potential promoters and binding sites for transcription factors implicated in regulation of expression of immune-related genes have been identified in upstream regions by comparative genomics. Using reverse transcription-PCR assays, we have shown for the first time that each gene is expressed in a tissue-specific and developmental stage-specific manner. In addition, synthetic peptides based on the sequences of both genes and pseudogenes have been produced and tested for antimicrobial activity. These data can be used as a basis for prediction of antimicrobial peptide candidates for both human and nonhuman therapeutants from genomic sequences and will aid in understanding the evolution and transcriptional regulation of expression of these peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan E Douglas
- Institute for Marine Biosciences, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
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27
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Abstract
Antibacterial peptides are the effector molecules of innate immunity. Generally they contain 15-45 amino acid residues and the net charge is positive. The cecropin type of linear peptides without cysteine were found first in insects, whilst the defensin type with three disulphide bridges were found in rabbit granulocytes. Now a database stores more than 800 sequences of antibacterial peptides and proteins from the animal and plant kingdoms. Generally, each species has 15-40 peptides made from genes, which code for only one precursor. The dominating targets are bacterial membranes and the killing reaction must be faster than the growth rate of the bacteria. Some antibacterial peptides are clearly multifunctional and an attempt to predict this property from the hydrophobicity of all amino acid side chains are given. Gene structures and biosynthesis are known both in the fruit fly Drosophila and several mammals. Humans need two classes of defensins and the cathelicidin-derived linear peptide LL-37. Clinical cases show that deficiencies in these peptides give severe symptoms. Examples given are morbus Kostmann and atopic allergy. Several antibacterial peptides are being developed as drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- H G Boman
- Microbiology and Tumor Biology Center, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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28
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Lopez L, Morales G, Ursic R, Wolff M, Lowenberger C. Isolation and characterization of a novel insect defensin from Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of Chagas disease. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2003; 33:439-47. [PMID: 12650692 DOI: 10.1016/s0965-1748(03)00008-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
An antimicrobial peptide belonging to the defensin family of small cationic peptides associated with innate immunity in insects was isolated from the hemolymph of Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of Chagas disease. This peptide, designated R. prolixus defensin A, was purified and sequenced. The active peptide contains 43 residues and aligns well with other insect defensins. However the pre-pro region of the sequence has little shared identity with other insect defensins. We have identified 3 isoforms of R. prolixus defensin from cDNA clones obtained from RNA isolated from the whole bodies of immune activated insects. Northern analysis and Real-Time Quantitative PCR indicate that there is a very low baseline transcription of this peptide in naïve insects, and that transcription increases significantly in the fat body of immune activated insects. In addition there is a delayed induction of transcription of this peptide in the intestine 24 h post activation suggesting that the midgut/intestine of this species is active in the immune response against pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lopez
- Instituto de Biología, Universidad de Antioquia, Calle 67 No 53-108, Medellín, Colombia
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29
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Sun D, Fallon AM. Characterization of genomic DNA encoding cecropins from an Aedes albopictus mosquito cell line. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2002; 11:21-30. [PMID: 11841499 DOI: 10.1046/j.0962-1075.2001.00305.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
We used cDNA probes from Aedes albopictus mosquito cecropins AalCecA, B, and C to obtain genomic DNA copies and flanking DNA. Two gene copies (AalCecA1 and A2, AalCecB1 and B2, AalCecC1 and C2) encoding each of the three mature cecropin peptides were recovered. All these genes had a similar organization, into two exons interrupted by a single short intron. AalCecA1 and AalCecA2 encode mature protein products that differ by one amino acid residue, while AalCecB1 and AalCecB2, AalCecC1 and AalCecC2 encode identical mature cecropin peptides, respectively. The AalCecB and C gene pairs each share a common intergenic region of approximately 1 kb, with the two coding regions transcribed in opposite directions. With the exception of small insertions/deletions, the intergenic spacer region was highly conserved between the B1/C1 and B2/C2 clones. In transfected cells, 0.8 kb of upstream sequence was sufficient for inducible expression of AalCecA1. Within this region, a 28 bp sequence at positions -192 to -165 upstream of the transcription initiation site was found to contain a potential regulatory element. In electrophoretic mobility shift assays, synthetic double-stranded DNA containing this 28 bp sequence retarded protein in cytoplasmic and nuclear extracts from C7-10 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Sun
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, 1980 Folwell Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
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Beard CB, Cordon-Rosales C, Durvasula RV. Bacterial symbionts of the triatominae and their potential use in control of Chagas disease transmission. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ENTOMOLOGY 2002; 47:123-41. [PMID: 11729071 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.ento.47.091201.145144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Chagas disease is caused by the parasitic protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi and transmitted by insects in the family Reduviidae, subfamily Triatominae, commonly known as kissing bugs. Because these insects feed throughout their entire developmental cycle on vertebrate blood, they harbor populations of symbiotic bacteria in their intestinal track that produce nutrients that are lacking in the insects' limited diet. It is possible to cultivate these bacteria, genetically modify them, and place them back into their insect host, thus generating a paratransgenic insect. This procedure has allowed the expression of antitrypanosomal gene products in the insect gut, thereby resulting in insects that are incapable of transmitting Chagas disease. A method has been developed that would allow introduction and spread of genetically modified symbionts into natural populations of kissing bugs, thus leading potentially to a transgenic intervention tool for use as a part of an integrated vector control approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ben Beard
- Division of Parasitic Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Chamblee, Georgia 30341-3724, USA.
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Fallon AM, Sun D. Exploration of mosquito immunity using cells in culture. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2001; 31:263-278. [PMID: 11167096 DOI: 10.1016/s0965-1748(00)00146-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The propagation of immune-responsive cells in vitro has provided the basis for substantial contributions to our understanding of many aspects of the mammalian immune response. In contrast, the potential for exploring the innate immune response of insects using cultured cells is only beginning to be developed, particularly with various mosquito cell lines from the genera Aedes and Anopheles. Immune-reactive mosquito cell lines express various defensive factors, including transferrin, lysozyme, cecropin, defensin, and prophenoloxidase activities. In this review, we discuss insect immunity in the context of key concepts that have emerged in the study of the mammalian immune system, with emphasis on the properties of the cells that participate in the immune response. The nature of established cell lines and their contributions to our understanding of immune functions in humans and insects is described, with emphasis on our own work with the C7-10 and Aag-2 mosquito cell lines from Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti, respectively. Finally, we offer some speculation on further advances in insect immunology that may be facilitated by work with cells in culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Fallon
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, 1980 Folwell Avenue, St Paul, MN 55108, USA.
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Douglas SE, Gallant JW, Gong Z, Hew C. Cloning and developmental expression of a family of pleurocidin-like antimicrobial peptides from winter flounder, Pleuronectes americanus (Walbaum). DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2001; 25:137-147. [PMID: 11113283 DOI: 10.1016/s0145-305x(00)00052-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Low molecular weight antimicrobial peptides are an important component of the innate immune system in animals, yet they have not been examined widely in fish. Of particular interest is their expression during development and in response to environmental conditions and disease. Here, we report the isolation of four genomic sequences encoding putative antimicrobial peptides from the winter flounder, Pleuronectes americanus (Walbaum), as well as reverse transcription-PCR products from two tissues that form the first defensive barrier to microbes - skin and intestine. Alignment of the predicted polypeptide sequences shows a conserved hydrophobic signal peptide of 22 amino acids followed by 25 amino acids that are identical (WF2) or homologous to the amino acid sequence of pleurocidin, followed by a conserved acidic portion. Southern hybridisation analysis indicates that related peptides are encoded in the genomes of other flatfish species. Northern and RT-PCR analyses of RNA from multiple tissues show that two of the pleurocidin genes are expressed predominantly in the skin whereas two other genes are expressed mainly in the intestine. RT-PCR assays of total RNA from larvae of different ages provide the first evidence of developmental expression of antimicrobial peptides in fish and indicate that the pleurocidin gene is first expressed at 13 days post-hatch in winter flounder.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Douglas
- Institute for Marine Biosciences, 1411 Oxford Street, Halifax, B3H 3Z1, Nova Scotia, Canada.
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Kim CR, Lee YH, Bang IS, Kim ES, Kang CS, Yun CY, Lee IH. cDNA cloning and antibacterial activities of cecropin D-like peptides from Agrius convolvuli. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2000; 45:149-155. [PMID: 11223934 DOI: 10.1002/1520-6327(200012)45:4<149::aid-arch2>3.0.co;2-h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
We have characterized full-length cDNAs encoding two isoforms of agriusin, cecropin D-like antibacterial peptide, present in the hemolymph of the immunized Agrius convolvuli larvae. The cloned cDNAs of agriusins 1 and 2 contain 331 and 329 bp, respectively. The nucleotide sequencing of cDNAs showed that they encode 62 amino acids, whose mature portion was deduced to consist of 38 amino acid residues with over 94% sequence identity. In the sequence homology search, mature agriusin 1 showed over 86 and 71% amino acid sequence homology with bactericidin 4 from Manduca sexta and cecropin D from Hyalophora cecropia, respectively. Since it was demonstrated from the deduced amino acid sequences that the C-terminal residues of agriusins are followed by a Gly residue, two types of synthetic agriusin 1 (syn-agriusin 1 amide and acid) were prepared to verify if natural agriusin 1 is C-terminally amidated. From acid-urea PAGE and reversed phase HPLC profiles to compare two synthetic peptides, we could confirm that the C-terminal amino acid residue of natural agriusin 1, like several cecropins so far identified, is amidated. Finally, our antibacterial assay performed with two syn-agriusins 1 revealed that there is little difference between antibacterial activities of both peptides against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Kim
- Department of Life Science, Hoseo University, Asan City, Choongnam-Do, South Korea
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Taniai K, Tomita S. A novel lipopolysaccharide response element in the Bombyx mori cecropin B promoter. J Biol Chem 2000; 275:13179-82. [PMID: 10788421 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.275.18.13179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cecropin B is one of the major antibacterial peptides in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. Transcription of the cecropin B gene (CecB) occurs rapidly after bacterial invasion. Using 235 base pairs (bp) of the CecB promoter region, a kappaB-related protein and two additional DNA-binding complexes (designated F2BPI and F4BP) were identified in nuclear extracts from immunized larval fat body by the electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) (1). Further EMSA analyses indicated that the F2BPI-binding site was CATTA, and that F2BPI translocated from the cytoplasm to the nucleus after infection. In a recently established B. mori cell line, NISES-BoMo-DZ, 235 bp of CecB promoter linked to a reporter luciferase was activated 6-fold by stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which is a major trigger of CecB expression in larvae. Truncation of the F2BPI-binding site from the promoter reduced the activation 2-fold. Deletion of either of two kappaB motifs also reduced promoter activation 2-fold. Elimination of both the F2BPI-binding site and the kappaB motifs resulted in the complete loss of LPS inducibility. These results indicate that the F2BPI-binding site is an LPS-responsive cis-element that is necessary for full activation of CecB.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Taniai
- Laboratory of Biological Defense, Department of Insect Physiology and Behavior, National Institute of Sericultural and Entomological Science, Tsukuba 305-8634, Japan.
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35
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Epand RM, Vogel HJ. Diversity of antimicrobial peptides and their mechanisms of action. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 1999; 1462:11-28. [PMID: 10590300 DOI: 10.1016/s0005-2736(99)00198-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 980] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides encompass a wide variety of structural motifs. Many peptides have alpha-helical structures. The majority of these peptides are cationic and amphipathic but there are also hydrophobic alpha-helical peptides which possess antimicrobial activity. In addition, some beta-sheet peptides have antimicrobial activity and even antimicrobial alpha-helical peptides which have been modified to possess a beta-structure retain part of their antimicrobial activity. There are also antimicrobial peptides which are rich in a certain specific amino acid such as Trp or His. In addition, antimicrobial peptides exist with thio-ether rings, which are lipopeptides or which have macrocyclic Cys knots. In spite of the structural diversity, a common feature of the cationic antimicrobial peptides is that they all have an amphipathic structure which allows them to bind to the membrane interface. Indeed, most antimicrobial peptides interact with membranes and may be cytotoxic as a result of disturbance of the bacterial inner or outer membranes. Alternatively, a necessary but not sufficient property of these peptides may be to be able to pass through the membrane to reach a target inside the cell. The interaction of these peptides with biological membranes is not just a function of the peptide but is also modulated by the lipid components of the membrane. It is not likely that this diverse group of peptides has a single mechanism of action, but interaction of the peptides with membranes is an important requirement for most, if not all, antimicrobial peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Epand
- Department of Biochemistry, McMaster University Health Sciences Centre, Hamilton, Ont., Canada
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36
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Shiotsuki T, Kato Y. Induction of carboxylesterase isozymes in Bombyx mori by E. coli infection. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 1999; 29:731-736. [PMID: 10451924 DOI: 10.1016/s0965-1748(99)00054-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Many proteins, including antibacterial peptides in the hemolymph, are induced by bacterial infections. We found two bacterially inducible carboxylesterases (CEs) in the hemolymph of the silkworm, Bombyx mori. CEs Est-1 and 2 were induced by lipopolysaccharide injection after 6 hours as well as E. coli infection. We found that bacterially inducible CEs clearly differed from noninducible CEs, including juvenile hormone esterases, in pI values, migration on analytical native PAGE, and inhibitor sensitivity. We are now studying the features and functions of these CEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Shiotsuki
- Department of Insect Physiology and Behavior, National Institute of Sericultural and Entomological Science, Ibaraki, Japan.
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Yang J, Furukawa S, Sagisaka A, Ishibashi J, Taniai K, Shono T, Yamakawa M. cDNA cloning and gene expression of cecropin D, an antibacterial protein in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 1999; 122:409-14. [PMID: 10392453 DOI: 10.1016/s0305-0491(99)00015-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We have isolated a cDNA clone encoding a cecropin D precursor from the fat body of Bombyx mori larvae immunized with bacteria by means of differential display. The cDNA contains 298 bp with a coding region of 183 bp for 61 amino acids plus a termination codon (TAG), a 5'-untranslated region of 36 bp, and a 3'-untranslated region of 79 bp including the poly(A) tail. There is a polyadenylation signal sequence of AATAAA at position 266, 43 nucleotides downstream from the termination codon TAG. The homology of the deduced amino acids is greater to the cecropin D precursor from Hyalophora cecropia (67% identity) than to the precursors of cecropins A and B from B. mori (49% to both). Northern blotting analyses reveal that the gene expression of cecropin D is detectable by 4 h after the bacterial injection and reaches the maximal level at 24 h. That high level is maintained up to 48 h post-immunization. Additionally, the gene is expressed mainly in the fat body and slightly in hemocytes, but it is undetectable in other tissues such as the midgut, the Malpighian tubule and silk gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Yang
- Laboratory of Biological Defense, National Institute of Sericultural and Entomological Science, Ibaraki, Japan
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38
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Kim SH, Park BS, Yun EY, Je YH, Woo SD, Kang SW, Kim KY, Kang SK. Cloning and expression of a novel gene encoding a new antibacterial peptide from silkworm, Bombyx mori. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1998; 246:388-92. [PMID: 9610369 DOI: 10.1006/bbrc.1998.8626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We differentially screened a novel gene encoding a new antibacterial peptide from the immunized Bombyx mori cDNA library. The gene showed a similar structure to that of cecropin-family, encoding 59 amino acids including a putative leader peptide and mature peptide. The deduced peptide, named Enbocin, had conserved amino acid residues which have been known to play an important role in the antibacterial activities. Enbocin genomic sequence revealed that the transcription unit of Enbocin gene was about 1.2 kb, and the coding sequence was interrupted by an intron of 660 bases. Recombinant Enbocin, expressed under the control of the baculovirus polyhedrin promoter, demonstrated a broad range of antibacterial activities against gram positive and gram negative bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- S H Kim
- National Sericulture & Entomology Research Institute, RDA, Suwon, Korea
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39
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Distribution of Bm1, a SINE type transposable element, in cecropin B genes of the silkworm, Bombyx mori. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 1998. [DOI: 10.1016/s0305-0491(98)00058-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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40
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Yang C, Teng X, Zurovec M, Scheller K, Sehnal F. Characterization of the P25 silk gene and associated insertion elements in Galleria mellonella. Gene X 1998; 209:157-65. [PMID: 9583947 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-1119(98)00029-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Insect silk genes attract attention by their precise territorial and developmental regulations and extremely high expression rates. Our present investigations demonstrated that the P25 silk gene of Galleria mellonella is down-regulated by ecdysteroid hormones. The gene was identified within 5217 nucleotides (nt) of two genomic clones. In contrast to other silk genes, Galleria P25 lacks the canonical TATA box. Transcription is initiated within a region of three nucleotides that lie at the end of a capsite initiator sequence ACAGT and about 90 nt downstream from a CAAT box. A stretch of 32 nt with a core sequence CTTTT was detected in the 5' region of Galleria P25 as well as in the presumptive regulatory regions of all other silk genes that are expressed in the posterior silk gland. However, consensus sequences reported for the regulatory regions of Bombyx silk genes are not obvious in Galleria P25. The coding sequence of this gene included 654 nt, is interrupted by 4 introns, and ends in position +3369; a potential polyadenylation signal starts at +4382. The gene contains 3 copies of a short interspersed nuclear element (SINE), which are located in the upstream region (-833 to -579) and in the first (+542 to +840) and second (+2259 to +2556) introns. The repeat, which was named Gm1, occurs in some other Galleria genes and exhibits homology to Bm1 SINE of the silkworm and to a similar element of a spider. Another insertion of at least 150 nt and with loosely defined borders is present in the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of Galleria P25. It includes a box (+3453 to +3552) of 99 nt that is tentatively called Lep1 because it was disclosed also in some other Lepidoptera. Lep1 seems to represent the core region of insertion elements that occur in the genomes of lepidopteran insects in various species specific and region specific modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Yang
- Institute of Entomology, Academy of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, Budĕjovice, Czech Republic
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Huttner KM, Brezinski-Caliguri DJ, Mahoney MM, Diamond G. Antimicrobial peptide expression is developmentally regulated in the ovine gastrointestinal tract. J Nutr 1998; 128:297S-299S. [PMID: 9478010 DOI: 10.1093/jn/128.2.297s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides are abundant components of the innate immune system present in species throughout the plant and animal kingdoms. In mammals, these immune peptides have been localized to epithelial tissues of the pig, mouse, rat, cow and human gastrointestinal tracts. We have identified in sheep two members of the beta-defensin antimicrobial peptide gene family that are expressed in a unique pattern throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Sheep beta-defensin 1 mRNA is the most prevalent from tongue to colon with the exception of the distal ileum, where beta-defensin 2 mRNA predominates. Sheep beta-defensin expression varies significantly between animals and is developmentally regulated both pre- and postnatally. These changes in antimicrobial peptide expression may correlate with anatomical differentiation as well as physiologic adaptations to extra-uterine life.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Huttner
- Joint Program in Neonatology, Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Rosetto M, De Filippis T, Manetti AG, Marchini D, Baldari CT, Dallai R. The genes encoding the antibacterial sex-specific peptides ceratotoxins are clustered in the genome of the medfly Ceratitis capitata. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 1997; 27:1039-1046. [PMID: 9569644 DOI: 10.1016/s0965-1748(97)00090-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Ceratotoxins are antibacterial peptides produced in the female reproductive accessory glands of the medfly Ceratitis capitata. Their expression is not affected by bacterial infection, but is enhanced after mating and is modulated by juvenile hormone. Three different peptides, named ceratotoxins A, B and C, have been previously purified from the female accessory gland secretion and their amino acid and cDNA sequences have been determined. We report here the complete nucleotide sequences of four genes encoding closely related ceratotoxin peptides. One of them encodes a novel peptide, which we named ceratotoxin D. Restriction and nucleotide sequence analysis indicate that these ceratotoxin genes are organized in a large cluster spanning more than 26 kilobases of DNA. All ceratotoxin genes are coordinately expressed. Ceratotoxin transcripts appear in 2-3 day old adult females, and they reach a maximum in 6-7 day old females. The presence of highly conserved motifs in the upstream regions of all the sequenced ceratotoxin genes suggests the presence of common regulatory elements for all ceratotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rosetto
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, University of Siena, Italy.
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Furukawa S, Taniai K, Ishibashi J, Hara S, Shono T, Yamakawa M. A novel member of lebocin gene family from the silkworm, Bombyx mori. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1997; 238:769-74. [PMID: 9325165 DOI: 10.1006/bbrc.1997.7386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
We screened genomic clones encoding lebocin, an antibacterial peptide from the silkworm, Bombyx mori. Two positive clones were obtained and their nucleotide sequences indicated that they contain no introns. The deduced amino acid sequences revealed that one clone (Leb 3) encoded lebocin 3 and another (Leb 4) is a new member of the lebocin gene family. Gene expression of both Leb 3 and Leb 4 was shown to be induced by lipopolysaccharide and to occur tissue-specifically in the fat body and hemocytes. Our results suggest that lebocin as well as cecropin forms a multiple gene family in B. mori.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Furukawa
- Laboratory of Applied Zoology, Institute of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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Park SS, Shin SW, Park DS, Oh HW, Boo KS, Park HY. Protein purification and cDNA cloning of a cecropin-like peptide from the larvae of fall webworm (Hyphantria cunea). INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 1997; 27:711-720. [PMID: 9443371 DOI: 10.1016/s0965-1748(97)00049-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
A proteinous antimicrobial substance was purified from the bacteria-challenged larvae of the fall webworm, Hyphantria cunea. It is a cecropin-like antibacterial peptide which exhibits antibacterial activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, and known as Hyphantria cecropin A. The cDNA clones corresponding to this peptide were isolated from a cDNA library constructed from the bacteria-challenged larvae and obtained complete nucleotide sequences. In addition to the Hyphantria cecropin A sequence, we obtained three other cDNAs exhibiting high sequence similarity with Hyphantria cecropin A. We synthesized the C-terminally amidated peptide of 35 residues based on the deduced sequence of the isolated cDNA of Hyphantria cecropin A. The synthetic peptide exhibited strong antibacterial activity against several microbes including medically important bacteria such as Salmonella, Shigella, and fungus such as Candida. A Southern blot experiment using these cloned cDNAs as probes predicted the existence of multiple forms of Hyphantria cecropin genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- S S Park
- Insect Resources Laboratory, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Taejon, Korea
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45
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Zhao C, Liaw L, Lee IH, Lehrer RI. cDNA cloning of three cecropin-like antimicrobial peptides (Styelins) from the tunicate, Styela clava. FEBS Lett 1997; 412:144-8. [PMID: 9257708 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-5793(97)00769-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
We cloned precursors of three new antimicrobial peptides, Styelins C, D and E, from a pharyngeal cDNA library of a tunicate, Styela clava. Preprostyelins resembled dipteran preprocecropins, while the mature domain of Styelin C resembled Cecropin P1, an antimicrobial peptide purified from the porcine intestine. Beginning with the last 6 residues of their signal sequences, Styelin C and Cecropin 1 from Drosophila virilis had 8/11 identical amino acids (72.7%). Moreover, 4 of the last 6 residues of their mature peptide domains were also identical. Styelins were shorter, by 8 residues, than dipteran cecropins and preprostyelins contained a conserved, polyanionic C-terminal extension that was absent in preprocecropins. Delineation of cecropin-like antimicrobial peptides in a protochordate supports the antiquity of this family as effectors of innate immunity in animals and it increases the likelihood that additional cecropin-like peptides will be found among other evolutionary descendants of protochordates--vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Zhao
- Department of Medicine, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1690, USA
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46
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Gillespie JP, Kanost MR, Trenczek T. Biological mediators of insect immunity. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ENTOMOLOGY 1997; 42:611-643. [PMID: 9017902 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.ento.42.1.611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 836] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Infection in insects stimulates a complex defensive response. Recognition of pathogens may be accomplished by plasma or hemocyte b1p4eins that bind specifically to bacterial or fungal polysaccharides. Several morphologically distinct hemocyte cell types cooperate in the immune response. Hemocytes attach to invading organisms and then isolate them by phagocytosis, by trapping them in hemocyte aggregates called nodules, or by forming an organized multicellular capsule around large parasites. These responses are often accompanied by proteolytic activation of the phenoloxidase zymogen that is present in the hemolymph. A component of insect immune responses to bacteria is the synthesis by fat body and hemocytes of a variety of antibacterial proteins and peptides, which are secreted into the hemolymph. These molecules attack bacteria by several mechanisms. Inducible antifungal proteins have also been recently discovered in insect hemolymph. The promoters for several antibacterial protein genes in insects are regulated by transcription factors similar to those involved in mammalian acute phase responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Gillespie
- Department of Biochemistry, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506, USA
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47
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Rosetto M, Manetti AG, Giordano PC, Marri L, Amons R, Baldari CT, Marchini D, Dallai R. Molecular characterization of ceratotoxin C, a novel antibacterial female-specific peptide of the ceratotoxin family from the medfly Ceratitis capitata. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 1996; 241:330-7. [PMID: 8917427 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-1033.1996.00330.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Ceratotoxins A and B are antibacterial peptides produced by the sexually mature females of Ceratitis capitata. The gene expression is restricted to the female reproductive accessory glands, and is not affected by bacterial infection, but is enhanced by mating. We report here the purification and the amino acid sequence of ceratotoxin C, a novel member of the ceratotoxin family, the cloning of its cDNA and the analysis of its expression. Ceratotoxin C is coordinately expressed with the other members of the ceratotoxin family. Its antibacterial activity is directed against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial strains but it is lower than that of ceratotoxin A. We demonstrate in the genome of C. capitata the presence of at least three ceratotoxin genes which express, in the female accessory glands, a set of peptides presumably involved in the protection of the genital tract during fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rosetto
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, University of Siena, Italy
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48
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Karp RD. Inducible humoral immune defense responses in insects. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR AND SUBCELLULAR BIOLOGY 1996; 15:67-87. [PMID: 8963466 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-79735-4_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R D Karp
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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49
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Sun SC, Faye I. Transcription of Immune Genes in the Giant Silkmoth, Hyalophora Cecropia, is Augmented by H2O2 and Diminished by Thiol Reagents. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1995. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-1033.1995.0093f.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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50
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Lindström-Dinnetz I, Sun SC, Faye I. Structure and expression of Hemolin, an insect member of the immunoglobulin gene superfamily. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 1995; 230:920-5. [PMID: 7601154 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-1033.1995.tb20637.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Hemolin is an insect protein which belongs to the immunoglobulin superfamily and is strongly induced upon bacterial infection. It has been isolated from two moths, Hyalophora cecropia and Manduca sexta. We have isolated and sequenced a genomic clone for hemolin in H. cecropia, in order to resolve its organization and as a basis for investigating hemolin gene regulation. According to Southern-blot analysis, hemolin is encoded by a single gene, Hemolin. It contains six exons ranging over 32-603 bp. The introns are positioned both within and between the immunoglobulin-like domains, a feature typical for cell-adhesion molecules belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily. By an RNase protection assay, we show that the Hemolin transcript is strongly induced not only by bacteria, but also by lipopolysaccharide and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. Analysis of the upstream region and introns revealed potential binding sites for the Cecropia immunoresponsive factor (CIF), which recognizes the kappa B-like consensus GGGRA YYYYY.
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