1
|
Mathavan I, Liu LJ, Robinson SW, El-Sakkary N, Elatico AJJ, Gomez D, Nellas R, Owens RJ, Zuercher W, Navratilova I, Caffrey CR, Beis K. Identification of Inhibitors of the Schistosoma mansoni VKR2 Kinase Domain. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:1715-1722. [PMID: 36385939 PMCID: PMC9661718 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.2c00248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic flatworms. Current treatment relies on just one partially effective drug, praziquantel (PZQ). Schistosoma mansoni Venus Kinase Receptors 1 and 2 (SmVKR1 and SmVKR2) are important for parasite growth and egg production, and are potential targets for combating schistosomiasis. VKRs consist of an extracellular Venus Flytrap Module (VFTM) linked via a transmembrane helix to a kinase domain. Here, we initiated a drug discovery effort to inhibit the activity of the SmVKR2 kinase domain (SmVKR2KD) by screening the GSK published kinase inhibitor set 2 (PKIS2). We identified several inhibitors, of which four were able to inhibit its enzymatic activity and induced phenotypic changes in ex vivo S. mansoni. Our crystal structure of the SmVKR2KD displays an active-like state that sheds light on the activation process of VKRs. Our data provide a basis for the further exploration of SmVKR2 as a possible drug target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Indran Mathavan
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London, South Kensington SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
- Rutherford
Appleton Laboratory, Research Complex at
Harwell, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0FA, United Kingdom
| | - Lawrence J. Liu
- Center
for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Sean W. Robinson
- Kinetic
Discovery Ltd., an Exscientia group company, The Schrödinger Building, Oxford Science
Park, Oxford OX4 4GE, United Kingdom
| | - Nelly El-Sakkary
- Center
for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Adam Jo J. Elatico
- Institute
of Chemistry, College of Science, University
of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines 1101
| | - Darwin Gomez
- Institute
of Chemistry, College of Science, University
of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines 1101
| | - Ricky Nellas
- Institute
of Chemistry, College of Science, University
of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines 1101
| | - Raymond J. Owens
- The Rosalind
Franklin Institute, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0QX, United Kingdom
- Division
of Structural Biology, The Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, United
Kingdom
| | - William Zuercher
- Structural
Genomics Consortium, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Iva Navratilova
- Kinetic
Discovery Ltd., an Exscientia group company, The Schrödinger Building, Oxford Science
Park, Oxford OX4 4GE, United Kingdom
| | - Conor R. Caffrey
- Center
for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Konstantinos Beis
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London, South Kensington SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
- Rutherford
Appleton Laboratory, Research Complex at
Harwell, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0FA, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pereira Moreira B, Weber MHW, Haeberlein S, Mokosch AS, Spengler B, Grevelding CG, Falcone FH. Drug Repurposing and De Novo Drug Discovery of Protein Kinase Inhibitors as New Drugs against Schistosomiasis. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27041414. [PMID: 35209202 PMCID: PMC8879451 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27041414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease affecting more than 200 million people worldwide. Chemotherapy relies on one single drug, praziquantel, which is safe but ineffective at killing larval stages of this parasite. Furthermore, concerns have been expressed about the rise in resistance against this drug. In the absence of an antischistosomal vaccine, it is, therefore, necessary to develop new drugs against the different species of schistosomes. Protein kinases are important molecules involved in key cellular processes such as signaling, growth, and differentiation. The kinome of schistosomes has been studied and the suitability of schistosomal protein kinases as targets demonstrated by RNA interference studies. Although protein kinase inhibitors are mostly used in cancer therapy, e.g., for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia or melanoma, they are now being increasingly explored for the treatment of non-oncological conditions, including schistosomiasis. Here, we discuss the various approaches including screening of natural and synthetic compounds, de novo drug development, and drug repurposing in the context of the search for protein kinase inhibitors against schistosomiasis. We discuss the status quo of the development of kinase inhibitors against schistosomal serine/threonine kinases such as polo-like kinases (PLKs) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAP kinases), as well as protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo Pereira Moreira
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (B.P.M.); (M.H.W.W.); (S.H.); (C.G.G.)
| | - Michael H. W. Weber
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (B.P.M.); (M.H.W.W.); (S.H.); (C.G.G.)
| | - Simone Haeberlein
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (B.P.M.); (M.H.W.W.); (S.H.); (C.G.G.)
| | - Annika S. Mokosch
- Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (A.S.M.); (B.S.)
| | - Bernhard Spengler
- Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (A.S.M.); (B.S.)
| | - Christoph G. Grevelding
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (B.P.M.); (M.H.W.W.); (S.H.); (C.G.G.)
| | - Franco H. Falcone
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (B.P.M.); (M.H.W.W.); (S.H.); (C.G.G.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Review: Schistosoma mansoni phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 256:110632. [PMID: 34119651 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2021.110632] [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: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Schistosoma mansoni worms are under a milieu of external and internal signaling pathways. The life-cycle stages are exposed to enormous stimuli within the mammalian and the snail hosts and as free-living stages in the fresh water. Furthermore, there is a unique interplay between the male and the female worms involving many stimuli from the male essential for full development of the female. PI3K/Akt/mTOR is an evolutionarily divergent signal transduction pathway universal to nearly every multicellular organism. This work reviews the Schistosoma mansoni PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathways and the involvement of the signal in the worms' physiology concerning the uptake of glucose, reproduction and survival. The inhibitors of the signal pathway used against Schistosoma mansoni were summarized. Given the importance of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway, its inhibition could be a promising control strategy against schistosomiasis.
Collapse
|
4
|
Leippe P, Broichhagen J, Cailliau K, Mougel A, Morel M, Dissous C, Trauner D, Vicogne J. Transformation of Receptor Tyrosine Kinases into Glutamate Receptors and Photoreceptors. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201915352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Leippe
- Department of ChemistryLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich Center for Integrated Protein Science Butenandtstrasse 5–13 81377 München Germany
- Present address: Department of Chemical BiologyMax Planck Institute for Medical Research Jahnstr. 29 69120 Heidelberg Germany
| | - Johannes Broichhagen
- Department of ChemistryLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich Center for Integrated Protein Science Butenandtstrasse 5–13 81377 München Germany
- Present address: Department of Chemical BiologyForschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie Robert-Rössle Str. 10 13125 Berlin Germany
| | - Katia Cailliau
- CNRS UMR 8576University of Lille Villeneuve d'Asq France
| | - Alexandra Mougel
- Univ. LilleCNRSInserm, CHU LilleInstitut Pasteur de LilleU1019—UMR 8204, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille (CIIL) 59000 Lille France
| | - Marion Morel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyBoonshoft School of MedicineWright State University Dayton OH 45435 USA
| | - Colette Dissous
- Univ. LilleCNRSInserm, CHU LilleInstitut Pasteur de LilleU1019—UMR 8204, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille (CIIL) 59000 Lille France
| | - Dirk Trauner
- Department of ChemistryLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich Center for Integrated Protein Science Butenandtstrasse 5–13 81377 München Germany
- Department of ChemistrySilver Center for Arts and ScienceNew York University 100 Washington Square East New York NY 10003 USA
| | - Jérôme Vicogne
- Univ. LilleCNRSInserm, CHU LilleInstitut Pasteur de LilleU1019—UMR 8204, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille (CIIL) 59000 Lille France
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Leippe P, Broichhagen J, Cailliau K, Mougel A, Morel M, Dissous C, Trauner D, Vicogne J. Transformation of Receptor Tyrosine Kinases into Glutamate Receptors and Photoreceptors. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:6720-6723. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201915352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Leippe
- Department of ChemistryLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich Center for Integrated Protein Science Butenandtstrasse 5–13 81377 München Germany
- Present address: Department of Chemical BiologyMax Planck Institute for Medical Research Jahnstr. 29 69120 Heidelberg Germany
| | - Johannes Broichhagen
- Department of ChemistryLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich Center for Integrated Protein Science Butenandtstrasse 5–13 81377 München Germany
- Present address: Department of Chemical BiologyForschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie Robert-Rössle Str. 10 13125 Berlin Germany
| | - Katia Cailliau
- CNRS UMR 8576University of Lille Villeneuve d'Asq France
| | - Alexandra Mougel
- Univ. LilleCNRSInserm, CHU LilleInstitut Pasteur de LilleU1019—UMR 8204, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille (CIIL) 59000 Lille France
| | - Marion Morel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyBoonshoft School of MedicineWright State University Dayton OH 45435 USA
| | - Colette Dissous
- Univ. LilleCNRSInserm, CHU LilleInstitut Pasteur de LilleU1019—UMR 8204, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille (CIIL) 59000 Lille France
| | - Dirk Trauner
- Department of ChemistryLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich Center for Integrated Protein Science Butenandtstrasse 5–13 81377 München Germany
- Department of ChemistrySilver Center for Arts and ScienceNew York University 100 Washington Square East New York NY 10003 USA
| | - Jérôme Vicogne
- Univ. LilleCNRSInserm, CHU LilleInstitut Pasteur de LilleU1019—UMR 8204, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille (CIIL) 59000 Lille France
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
McKenzie M, Kirk RS, Walker AJ. Glucose Uptake in the Human Pathogen Schistosoma mansoni Is Regulated Through Akt/Protein Kinase B Signaling. J Infect Dis 2019; 218:152-164. [PMID: 29309602 PMCID: PMC5989616 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jix654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In Schistosoma mansoni, the facilitated glucose transporter SGTP4, which is expressed uniquely in the apical surface tegumental membranes of the parasite, imports glucose from host blood to support its growth, development, and reproduction. However, the molecular mechanisms that underpin glucose uptake in this blood fluke are not understood. Methods In this study we employed techniques including Western blotting, immunolocalization, confocal laser scanning microscopy, pharmacological assays, and RNA interference to functionally characterize and map activated Akt in S mansoni. Results We find that Akt, which could be activated by host insulin and l-arginine, was active in the tegument layer of both schistosomules and adult worms. Blockade of Akt attenuated the expression and evolution of SGTP4 at the surface of the host-invading larval parasite life-stage, and suppressed SGTP4 expression at the tegument in adults; concomitant glucose uptake by the parasite was also attenuated in both scenarios. Conclusions These findings shed light on crucial mechanistic signaling processes that underpin the energetics of glucose uptake in schistosomes, which may open up novel avenues for antischistosome drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maxine McKenzie
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth S Kirk
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony J Walker
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Gouignard N, Cherrier F, Brito-Fravallo E, Pain A, Zmarlak NM, Cailliau K, Genève C, Vernick KD, Dissous C, Mitri C. Dual role of the Anopheles coluzzii Venus Kinase Receptor in both larval growth and immunity. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3615. [PMID: 30837655 PMCID: PMC6401105 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40407-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Vector-borne diseases and especially malaria are responsible for more than half million deaths annually. The increase of insecticide resistance in wild populations of Anopheles malaria vectors emphasises the need for novel vector control strategies as well as for identifying novel vector targets. Venus kinase receptors (VKRs) constitute a Receptor Tyrosine Kinase (RTK) family only found in invertebrates. In this study we functionally characterized Anopheles VKR in the Gambiae complex member, Anophelescoluzzii. Results showed that Anopheles VKR can be activated by L-amino acids, with L-arginine as the most potent agonist. VKR was not required for the fecundity of A. coluzzii, in contrast to reports from other insects, but VKR function is required in both Anopheles males and females for development of larval progeny. Anopheles VKR function is also required for protection against infection by Plasmodium parasites, thus identifying a novel linkage between reproduction and immunity in Anopheles. The insect specificity of VKRs as well as the essential function for reproduction and immunity suggest that Anopheles VKR could be a potentially druggable target for novel vector control strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadège Gouignard
- CIIL- Institut Biologie de Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur Lille, Lille, France.,Department of Basic Science & Craniofacial Biology, New York University, College of Dentistry, New York, USA
| | - Floriane Cherrier
- Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors Unit, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR2000, Paris, France.,Oncogenesis of Lymphoma unit, INSERM U1053 - BaRITOn, Bordeaux, France
| | - Emma Brito-Fravallo
- Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors Unit, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR2000, Paris, France
| | - Adrien Pain
- Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors Unit, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR2000, Paris, France.,Institut Pasteur - Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Hub - C3BI, USR, 3756 IP CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Natalia Marta Zmarlak
- Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors Unit, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR2000, Paris, France
| | - Katia Cailliau
- Team "Signal Division Regulation", CNRS UMR 8576, University of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Corinne Genève
- Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors Unit, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR2000, Paris, France
| | - Kenneth D Vernick
- Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors Unit, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR2000, Paris, France
| | - Colette Dissous
- CIIL- Institut Biologie de Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur Lille, Lille, France.
| | - Christian Mitri
- Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors Unit, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France. .,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR2000, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Form and Function in the Digenea. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1154:3-20. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-18616-6_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
9
|
Kinases: Molecular Stage Directors for Schistosome Development and Differentiation. Trends Parasitol 2017; 34:246-260. [PMID: 29276074 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Understanding schistosome biology is still a challenging mission. The reproductive biology of this parasitic trematode is closely associated with the pathologic consequences of schistosomiasis, the devastating infectious disease caused by members of the family Schistosomatidae worldwide. Recent studies of signaling mechanisms confirmed the prominent roles of protein kinases (PKs) in directing schistosome biology, and first evidence was obtained for an additional contribution of kinases with substrates different from proteins (non-PKs). This review provides an overview of the Schistosoma mansoni kinome in the context of male-female interaction and summarizes recent studies of kinases controlling development and differentiation. Due to their importance for schistosome biology, kinases represent Achilles' heels and are therefore of high value also for translational research.
Collapse
|
10
|
Elhenawy AA, Ashour RH, Nabih N, Shalaby NM, El-karef AA, Abou-El-Wafa HS. Insulin growth factor inhibitor as a potential new anti-schistosoma drug: An in vivo experimental study. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 95:1346-1358. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
|
11
|
Role of the venus kinase receptor in the female reproductive physiology of the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11730. [PMID: 28916758 PMCID: PMC5601475 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-11434-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Venus kinase receptors (VKR) are a subfamily of invertebrate receptor tyrosine kinases, which have only recently been discovered. They contain an intracellular tyrosine kinase domain and an extracellular Venus FlyTrap domain. VKRs have been functionally and pharmacologically characterized in only two invertebrate species, namely the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni and the mosquito Aedes aegypti, where they play a crucial role in oogenesis. Here, we report the characterization of a VKR in the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria. We performed an in-depth profiling study of the SgVKR transcript levels in different tissues throughout the female adult stage. Using the RNA interference technique, the possible role of SgVKR was investigated. SgVKR knockdown had significant effects on ovarian ecdysteroid levels and on the size of oocytes during the vitellogenic stage. SgVKR is probably involved in the complex cross-talk between several important pathways regulating female reproductive physiology. Contrary to A. aegypti and S. mansoni, we cannot conclude that this receptor is essential for reproduction, since silencing SgVKR did not affect fecundity or fertility. Considering the evolutionary distance between A. aegypti and S. gregaria, as well as the differences in regulation of their female reproductive physiology, this article constitutes a valuable asset in better understanding VKRs.
Collapse
|
12
|
Gelmedin V, Morel M, Hahnel S, Cailliau K, Dissous C, Grevelding CG. Evidence for Integrin - Venus Kinase Receptor 1 Alliance in the Ovary of Schistosoma mansoni Females Controlling Cell Survival. PLoS Pathog 2017; 13:e1006147. [PMID: 28114363 PMCID: PMC5289644 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1006147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In metazoan integrin signaling is an important process of mediating extracellular and intracellular communication processes. This can be achieved by cooperation of integrins with growth factor receptors (GFRs). Schistosoma mansoni is a helminth parasite inducing schistosomiasis, an infectious disease of worldwide significance for humans and animals. First studies on schistosome integrins revealed their role in reproductive processes, being involved in spermatogenesis and oogenesis. With respect to the roles of eggs for maintaining the parasite´s life cycle and for inducing the pathology of schistosomiasis, elucidating reproductive processes is of high importance. Here we studied the interaction of the integrin receptor Smβ-Int1 with the venus kinase receptor SmVKR1 in S. mansoni. To this end we cloned and characterized SmILK, SmPINCH, and SmNck2, three putative bridging molecules for their role in mediating Smβ-Int1/SmVKR1 cooperation. Phylogenetic analyses showed that these molecules form clusters that are specific for parasitic platyhelminths as it was shown for integrins before. Transcripts of all genes colocalized in the ovary. In Xenopus oocytes germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) was only induced if all members were simultaneously expressed. Coimmunoprecipitation results suggest that a Smβ-Int1-SmILK-SmPINCH-SmNck2-SmVKR1 complex can be formed leading to the phosphorylation and activation of SmVKR1. These results indicate that SmVKR1 can be activated in a ligand-independent manner by receptor-complex interaction. RNAi and inhibitor studies to knock-down SmILK as a representative complex member concurrently revealed effects on the extracellular matrix surrounding the ovary and oocyte localization within the ovary, oocyte survival, and egg production. By TUNEL assays, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), Caspase-3 assay, and transcript profiling of the pro-apoptotic BCL-2 family members BAK/BAX we obtained first evidence for roles of this signaling complex in mediating cell death in immature and primary oocytes. These results suggest that the Smβ-Int1/SmVKR1 signaling complex is important for differentiation and survival in oocytes of paired schistosomes. Parasites of the genus Schistosoma cause schistosomiasis, a life-threatening infectious disease for humans and animals worldwide. Among the remarkable biological features of schistosomes is the differentiation of the female gonads which is controlled by pairing with the male and a prerequisite for egg production. Eggs, however, are not only important for the maintenance of the life-cycle; they also cause the pathological consequences of schistosomiasis. Part of the eggs gets trapped in host tissues such as liver and spleen and trigger inflammatory processes, finally leading to liver cirrhosis. Research activities of the last decade have indicated that different families of cellular and receptor-type kinases but also integrins contribute to the control of mitogenic activity and differentiation the female goands. In this context an unusual class of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) has been identified, the venus kinase receptors (SmVKRs). By biochemical and molecular approaches we demonstrate that SmVKR1 activation can be achieved by cooperation with a signaling complex consisting of the beta integrin receptor Smβ-Int1 and the bridging molecules SmILK, SmPINCH, SmNck2. Besides unravelling a novel way of SmVKR1 activation, we provide evidence that this complex controls the differentiation status of oocytes by regulating cell death-associated processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Verena Gelmedin
- Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Marion Morel
- CIIL – Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille Inserm U1019 - CNRS UMR 8204, University Lille, Lille, France
| | - Steffen Hahnel
- Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Katia Cailliau
- UGSF - Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, CNRS UMR 8576, University Lille, Lille, France
| | - Colette Dissous
- CIIL – Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille Inserm U1019 - CNRS UMR 8204, University Lille, Lille, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Brehm K, Koziol U. Echinococcus-Host Interactions at Cellular and Molecular Levels. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2017; 95:147-212. [PMID: 28131363 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The potentially lethal zoonotic diseases alveolar and cystic echinococcosis are caused by the metacestode larval stages of the tapeworms Echinococcus multilocularis and Echinococcus granulosus, respectively. In both cases, metacestode growth and proliferation occurs within the inner organs of mammalian hosts, which is associated with complex molecular host-parasite interactions that regulate nutrient uptake by the parasite as well as metacestode persistence and development. Using in vitro cultivation systems for parasite larvae, and informed by recently released, comprehensive genome and transcriptome data for both parasites, these molecular host-parasite interactions have been subject to significant research during recent years. In this review, we discuss progress in this field, with emphasis on parasite development and proliferation. We review host-parasite interaction mechanisms that occur early during an infection, when the invading oncosphere stage undergoes a metamorphosis towards the metacestode, and outline the decisive role of parasite stem cells during this process. We also discuss special features of metacestode morphology, and how this parasite stage takes up nutrients from the host, utilizing newly evolved or expanded gene families. We comprehensively review mechanisms of host-parasite cross-communication via evolutionarily conserved signalling systems and how the parasite signalling systems might be exploited for the development of novel chemotherapeutics. Finally, we point to an urgent need for the development of functional genomic techniques in this parasite, which will be imperative for hypothesis-driven analyses into Echinococcus stem cell biology, developmental mechanisms and immunomodulatory activities, which are all highly relevant for the development of anti-infective measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Brehm
- University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - U Koziol
- University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany; Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Buro C, Burmeister C, Quack T, Grevelding CG. Identification and first characterization of SmEps8, a potential interaction partner of SmTK3 and SER transcribed in the gonads of Schistosoma mansoni. Exp Parasitol 2016; 180:55-63. [PMID: 28017636 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Revised: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In eukaryotes the roles of protein kinases (PKs) regulating important biological processes such as growth and differentiation are well known. Molecular, biochemical, and physiological analyses trying to unravel principles of schistosome development have substantiated the importance for PKs also in this parasite. Amongst others the role of SmTK3 was studied, one of the first cellular PKs characterized from Schistosoma mansoni. Its function was demonstrated in mitogenic and differentiation processes in the gonads. Furthermore, first insights were obtained for the downstream part of a signal transduction cascade SmTK3 is involved in, which includes the diaphanous homolog SmDia. Here we attempted to further unravel the SmTK3 signaling cascade by searching for upstream interaction partners. Using yeast three-hybrid (Y3H) analyses we detected the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway substrate 8 of S. mansoni (SmEps8) as the most interesting candidate. By detailed interaction analyses we showed a contribution of the Src homology (SH) domains SH2 and SH3 of SmTK3 to binding, with a clear bias towards SH2. Compared to full-length SmEps8, binding was enhanced when only its 5' part including the phosphotyrosine binding domain (PTB) was used for interaction analyses including the SH2 domain of SmTK3, although phosphorylation seemed not to play a decisive role for binding. RT-PCR analyses and in situ hybridization experiments demonstrated similar transcription patterns of SmTK3 and SmEPS8, which co-localize in the reproductive organs. Furthermore, first evidence was obtained for SmEps8 interaction and colocalization with SER, one of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) homologs detected in S. mansoni. The results of this study provide first evidence for a SER-SmEps8-SmTK3-SmDia signal transduction pathway controlling differentiation processes in the gonads of S. mansoni.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Buro
- BFS, Institute of Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Germany
| | - C Burmeister
- BFS, Institute of Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Germany
| | - T Quack
- BFS, Institute of Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Germany
| | - C G Grevelding
- BFS, Institute of Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Morel M, Vanderstraete M, Cailliau K, Hahnel S, Grevelding CG, Dissous C. SmShb, the SH2-Containing Adaptor Protein B of Schistosoma mansoni Regulates Venus Kinase Receptor Signaling Pathways. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0163283. [PMID: 27636711 PMCID: PMC5026347 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0163283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Venus kinase receptors (VKRs) are invertebrate receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) formed by an extracellular Venus Fly Trap (VFT) ligand binding domain associated via a transmembrane domain with an intracellular tyrosine kinase (TK) domain. Schistosoma mansoni VKRs, SmVKR1 and SmVKR2, are both implicated in reproductive activities of the parasite. In this work, we show that the SH2 domain-containing protein SmShb is a partner of the phosphorylated form of SmVKR1. Expression of these proteins in Xenopus oocytes allowed us to demonstrate that the SH2 domain of SmShb interacts with the phosphotyrosine residue (pY979) located in the juxtamembrane region of SmVKR1. This interaction leads to phosphorylation of SmShb on tyrosines and promotes SmVKR1 signaling towards the JNK pathway. SmShb transcripts are expressed in all parasite stages and they were found in ovary and testes of adult worms, suggesting a possible colocalization of SmShb and SmVKR1 proteins. Silencing of SmShb in adult S. mansoni resulted in an accumulation of mature sperm in testes, indicating a possible role of SmShb in gametogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marion Morel
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 –UMR 8204—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Mathieu Vanderstraete
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 –UMR 8204—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Katia Cailliau
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, UMR 8576—UGSF—Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Lille, France
| | - Steffen Hahnel
- BFS, Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Colette Dissous
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 –UMR 8204—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Stroehlein AJ, Young ND, Jex AR, Sternberg PW, Tan P, Boag PR, Hofmann A, Gasser RB. Defining the Schistosoma haematobium kinome enables the prediction of essential kinases as anti-schistosome drug targets. Sci Rep 2015; 5:17759. [PMID: 26635209 PMCID: PMC4669435 DOI: 10.1038/srep17759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood fluke Schistosoma haematobium causes urogenital schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease (NTD) that affects more than 110 million people. Treating this disease by targeted or mass administration with a single chemical, praziquantel, carries the risk that drug resistance will develop in this pathogen. Therefore, there is an imperative to search for new drug targets in S. haematobium and other schistosomes. In this regard, protein kinases have potential, given their essential roles in biological processes and as targets for drugs already approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in humans. In this context, we defined here the kinome of S. haematobium using a refined bioinformatic pipeline. We classified, curated and annotated predicted kinases, and assessed the developmental transcription profiles of kinase genes. Then, we prioritised a panel of kinases as potential drug targets and inferred chemicals that bind to them using an integrated bioinformatic pipeline. Most kinases of S. haematobium are very similar to those of its congener, S. mansoni, offering the prospect of designing chemicals that kill both species. Overall, this study provides a global insight into the kinome of S. haematobium and should assist the repurposing or discovery of drugs against schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas J. Stroehlein
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Neil D. Young
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aaron R. Jex
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul W. Sternberg
- HHMI, Division of Biology, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Patrick Tan
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Republic of Singapore
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Republic of Singapore
| | - Peter R. Boag
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andreas Hofmann
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Structural Chemistry Program, Eskitis Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ovary ecdysteroidogenic hormone requires a receptor tyrosine kinase to activate egg formation in the mosquito Aedes aegypti. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:5057-62. [PMID: 25848040 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1501814112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mosquitoes are major disease vectors because most species must feed on blood from a vertebrate host to produce eggs. Blood feeding by the vector mosquito Aedes aegypti triggers the release of two neurohormones, ovary ecdysteroidogenic hormone (OEH) and insulin-like peptides (ILPs), which activate multiple processes required for egg formation. ILPs function by binding to the insulin receptor, which activates downstream components in the canonical insulin signaling pathway. OEH in contrast belongs to a neuropeptide family called neuroparsins, whose receptor is unknown. Here we demonstrate that a previously orphanized receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) from A. aegypti encoded by the gene AAEL001915 is an OEH receptor. Phylogenetic studies indicated that the protein encoded by this gene, designated AAEL001915, belongs to a clade of RTKs related to the insulin receptor, which are distinguished by an extracellular Venus flytrap module. Knockdown of AAEL001915 by RNAi disabled OEH-mediated egg formation in A. aegypti. AAEL001915 was primarily detected in the mosquito ovary in association with follicular epithelial cells. Both monomeric and dimeric AAEL001915 were detected in mosquito ovaries and transfected Drosophila S2 cells. Functional assays further indicated that OEH bound to dimeric AAEL001915, which resulted in downstream phosphorylation of Ak strain transforming factor (Akt). We hypothesize that orthologs of AAEL001915 in other insects are neuroparsin receptors.
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
For decades, Praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug of choice against one of the most afflicting helminthic diseases worldwide, schistosomiasis. With respect to the fear of upcoming PZQ resistance, efforts are needed to find new chemotherapeutic options. Protein kinases (PKs) are essential molecules in signaling processes and indispensable to life. Aberrant PK functions take distinctive roles in human diseases and represent targets in chemotherapies. In schistosomes, conserved PKs were found to possess similar pivotal roles contributing not only to reproduction processes, but also to the pathology of schistosomiasis, which is closely associated to egg production. Exploiting the similarity of PKs of humans and schistosomes, PK inhibitors designed to treat human diseases may serve as lead compounds for new drugs against schistosomiasis.
Collapse
|
19
|
Dissous C. Venus Kinase Receptors at the Crossroads of Insulin Signaling: Their Role in Reproduction for Helminths and Insects. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:118. [PMID: 26284029 PMCID: PMC4522560 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Venus kinase receptors (VKRs) are invertebrate receptor tyrosine kinases (TKs) first discovered in the human parasite Schistosoma. They contain an extracellular Venus FlyTrap module similar to the ligand-binding domain of G protein-coupled receptors of class C and an intracellular TK domain similar to that of insulin receptors. VKRs are present from cnidarians to echinoderms. They were shown to be activated by amino-acids, to induce insulin-like intracellular pathways, and to be highly expressed in larvae and in gonads of helminths and insects. The function of VKR in gametogenesis was demonstrated in schistosomes by VKR silencing and recent studies in Aedes aegypti have confirmed the importance of VKR in mosquito egg formation. AaeVKR was shown to bind to ovary ecdysteroidogenic hormone and to activate the production of ecdysteroids by the ovary, independently of signaling mediated by insulin-like peptides. These new data confirm and specify the function of VKRs in the reproduction of helminths and insects and they open interesting perspectives for elucidating the role of VKRs in other models. VKR targeting would also provide opportunities for the control of parasites and various vector-borne infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colette Dissous
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, INSERM U1019, University Lille Nord de France, Lille, France
- CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur de Lille, University Lille Nord de France, Lille, France
- *Correspondence: Colette Dissous,
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Morel M, Vanderstraete M, Cailliau K, Lescuyer A, Lancelot J, Dissous C. Compound library screening identified Akt/PKB kinase pathway inhibitors as potential key molecules for the development of new chemotherapeutics against schistosomiasis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2014; 4:256-66. [PMID: 25516836 PMCID: PMC4266776 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2014.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
A wide range of PK inhibitors affects schistosome viability and reproduction. Structure and activity of the Akt/PKB protein are highly conserved in Schistosoma mansoni. Commercial Akt inhibitors are active on the recombinant SmAkt protein. Akt pathway inhibitors have schistosomicidal activity in vitro. SmAkt can be considered as a potential target for the control of schistosomiasis.
Protein kinases (PKs) are one of the largest protein families in most eukaryotic organisms. These enzymes are involved in the control of cell proliferation, differentiation and metabolism and a large number of the anticancer drugs currently used are directed against PKs. The structure and function of PKs are well conserved throughout evolution. In schistosome parasites, PKs were shown to be involved in essential functions at every stage of the parasite life cycle, making these enzymes promising anti-parasite drug targets. In this study, we tested a panel of commercial inhibitors for various PKs and analyzed their effects on pairing and egg production by schistosomes as well as their toxicity towards schistosomula larvae. Results obtained confirmed the deleterious effect of PK targeting on Schistosoma mansoni physiology and the important function of different tyrosine and serine/threonine kinases in the biology and reproduction of this parasite. They also indicated for the first time that the Protein kinase B (also called Akt) which is a major downstream target of many receptor tyrosine kinases and a central player at the crossroads of signal transduction pathways activated in response to growth factors and insulin, can constitute a novel target for anti-schistosome chemotherapy. Structural and functional studies have shown that SmAkt is a conserved kinase and that its activity can be inhibited by commercially available Akt inhibitors. In treated adult worms, Akt/PKB kinase pathway inhibitors induced profound alterations in pairing and egg laying and they also greatly affected the viability of schistosomula larvae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marion Morel
- CIIL - Center of Infection and Immunity of Lille, Université Lille Nord de France, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 59019 Lille Cedex, France
| | - Mathieu Vanderstraete
- CIIL - Center of Infection and Immunity of Lille, Université Lille Nord de France, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 59019 Lille Cedex, France
| | - Katia Cailliau
- Laboratoire de Régulation des Signaux de Division, Université Lille 1 Sciences et Technology, EA 4479, IFR 147, 59655 Villeneuve d'Ascq Cedex, France
| | - Arlette Lescuyer
- Laboratoire de Régulation des Signaux de Division, Université Lille 1 Sciences et Technology, EA 4479, IFR 147, 59655 Villeneuve d'Ascq Cedex, France
| | - Julien Lancelot
- CIIL - Center of Infection and Immunity of Lille, Université Lille Nord de France, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 59019 Lille Cedex, France
| | - Colette Dissous
- CIIL - Center of Infection and Immunity of Lille, Université Lille Nord de France, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 59019 Lille Cedex, France
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Morel M, Vanderstraete M, Hahnel S, Grevelding CG, Dissous C. Receptor tyrosine kinases and schistosome reproduction: new targets for chemotherapy. Front Genet 2014; 5:238. [PMID: 25101117 PMCID: PMC4102852 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2014.00238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2014] [Accepted: 07/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosome parasites still represent a serious public health concern and a major economic problem in developing countries. Pathology of schistosomiasis is mainly due to massive egg production by these parasites and to inflammatory responses raised against the eggs which are trapped in host tissues. Tyrosine kinases (TKs) are key molecules that control cell differentiation and proliferation and they already represent important targets in cancer therapy. During recent years, it has been shown that receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) signaling was active in reproductive organs and that it could regulate sexual maturation of schistosomes and egg production. This opens interesting perspectives for the control of transmission and pathogenesis of schistosomiasis based on new therapies targeting schistosome RTKs. This review relates the numerous data showing the major roles of kinase signaling in schistosome reproduction. It describes the conserved and particular features of schistosome RTKs, their implication in gametogenesis and reproduction processes and summarizes recent works indicating that RTKs and their signaling partners are interesting chemotherapeutical targets in new programs of control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marion Morel
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, INSERM U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur de Lille, University Lille Nord de France Lille Cedex, France
| | - Mathieu Vanderstraete
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, INSERM U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur de Lille, University Lille Nord de France Lille Cedex, France
| | - Steffen Hahnel
- Biomedical Centre for Research Seltersberg, Institute of Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen Giessen, Germany
| | - Christoph G Grevelding
- Biomedical Centre for Research Seltersberg, Institute of Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen Giessen, Germany
| | - Colette Dissous
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, INSERM U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur de Lille, University Lille Nord de France Lille Cedex, France
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
You H, Stephenson RJ, Gobert GN, McManus DP. Revisiting glucose uptake and metabolism in schistosomes: new molecular insights for improved schistosomiasis therapies. Front Genet 2014; 5:176. [PMID: 24966871 PMCID: PMC4052099 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2014.00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms required for schistosomes to take up glucose, the major nutritional source exploited by these blood flukes from their mammalian hosts and the subsequent metabolism required to fuel growth and fecundity, can provide new avenues for developing novel interventions for the control of schistosomiasis. This aspect of parasitism is particularly important to paired adult schistosomes, due to their considerable requirements for the energy needed to produce the extensive numbers of eggs laid daily by the female worm. This review describes recent advances in characterizing glucose metabolism in adult schistosomes. Potential intervention targets are discussed within the insulin signaling and glycolysis pathways, both of which play critical roles in the carbohydrate and energy requirements of schistosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong You
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research InstituteBrisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Rachel J. Stephenson
- Faculty of Science, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of QueenslandBrisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Geoffrey N. Gobert
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research InstituteBrisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Donald P. McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research InstituteBrisbane, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Vanderstraete M, Gouignard N, Cailliau K, Morel M, Hahnel S, Leutner S, Beckmann S, Grevelding CG, Dissous C. Venus kinase receptors control reproduction in the platyhelminth parasite Schistosoma mansoni. PLoS Pathog 2014; 10:e1004138. [PMID: 24875530 PMCID: PMC4038586 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1004138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The Venus Kinase Receptor (VKR) is a single transmembrane molecule composed of an intracellular tyrosine kinase domain close to that of insulin receptor and an extracellular Venus Flytrap (VFT) structure similar to the ligand binding domain of many class C G Protein Coupled Receptors. This receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) was first discovered in the platyhelminth parasite Schistosoma mansoni, then in a large variety of invertebrates. A single vkr gene is found in most genomes, except in S. mansoni in which two genes Smvkr1 and Smvkr2 exist. VKRs form a unique family of RTKs present only in invertebrates and their biological functions are still to be discovered. In this work, we show that SmVKRs are expressed in the reproductive organs of S. mansoni, particularly in the ovaries of female worms. By transcriptional analyses evidence was obtained that both SmVKRs fulfill different roles during oocyte maturation. Suppression of Smvkr expression by RNA interference induced spectacular morphological changes in female worms with a strong disorganization of the ovary, which was dominated by the presence of primary oocytes, and a defect of egg formation. Following expression in Xenopus oocytes, SmVKR1 and SmVKR2 receptors were shown to be activated by distinct ligands which are L-Arginine and calcium ions, respectively. Signalling analysis in Xenopus oocytes revealed the capacity of SmVKRs to activate the PI3K/Akt/p70S6K and Erk MAPK pathways involved in cellular growth and proliferation. Additionally, SmVKR1 induced phosphorylation of JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase). Activation of JNK by SmVKR1 was supported by the results of yeast two-hybrid experiments identifying several components of the JNK pathway as specific interacting partners of SmVKR1. In conclusion, these results demonstrate the functions of SmVKR in gametogenesis, and particularly in oogenesis and egg formation. By eliciting signalling pathways potentially involved in oocyte proliferation, growth and migration, these receptors control parasite reproduction and can therefore be considered as potential targets for anti-schistosome therapies. Schistosomiasis is a chronic, debilitating disease affecting more than 200 million people in the world caused by parasitic flatworms of the genus Schistosoma. Pathology is mainly due to massive egg production by parasites and formation of granulomas around the eggs trapped in liver and different organs. Therefore, targeting the molecular processes responsible for gonad development or egg production in schistosomes appears as a valuable strategy to reduce pathogenesis and dissemination of schistosomiasis. In the present study, we investigated the importance of Venus Kinase Receptors (VKRs) which are unusual receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) with an extracellular Venus Flytrap (VFT) ligand-binding domain in the control of reproduction of schistosomes. SmVKRs are expressed in female ovaries of Schistosoma mansoni and the knock-down of their expression provoked dramatic alterations of the oocyte content in ovaries and reduction of egg formation. SmVKRs were also shown to activate different signalling pathways potentially involved in oocyte proliferation, growth and migration. Therefore our results demonstrate that VKRs are essential actors of oogenesis and egg formation in S. mansoni. Moreover, their presence in a large variety of invertebrate species including other helminth parasites and insect parasite vectors can open new perspectives in the control of various vector-borne infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Vanderstraete
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Nadège Gouignard
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Katia Cailliau
- EA 4479, IFR 147, Universite Lille 1 Sciences et Technologies, Villeneuve d'Ascq, France
| | - Marion Morel
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Steffen Hahnel
- Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Silke Leutner
- Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Svenja Beckmann
- Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Colette Dissous
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dissous C, Morel M, Vanderstraete M. Venus kinase receptors: prospects in signaling and biological functions of these invertebrate kinases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:72. [PMID: 24860549 PMCID: PMC4026697 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Venus kinase receptors (VKRs) form a family of invertebrate receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) initially discovered in the parasitic platyhelminth Schistosoma mansoni. VKRs are single transmembrane receptors that contain an extracellular venus fly trap structure similar to the ligand-binding domain of G protein-coupled receptors of class C, and an intracellular tyrosine kinase domain close to that of insulin receptors. VKRs are found in a large variety of invertebrates from cnidarians to echinoderms and are highly expressed in larval stages and in gonads, suggesting a role of these proteins in embryonic and larval development as well as in reproduction. VKR gene silencing could demonstrate the function of these receptors in oogenesis as well as in spermatogenesis in S. mansoni. VKRs are activated by amino acids and are highly responsive to arginine. As many other RTKs, they form dimers when activated by ligands and induce intracellular pathways involved in protein synthesis and cellular growth, such as MAPK and PI3K/Akt/S6K pathways. VKRs are not present in vertebrates or in some invertebrate species. Questions remain open about the origin of this little-known RTK family in evolution and its role in emergence and specialization of Metazoa. What is the meaning of maintenance or loss of VKR in some phyla or species in terms of development and physiological functions? The presence of VKRs in invertebrates of economical and medical importance, such as pests, vectors of pathogens, and platyhelminth parasites, and the implication of these RTKs in gametogenesis and reproduction processes are valuable reasons to consider VKRs as interesting targets in new programs for eradication/control of pests and infectious diseases, with the main advantage in the case of parasite targeting that VKR counterparts are absent from the vertebrate host kinase panel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colette Dissous
- INSERM U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Université Lille Nord de France, Lille, France
| | - Marion Morel
- INSERM U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Université Lille Nord de France, Lille, France
| | - Mathieu Vanderstraete
- INSERM U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Université Lille Nord de France, Lille, France
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Vanderstraete M, Gouignard N, Ahier A, Morel M, Vicogne J, Dissous C. The venus kinase receptor (VKR) family: structure and evolution. BMC Genomics 2013; 14:361. [PMID: 23721482 PMCID: PMC3703292 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-14-361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2012] [Accepted: 05/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) form a family of transmembrane proteins widely conserved in Metazoa, with key functions in cell-to-cell communication and control of multiple cellular processes. A new family of RTK named Venus Kinase Receptor (VKR) has been described in invertebrates. The VKR receptor possesses a Venus Fly Trap (VFT) extracellular module, a bilobate structure that binds small ligands to induce receptor kinase activity. VKR was shown to be highly expressed in the larval stages and gonads of several invertebrates, suggesting that it could have functions in development and/or reproduction. RESULTS Analysis of recent genomic data has allowed us to extend the presence of VKR to five bilaterian phyla (Platyhelminthes, Arthropoda, Annelida, Mollusca, Echinodermata) as well as to the Cnidaria phylum. The presence of NveVKR in the early-branching metazoan Nematostella vectensis suggested that VKR arose before the bilaterian radiation. Phylogenetic and gene structure analyses showed that the 40 receptors identified in 36 animal species grouped monophyletically, and likely evolved from a common ancestor. Multiple alignments of tyrosine kinase (TK) and VFT domains indicated their important level of conservation in all VKRs identified up to date. We showed that VKRs had inducible activity upon binding of extracellular amino-acids and molecular modeling of the VFT domain confirmed the structure of the conserved amino-acid binding site. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the presence of VKR in a large number of invertebrates, including primitive metazoans like cnidarians, but also its absence from nematodes and chordates. This little-known RTK family deserves to be further explored in order to determine its evolutionary origin, its possible interest for the emergence and specialization of Metazoa, and to understand its function in invertebrate development and/or reproductive biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Vanderstraete
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 59019 Lille, France
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Dual targeting of insulin and venus kinase Receptors of Schistosoma mansoni for novel anti-schistosome therapy. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2226. [PMID: 23696913 PMCID: PMC3656120 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chemotherapy of schistosomiasis relies on a single drug, Praziquantel (PZQ) and mass-use of this compound has led to emergence of resistant strains of Schistosoma mansoni, therefore pointing out the necessity to find alternative drugs. Through their essential functions in development and metabolism, receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) could represent valuable drug targets for novel anti-schistosome chemotherapies. Taking advantage of the similarity between the catalytic domains of S. mansoni insulin receptors (SmIR1 and SmIR2) and Venus Kinase Receptors (SmVKR1 and SmVKR2), we studied the possibility to fight schistosomes by targeting simultaneously the four receptors with a single drug. Methodology/Principal Findings Several commercial RTK inhibitors were tested for their potential to inhibit the kinase activities of SmIR1, SmIR2, SmVKR1 and SmVKR2 intracellular domains (ICD) expressed in Xenopus oocytes. We measured the inhibitory effect of chemicals on meiosis resumption induced by the active ICD of the schistosome kinases in oocytes. The IR inhibitor, tyrphostin AG1024, was the most potent inhibitory compound towards SmIR and SmVKR kinases. In vitro studies then allowed us to show that AG1024 affected the viability of both schistosomula and adult worms of S. mansoni. At micromolar doses, AG1024 induced apoptosis and caused schistosomula death in a dose-dependent manner. In adult worms, AG1024 provoked alterations of reproductive organs, as observed by confocal laser scanner microscopy. With 5 µM AG1024, parasites were no more feeding and laying eggs, and they died within 48 h with 10 µM. Conclusion/Significance IRs and VKRs are essential in S. mansoni for key biological processes including glucose uptake, metabolism and reproduction. Our results demonstrate that inhibiting the kinase potential and function of these receptors by a single chemical compound AG1024 at low concentrations, leads to death of schistosomula and adult worms. Thus, AG1024 represents a valuable hit compound for further design of anti-kinase drugs applicable to anti-schistosome chemotherapy. Schistosomiasis is a chronic, debilitating disease that affects over 200 million people in the world. The pathology of schistosomiasis is caused mainly by host immune responses to parasite eggs and due to the formation of granulomas in liver and other tissues. There is no vaccine for schistosomiasis and treatment relies essentially on a single drug, Praziquantel. However, reduced susceptibility of schistosome isolates to Praziquantel has been reported, raising serious concerns about the need to develop new drugs against schistosomes. Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) control many cellular and developmental processes and they are important targets in cancer therapy. In this paper, we have investigated the possibility to fight schistosomes by targeting with a single drug, insulin receptors (IRs) involved in parasite growth and metabolism and Venus Kinase Receptors (VKRs) which are unusual IR-like RTKs expressed in the parasite reproductive organs of Schistosoma mansoni. Diverse RTK inhibitors have been tested on kinase activities of these RTKs. The well-known IR inhibitor, tyrphostin AG1024, was demonstrated to be a potent inhibitor of both S. mansoni VKRs and IRs, able to induce in vitro death of larvae and adult worms at micromolar doses. AG1024 could represent a good hit compound for the development of novel drugs against schistosomes.
Collapse
|
27
|
Vogel KJ, Brown MR, Strand MR. Phylogenetic investigation of Peptide hormone and growth factor receptors in five dipteran genomes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2013; 4:193. [PMID: 24379806 PMCID: PMC3863949 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2013.00193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2013] [Accepted: 11/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Peptide hormones and growth factors bind to membrane receptors and regulate a myriad of processes in insects and other metazoans. The evolutionary relationships among characterized and uncharacterized ("orphan") receptors can provide insights into receptor-ligand biology and narrow target choices in deorphanization studies. However, the large number and low sequence conservation of these receptors make evolutionary analysis difficult. Here, we characterized the G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), receptor guanylyl cyclases (RGCs), and protein kinase receptors (PKRs) of mosquitoes and select other flies by interrogating the genomes of Aedes aegypti, Anopheles gambiae, Culex quinquefasciatus, Drosophila melanogaster, and D. mojavensis. Sequences were grouped by receptor type, clustered using the program CLANS, aligned using HMMR, and phylogenetic trees built using PhyML. Our results indicated that PKRs had relatively few orphan clades whereas GPCRs and RGCs had several. In addition, more than half of the Class B secretin-like GPCRs and RGCs remained uncharacterized. Additional studies revealed that Class B GPCRs exhibited more gain and loss events than other receptor types. Finally, using the neuropeptide F family of insect receptors and the neuropeptide Y family of vertebrate receptors, we also show that functional sites considered critical for ligand binding are conserved among distinct family members and between distantly related taxa. Overall, our results provide the first comprehensive analysis of peptide hormone and growth factor receptors for a major insect group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J. Vogel
- Department of Entomology, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- *Correspondence: Kevin J. Vogel, Department of Entomology, The University of Georgia, 413 Biological Sciences Building, Athens, GA 30602, USA e-mail:
| | - Mark R. Brown
- Department of Entomology, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Michael R. Strand
- Department of Entomology, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Discovery of platyhelminth-specific α/β-integrin families and evidence for their role in reproduction in Schistosoma mansoni. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52519. [PMID: 23300694 PMCID: PMC3531407 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2012] [Accepted: 11/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In all metazoa, the response of cells to molecular stimuli from their environment represents a fundamental principle of regulatory processes controlling cell growth and differentiation. Among the membrane-linked receptors mediating extracellular communication processes are integrin receptors. Besides managing adhesion to the extracellular matrix or to other cells, they arrange information flow into the cells by activating intracellular signaling pathways often acting synergistically through cooperation with growth factor receptors. Although a wealth of information exists on integrins in different model organisms, there is a big gap of knowledge for platyhelminths. Here we report on the in silico detection and reconstruction of α and β integrins from free-living and parasitic platyhelminths, which according to structural and phylogenetic analyses form specific clades separate from each other and from further metazoan integrins. As representative orthologs of parasitic platyhelminths we have cloned one beta-integrin (Smβ-Int1) and four alpha-integrins (Smα-Int1 - Smα-Int4) from Schistosoma mansoni; they were characterized by molecular and biochemical analyses. Evidence is provided that Smβ-Int1 interacts and co-localizes in the reproductive organs with known schistosome cellular tyrosine kinases (CTKs), of which the Syk kinase SmTK4 appeared to be the strongest interaction partner as shown by yeast two-hybrid analyses and coimmunoprecipitation experiments. By a novel RNAi approach with adult schistosomes in vitro we demonstrate for the first time multinucleated oocytes in treated females, indicating a decisive role Smβ-Int1 during oogenesis as phenotypically analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Our findings provide a first comprehensive overview about platyhelminth integrins, of which the parasite group exhibits unique features allowing a clear distinction from the free-living groups. Furthermore, we shed first lights on the functions of integrins in a trematode model parasite, revealing the complexity of molecular processes involved in its reproductive biology, which may be representative for other platyhelminths.
Collapse
|
29
|
Beckmann S, Hahnel S, Cailliau K, Vanderstraete M, Browaeys E, Dissous C, Grevelding CG. Characterization of the Src/Abl hybrid kinase SmTK6 of Schistosoma mansoni. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:42325-42336. [PMID: 22013071 PMCID: PMC3234968 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.210336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2010] [Revised: 10/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular protein-tyrosine kinases play key roles in signal transduction processes in eukaryotes. SmTK4 was the first Syk kinase identified in a parasite and found to be tissue-specifically transcribed in the gonads of adult Schistosoma mansoni. Functional analyses confirmed its role in oogenesis and spermatogenesis. As an SmTK4 upstream binding partner, the cellular protein-tyrosine kinase SmTK6 was isolated from a yeast two-hybrid library. Phylogenetic analyses performed in this study confirmed the first suggestions of a hybrid character of SmTK6. Biochemical studies made in Xenopus oocytes using inhibitors against Src (herbimycin A) and Abl (imatinib) kinases exhibited a biochemical inhibition profile of SmTK6, which was intermediate of Src and Abl kinases. As SmTK6 upstream interaction partners, we identified among others the known Src kinase SmTK3 and the Venus kinase receptor SmVKR1 of S. mansoni by yeast two-hybrid analyses, all of which co-localized in the gonads. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments confirmed interactions between SmTK6 and SmTK3 or SmVKR1. In Xenopus oocytes, it was finally shown that SmVKR1 but also SmTK3 were able to activate SmTK6 enzymatic activity indicating its functions in a receptor tyrosine kinase signal transduction cascade. These results not only demonstrate an intermediate but Src-biased profile of the unusual kinase SmTK6. They also strongly substantiate previous indications for a kinase complex, consisting of a receptor tyrosine kinase, Syk and Src kinases, which has been hypothesized to be involved in proliferation and differentiation processes in the gonads of schistosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Svenja Beckmann
- Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Steffen Hahnel
- Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Katia Cailliau
- EA 4479, IFR 147, Universite Lille 1 Sciences et Technologies, 59655 Villeneuve d'Ascq Cedex, France
| | - Mathieu Vanderstraete
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur Lille, 59019 Lille, France
| | - Edith Browaeys
- EA 4479, IFR 147, Universite Lille 1 Sciences et Technologies, 59655 Villeneuve d'Ascq Cedex, France
| | - Colette Dissous
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur Lille, 59019 Lille, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Fehrentz T, Schönberger M, Trauner D. Optochemical Genetics. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2011; 50:12156-82. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201103236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 316] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
31
|
|
32
|
Functional Diversity of the Schistosoma mansoni Tyrosine Kinases. JOURNAL OF SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION 2011; 2011:603290. [PMID: 21776387 PMCID: PMC3135232 DOI: 10.1155/2011/603290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2010] [Revised: 02/15/2011] [Accepted: 03/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Schistosoma mansoni, one of the causative agents of schistosomiasis, has a complex life cycle infecting over 200 million people worldwide. Such a successful and prolific parasite life cycle has been shown to be dependent on the adaptive interaction between the parasite and hosts. Tyrosine kinases (TKs) play a key role in signaling pathways as demonstrated by a large body of experimental work in eukaryotes. Furthermore, comparative genomics have allowed the identification of TK homologs and provided insights into the functional role of TKs in several biological systems. Finally, TK structural biology has provided a rational basis for obtaining selective inhibitors directed to the treatment of human diseases. This paper covers the important aspects of the phospho-tyrosine signaling network in S. mansoni, Caenorhabditis elegans, and humans, the main process of functional diversification of TKs, that is, protein-domain shuffling, and also discusses TKs as targets for the development of new anti-schistosome drugs.
Collapse
|
33
|
Gouignard N, Vanderstraete M, Cailliau K, Lescuyer A, Browaeys E, Dissous C. Schistosoma mansoni: structural and biochemical characterization of two distinct Venus Kinase Receptors. Exp Parasitol 2011; 132:32-9. [PMID: 21616067 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2011.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2011] [Revised: 04/22/2011] [Accepted: 05/10/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Venus Kinase Receptors (VKRs) are atypical transmembrane proteins composed of an extracellular Venus FlyTrap module linked through a single helix to a tyrosine kinase domain similar to that of insulin receptors. This structure was first described in Schistosoma mansoni, then in a selected range of invertebrates, including many insects. The preferential expression of VKRs in larvae and gonads suggested their role in development and reproduction. While a single vkr gene was consistently found in all genomes, we identified two distinct vkr genes in S. mansoni. Our data indicated that Smvkr1 and Smvkr2 are very similar in structure and likely originated from gene duplication. Both genes are expressed in all the parasite stages and encode homologous proteins with a conserved VKR structure. Recombinant SmVKR1 and SmVKR2 exhibit tyrosine kinase activities dependent on the binding of distinct small ligand molecules. SmVKR1 and SmVKR2 could represent paralogs with different functions in the parasite.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadege Gouignard
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 59019 Lille, France
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Dissous C, Grevelding CG. Piggy-backing the concept of cancer drugs for schistosomiasis treatment: a tangible perspective? Trends Parasitol 2011; 27:59-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2010.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2010] [Revised: 08/25/2010] [Accepted: 09/01/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
35
|
Growth factors and chemotactic factors from parasitic helminths: molecular evidence for roles in host-parasite interactions versus parasite development. Int J Parasitol 2010; 40:761-73. [PMID: 20359480 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2010.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2010] [Revised: 02/25/2010] [Accepted: 02/25/2010] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
For decades molecular helminthologists have been interested in identifying proteins expressed by the parasite that have roles in modulating the host immune response. In some cases, the aim was targeting parasite-derived orthologues of mammalian cytokines and growth factors known to have functions in immune modulation. In others, novel proteins without homology to mammalian cytokines were isolated by investigating effects of purified worm extracts on various immunological processes. Often, the role parasite-derived growth factors play in worm development was ignored. Here, we review growth factors and chemotactic factors expressed by parasitic helminths and discuss their recognised and potential roles in immunomodulation and/or parasite development.
Collapse
|
36
|
Schistosoma mansoni: signal transduction processes during the development of the reproductive organs. Parasitology 2010; 137:497-520. [PMID: 20163751 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182010000053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Among the topics of considerable interest concerning our understanding of the unusual biology of schistosomes is the sexual maturation of the female. The identification of genes coding for signal transduction proteins controlling essential steps of the pairing-dependent differentiation of the reproductive organs, vitellarium and ovary will help to substantiate our knowledge about this unique parasite. Furthermore, such signalling proteins could be potential targets to interfere with the development of this parasite to combat schistosomiasis since its pathology is caused by the eggs. This review summarises first post-genomic steps to elucidate the function of gonad-specific signalling molecules which were identified by homology-based cloning strategies, by in silico identification or by yeast two-hybrid interaction analyses, using a combination of novel techniques. These include the in vitro culture of adult schistosomes, their treatment with chemical inhibitors to block enzyme activity, the use of RNAi to silence gene function post-transcriptionally, and confocal laser scanning microscopy to study the morphological consequences of these experimental approaches. Finally, we propose a first model of protein networks that are active in the ovary regulating mitogenic activity and differentiation. Some of these molecules are also active in the testes of males, probably fulfilling similar roles as in the ovary.
Collapse
|
37
|
You H, Zhang W, Moertel L, McManus DP, Gobert GN. Transcriptional profiles of adult male and female Schistosoma japonicum in response to insulin reveal increased expression of genes involved in growth and development. Int J Parasitol 2009; 39:1551-9. [PMID: 19596015 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2009.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2009] [Revised: 06/09/2009] [Accepted: 06/10/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Microarray analysis was used to investigate differential gene regulation in adult male and female Schistosoma japonicum cultured in the presence or absence of insulin in vitro. A total of 1,101 genes were up- or down-regulated in response to insulin, the majority of differential expression occurring 24h after the addition of insulin to the cultures. Genes differentially expressed in male or female worms were predominantly involved in growth and development, with significant sex-specific differences in transcriptional profiles evident. Insulin appeared to promote protein synthesis and control protein degradation more prominently in male parasites. The study also indicated that insulin plays a more pronounced role in the uptake of glucose in unpaired female parasites, as reflected in the increased stimulation of gene expression of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase sub-pathway of insulin signalling. Insulin may also impact on the sexual differentiation and fecundity of female schistosomes by activation of the mitogenic-activated protein kinase sub-pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong You
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Ahier A, Rondard P, Gouignard N, Khayath N, Huang S, Trolet J, Donoghue DJ, Gauthier M, Pin JP, Dissous C. A new family of receptor tyrosine kinases with a venus flytrap binding domain in insects and other invertebrates activated by aminoacids. PLoS One 2009; 4:e5651. [PMID: 19461966 PMCID: PMC2680970 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0005651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2009] [Accepted: 04/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tyrosine kinase receptors (RTKs) comprise a large family of membrane receptors that regulate various cellular processes in cell biology of diverse organisms. We previously described an atypical RTK in the platyhelminth parasite Schistosoma mansoni, composed of an extracellular Venus flytrap module (VFT) linked through a single transmembrane domain to an intracellular tyrosine kinase domain similar to that of the insulin receptor. Methods and Findings Here we show that this receptor is a member of a new family of RTKs found in invertebrates, and particularly in insects. Sixteen new members of this family, named Venus Kinase Receptor (VKR), were identified in many insects. Structural and phylogenetic studies performed on VFT and TK domains showed that VKR sequences formed monophyletic groups, the VFT group being close to that of GABAB receptors and the TK one being close to that of insulin receptors. We show that a recombinant VKR is able to autophosphorylate on tyrosine residues, and report that it can be activated by L-arginine. This is in agreement with the high degree of conservation of the alpha amino acid binding residues found in many amino acid binding VFTs. The presence of high levels of vkr transcripts in larval forms and in female gonads indicates a putative function of VKR in reproduction and/or development. Conclusion The identification of RTKs specific for parasites and insect vectors raises new perspectives for the control of human parasitic and infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Ahier
- Inserm U547, Université de Lille 2, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Philippe Rondard
- CNRS UMR5203, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Inserm U661, and Université Montpellier 1,2, Montpellier, France
| | - Nadège Gouignard
- Inserm U547, Université de Lille 2, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Naji Khayath
- Inserm U547, Université de Lille 2, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Siluo Huang
- CNRS UMR5203, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Inserm U661, and Université Montpellier 1,2, Montpellier, France
| | - Jacques Trolet
- Inserm U547, Université de Lille 2, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Daniel J. Donoghue
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Moores UCSD Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Monique Gauthier
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale, CNRS UMR 5169, Université Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Pin
- CNRS UMR5203, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Inserm U661, and Université Montpellier 1,2, Montpellier, France
| | - Colette Dissous
- Inserm U547, Université de Lille 2, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Ting-An W, Hong-Xiang Z. PTK-pathways and TGF-beta signaling pathways in schistosomes. J Basic Microbiol 2009; 49:25-31. [PMID: 19253328 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.200800317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Schistosome parasites have co-evolved an intricate relationship with their human and snail hosts as well as a novel interplay between the adult male and female parasites. Drug-induced suppression of female schistosome sexual maturation is an auspicious strategy to combat schistosomiasis since the eggs are the causative agent. Studies on signaling in schistosomes opens a new era for investigation of host-parasite and male-female interactions. We review the role of the TGF-beta signaling pathway in parasite development, host-parasite interactions and male-female interactions. This review also summarizes recent studies suggesting tyrosine kinases as important factors for the regulation of female gonad development. In this context, cytoplasmatic tyrosine kinases of the Src class seem to play especially dominant roles. Moreover, experimental data and theoretical concepts are provided supporting a crosstalk between tyrosine kinase and TGF-beta signaling in the production of vitellocytes. Finally, we take advantage of the schistosome genome project to propose a model for the regulation of vitelline-cell production and differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wang Ting-An
- Department of Pathogenic Organisms, Preclinical Medicine College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Functioning of the dimeric GABA(B) receptor extracellular domain revealed by glycan wedge scanning. EMBO J 2008; 27:1321-32. [PMID: 18388862 DOI: 10.1038/emboj.2008.64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2007] [Accepted: 03/05/2008] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) activated by the neurotransmitter GABA is made up of two subunits, GABA(B1) and GABA(B2). GABA(B1) binds agonists, whereas GABA(B2) is required for trafficking GABA(B1) to the cell surface, increasing agonist affinity to GABA(B1), and activating associated G proteins. These subunits each comprise two domains, a Venus flytrap domain (VFT) and a heptahelical transmembrane domain (7TM). How agonist binding to the GABA(B1) VFT leads to GABA(B2) 7TM activation remains unknown. Here, we used a glycan wedge scanning approach to investigate how the GABA(B) VFT dimer controls receptor activity. We first identified the dimerization interface using a bioinformatics approach and then showed that introducing an N-glycan at this interface prevents the association of the two subunits and abolishes all activities of GABA(B2), including agonist activation of the G protein. We also identified a second region in the VFT where insertion of an N-glycan does not prevent dimerization, but blocks agonist activation of the receptor. These data provide new insight into the function of this prototypical GPCR and demonstrate that a change in the dimerization interface is required for receptor activation.
Collapse
|
41
|
Bahia D, Andrade LF, Ludolf F, Mortara RA, Oliveira G. Protein tyrosine kinases in Schistosoma mansoni. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2008; 101 Suppl 1:137-43. [PMID: 17308761 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762006000900022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2006] [Accepted: 06/26/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification and description of signal transduction molecules and mechanisms are essential to elucidate Schistosoma mansoni host-parasite interactions and parasite biology. This mini review focuses on recent advancements in the study of signalling molecules and transduction mechanisms in S. mansoni, drawing special attention to the recently identified and characterised protein tyrosine kinases of S. mansoni.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Bahia
- Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou-Fiocruz, Av. Augusto de Lima 1715, Barro Preto, 31190-002 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Specific tyrosine phosphorylation induced in Schistosoma mansoni miracidia by haemolymph from schistosome susceptible, but not resistant, Biomphalaria glabrata. Parasitology 2007; 135:337-45. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182007003964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
SUMMARYMolecular interplay during snail-schistosome interactions is poorly understood and there is much to discover concerning the effect of snail host molecules on molecular processes in schistosomes. Using the Biomphalaria glabrata – Schistosoma mansoni host-parasite system, the effects of exposure to haemolymph, derived from schistosome-resistant and susceptible snail strains, on protein tyrosine phosphorylation in miracidia have been investigated. Western blotting revealed several tyrosine phosphorylated proteins in this larval stage. Exposure of miracidia to haemolymph from susceptible snails for 60 min resulted in a striking, 5-fold, increase in the tyrosine phosphorylation of a 56 kDa (p56) S. mansoni protein. In contrast, haemolymph from resistant snails had little effect on protein tyrosine phosphorylation levels in miracidia. Confocal microscopy revealed that tyrosine phosphorylation was predominantly associated with proteins present in the tegument. Finally, treatment of miracidia with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein significantly impaired their development into primary sporocysts. The results open avenues for research that focus on the potential importance of phospho-p56 to the outcome of schistosome infection in snails, and the significance of protein tyrosine kinase-mediated signalling events to the transformation of S. mansoni larvae.
Collapse
|
43
|
Knobloch J, Beckmann S, Burmeister C, Quack T, Grevelding CG. Tyrosine kinase and cooperative TGFβ signaling in the reproductive organs of Schistosoma mansoni. Exp Parasitol 2007; 117:318-36. [PMID: 17553494 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2007.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2007] [Revised: 04/06/2007] [Accepted: 04/16/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Drug-induced suppression of female schistosome sexual maturation is an auspicious strategy to combat schistosomiasis since the eggs are the causative agent. The establishment of drug targets requires knowledge about the molecular mechanisms that regulate the development of the female reproductive organs, which include vitellarium and ovary. This review summarizes recent studies suggesting tyrosine kinases as important factors for the regulation of female gonad development. In this context, especially cytoplasmatic tyrosine kinases of the Src class seem to play dominant roles. Moreover, experimental data and theoretical concepts are provided supporting a crosstalk between tyrosine kinase and TGFbeta signaling in the production of vitellocytes. Finally, we take advantage from the schistosome genome project to propose a model for the regulation of vitelline-cell production and differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Knobloch
- Institute for Animal Developmental and Molecular Biology, Heinrich-Heine-University, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Bahia D, Mortara RA, Kusel JR, Andrade LF, Ludolf F, Kuser PR, Avelar L, Trolet J, Dissous C, Pierce RJ, Oliveira G. Schistosoma mansoni: Expression of Fes-like tyrosine kinase SmFes in the tegument and terebratorium suggests its involvement in host penetration. Exp Parasitol 2007; 116:225-32. [PMID: 17350619 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2007.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2006] [Revised: 01/04/2007] [Accepted: 01/05/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Protein Tyrosine Kinases (PTKs) are important molecules in intra- and inter-cellular communication, playing a major role in signal transduction processes. We have previously identified and characterized the molecular structure of a new PTK in Schistosoma mansoni, SmFes. SmFes exhibits the characteristic features of Fes/Fps protein tyrosine kinase subfamily of which it is the first member described in helminths. Herein, we show that genes orthologous to SmFes are also present in other Schistosoma species and the transcript is detected in Schistosoma japonicum. The SmFes protein was detected at all the main life-cycle stages and was most abundant in cercariae and newly-transformed schistosomula. However, no protein was detected in schistosomula maintained in vitro for 7 days. By immunolocalization assays we showed that SmFes is particularly concentrated at the terebratorium of miracidia and tegument of cercaria and schistosomula skin-stage. These findings suggest that SmFes may play a role in signal transduction pathways involved in larval transformation after penetration into intermediate and definitive hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Bahia
- Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou (CPqRR), FIOCRUZ, Av Augusto de Lima 1715, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Kusel JR, Al-Adhami BH, Doenhoff MJ. The schistosome in the mammalian host: understanding the mechanisms of adaptation. Parasitology 2007; 134:1477-526. [PMID: 17572930 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182007002971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARYIn this review, we envisage the host environment, not as a hostile one, since the schistosome thrives there, but as one in which the relationship between the two organisms consists of constant communication, through signalling mechanisms involving sense organs, surface glycocalyx, surface membrane and internal organs of the parasite, with host fluids and cells. The surface and secretions of the schistosome egg have very different properties from those of other parasite stages, but adapted for the dispersal of the eggs and for the preservation of host liver function. We draw from studies of mammalian cells and other organisms to indicate how further work might be carried out on the signalling function of the surface glycocalyx, the raft structure of the surface and existence of pores in the surface membrane, the repair of the surface membrane, the role of the membrane structure in ion channel function (including recent work on the actin cytoskeleton and calcium channels) and the possible role of P-glycoproteins in the adaptation of the parasite to its environment. We are speculative in some areas, such as the suggestions that variability in surface properties of schistosomes may relate to the existence of membrane rafts and that parasite communities may exhibit quorum sensing. This speculative approach is adopted with the hope that future work on the whole organisms and their interactions will be encouraged.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J R Kusel
- Glasgow Biomedical Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Dissous C, Ahier A, Khayath N. Protein tyrosine kinases as new potential targets against human schistosomiasis. Bioessays 2007; 29:1281-8. [DOI: 10.1002/bies.20662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
47
|
Khayath N, Vicogne J, Ahier A, BenYounes A, Konrad C, Trolet J, Viscogliosi E, Brehm K, Dissous C. Diversification of the insulin receptor family in the helminth parasite Schistosoma mansoni. FEBS J 2006; 274:659-76. [PMID: 17181541 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2006.05610.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Insulin signalling is a very ancient and well conserved pathway in metazoan cells, dependent on insulin receptors (IR) which are transmembrane proteins with tyrosine kinase activity. A unique IR is usually present in invertebrates whereas two IR members are found with different functions in vertebrates. This work demonstrates the existence of two distinct IR homologs (SmIR-1 and SmIR-2) in the parasite trematode Schistosoma mansoni. These two receptors display differences in several structural motifs essential for signalling and are differentially expressed in parasite tissues, suggesting that they could have distinct functions. The gene organization of SmIR-1 and SmIR-2 is similar to that of the human IR and to that of the IR homolog from Echinococcus multilocularis (EmIR), another parasitic platyhelminth. SmIR-1 and SmIR-2 were shown to interact with human pro-insulin but not with pro-insulin-like growth factor-1 in two-hybrid assays. Phylogenetic results indicated that SmIR-2 and EmIR might be functional orthologs whereas SmIR-1 would have emerged to fulfil specific functions in schistosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naji Khayath
- U547 INSERM, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille Cedex, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Saule P, Vicogne J, Delacre M, Macia L, Tailleux A, Dissous C, Auriault C, Wolowczuk I. Host glucose metabolism mediates T4 and IL-7 action on Schistosoma mansoni development. J Parasitol 2006; 91:737-44. [PMID: 17089737 DOI: 10.1645/ge-3402.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin (IL-)7 and thyroxin (T4) favor Schistosoma mansoni development. Their effect is similar, rather than identical; moreover, cotreatment acts synergistically on parasites. This questioned a common mediator to their action, which we hypothesized was host glucose metabolism. Infection with S. mansoni resulted in an early peak in glycemia immediately followed by a peak of insulinemia (D7-21). In IL-7 + T4 cotreated infected animals, the peak of insulin was abrogated. We further assessed the consequences of experimentally induced glucose- or insulin-level variations on parasite development. Insulin treatment from day 14 to day 21 post-infection (PI) led to increased worm burden and parasite size, thus mimicking the effect of T4 on schistosome development. Interestingly, insulin treatment did not modify glycemia yet abrogated the hyperinsulinemia, normally occurring during infection. Finally, these treatments were associated with an alteration of the expression of parasite genes involved in glucose uptake. These experiments characterize the elaborate links between parasite and host metabolism and their reciprocal influences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pasquine Saule
- UMR 8527 CNRS Institut de Biologie de Lille, Lille, France 59 021.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Knobloch J, Kunz W, Grevelding CG. Herbimycin A suppresses mitotic activity and egg production of female Schistosoma mansoni. Int J Parasitol 2006; 36:1261-72. [PMID: 16844129 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2006.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2006] [Revised: 05/22/2006] [Accepted: 06/01/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The eggs of the endoparasite Schistosoma are the causative agent of schistosomiasis, an important disease of humans, which is endemic in (sub-) tropical regions. The absence of a vaccine with sufficient protective qualities and increasing resistance to approved and established drugs like praziquantel, justify the exploration of novel ways to fight schistosomes. Our strategy is based on interference with the sexual maturation of the female. Prerequisites for gonad development in adult females are a continuous pairing contact with the male and significantly increased mitotic activity. In this study we show that the male governs sexual maturation of the female, as the separation of couples causes a clear reduction of female mitotic activity and, consequently, egg production. We demonstrate that treatment of schistosomes with Herbimycin A, an inhibitor of protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs), mimics the separation of couples as the drug blocks mitotic activity and egg production of paired females. However, the synthesis of the eggshell precursor protein p14 is elevated. Furthermore, we show for the first time in invertebrates that Herbimycin A decreases tyrosine phosphorylation and PTK stability in schistosomes. Summarised, our data provide evidence that PTKs have key functions in regulating gonad development, eggshell gene expression and, consequently, egg production. Therefore, we suggest envisaging schistosome PTKs as novel targets for strategies to combat schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Knobloch
- Institut für Genetik, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Pierrot C, Wilson S, Lallet H, Lafitte S, Jones FM, Daher W, Capron M, Dunne DW, Khalife J. Identification of a novel antigen of Schistosoma mansoni shared with Plasmodium falciparum and evaluation of different cross-reactive antibody subclasses induced by human schistosomiasis and malaria. Infect Immun 2006; 74:3347-54. [PMID: 16714563 PMCID: PMC1479256 DOI: 10.1128/iai.01724-05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2005] [Revised: 01/17/2006] [Accepted: 03/07/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium falciparum and Schistosoma mansoni are often found in human coinfections, and cross-reactive antibodies to different components of the two parasites have been detected. In this work, we identified a cross-reactive S. mansoni gene product, referred to as SmLRR, that seems to belong to the leucine-rich repeat protein family. Comparative analysis of SmLRR revealed 57% similarity with a putative gene product encoded in the P. falciparum genome. Antibodies to SmLRR were found in experimental infections and in both S. mansoni- and P. falciparum-infected individuals. Correlative analysis of human anti-SmLRR responses in Kenya and Uganda suggested that malaria and schistosomiasis drive the immunoglobulin G3 (IgG3) and IgG4 isotypes, respectively, against SmLRR, suggesting that there is differential regulation of cross-reactive isotypes depending on the infection. In addition, the levels of anti-SmLRR IgG4, but not the levels of IgG3, correlated positively with the intensity of S. mansoni infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Pierrot
- Unité Inserm 547, IFR 17, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 1 rue du Prof. Calmette, 59019 Lille, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|