1
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Leone L, De Fenza M, Esposito A, Maglio O, Nastri F, Lombardi A. Peptides and metal ions: A successful marriage for developing artificial metalloproteins. J Pept Sci 2024; 30:e3606. [PMID: 38719781 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 10/12/2024]
Abstract
The mutual relationship between peptides and metal ions enables metalloproteins to have crucial roles in biological systems, including structural, sensing, electron transport, and catalytic functions. The effort to reproduce or/and enhance these roles, or even to create unprecedented functions, is the focus of protein design, the first step toward the comprehension of the complex machinery of nature. Nowadays, protein design allows the building of sophisticated scaffolds, with novel functions and exceptional stability. Recent progress in metalloprotein design has led to the building of peptides/proteins capable of orchestrating the desired functions of different metal cofactors. The structural diversity of peptides allows proper selection of first- and second-shell ligands, as well as long-range electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions, which represent precious tools for tuning metal properties. The scope of this review is to discuss the construction of metal sites in de novo designed and miniaturized scaffolds. Selected examples of mono-, di-, and multi-nuclear binding sites, from the last 20 years will be described in an effort to highlight key artificial models of catalytic or electron-transfer metalloproteins. The authors' goal is to make readers feel like guests at the marriage between peptides and metal ions while offering sources of inspiration for future architects of innovative, artificial metalloproteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Leone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria De Fenza
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Esposito
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ornella Maglio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Flavia Nastri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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2
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Esposito A, Leone L, De Simone A, Fusco G, Nastri F, Lombardi A. Catalytic Nanomaterials by Conjugation of an Artificial Heme-Peroxidase to Amyloid Fibrils. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:45371-45382. [PMID: 39140178 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c10449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
The self-assembly of proteins and peptides into fibrillar amyloid aggregates is a highly promising route to define the next generation of functional nanomaterials. Amyloid fibrils, traditionally associated with neurodegenerative diseases, offer exceptional conformational and chemical stability and mechanical properties, and resistance to degradation. Here, we report the development of catalytic amyloid nanomaterials through the conjugation of a miniaturized artificial peroxidase (FeMC6*a) to a self-assembling amyloidogenic peptide derived from human transthyretin, TTR(105-115), whose sequence is YTIAALLSPYS. Our synthetic approach relies on fast and selective click ligation upon proper modification of both the peptide and FeMC6*a, leading to TTRLys108@FeMC6*a. Mixing unmodified TTR(105-115) with TTRLys108@FeMC6*a allowed the generation of enzyme-loaded amyloid fibrils, namely, FeMC6*a@fibrils. Catalytic studies, performed in aqueous solution at nearly neutral pH, using ABTS as a model substrate and H2O2 as the oxidizing agent revealed that the enzyme retains its catalytic activity. Moreover, the activity was found to depend on the TTRLys108@FeMC6*a/unmodified TTR(105-115) peptide ratio. In particular, those with the 2:100 ratio showed the highest activity in terms of initial rates and substrate conversion among the screened nanoconjugates and compared to the freely diffusing enzyme. Finally, the newly developed nanomaterials were integrated into a flow system based on a polyvinylidene difluoride membrane filter. Within this flow-reactor, multiple reaction cycles were performed, showcasing the reusability and stability of the catalytic amyloids over extended periods, thus offering significantly improved characteristics compared to the isolated FeMC6*a in the application to a number of practical scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Esposito
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Linda Leone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Alfonso De Simone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuliana Fusco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Flavia Nastri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
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3
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Wolfe JA, Horne WS. Application of artificial backbone connectivity in the development of metalloenzyme mimics. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2024; 81:102509. [PMID: 39098212 PMCID: PMC11345794 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2024.102509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Metal-dependent enzymes are abundant and vital catalytic agents in nature. The functional versatility of metalloenzymes has made them common targets for improvement by protein engineering as well as mimicry by de novo designed sequences. In both strategies, the incorporation of non-canonical cofactors and/or non-canonical side chains has proved a useful tool. Less explored-but similarly powerful-is the utilization of non-canonical covalent modifications to the polypeptide backbone itself. Such efforts can entail either introduction of limited artificial monomers in natural chains to produce heterogeneous backbones or construction of completely abiotic oligomers that adopt defined folds. Herein, we review recent research applying artificial protein-like backbones in the construction of metalloenzyme mimics, highlighting progress as well as open questions in this emerging field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob A Wolfe
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - W Seth Horne
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA.
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4
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Renzi E, Esposito A, Leone L, Chávez M, Pineda T, Lombardi A, Nastri F. Biohybrid materials comprising an artificial peroxidase and differently shaped gold nanoparticles. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:3533-3542. [PMID: 38989515 PMCID: PMC11232542 DOI: 10.1039/d4na00344f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
The immobilization of biocatalysts on inorganic supports allows the development of bio-nanohybrid materials with defined functional properties. Gold nanomaterials (AuNMs) are the main players in this field, due to their fascinating shape-dependent properties that account for their versatility. Even though incredible progress has been made in the preparation of AuNMs, few studies have been carried out to analyze the impact of particle morphology on the behavior of immobilized biocatalysts. Herein, the artificial peroxidase Fe(iii)-Mimochrome VI*a (FeMC6*a) was conjugated to two different anisotropic gold nanomaterials, nanorods (AuNRs) and triangular nanoprisms (AuNTs), to investigate how the properties of the nanosupport can affect the functional behavior of FeMC6*a. The conjugation of FeMC6*a to AuNMs was performed by a click-chemistry approach, using FeMC6*a modified with pegylated aza-dibenzocyclooctyne (FeMC6*a-PEG4@DBCO), which was allowed to react with azide-functionalized AuNRs and AuNTs, synthesized from citrate-capped AuNMs. To this end, a literature protocol for depleting CTAB from AuNRs was herein reported for the first time to prepare citrate-AuNTs. The overall results suggest that the nanomaterial shape influences the nanoconjugate functional properties. Besides giving new insights into the effect of the surfaces on the artificial peroxidase properties, these results open up the way for creating novel nanostructures with potential applications in the field of sensing devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Renzi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo via Cintia Naples 80126 Italy
| | - Alessandra Esposito
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo via Cintia Naples 80126 Italy
| | - Linda Leone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo via Cintia Naples 80126 Italy
| | - Miriam Chávez
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Applied Thermodynamics, Institute of Chemistry for Energy and Environment, University of Cordoba, Campus Rabanales Ed. Marie Curie Córdoba E-14014 Spain
| | - Teresa Pineda
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Applied Thermodynamics, Institute of Chemistry for Energy and Environment, University of Cordoba, Campus Rabanales Ed. Marie Curie Córdoba E-14014 Spain
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo via Cintia Naples 80126 Italy
| | - Flavia Nastri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo via Cintia Naples 80126 Italy
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Renzi E, Piper A, Nastri F, Merkoçi A, Lombardi A. An Artificial Miniaturized Peroxidase for Signal Amplification in Lateral Flow Immunoassays. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2207949. [PMID: 36942720 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Signal amplification strategies are widely used for improving the sensitivity of lateral flow immunoassays (LFiAs). Herein, the artificial miniaturized peroxidase Fe(III)-MimochromeVI*a (FeMC6*a), immobilized on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), is used as a strategy to obtain catalytic signal amplification in sandwich immunoassays on lateral flow strips. The assay scheme uses AuNPs decorated with the mini-peroxidase FeMC6*a and anti-human-IgG as a detection antibody (dAb), for the detection of human-IgG, as a model analyte. Recognition of the analyte by the capture and detection antibodies is first evidenced by the appearance of a red color in the test line (TL), due to the accumulation of AuNPs. Subsequent addition of 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) induces an increase of the test line color, due to the TMB being converted into an insoluble colored product, catalyzed by FeMC6*a. This work shows that FeMC6*a acts as an efficient catalyst in paper, increasing the sensitivity of an LFiA up to four times with respect to a conventional LFiA. Furthermore, FeMC6*a achieves lower limits of detection that are found in control experiments where it is replaced with horseradish peroxidase (HRP), its natural counterpart. This study represents a significant proof-of-concept for the development of more sensitive LFiAs, for different analytes, based on properly designed artificial metalloenzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Renzi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 21, Napoli, 80126, Italy
- Nanobioelectronics & Biosensors Group, Institut Català de Nanociència I Nanotecnologia (ICN2), CSIC and The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Campus UAB, Bellaterra, Barcelona, 08193, Spain
| | - Andrew Piper
- Nanobioelectronics & Biosensors Group, Institut Català de Nanociència I Nanotecnologia (ICN2), CSIC and The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Campus UAB, Bellaterra, Barcelona, 08193, Spain
| | - Flavia Nastri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 21, Napoli, 80126, Italy
| | - Arben Merkoçi
- Nanobioelectronics & Biosensors Group, Institut Català de Nanociència I Nanotecnologia (ICN2), CSIC and The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Campus UAB, Bellaterra, Barcelona, 08193, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Pg. Lluís Companys 23, Barcelona, 08010, Spain
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 21, Napoli, 80126, Italy
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Chino M, La Gatta S, Leone L, De Fenza M, Lombardi A, Pavone V, Maglio O. Dye Decolorization by a Miniaturized Peroxidase Fe-MimochromeVI*a. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11070. [PMID: 37446248 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidases and peroxidases have found application in the field of chlorine-free organic dye degradation in the paper, toothpaste, and detergent industries. Nevertheless, their widespread use is somehow hindered because of their cost, availability, and batch-to-batch reproducibility. Here, we report the catalytic proficiency of a miniaturized synthetic peroxidase, Fe-Mimochrome VI*a, in the decolorization of four organic dyes, as representatives of either the heterocyclic or triarylmethane class of dyes. Fe-Mimochrome VI*a performed over 130 turnovers in less than five minutes in an aqueous buffer at a neutral pH under mild conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Chino
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Salvatore La Gatta
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Linda Leone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria De Fenza
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Ornella Maglio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Napoli, Italy
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Leone L, Muñoz-García AB, D'Alonzo D, Pavone V, Nastri F, Lombardi A. Peptide-based metalloporphyrin catalysts: unveiling the role of the metal ion in indole oxidation. J Inorg Biochem 2023; 246:112298. [PMID: 37379767 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2023.112298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Over the last decades, much effort has been devoted to the construction of protein and peptide-based metalloporphyrin catalysts capable of promoting difficult transformations with high selectivity. In this context, mechanistic studies are fundamental to elucidate all the factors that contribute to catalytic performances and product selectivity. In our previous work, we selected the synthetic peptide-porphyrin conjugate MnMC6*a as a proficient catalyst for indole oxidation, promoting the formation of a 3-oxindole derivative with unprecedented selectivity. In this work, we have evaluated the role of the metal ion in affecting reaction outcome, by replacing manganese with iron in the MC6*a scaffold. Even though product selectivity is not altered upon metal substitution, FeMC6*a shows a lower substrate conversion and prolonged reaction times with respect to its manganese analogue. Experimental and theoretical studies have enabled us to delineate the reaction free energy profiles for both catalysts, indicating different thermodynamic limiting steps, depending on the nature of the metal ion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Leone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo, via Cintia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Ana Belén Muñoz-García
- Department of Physics "Ettore Pancini", University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo, via Cintia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Daniele D'Alonzo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo, via Cintia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo, via Cintia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Flavia Nastri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo, via Cintia, 80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo, via Cintia, 80126 Naples, Italy.
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8
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D'Alonzo D, De Fenza M, Pavone V, Lombardi A, Nastri F. Selective Oxidation of Halophenols Catalyzed by an Artificial Miniaturized Peroxidase. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098058. [PMID: 37175773 PMCID: PMC10178546 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of artificial enzymes for application in sustainable technologies, such as the transformation of environmental pollutants or biomass, is one of the most challenging goals in metalloenzyme design. In this work, we describe the oxidation of mono-, di-, tri- and penta-halogenated phenols catalyzed by the artificial metalloenzyme Fe-MC6*a. It promoted the dehalogenation of 4-fluorophenol into the corresponding 1,4-benzoquinone, while under the same experimental conditions, 4-chloro, 4-bromo and 4-iodophenol were selectively converted into higher molecular weight compounds. Analysis of the 4-chlorophenol oxidation products clarified that oligomers based on C-O bonds were exclusively formed in this case. All results show that Fe-MC6*a holds intriguing enzymatic properties, as it catalyzes halophenol oxidation with substrate-dependent chemoselectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele D'Alonzo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria De Fenza
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Flavia Nastri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
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9
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Chino M, Di Costanzo LF, Leone L, La Gatta S, Famulari A, Chiesa M, Lombardi A, Pavone V. Designed Rubredoxin miniature in a fully artificial electron chain triggered by visible light. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2368. [PMID: 37185349 PMCID: PMC10130062 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37941-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Designing metal sites into de novo proteins has significantly improved, recently. However, identifying the minimal coordination spheres, able to encompass the necessary information for metal binding and activity, still represents a great challenge, today. Here, we test our understanding with a benchmark, nevertheless difficult, case. We assemble into a miniature 28-residue protein, the quintessential elements required to fold properly around a FeCys4 redox center, and to function efficiently in electron-transfer. This study addresses a challenge in de novo protein design, as it reports the crystal structure of a designed tetra-thiolate metal-binding protein in sub-Å agreement with the intended design. This allows us to well correlate structure to spectroscopic and electrochemical properties. Given its high reduction potential compared to natural and designed FeCys4-containing proteins, we exploit it as terminal electron acceptor of a fully artificial chain triggered by visible light.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Chino
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126, Napoli, Italy
| | - Luigi Franklin Di Costanzo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy
| | - Linda Leone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126, Napoli, Italy
| | - Salvatore La Gatta
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126, Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonino Famulari
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Giuria 9, 10125, Torino, Italy
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, University of Zaragoza, Calle Pedro Cerbuna 12, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mario Chiesa
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Giuria 9, 10125, Torino, Italy
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126, Napoli, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126, Napoli, Italy.
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Trouvé J, Youssef K, Kasemthaveechok S, Gramage-Doria R. Catalyst Complexity in a Highly Active and Selective Wacker-Type Markovnikov Oxidation of Olefins with a Bioinspired Iron Complex. ACS Catal 2023. [DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.3c00593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Khalil Youssef
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, ISCR-UMR6226, FR-35000 Rennes, France
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11
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Zedler M, Tse SW, Ruiz-Gonzalez A, Haseloff J. Paper-Based Multiplex Sensors for the Optical Detection of Plant Stress. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:314. [PMID: 36838015 PMCID: PMC9968015 DOI: 10.3390/mi14020314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The rising population and the ongoing climate crisis call for improved means to monitor and optimise agriculture. A promising approach to tackle current challenges in food production is the early diagnosis of plant diseases through non-invasive methods, such as the detection of volatiles. However, current devices for detection of multiple volatiles are based on electronic noses, which are expensive, require complex circuit assembly, may involve metal oxides with heating elements, and cannot easily be adapted for some applications that require miniaturisation or limit front-end use of electronic components. To address these challenges, a low-cost optoelectronic nose using chemo-responsive colorimetric dyes drop-casted onto filter paper has been developed in the current work. The final sensors could be used for the quantitative detection of up to six plant volatiles through changes in colour intensities with a sub-ppm level limit of detection, one of the lowest limits of detection reported so far using colorimetric gas sensors. Sensor colouration could be analysed using a low-cost spectrometer and the results could be processed using a microcontroller. The measured volatiles could be used for the early detection of plant abiotic stress as early as two days after exposure to two different stresses: high salinity and starvation. This approach allowed a lowering of costs to GBP 1 per diagnostic sensing paper. Furthermore, the small size of the paper sensors allows for their use in confined settings, such as Petri dishes. This detection of abiotic stress could be easily achieved by exposing the devices to living plants for 1 h. This technology has the potential to be used for monitoring of plant development in field applications, early recognition of stress, implementation of preventative measures, and mitigation of harvest losses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jim Haseloff
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge, Downing St., Cambridge CB2 3EA, UK
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Pirro F, La Gatta S, Arrigoni F, Famulari A, Maglio O, Del Vecchio P, Chiesa M, De Gioia L, Bertini L, Chino M, Nastri F, Lombardi A. A De Novo-Designed Type 3 Copper Protein Tunes Catechol Substrate Recognition and Reactivity. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202211552. [PMID: 36334012 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202211552] [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: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
De novo metalloprotein design is a remarkable approach to shape protein scaffolds toward specific functions. Here, we report the design and characterization of Due Rame 1 (DR1), a de novo designed protein housing a di-copper site and mimicking the Type 3 (T3) copper-containing polyphenol oxidases (PPOs). To achieve this goal, we hierarchically designed the first and the second di-metal coordination spheres to engineer the di-copper site into a simple four-helix bundle scaffold. Spectroscopic, thermodynamic, and functional characterization revealed that DR1 recapitulates the T3 copper site, supporting different copper redox states, and being active in the O2 -dependent oxidation of catechols to o-quinones. Careful design of the residues lining the substrate access site endows DR1 with substrate recognition, as revealed by Hammet analysis and computational studies on substituted catechols. This study represents a premier example in the construction of a functional T3 copper site into a designed four-helix bundle protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Pirro
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore La Gatta
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Arrigoni
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milan-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 2, 20126, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonino Famulari
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Giuria 9, 10125, Torino, Italy.,Department of Condensed Matter Physics, University of of Zaragoza, Calle Pedro Cerbuna 12, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ornella Maglio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy.,Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Pompea Del Vecchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Chiesa
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Giuria 9, 10125, Torino, Italy
| | - Luca De Gioia
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milan-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 2, 20126, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Bertini
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milan-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 2, 20126, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Chino
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Flavia Nastri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
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Wei H, Min J, Wang Y, Shen Y, Du Y, Su R, Qi W. Bioinspired porphyrin-peptide supramolecular assemblies and their applications. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:9334-9348. [PMID: 36373597 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb01660e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Inspired by the hierarchical chiral assembly of porphyrin-proteins in photosynthetic systems, the hierarchical self-assembly of porphyrin-amino acids/peptides provides a novel strategy for constructing functional materials. How to artificially simulate the assembly of porphyrins, proteins, and other cofactors in the photosynthesis system to obtain persistent strong light capture, charge separation and catalytic reactions has become an important concern in the construction of biomimetic photosynthesis systems. This paper summarizes the different assembly strategies adopted in recent years, the effects of driving forces on self-assembly, and the application of porphyrin-peptides in catalysis and biomedicine, and briefly discusses the challenges and prospects for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China.
| | - Jiwei Min
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China.
| | - Yuefei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China. .,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Membrane Science and Desalination Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China
| | - Yuhe Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China.
| | - Yaohui Du
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China.
| | - Rongxin Su
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China. .,Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China.,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Membrane Science and Desalination Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China
| | - Wei Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China. .,Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China.,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Membrane Science and Desalination Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China
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14
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Lee J, Kim J, Kim H, Park H, Kim JY, Kim EJ, Yang YH, Choi KY, Kim BG. Constructing multi-enzymatic cascade reactions for selective production of 6-bromoindirubin from tryptophan in Escherichia coli. Biotechnol Bioeng 2022; 119:2938-2949. [PMID: 35876239 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
6-Bromoindirubin (6BrIR), found in Murex sea snails, is a precursor of indirubin-derivatives anticancer drugs. However, its synthesis remains limited due to uncharacterized biosynthetic pathways and difficulties in site-specific bromination and oxidation at indole ring. Here, we present an efficient 6BrIR production strategy in E. coli by using four enzymes, i.e., tryptophan 6-halogenase fused with flavin reductase Fre (Fre-L3-SttH), tryptophanase (TnaA), toluene 4-monooxygenase (PmT4MO) and flavin-containing monooxygenase (MaFMO). Although most indole oxygenases preferentially oxygenate the electronically active C3 position of indole, PmT4MO was newly characterized to perform C2 oxygenation of 6-bromoindole with 45 % yield to produce 6-bromo-2-oxindole. In addition, 6BrIR was selectively generated without indigo and indirubin byproducts by controlling the reducing power of cysteine and oxygen supply during the MaFMO reaction. These approaches led to 34.1 mg/L 6BrIR productions, making it possible to produce the critical precursor of the anticancer drugs only from natural ingredients such as tryptophan, NaBr and oxygen. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeongchan Lee
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Bio-MAX Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joonwon Kim
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hyun Kim
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - HyunA Park
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Ajou University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Young Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Jung Kim
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Bio-MAX Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yung-Hun Yang
- Department of Biological Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwon-Young Choi
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Ajou University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Gee Kim
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Bio-MAX Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Engineering Research, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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15
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Liu Y, Lai KL, Vong K. Transition Metal Scaffolds Used To Bring New‐to‐Nature Reactions into Biological Systems. Eur J Inorg Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ejic.202200215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Liu
- Department of Chemistry The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon Hong Kong China
| | - Ka Lun Lai
- Department of Chemistry The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon Hong Kong China
| | - Kenward Vong
- Department of Chemistry The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon Hong Kong China
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16
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Edwards EH, Le JM, Salamatian AA, Peluso NL, Leone L, Lombardi A, Bren KL. A cobalt mimochrome for photochemical hydrogen evolution from neutral water. J Inorg Biochem 2022; 230:111753. [PMID: 35182844 PMCID: PMC9586700 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2022.111753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A system for visible light-driven hydrogen production from water is reported. This system makes use of a synthetic mini-enzyme known as a mimochrome (CoMC6*a) consisting of a cobalt deuteroporphyrin and two attached peptides as a catalyst, [Ru(bpy)3]2+ (bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine) as a photosensitizer, and ascorbic acid as a sacrificial electron donor. The system achieves turnover numbers (TONs) up to 10,000 with respect to catalyst and optimal activity at pH 7. Comparison with related systems shows that CoMC6*a maintains the advantages of biomolecular catalysts, while exceeding other cobalt porphyrins in terms of total TON and longevity of catalysis. Herein, we lay groundwork for future study, where the synthetic nature of CoMC6*a will provide a unique opportunity to tailor proton reduction chemistry and expand to new reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily H Edwards
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rochester, 120 Trustee Rd., Rochester, NY 14627-0216, USA.
| | - Jennifer M Le
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rochester, 120 Trustee Rd., Rochester, NY 14627-0216, USA.
| | - Alison A Salamatian
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rochester, 120 Trustee Rd., Rochester, NY 14627-0216, USA.
| | - Noelle L Peluso
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rochester, 120 Trustee Rd., Rochester, NY 14627-0216, USA.
| | - Linda Leone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo, via Cintia 45, 80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo, via Cintia 45, 80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Kara L Bren
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rochester, 120 Trustee Rd., Rochester, NY 14627-0216, USA.
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17
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Surfing the wave of oxyfunctionalization chemistry by engineering fungal unspecific peroxygenases. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2022; 73:102342. [PMID: 35240455 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2022.102342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The selective insertion of oxygen into non-activated organic molecules has to date been considered of utmost importance to synthesize existing and next generation industrial chemicals or pharmaceuticals. In this respect, the minimal requirements and high activity of fungal unspecific peroxygenases (UPOs) situate them as the jewel in the crown of C-H oxyfunctionalization biocatalysts. Although their limited availability and development has hindered their incorporation into industry, the conjunction of directed evolution and computational design is approaching UPOs to practical applications. In this review, we will address the most recent advances in UPO engineering, both of the long and short UPO families, while discussing the future prospects in this fast-moving field of research.
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18
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Pantalon Juraj N, Tandarić T, Tadić V, Perić B, Moreth D, Schatzschneider U, Brozovic A, Vianello R, Kirin SI. Tuning the coordination properties of chiral pseudopeptide bis(2-picolyl)amine and iminodiacetamide ligands in Zn( ii) and Cu( ii) complexes. Dalton Trans 2022; 51:17008-17021. [DOI: 10.1039/d2dt02895f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Modifications of the chiral side chains of bpa and imda ligands lead to different metal ion coordination and hydrogen bonding ability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Dominik Moreth
- Institut für Anorganische Chemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Am Hubland, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schatzschneider
- Institut für Anorganische Chemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Am Hubland, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany
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19
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Zambrano G, Sekretareva A, D'Alonzo D, Leone L, Pavone V, Lombardi A, Nastri F. Oxidative dehalogenation of trichlorophenol catalyzed by a promiscuous artificial heme-enzyme. RSC Adv 2022; 12:12947-12956. [PMID: 35527726 PMCID: PMC9067433 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra00811d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The miniaturized metalloenzyme Fe(iii)-mimochrome VI*a (Fe(iii)-MC6*a) acts as an excellent biocatalyst in the H2O2-mediated oxidative dehalogenation of the well-known pesticide and biocide 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (TCP). The artificial enzyme can oxidize TCP with a catalytic efficiency (kcat/KTCPm = 150 000 mM−1 s−1) up to 1500-fold higher than the most active natural metalloenzyme horseradish peroxidase (HRP). UV-visible and EPR spectroscopies were used to provide indications of the catalytic mechanism. One equivalent of H2O2 fully converts Fe(iii)-MC6*a into the oxoferryl-porphyrin radical cation intermediate [(Fe(iv)
Created by potrace 1.16, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2019
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O)por˙+], similarly to peroxidase compound I (Cpd I). Addition of TCP to Cpd I rapidly leads to the formation of the corresponding quinone, while Cpd I decays back to the ferric resting state in the absence of substrate. EPR data suggest a catalytic mechanism involving two consecutive one-electron reactions. All results highlight the value of the miniaturization strategy for the development of chemically stable, highly efficient artificial metalloenzymes as powerful catalysts for the oxidative degradation of toxic pollutants. The artificial metalloenzyme FeMC6*a is able to perform the H2O2-mediated dechlorination of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol with unrivalled catalytic efficiency, highlighting its potential application for the removal of toxic pollutants.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Zambrano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Alina Sekretareva
- Department of Chemistry – Ångström, Uppsala University, Lägerhyddsvägen 1, 75120 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Daniele D'Alonzo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Linda Leone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Flavia Nastri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
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20
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Guo WJ, Xu JK, Wu ST, Gao SQ, Wen GB, Tan X, Lin YW. Design and Engineering of an Efficient Peroxidase Using Myoglobin for Dye Decolorization and Lignin Bioconversion. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010413. [PMID: 35008837 PMCID: PMC8745427 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of environmental pollutants such as synthetic dyes and lignin has received much attention, especially for biotechnological treatments using both native and artificial metalloenzymes. In this study, we designed and engineered an efficient peroxidase using the O2 carrier myoglobin (Mb) as a protein scaffold by four mutations (F43Y/T67R/P88W/F138W), which combines the key structural features of natural peroxidases such as the presence of a conserved His-Arg pair and Tyr/Trp residues close to the heme active center. Kinetic studies revealed that the quadruple mutant exhibits considerably enhanced peroxidase activity, with the catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) comparable to that of the most efficient natural enzyme, horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Moreover, the designed enzyme can effectively decolorize a variety of synthetic organic dyes and catalyze the bioconversion of lignin, such as Kraft lignin and a model compound, guaiacylglycerol-β-guaiacyl ether (GGE). As analyzed by HPLC and ESI-MS, we identified several bioconversion products of GGE, as produced via bond cleavage followed by dimerization or trimerization, which illustrates the mechanism for lignin bioconversion. This study indicates that the designed enzyme could be exploited for the decolorization of textile wastewater contaminated with various dyes, as well as for the bioconversion of lignin to produce more value-added products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jie Guo
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; (W.-J.G.); (S.-T.W.)
| | - Jia-Kun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Polar Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Byproducts of Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266071, China;
| | - Sheng-Tao Wu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; (W.-J.G.); (S.-T.W.)
| | - Shu-Qin Gao
- Key Laboratory of Protein Structure and Function of Universities in Hunan Province, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; (S.-Q.G.); (G.-B.W.)
| | - Ge-Bo Wen
- Key Laboratory of Protein Structure and Function of Universities in Hunan Province, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; (S.-Q.G.); (G.-B.W.)
| | - Xiangshi Tan
- Department of Chemistry & Institute of Biomedical Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China;
| | - Ying-Wu Lin
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; (W.-J.G.); (S.-T.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Protein Structure and Function of Universities in Hunan Province, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; (S.-Q.G.); (G.-B.W.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-734-8282375
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21
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Unravelling the Structure of the Tetrahedral Metal-Binding Site in METP3 through an Experimental and Computational Approach. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26175221. [PMID: 34500655 PMCID: PMC8434281 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26175221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the structural determinants for metal ion coordination in metalloproteins is a fundamental issue for designing metal binding sites with predetermined geometry and activity. In order to achieve this, we report in this paper the design, synthesis and metal binding properties of METP3, a homodimer made up of a small peptide, which self assembles in the presence of tetrahedrally coordinating metal ions. METP3 was obtained through a redesign approach, starting from the previously developed METP molecule. The undecapeptide sequence of METP, which dimerizes to house a Cys4 tetrahedral binding site, was redesigned in order to accommodate a Cys2His2 site. The binding properties of METP3 were determined toward different metal ions. Successful assembly of METP3 with Co(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II), in the expected 2:1 stoichiometry and tetrahedral geometry was proven by UV-visible spectroscopy. CD measurements on both the free and metal-bound forms revealed that the metal coordination drives the peptide chain to fold into a turned conformation. Finally, NMR data of the Zn(II)-METP3 complex, together with a retrostructural analysis of the Cys-X-X-His motif in metalloproteins, allowed us to define the model structure. All the results establish the suitability of the short METP sequence for accommodating tetrahedral metal binding sites, regardless of the first coordination ligands.
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