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Maddock RMA, Marsh CO, Johns ST, Rooms LD, Duke PW, van der Kamp MW, Stach JEM, Race PR. Molecular basis of hyper-thermostability in the thermophilic archaeal aldolase MfnB. Extremophiles 2024; 28:42. [PMID: 39215799 PMCID: PMC11365854 DOI: 10.1007/s00792-024-01359-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Methanogenic archaea are chemolithotrophic prokaryotes that can reduce carbon dioxide with hydrogen gas to form methane. These microorganisms make a significant contribution to the global carbon cycle, with methanogenic archaea from anoxic environments estimated to contribute > 500 million tons of global methane annually. Archaeal methanogenesis is dependent on the methanofurans; aminomethylfuran containing coenzymes that act as the primary C1 acceptor molecule during carbon dioxide fixation. Although the biosynthetic pathway to the methanofurans has been elucidated, structural adaptations which confer thermotolerance to Mfn enzymes from extremophilic archaea are yet to be investigated. Here we focus on the methanofuran biosynthetic enzyme MfnB, which catalyses the condensation of two molecules of glyceralde-3-phosphate to form 4‑(hydroxymethyl)-2-furancarboxaldehyde-phosphate. In this study, MfnB enzymes from the hyperthermophile Methanocaldococcus jannaschii and the mesophile Methanococcus maripaludis have been recombinantly overexpressed and purified to homogeneity. Thermal unfolding studies, together with steady-state kinetic assays, demonstrate thermoadaptation in the M. jannaschii enzyme. Molecular dynamics simulations have been used to provide a structural explanation for the observed properties. These reveal a greater number of side chain interactions in the M. jannaschii enzyme, which may confer protection from heating effects by enforcing spatial residue constraints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosie M A Maddock
- School of Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
- BrisSynBio Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Life Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK
| | - Carl O Marsh
- School of Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Samuel T Johns
- School of Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
- BrisSynBio Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Life Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK
| | - Lynden D Rooms
- School of Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Phillip W Duke
- Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JQ, UK
| | - Marc W van der Kamp
- School of Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
- BrisSynBio Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Life Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK
| | - James E M Stach
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK
| | - Paul R Race
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK.
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Abstract
Methanogenic archaea are the only organisms that produce CH4 as part of their energy-generating metabolism. They are ubiquitous in oxidant-depleted, anoxic environments such as aquatic sediments, anaerobic digesters, inundated agricultural fields, the rumen of cattle, and the hindgut of termites, where they catalyze the terminal reactions in the degradation of organic matter. Methanogenesis is the only metabolism that is restricted to members of the domain Archaea. Here, we discuss the importance of model organisms in the history of methanogen research, including their role in the discovery of the archaea and in the biochemical and genetic characterization of methanogenesis. We also discuss outstanding questions in the field and newly emerging model systems that will expand our understanding of this uniquely archaeal metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle C. Costa
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
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3
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Liao HS, Chung YH, Hsieh MH. Glutamate: A multifunctional amino acid in plants. PLANT SCIENCE : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 318:111238. [PMID: 35351313 DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2022.111238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Glutamate (Glu) is a versatile metabolite and a signaling molecule in plants. Glu biosynthesis is associated with the primary nitrogen assimilation pathway. The conversion between Glu and 2-oxoglutarate connects Glu metabolism to the tricarboxylic acid cycle, carbon metabolism, and energy production. Glu is the predominant amino donor for transamination reactions in the cell. In addition to protein synthesis, Glu is a building block for tetrapyrroles, glutathione, and folate. Glu is the precursor of γ-aminobutyric acid that plays an important role in balancing carbon/nitrogen metabolism and various cellular processes. Glu can conjugate to the major auxin indole 3-acetic acid (IAA), and IAA-Glu is destined for oxidative degradation. Glu also conjugates with isochorismate for the production of salicylic acid. Accumulating evidence indicates that Glu functions as a signaling molecule to regulate plant growth, development, and defense responses. The ligand-gated Glu receptor-like proteins (GLRs) mediate some of these responses. However, many of the Glu signaling events are GLR-independent. The receptor perceiving extracellular Glu as a danger signal is still unknown. In addition to GLRs, Glu may act on receptor-like kinases or receptor-like proteins to trigger immune responses. Glu metabolism and Glu signaling may entwine to regulate growth, development, and defense responses in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Sheng Liao
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsin Chung
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hsiun Hsieh
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan; Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan 32001, Taiwan.
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4
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Balch WE, Ferry JG. The Wolfe cycle of carbon dioxide reduction to methane revisited and the Ralph Stoner Wolfe legacy at 100 years. Adv Microb Physiol 2021; 79:1-23. [PMID: 34836609 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ampbs.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Methanogens are a component of anaerobic microbial consortia decomposing biomass to CO2 and CH4 that is an essential link in the global carbon cycle. One of two major pathways of methanogenesis involves reduction of the methyl group of acetate to CH4 with electrons from oxidation of the carbonyl group while the other involves reduction of CO2 to CH4 with electrons from H2 or formate. Pioneering investigations of the CO2 reduction pathway by Ralph S. Wolfe in the 70s and 80s contributed findings impacting the broader fields of biochemistry and microbiology that directed discovery of the domain Archaea and expanded research on anaerobic microbes for decades that continues to the present. This review presents an historical overview of the CO2 reduction pathway (Wolfe cycle) with recent developments, and an account of Wolfe's larger and enduring impact on the broad field of biology 100 years after his birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E Balch
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - James G Ferry
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States.
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5
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Energy conservation under extreme energy limitation: the role of cytochromes and quinones in acetogenic bacteria. Extremophiles 2021; 25:413-424. [PMID: 34480656 PMCID: PMC8578096 DOI: 10.1007/s00792-021-01241-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Acetogenic bacteria are a polyphyletic group of organisms that fix carbon dioxide under anaerobic, non-phototrophic conditions by reduction of two mol of CO2 to acetyl-CoA via the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway. This pathway also allows for lithotrophic growth with H2 as electron donor and this pathway is considered to be one of the oldest, if not the oldest metabolic pathway on Earth for CO2 reduction, since it is coupled to the synthesis of ATP. How ATP is synthesized has been an enigma for decades, but in the last decade two ferredoxin-dependent respiratory chains were discovered. Those respiratory chains comprise of a cytochrome-free, ferredoxin-dependent respiratory enzyme complex, which is either the Rnf or Ech complex. However, it was discovered already 50 years ago that some acetogens contain cytochromes and quinones, but their role had only a shadowy existence. Here, we review the literature on the characterization of cytochromes and quinones in acetogens and present a hypothesis that they may function in electron transport chains in addition to Rnf and Ech.
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6
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Comparison of the radiofrequency ablation versus laparoscopic adrenalectomy for aldosterone-producing adenoma: a meta-analysis of perioperative outcomes and safety. Updates Surg 2021; 73:1477-1485. [PMID: 34165729 DOI: 10.1007/s13304-021-01069-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has emerged as a new treatment for primary aldosteronism owing to aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA). We aimed to compare the perioperative outcomes and safety of RFA and laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) for patients with APA. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library for all literatures published from January 2001 to September 2020 to compare RFA with LA for APA. After data extraction and quality assessments, we used Review Manager 5.4.1 and STATA 14.0 to pool the data. Four retrospective studies consisting of 170 patients were obtained. Patients who underwent RFA were associated with shorter operative time (standard mean difference (SMD): -1.98, 95% confidence interval (CI): -3.86 to 0.11, P = 0.04), less intraoperative blood loss (SMD: -0.61, 95% CI: -0.96 to -0.26, P = 0.0007), and shorter hospital stay (weight mean difference (WMD): -1.40, 95% CI: -1.71 to -1.10, P < 0.00001) than those who underwent LA. No significant differences were found in the complication rate (odds ratio (OR): 0.67, 95% CI: 0.27-1.68, P = 0.39), the incidence of hypertensive crisis (OR: 3.16, 95% CI: 0.36-27.94, P = 0.30), the conversion rate (OR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.04-4.32, P = 0.48) or the treatment success rate (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.22-2.39, P = 0.59) between the two groups. RFA could achieve clinical outcomes that approach LA for patients with APA but result in shorter operative time, less intraoperative blood loss, and shorter hospital stay. However, RFA does not appear to be able to replace the LA. Future prospective randomized trials are needed to validate these results.
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Müller V, Chowdhury NP, Basen M. Electron Bifurcation: A Long-Hidden Energy-Coupling Mechanism. Annu Rev Microbiol 2018; 72:331-353. [PMID: 29924687 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-micro-090816-093440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A decade ago, a novel mechanism to drive thermodynamically unfavorable redox reactions was discovered that is used in prokaryotes to drive endergonic electron transfer reactions by a direct coupling to an exergonic redox reaction in one soluble enzyme complex. This process is referred to as flavin-based electron bifurcation, or FBEB. An important function of FBEB is that it allows the generation of reduced low-potential ferredoxin (Fdred) from comparably high-potential electron donors such as NADH or molecular hydrogen (H2). Fdred is then the electron donor for anaerobic respiratory chains leading to the synthesis of ATP. In many metabolic scenarios, Fd is reduced by metabolic oxidoreductases and Fdred then drives endergonic metabolic reactions such as H2 production by the reverse, electron confurcation. FBEB is energetically more economical than ATP hydrolysis or reverse electron transport as a driving force for endergonic redox reactions; thus, it does "save" cellular ATP. It is essential for autotrophic growth at the origin of life and also allows for heterotrophic growth on certain low-energy substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker Müller
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany;
| | - Nilanjan Pal Chowdhury
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany;
| | - Mirko Basen
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany;
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8
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Rigid scaffolds for the design of molecular catalysts and biomimetic active sites: A case study of anthracene-based ligands for modeling mono-iron hydrogenase (Hmd). Coord Chem Rev 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2017.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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9
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Shea MT, Walter ME, Duszenko N, Ducluzeau AL, Aldridge J, King SK, Buan NR. pNEB193-derived suicide plasmids for gene deletion and protein expression in the methane-producing archaeon, Methanosarcina acetivorans. Plasmid 2016; 84-85:27-35. [PMID: 26876941 DOI: 10.1016/j.plasmid.2016.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Revised: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Gene deletion and protein expression are cornerstone procedures for studying metabolism in any organism, including methane-producing archaea (methanogens). Methanogens produce coenzymes and cofactors not found in most bacteria, therefore it is sometimes necessary to express and purify methanogen proteins from the natural host. Protein expression in the native organism is also useful when studying post-translational modifications and their effect on gene expression or enzyme activity. We have created several new suicide plasmids to complement existing genetic tools for use in the methanogen, Methanosarcina acetivorans. The new plasmids are derived from the commercially available Escherichia coli plasmid, pNEB193, and cannot replicate autonomously in methanogens. The designed plasmids facilitate markerless gene deletion, gene transcription, protein expression, and purification of proteins with cleavable affinity tags from the methanogen, M. acetivorans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell T Shea
- Redox Biology Center, Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Mary E Walter
- Redox Biology Center, Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Nikolas Duszenko
- Redox Biology Center, Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Anne-Lise Ducluzeau
- Redox Biology Center, Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Jared Aldridge
- Redox Biology Center, Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Shannon K King
- Redox Biology Center, Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Nicole R Buan
- Redox Biology Center, Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States.
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10
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Walker MC, van der Donk WA. The many roles of glutamate in metabolism. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2015; 43:419-30. [PMID: 26323613 DOI: 10.1007/s10295-015-1665-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The amino acid glutamate is a major metabolic hub in many organisms and as such is involved in diverse processes in addition to its role in protein synthesis. Nitrogen assimilation, nucleotide, amino acid, and cofactor biosynthesis, as well as secondary natural product formation all utilize glutamate in some manner. Glutamate also plays a role in the catabolism of certain amines. Understanding glutamate's role in these various processes can aid in genome mining for novel metabolic pathways or the engineering of pathways for bioremediation or chemical production of valuable compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark C Walker
- Department of Chemistry and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Wilfred A van der Donk
- Department of Chemistry and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
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11
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Identification of the Final Two Genes Functioning in Methanofuran Biosynthesis in Methanocaldococcus jannaschii. J Bacteriol 2015; 197:2850-8. [PMID: 26100040 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00401-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED All methanofuran structural variants contain a basic core structure of 4-[N-(γ-l-glutamyl)-p-(β-aminoethyl)phenoxymethyl]-(aminomethyl)furan (APMF-Glu) but have different side chains depending on the source organism. Recently, we identified four genes (MfnA, MfnB, MfnC, and MfnD) that are responsible for the biosynthesis of the methanofuran precursor γ-glutamyltyramine and 5-(aminomethyl)-3-furanmethanol-phosphate (F1-P) from tyrosine, glutamate, glyceraldehyde-3-P, and alanine in Methanocaldococcus jannaschii. How γ-glutamyltyramine and F1-P couple together to form the core structure of methanofuran was previously unknown. Here, we report the identification of two enzymes encoded by the genes mj0458 and mj0840 that catalyze the formation of F1-PP from ATP and F1-P and the condensation of F1-PP with γ-glutamyltyramine, respectively, to form APMF-Glu. We have annotated these enzymes as MfnE and MfnF, respectively, representing the fifth and sixth enzymes in the methanofuran biosynthetic pathway to be identified. Although MfnE was previously reported as an archaeal adenylate kinase, our present results show that MfnE is a promiscuous enzyme and that its possible physiological role is to produce F1-PP. Unlike other enzymes catalyzing coupling reactions involving pyrophosphate as the leaving group, MfnF exhibits a distinctive α/β two-layer sandwich structure. By comparing MfnF with thiamine synthase and dihydropteroate synthase, a substitution nucleophilic unimolecular (SN-1) reaction mechanism is proposed for MfnF. With the identification of MfnE and MfnF, the biosynthetic pathway for the methanofuran core structure APMF-Glu is complete. IMPORTANCE This work describes the identification of the final two enzymes responsible for catalyzing the biosynthesis of the core structure of methanofuran. The gene products of mj0458 and mj0840 catalyze the formation of F1-PP and the coupling of F1-PP with γ-glutamyltyramine, respectively, to form APMF-Glu. Although the chemistry of such a coupling reaction is widespread in biochemistry, we provide here the first evidence that such a mechanism is used in methanofuran biosynthesis. MfnF belongs to the hydantoinase A family (PF01968) and exhibits a unique α/β two-layer sandwich structure that is different from the enzymes catalyzing similar reactions. Our results show that MfnF catalyzes the formation of an ether bond during methanofuran biosynthesis. Therefore, this work further expands the functionality of this enzyme family.
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Allen KD, White RH. Identification of structurally diverse methanofuran coenzymes in methanococcales that are both N-formylated and N-acetylated. Biochemistry 2014; 53:6199-210. [PMID: 25203397 DOI: 10.1021/bi500973h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Methanofuran (MF) is a coenzyme necessary for the first step of methanogenesis from CO2. The well-characterized MF core structure is 4-[N-(γ-l-glutamyl-γ-l-glutamyl)-p-(β-aminoethyl)phenoxymethyl]-2-(aminomethyl)furan (APMF-γ-Glu2). Three different MF structures that differ on the basis of the composition of their side chains have been determined previously. Here, we use liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry and a variety of biochemical methods to deduce the unique structures of MFs present in four different methanogens in the order Methanococcales. This is the first detailed characterization of the MF occurring in methanogens of this order. MF in each of these organisms contains the expected APMF-γ-Glu2; however, the composition of the side chain is different from that of the previously described MF structures. In Methanocaldococcus jannaschii, additional γ-linked glutamates that range from 7 to 12 residues are present. The MF coenzymes in Methanococcus maripaludis, Methanococcus vannielii, and Methanothermococcus okinawensis also have additional glutamate residues but interestingly also contain a completely different chemical moiety in the middle of the side chain that we have identified as N-(3-carboxy-2- or 3-hydroxy-1-oxopropyl)-l-aspartic acid. This addition results in the terminal γ-linked glutamates being incorporated in the opposite orientation. In addition to these nonacylated MF coenzymes, we also identified the corresponding N-formyl-MF and, surprisingly, N-acetyl-MF derivatives. N-Acetyl-MF has never been observed or implied to be functioning in nature and may represent a new route for acetate formation in methanogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie D Allen
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University , Blacksburg, Virginia 24061-0308, United States
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Grochowski LL, White RH. Promiscuous anaerobes: new and unconventional metabolism in methanogenic archaea. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2007; 1125:190-214. [PMID: 18096851 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1419.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The development of an oxygenated atmosphere on earth resulted in the polarization of life into two major groups, those that could live in the presence of oxygen and those that could not-the aerobes and the anaerobes. The evolution of aerobes from the earliest anaerobic prokaryotes resulted in a variety of metabolic adaptations. Many of these adaptations center on the need to sustain oxygen-sensitive reactions and cofactors to function in the new oxygen-containing atmosphere. Still other metabolic pathways that were not sensitive to oxygen also diverged. This is likely due to the physical separation of the organisms, based on their ability to live in the presence of oxygen, which allowed for the independent evolution of the pathways. Through the study of metabolic pathways in anaerobes and comparison to the more established pathways from aerobes, insight into metabolic evolution can be gained. This, in turn, can allow for extra- polation to those metabolic pathways occurring in the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA). Some of the unique and uncanonical metabolic pathways that have been identified in the archaea with emphasis on the biochemistry of an obligate anaerobic methanogen, Methanocaldococcus jannaschii are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Grochowski
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
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14
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Deppenmeier U. The unique biochemistry of methanogenesis. PROGRESS IN NUCLEIC ACID RESEARCH AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2003; 71:223-83. [PMID: 12102556 DOI: 10.1016/s0079-6603(02)71045-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Methanogenic archaea have an unusual type of metabolism because they use H2 + CO2, formate, methylated C1 compounds, or acetate as energy and carbon sources for growth. The methanogens produce methane as the major end product of their metabolism in a unique energy-generating process. The organisms received much attention because they catalyze the terminal step in the anaerobic breakdown of organic matter under sulfate-limiting conditions and are essential for both the recycling of carbon compounds and the maintenance of the global carbon flux on Earth. Furthermore, methane is an important greenhouse gas that directly contributes to climate changes and global warming. Hence, the understanding of the biochemical processes leading to methane formation are of major interest. This review focuses on the metabolic pathways of methanogenesis that are rather unique and involve a number of unusual enzymes and coenzymes. It will be shown how the previously mentioned substrates are converted to CH4 via the CO2-reducing, methylotrophic, or aceticlastic pathway. All catabolic processes finally lead to the formation of a mixed disulfide from coenzyme M and coenzyme B that functions as an electron acceptor of certain anaerobic respiratory chains. Molecular hydrogen, reduced coenzyme F420, or reduced ferredoxin are used as electron donors. The redox reactions as catalyzed by the membrane-bound electron transport chains are coupled to proton translocation across the cytoplasmic membrane. The resulting electrochemical proton gradient is the driving force for ATP synthesis as catalyzed by an A1A0-type ATP synthase. Other energy-transducing enzymes involved in methanogenesis are the membrane-integral methyltransferase and the formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase complex. The former enzyme is a unique, reversible sodium ion pump that couples methyl-group transfer with the transport of Na+ across the membrane. The formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase is a reversible ion pump that catalyzes formylation and deformylation of methanofuran. Furthermore, the review addresses questions related to the biochemical and genetic characteristics of the energy-transducing enzymes and to the mechanisms of ion translocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe Deppenmeier
- Department of Microbiology and Genetics, Universität Göttingen, Germany
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15
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Pomper BK, Saurel O, Milon A, Vorholt JA. Generation of formate by the formyltransferase/hydrolase complex (Fhc) from Methylobacterium extorquens AM1. FEBS Lett 2002; 523:133-7. [PMID: 12123819 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-5793(02)02962-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Methylobacterium extorquens AM1 possesses a formyltransferase (Ftr) complex that is essential for growth in the presence of methanol and involved in formaldehyde oxidation to CO(2). One of the subunits of the complex carries the catalytic site for transfer of the formyl group from tetrahydromethanopterin to methanofuran (MFR). We now found via nuclear magnetic resonance-based studies that the Ftr complex also catalyzes the hydrolysis of formyl-MFR and generates formate. The enzyme was therefore renamed Ftr/hydrolase complex (Fhc). FhcA shares a sequence pattern with amidohydrolases and is assumed to be the catalytic site where the hydrolysis takes place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara K Pomper
- Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire des Relations Plantes-Microorganismes, INRA/CNRS, P.O. Box 27, 31326, Castanet-Tolosan, France
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16
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Formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase activity in cell extracts ofMethanobacterium thermoautotrophicumand ofMethanosarcina barkeri. FEBS Lett 2001. [DOI: 10.1016/0014-5793(89)81153-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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17
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Coenzymes of Oxidation—Reduction Reactions. Biochemistry 2001. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-012492543-4/50018-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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18
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Vorholt JA, Thauer RK. The active species of 'CO2' utilized by formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase from methanogenic Archaea. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 1997; 248:919-24. [PMID: 9342247 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-1033.1997.00919.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase from methanogenic Archaea catalyzes the reversible conversion of CO2 and methanofuran to formylmethanofuran, which is an intermediate in methanogenesis from CO2, a biological process yielding approximately 0.3 billion tons of CH4 per year. With the enzyme from Methanosarcina barkeri, it is shown that CO2 rather than HCO3- is the active species of 'CO2' utilized by the dehydrogenase. Evidence is also presented that the enzyme catalyzes a methanofuran-dependent exchange between CO2 and the formyl group of formylmethanofuran. The results are consistent with N-carboxymethanofuran being an intermediate in CO2 reduction to formylmethanofuran.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Vorholt
- Max-Planck-Institut für terrestrische Mikrobiologie and Laboratorium für Mikrobiologie des Fachbereichs Biologie der Philipps-Universität, Marburg, Germany
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Noll KM. Thiol coenzymes of methanogens. Methods Enzymol 1995; 251:470-82. [PMID: 7651230 DOI: 10.1016/0076-6879(95)51151-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- K M Noll
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs 06269, USA
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Bertram PA, Thauer RK. Thermodynamics of the formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase reaction in Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 1994; 226:811-8. [PMID: 7813470 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-1033.1994.t01-1-00811.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Purified formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase from Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum, which is a thermophilic methanogenic Archaeon growing on H2 and CO2, was shown to catalyze the reversible reduction of CO2 to N-formylmethanofuran with 1,1',2,2'-tetramethylviologen (E'0 = -550 mV) as electron donor. The rate of CO2 reduction was approximately 25 times higher than the rate of N-formylmethanofuran dehydrogenation. From determinations of equilibrium concentrations at 60 degrees C and pH 7.0 a midpoint potential (E'0) for the CO2 + methanofuran/formylmethanofuran couple of approximately -530 mV was estimated. The initial step of methanogenesis from CO2 thus has a midpoint potential considerably more negative than that of the H+/H2 couple (E'0 = -460 mV at 60 degrees C). Evidence is described indicating that the as-yet unidentified physiological electron donor of the formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase is present in the soluble cell fraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A Bertram
- Max-Planck-Institut für terrestrische Mikrobiologie Marburg, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany
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21
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Chapter 4 Bioenergetics and transport in methanogens and related thermophilic archaea. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1993. [DOI: 10.1016/s0167-7306(08)60253-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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22
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Karrasch M, Börner G, Enssle M, Thauer RK. The molybdoenzyme formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase from Methanosarcina barkeri contains a pterin cofactor. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 1990; 194:367-72. [PMID: 2125267 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-1033.1990.tb15627.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Recently formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase from the archaebacterium Methanosarcina barkeri has been shown to be a novel molybdo-iron-sulfur protein. We report here that the enzyme contains one mol of a bound pterin cofactor/mol molybdenum, similar but not identical to the molybdopterin of milk xanthine oxidase. The two pterins, after oxidation with I2 at pH 2.5, showed identical fluorescence spectra and, after oxidation with permanganate at pH 13, yielded pterin 6-carboxylic acid. They differed, however, in their apparent molecular mass: the pterin of formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase was 400 Da larger than that of milk xanthine oxidase, a property also exhibited by the pterin cofactor of eubacterial molybdoenzymes. A homogeneous formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase preparation was used for these investigations. The enzyme, with a molecular mass of 220 kDa, contained 0.5-0.8 mol molybdenum, 0.6-0.9 mol pterin, 28 +/- 2 mol non-heme iron and 28 +/- 2 mol acid-labile sulfur/mol based on a protein determination with bicinchoninic acid. The specific activity was 175 mumol.min-1.mg-1 (kcat = 640 s-1) assayed with methylviologen (app. Km = 0.02 mM) as artificial electron acceptor. The apparent Km for formylmethanofuran was 0.02 mM.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Karrasch
- Laboratorium für Mikrobiologie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, FRG
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24
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Bobik TA, DiMarco AA, Wolfe RS. Formyl-methanofuran synthesis inMethanobacterium thermoautotrophicum. FEMS Microbiol Lett 1990. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.1990.tb04931.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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25
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Breitung J, Börner G, Karrasch M, Berkessel A, Thauer RK. N-furfurylformamide as a pseudo-substrate for formylmethanofuran converting enzymes from methanogenic bacteria. FEBS Lett 1990; 268:257-60. [PMID: 2384164 DOI: 10.1016/0014-5793(90)81022-g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Methanofuran (4-[N-(4,5,7-tricarboxyheptanoyl-gamma-L-glutamyl)-gamma-L- glutamyl)-p-(beta-aminoethyl)phenoxymethyl]-2-(aminomethyl)furan is a coenzyme involved in methanogenesis. The N-formyl derivative is an intermediate in the reduction of CO2 to CH4 and the disproportionation of methanol to CO2 and CH4. Formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase and formylmethanofuran:tetrahydromethanopterin formyltransferase are the enzymes catalyzing its conversions. We report here that the two enzymes from Methanosarcina barkeri and the formyltransferase from Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum can also use N-furfurylformamide as a pseudo-substrate albeit with higher apparent Km and lower apparent Vmax values. N-Methylformamide, formamide, and formate were not converted indicating that the furfurylamine moiety of methanofuran is the minimum structure required for the correct binding of the coenzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Breitung
- Fachbereich Biologie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg/Lahn, FRG
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26
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Stimulation of the methyltetrahydromethanopterin: coenzyme M methyltransferase reaction in cell-free extracts of Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum by the heterodisulfide of coenzyme M and 7-mercaptoheptanoylthreonine phosphate. Arch Microbiol 1990. [DOI: 10.1007/bf00423326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Moodie
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of St Andrews, UK
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Tanner RS, McInerney MJ, Nagle DP. Formate auxotroph of Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum Marburg. J Bacteriol 1989; 171:6534-8. [PMID: 2687241 PMCID: PMC210544 DOI: 10.1128/jb.171.12.6534-6538.1989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A formate-requiring auxotroph of Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum Marburg was isolated after hydroxylamine mutagenesis and bacitracin selection. The requirement for formate is unique and specific; combined pools of other volatile fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, and nitrogen bases did not substitute for formate. Compared with those of the wild type, cell extracts of the formate auxotroph were deficient in formate dehydrogenase activity, but cells of all of the strains examined catalyzed a formate-carbon dioxide exchange activity. All of the strains examined took up a small amount (200 to 260 mumol/liter) of formate (3 mM) added to medium. The results of the study of this novel auxotroph indicate a role for formate in biosynthetic reactions in this methanogen. Moreover, because methanogenesis from H2-CO2 is not impaired in the mutant, free formate is not an intermediate in the reduction of CO2 to CH4.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Tanner
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, University of Oklahoma, Norman 73019
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29
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Mahlmann A, Deppenmeier U, Gottschalk G. Methanofuran-b is required for CO2formation from formaldehyde byMethanosarcina barkeri. FEMS Microbiol Lett 1989. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.1989.tb03563.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
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30
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Function of methanofuran, tetrahydromethanopterin, and coenzyme F420 in Archaeoglobus fulgidus. Arch Microbiol 1989. [DOI: 10.1007/bf00425174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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31
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Bobik TA, Wolfe RS. Activation of formylmethanofuran synthesis in cell extracts of Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum. J Bacteriol 1989; 171:1423-7. [PMID: 2921239 PMCID: PMC209762 DOI: 10.1128/jb.171.3.1423-1427.1989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In cell extracts of Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum, formylmethanofuran (formyl-MFR) synthesis (an essential CO2 fixation reaction that is an early step in CO2 reduction to methane) is subject to a complex activation that involves a heterodisulfide of coenzyme M and N-(7-mercaptoheptanoyl)threonine O3-phosphate (CoM-S-S-HTP). In this paper we report that titanium(III) citrate, a low-potential reducing agent, stimulated CO2 reduction to methane and activated formyl-MFR synthesis in cell extracts. Titanium(III) citrate functioned as the sole source of electrons for formyl-MFR synthesis and enabled this reaction to occur independently of CoM-S-S-HTP. In addition, CoM-S-S-HTP was found to activate an unknown electron carrier that reduced metronidazole. The activation of formyl-MFR synthesis by CoM-S-S-HTP may involve the activation of a low-potential electron carrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- T A Bobik
- Department of Microbiology, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
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32
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Affiliation(s)
- K F Jarrell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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33
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Abstract
An examination of the methanofurans isolated from a wide range of methanogenic bacteria and from Archaeoglobus fulgidus has revealed at least five chromatographically distinct methanofurans. Bacteria from each major genus of methanogenic bacteria have been found to contain a chemically different methanofuran. The nature of the differences in the methanofurans appears to lie in the modification of the side chain attached to the basic core structure of 4-[N-(gamma-L-glutamyl-gamma-L-glutamyl)-p-(beta-aminoethyl)phenoxyme thy l]-2-(amino-methyl)furan. This was supported by the structural elucidation of the methanofuran isolated from Methanobrevibacter smithii, designated methanofuran-c, which was the same as the originally characterized methanofuran except for a hydroxy group at the 2 position of the 4,5-dicarboxyoctanedioic acid moiety of the molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- R H White
- Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg 24061
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Bobik TA, Wolfe RS. Physiological importance of the heterodisulfide of coenzyme M and 7-mercaptoheptanoylthreonine phosphate in the reduction of carbon dioxide to methane in Methanobacterium. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 1988; 85:60-3. [PMID: 3124103 PMCID: PMC279481 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.85.1.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The heterodisulfide of the two coenzymes 2-mercaptoethanesulfonic acid (coenzyme M, HS-CoM) and N-(7-mercaptoheptanoyl)threonine O3-phosphate (HS-HTP) increased the rate of CO2 reduction to methane by cell extracts 42-fold. The stimulation resulted from activation of the initial step of methanogenesis, the production of formylmethanofuran from methanofuran and CO2. These results establish a role for this heterodisulfide (CoM-S-S-HTP) in the reduction of CO2 to formylmethanofuran. Evidence indicates that CoM-S-S-HTP is the labile intermediate that accounts for the coupling of the reduction of 2-(methylthio)ethanesulfonic acid by the methylreductase to formylmethanofuran biosynthesis, the "RPG effect." The heterodisulfide was found to be labile in cell extracts due to enzyme-catalyzed reduction and possibly thioldisulfide exchange.
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Affiliation(s)
- T A Bobik
- Department of Microbiology, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
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36
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Bobik TA, Donnelly MI, Rinehart KL, Wolfe RS. Structure of a methanofuran derivative found in cell extracts of Methanosarcina barkeri. Arch Biochem Biophys 1987; 254:430-6. [PMID: 2883935 DOI: 10.1016/0003-9861(87)90121-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Cell extracts prepared from cells of Methanosarcina barkeri grown on hydrogen and carbon dioxide, acetate, or methanol contain a coenzyme structurally related to methanofuran. This modified coenzyme was highly purified and its structure assigned as 4-[N-(gamma-L-glutamyl-gamma-L-glutamyl-gamma-L-glutamyl-gamma-L-glutamy l)-p- (beta-amino-ethyl)phenoxymethyl]-2-(aminomethyl)furan. The key structural evidence was obtained by high-resolution fast atom bombardment-mass spectrometry and 1H NMR spectroscopy. Quantitative analysis of the hydrolytic fragments of the coenzyme supported the assigned structure. We propose that this coenzyme be called methanofuran-b.
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Noll KM, Donnelly MI, Wolfe RS. Biochemical aspects of methane formation in Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 1987; 53:15-21. [PMID: 3314699 DOI: 10.1007/bf00422630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- K M Noll
- Department of Microbiology, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
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Sparling R, Daniels L. Source of carbon and hydrogen in methane produced from formate by Methanococcus thermolithotrophicus. J Bacteriol 1986; 168:1402-7. [PMID: 3782041 PMCID: PMC213652 DOI: 10.1128/jb.168.3.1402-1407.1986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Methanococcus thermolithotrophicus is able to produce methane either from H2-CO2 or from formate. The route of formate entry into the methanogenic pathway was investigated by using 2H2O or [13C]formate and analysis by mass spectrometry. When cells (H2-CO2 or formate grown) were transferred to formate medium in 95% 2H water, the proportion of 2H in methane was 95%. When cells (H2-CO2 or formate grown) were transferred to media containing [13C]formate in the presence of H2-CO2 or He-CO2, the ratio of 13CH4 to 12CH4 increased over time parallel to the ratio of 13CO2 to 12CO2. The cells catalyzed a significant exchange of label between [13C]formate and 13CO2.
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The role of formylmethanofuran: tetrahydromethanopterin formyltransferase in methanogenesis from carbon dioxide. J Biol Chem 1986. [DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9258(18)66615-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Keltjens JT, Caerteling GC, Van Der Drift C, Vogels GD. Methanopterin and the intermediary steps of methanogenesis. Syst Appl Microbiol 1986. [DOI: 10.1016/s0723-2020(86)80036-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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46
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Sauer FD, Blackwell BA, Mahadevan S. The role of tetrahydromethanopterin and cytoplasmic cofactor in methane synthesis. Biochem J 1986; 235:453-8. [PMID: 3091008 PMCID: PMC1146708 DOI: 10.1042/bj2350453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
A fraction previously isolated from acid-treated supernatant fraction of Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum by DEAE-Sephadex chromatography [Sauer, Mahadevan & Erfle (1984) Biochem. J. 221, 61-97] which was absolutely required for methane synthesis, has been separated into two compounds, tetrahydromethanopterin (H4MPT) and an as-yet-unidentified cofactor we call 'cytoplasmic cofactor'. H4MPT was identified by its u.v. spectrum and by 13C- and 1H-n.m.r. spectroscopy. The reduction of 2-(methylthio)ethanesulphonic acid (CH3-S-CoM) to methane by the membrane fraction from M. thermoautotrophicum was completely dependent on the addition of cytoplasmic cofactor. Methane synthesis from CO2, however, was only partially dependent on cofactor addition, and 57% of the original activity was retained in its absence. The kinetics of 14C labelling were consistent with the scheme methyl-H4MPT----CH3-S-CoM----methane, as has been proposed. This is the first time that direct experimental evidence has been presented to show that the proposed methyl transfer from H4MPT to coenzyme M (HS-CoM) actually occurs.
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Keltjens JT, Caerteling GC, Vogels GD. Methanopterin and tetrahydromethanopterin derivatives: isolation, synthesis, and identification by high-performance liquid chromatography. Methods Enzymol 1986; 122:412-25. [PMID: 3754615 DOI: 10.1016/0076-6879(86)22201-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Donnelly MI, Escalante-Semerena JC, Rinehart KL, Wolfe RS. Methenyl-tetrahydromethanopterin cyclohydrolase in cell extracts of Methanobacterium. Arch Biochem Biophys 1985; 242:430-9. [PMID: 4062290 DOI: 10.1016/0003-9861(85)90227-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Cell extracts of Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum possess a methenyl-tetrahydromethanopterin (methenyl-H4MPT) cyclohydrolase. The enzyme catalyzes the hydrolysis of methenyl-H4MPT to formyltetrahydromethanopterin (formyl-H4MPT). The reaction is reversible and both the rate and extent of the reaction depend on the pH and the buffer used. Similarly, the nonenzymatic hydrolysis of methenyl-H4MPT is highly dependent on pH and buffer. An active derivative of methenyl-H4MPT was obtained in 94% yield by reacting H4MPT with formic acid in the presence of excess acetic acid under anoxic conditions at 80 degrees C for 3 h. H NMR spectroscopy and fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry revealed the product to be a derivative of methenyl-H4MPT which had lost the alpha-hydroxyglutarylphosphate unit. In spite of this loss, this derivative served both as a substrate for methanogenesis and for the cyclohydrolase. Comparison of the properties of the products of the enzymatic and nonenzymatic hydrolyses indicates that the enzymatic reaction yields N5-formyl-H4MPT whereas the nonenzymatic reaction yields N10-formyl-H4MPT.
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Jones WJ, Donnelly MI, Wolfe RS. Evidence of a common pathway of carbon dioxide reduction to methane in methanogens. J Bacteriol 1985; 163:126-31. [PMID: 3924891 PMCID: PMC219089 DOI: 10.1128/jb.163.1.126-131.1985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The roles of methanofuran and tetrahydromethanopterin as carriers of C1 moieties in the reduction of carbon dioxide to methane were studied in representatives of diverse groups of methanogens, confirming that these roles, first reported for Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum, are common for methanogenesis in general. Extracts of the methanogens tested converted formyl-methanofuran and methyl-tetrahydromethanopterin to methane; the extractable cofactors derived from the same methanogens, with one exception, complemented a methanofuran- and tetrahydromethanopterin-deficient enzyme system from M. thermoautotrophicum. The amounts of extractable methanofuran and tetrahydromethanopterin were determined for each representative methanogen.
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