1
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Rout S, Cadalbert R, Schröder N, Wang J, Zehnder J, Gampp O, Wiegand T, Güntert P, Klingler D, Kreutz C, Knörlein A, Hall J, Greenwald J, Riek R. An Analysis of Nucleotide-Amyloid Interactions Reveals Selective Binding to Codon-Sized RNA. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:21915-21924. [PMID: 37782045 PMCID: PMC10571083 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c06287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Interactions between RNA and proteins are the cornerstone of many important biological processes from transcription and translation to gene regulation, yet little is known about the ancient origin of said interactions. We hypothesized that peptide amyloids played a role in the origin of life and that their repetitive structure lends itself to building interfaces with other polymers through avidity. Here, we report that short RNA with a minimum length of three nucleotides binds in a sequence-dependent manner to peptide amyloids. The 3'-5' linked RNA backbone appears to be well-suited to support these interactions, with the phosphodiester backbone and nucleobases both contributing to the affinity. Sequence-specific RNA-peptide interactions of the kind identified here may provide a path to understanding one of the great mysteries rooted in the origin of life: the origin of the genetic code.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saroj
K. Rout
- Institute
of Molecular Physical Science, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Riccardo Cadalbert
- Institute
of Molecular Physical Science, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Nina Schröder
- Institute
of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Julia Wang
- Institute
of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Johannes Zehnder
- Institute
of Molecular Physical Science, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Olivia Gampp
- Institute
of Molecular Physical Science, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Wiegand
- Institute
of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Max
Planck Institute for Chemical Energy Conversion, 45470 Mülheim/Ruhr, Germany
| | - Peter Güntert
- Institute
of Molecular Physical Science, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
- Institute
of Biophysical Chemistry, Goethe University, 60438 Frankfurt
am Main, Germany
- Department
of Chemistry, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Hachioji 192-0397, Japan
| | - David Klingler
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck
(CMBI), Universität Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christoph Kreutz
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck
(CMBI), Universität Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Anna Knörlein
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan Hall
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jason Greenwald
- Institute
of Molecular Physical Science, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Roland Riek
- Institute
of Molecular Physical Science, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
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2
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Sharma T, Kundu N, Kaur S, Shankaraswamy J, Saxena S. Why to target G-quadruplexes using peptides: Next-generation G4-interacting ligands. J Pept Sci 2023; 29:e3491. [PMID: 37009771 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Guanine-rich oligonucleotides existing in both DNA and RNA are able to fold into four-stranded DNA secondary structures via Hoogsteen type hydrogen-bonding, where four guanines self-assemble into a square planar arrangement, which, when stacked upon each other, results in the formation of higher-order structures called G-quadruplexes. Their distribution is not random; they are more frequently present at telomeres, proto-oncogenic promoters, introns, 5'- and 3'-untranslated regions, stem cell markers, ribosome binding sites and so forth and are associated with various biological functions, all of which play a pivotal role in various incurable diseases like cancer and cellular ageing. Several studies have suggested that G-quadruplexes could not regulate biological processes by themselves; instead, various proteins take part in this regulation and can be important therapeutic targets. There are certain limitations in using whole G4-protein for therapeutics purpose because of its high manufacturing cost, laborious structure prediction, dynamic nature, unavailability for oral administration due to its degradation in the gut and inefficient penetration to reach the target site because of the large size. Hence, biologically active peptides can be the potential candidates for therapeutic intervention instead of the whole G4-protein complex. In this review, we aimed to clarify the biological roles of G4s, how we can identify them throughout the genome via bioinformatics, the proteins interacting with G4s and how G4-interacting peptide molecules may be the potential next-generation ligands for targeting the G4 motifs located in biologically important regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taniya Sharma
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Nikita Kundu
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Sarvpreet Kaur
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Jadala Shankaraswamy
- Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, Mojerla, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Budwel, Telangana, India
| | - Sarika Saxena
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
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3
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do Amaral MJ, Passos YM, Almeida MS, Pinheiro AS, Cordeiro Y. In Vitro Characterization of Protein:Nucleic Acid Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation by Microscopy Methods and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2551:605-631. [PMID: 36310228 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2597-2_37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Uncontrolled assembly/disassembly of physiologically formed liquid condensates is linked to irreversible aggregation. Hence, the quest for understanding protein-misfolding disease mechanism might lie in the studies of protein:nucleic acid coacervation. Several proteins with intrinsically disordered regions as well as nucleic acids undergo phase separation in the cellular context, and this process is key to physiological signaling and is related to pathologies. Phase separation is reproducible in vitro by mixing the target recombinant protein with specific nucleic acids at various stoichiometric ratios and then examined by microscopy and nanotracking methods presented herein. We describe protocols to qualitatively assess hallmarks of protein-rich condensates, characterize their structure using intrinsic and extrinsic dyes, quantify them, and analyze their morphology over time. Analysis by nanoparticle tracking provides information on the concentration and diameter of high-order protein oligomers formed in the presence of nucleic acid. Using the model protein (globular domain of recombinant murine PrP) and DNA aptamers (high-affinity oligonucleotides with 25 nucleotides in length), we provide examples of a systematic screening of liquid-liquid phase separation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana J do Amaral
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Yulli M Passos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcius S Almeida
- Protein Advanced Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis and National Center for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Anderson S Pinheiro
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Yraima Cordeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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4
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Thalhammer A, Bröker NK. Biophysical Approaches for the Characterization of Protein-Metabolite Interactions. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2554:199-229. [PMID: 36178628 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2624-5_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
With an estimate of hundred thousands of protein molecules per cell and the number of metabolites several orders of magnitude higher, protein-metabolite interactions are omnipresent. In vitro analyses are one of the main pillars on the way to establish a solid understanding of how these interactions contribute to maintaining cellular homeostasis. A repertoire of biophysical techniques is available by which protein-metabolite interactions can be quantitatively characterized in terms of affinity, specificity, and kinetics in a broad variety of solution environments. Several of those provide information on local or global conformational changes of the protein partner in response to ligand binding. This review chapter gives an overview of the state-of-the-art biophysical toolbox for the study of protein-metabolite interactions. It briefly introduces basic principles, highlights recent examples from the literature, and pinpoints promising future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Thalhammer
- Physical Biochemistry, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany.
| | - Nina K Bröker
- Physical Biochemistry, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
- Health and Medical University Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
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5
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Epigenetic Changes in Prion and Prion-like Neurodegenerative Diseases: Recent Advances, Potential as Biomarkers, and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012609. [PMID: 36293477 PMCID: PMC9604074 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) caused by a conformational conversion of the native cellular prion protein (PrPC) to an abnormal, infectious isoform called PrPSc. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases are also known as prion-like diseases because they share common features with prion diseases, including protein misfolding and aggregation, as well as the spread of these misfolded proteins into different brain regions. Increasing evidence proposes the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms, namely DNA methylation, post-translational modifications of histones, and microRNA-mediated post-transcriptional gene regulation in the pathogenesis of prion-like diseases. Little is known about the role of epigenetic modifications in prion diseases, but recent findings also point to a potential regulatory role of epigenetic mechanisms in the pathology of these diseases. This review highlights recent findings on epigenetic modifications in TSEs and prion-like diseases and discusses the potential role of such mechanisms in disease pathology and their use as potential biomarkers.
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6
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Murakami K, Ono K. Interactions of amyloid coaggregates with biomolecules and its relevance to neurodegeneration. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22493. [PMID: 35971743 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200235r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The aggregation of amyloidogenic proteins is a pathological hallmark of various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In these diseases, oligomeric intermediates or toxic aggregates of amyloids cause neuronal damage and degeneration. Despite the substantial effort made over recent decades to implement therapeutic interventions, these neurodegenerative diseases are not yet understood at the molecular level. In many cases, multiple disease-causing amyloids overlap in a sole pathological feature or a sole disease-causing amyloid represents multiple pathological features. Various amyloid pathologies can coexist in the same brain with or without clinical presentation and may even occur in individuals without disease. From sparse data, speculation has arisen regarding the coaggregation of amyloids with disparate amyloid species and other biomolecules, which are the same characteristics that make diagnostics and drug development challenging. However, advances in research related to biomolecular condensates and structural analysis have been used to overcome some of these challenges. Considering the development of these resources and techniques, herein we review the cross-seeding of amyloidosis, for example, involving the amyloids amyloid β, tau, α-synuclein, and human islet amyloid polypeptide, and their cross-inhibition by transthyretin and BRICHOS. The interplay of nucleic acid-binding proteins, such as prions, TAR DNA-binding protein 43, fused in sarcoma/translated in liposarcoma, and fragile X mental retardation polyglycine, with nucleic acids in the pathology of neurodegeneration are also described, and we thereby highlight the potential clinical applications in central nervous system therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuma Murakami
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kenjiro Ono
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
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7
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Shafiq M, Da Vela S, Amin L, Younas N, Harris DA, Zerr I, Altmeppen HC, Svergun D, Glatzel M. The prion protein and its ligands: Insights into structure-function relationships. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2022; 1869:119240. [PMID: 35192891 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2022.119240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The prion protein is a multifunctional protein that exists in at least two different folding states. It is subject to diverse proteolytic processing steps that lead to prion protein fragments some of which are membrane-bound whereas others are soluble. A multitude of ligands bind to the prion protein and besides proteinaceous binding partners, interaction with metal ions and nucleic acids occurs. Although of great importance, information on structural and functional consequences of prion protein binding to its partners is limited. Here, we will reflect on the structure-function relationship of the prion protein and its binding partners considering the different folding states and prion protein fragments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsin Shafiq
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefano Da Vela
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg c/o German Electron Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestraße 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ladan Amin
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Neelam Younas
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert-Koch-str. 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - David A Harris
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Inga Zerr
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert-Koch-str. 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Hermann C Altmeppen
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dmitri Svergun
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg c/o German Electron Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestraße 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Glatzel
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Germany.
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8
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P B Gomes M, de Lima EV, G Q Barros-Aragão F, Passos YM, Lemos FS, Zamberlan DC, Ribeiro G, Macedo B, C Ferreira N, Silva JL, Figueiredo CP, Clarke JR, Cordeiro Y. Prion protein complexed to a DNA aptamer induce behavioral and synapse dysfunction in mice. Behav Brain Res 2022; 419:113680. [PMID: 34822947 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Conversion of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) into the scrapie form (PrPSc) is the leading step to the development of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), still incurable neurodegenerative disorders. Interaction of PrPC with cellular and synthetic ligands that induce formation of scrapie-like conformations has been deeply investigated in vitro. Different nucleic acid (NA) sequences bind PrP and convert it to β-sheet-rich or unfolded species; among such NAs, a 21-mer double-stranded DNA, D67, was shown to induce formation of PrP aggregates that were cytotoxic. However, in vivo effects of these PrP-DNA complexes were not explored. Herein, aggregates of recombinant full-length PrP (rPrP23-231) induced by interaction with the D67 aptamer were inoculated into the lateral ventricle of Swiss mice and acute effects were investigated. The aggregates had no influence on emotional, locomotor and motor behavior of mice. In contrast, mice developed cognitive impairment and hippocampal synapse loss, which was accompanied by intense activation of glial cells in this brain region. Our results suggest that the i.c.v. injection of rPrP:D67 aggregates is an interesting model to study the neurotoxicity of aggregated PrP in vivo, and that glial cell activation may be an important step for behavioral and cognitive dysfunction in prion diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana P B Gomes
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil; Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Bio-Manguinhos, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Emanuelle V de Lima
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Fernanda G Q Barros-Aragão
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil; Biomedical Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Yulli M Passos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Felipe S Lemos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil; Biomedical Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Daniele C Zamberlan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Ribeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Bruno Macedo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Natalia C Ferreira
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil; IAVI Neutralizing Antibody Center, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jerson L Silva
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo De Meis, National Institute of Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil
| | | | - Julia R Clarke
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Yraima Cordeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil.
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9
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Tandon A, Subramani VK, Kim KK, Park SH. Interaction of Prion Peptides with DNA Structures. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:176-186. [PMID: 35036689 PMCID: PMC8756453 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c04328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Prion protein aggregation is known to be modulated by macromolecules including nucleic acids. To clarify the role of nucleic acids in PrP pathology, we investigated the interaction between nucleic acids and the prion peptide (PrP)-a synthetic prion protein model peptide resembling a portion of the human prion protein in structure and function spanning amino acid residues 106-126. We used synthetic DNA lattices and natural DNA duplexes extracted from salmon (sDNA) bound with PrP and studied their interaction using distinct physical measurements. The formation of DNA lattices with PrP was visualized by atomic force microscopy (AFM) to investigate the influence of the PrP. PrP inhibited the growth of the double-crossover (DX) lattices significantly compared to the control peptide (CoP). We also conducted optical measurements such as ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), circular dichroism (CD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies to validate the interaction between PrP and DNA immediately (D0) and after a 30-day incubation (D30) period. UV-Vis spectra showed variation in the absorbance intensities, specific for the binding of CoP and PrP to DNA. The CD analysis revealed the presence of various secondary structures, such as α-helices and β-sheets, in PrP- and PrP-bound sDNA complexes. The PrP-sDNA interaction was confirmed using FTIR by the change and shift of the absorption peak intensity and the alteration of PrP secondary structures in the presence of DNA. The cytotoxic effects of the PrP-bound sDNA complexes were assessed by a cytotoxicity assay in human neuroblastoma cells in culture. It confirmed that PrP with sDNA was less cytotoxic than CoP. This study provides new applications for DNA molecules by investigating their effect in complex with aggregated proteins. Our study unequivocally showed the beneficial effect of the interaction between DNA and the pathological prion protein. It therefore provides valuable information to exploit this effect in the development of potential therapeutics. Moreover, our work might serve as a basis for further studies investigating the role of DNA interactions with other amyloidogenic proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anshula Tandon
- Department
of Physics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Korea
- Sungkyunkwan
Advanced Institute of Nanotechnology (SAINT), Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Vinod Kumar Subramani
- Department
of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Kyeong Kyu Kim
- Sungkyunkwan
Advanced Institute of Nanotechnology (SAINT), Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Korea
- Department
of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Sung Ha Park
- Department
of Physics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Korea
- Sungkyunkwan
Advanced Institute of Nanotechnology (SAINT), Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Korea
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10
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Qu N, Ying Y, Qin J, Chen AK. Rational design of self-assembled RNA nanostructures for HIV-1 virus assembly blockade. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 50:e44. [PMID: 34967412 PMCID: PMC9071489 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab1282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Many pathological processes are driven by RNA-protein interactions, making such interactions promising targets for molecular interventions. HIV-1 assembly is one such process, in which the viral genomic RNA interacts with the viral Gag protein and serves as a scaffold to drive Gag multimerization that ultimately leads to formation of a virus particle. Here, we develop self-assembled RNA nanostructures that can inhibit HIV-1 virus assembly, achieved through hybridization of multiple artificial small RNAs with a stem-loop structure (STL) that we identify as a prominent ligand of Gag that can inhibit virus particle production via STL-Gag interactions. The resulting STL-decorated nanostructures (double and triple stem-loop structures denoted as Dumbbell and Tribell, respectively) can elicit more pronounced viral blockade than their building blocks, with the inhibition arising as a result of nanostructures interfering with Gag multimerization. These findings could open up new avenues for RNA-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Qu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yachen Ying
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.,National Biomedical Imaging Center, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Jinshan Qin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.,National Biomedical Imaging Center, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Antony K Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.,National Biomedical Imaging Center, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
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11
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Mukherjee SK, Knop JM, Winter RHA. Modulation of the Conformational Space of SARS-CoV-2 RNA Quadruplex RG-1 by Cellular Components and the Amyloidogenic Peptides α-Synuclein and hIAPP. Chemistry 2021; 28:e202104182. [PMID: 34882862 PMCID: PMC9015630 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202104182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Given the emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), which particularly threatens older people with comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus and dementia, understanding the relationship between Covid-19 and other diseases is an important factor for treatment. Possible targets for medical intervention include G-quadruplexes (G4Qs) and their protein interaction partners. We investigated the stability and conformational space of the RG-1 RNA-G-quadruplex of the SARS-CoV-2 N-gene in the presence of salts, cosolutes, crowders and intrinsically disordered peptides, focusing on α-Synuclein and the human islet amyloid polypeptide, which are involved in Parkinson's disease (PD) and type-II diabetes mellitus (T2DM), respectively. We found that the conformational dynamics of the RG-1 G4Q is strongly affected by the various solution conditions. Further, the amyloidogenic peptides were found to strongly modulate the conformational equilibrium of the RG-1. Considerable changes are observed with respect to their interaction with human telomeric G4Qs, which adopt different topologies. These results may therefore shed more light on the relationship between PD as well as T2DM and the SARS-CoV-2 disease and their molecular underpinnings. Since dysregulation of G4Q formation by rationally designed targeting compounds affects the control of cellular processes, this study should contribute to the development of specific ligands for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjib K Mukherjee
- TU Dortmund University: Technische Universitat Dortmund, Chemistry and Chemical Biology, GERMANY
| | - Jim-Marcel Knop
- TU Dortmund University: Technische Universitat Dortmund, Chemistry and Chemical Biology, GERMANY
| | - Roland Hermann Alfons Winter
- TU Dortmund University, Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn Str. 4a, Physical Chemistry I, 44227, Dortmund, GERMANY
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12
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Intrinsic disorder and phase transitions: Pieces in the puzzling role of the prion protein in health and disease. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2021; 183:1-43. [PMID: 34656326 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2021.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
After four decades of prion protein research, the pressing questions in the literature remain similar to the common existential dilemmas. Who am I? Some structural characteristics of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) and scrapie PrP (PrPSc) remain unknown: there are no high-resolution atomic structures for either full-length endogenous human PrPC or isolated infectious PrPSc particles. Why am I here? It is not known why PrPC and PrPSc are found in specific cellular compartments such as the nucleus; while the physiological functions of PrPC are still being uncovered, the misfolding site remains obscure. Where am I going? The subcellular distribution of PrPC and PrPSc is wide (reported in 10 different locations in the cell). This complexity is further exacerbated by the eight different PrP fragments yielded from conserved proteolytic cleavages and by reversible post-translational modifications, such as glycosylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination. Moreover, about 55 pathological mutations and 16 polymorphisms on the PrP gene (PRNP) have been described. Prion diseases also share unique, challenging features: strain phenomenon (associated with the heterogeneity of PrPSc conformations) and the possible transmissibility between species, factors which contribute to PrP undruggability. However, two recent concepts in biochemistry-intrinsically disordered proteins and phase transitions-may shed light on the molecular basis of PrP's role in physiology and disease.
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13
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Mukherjee SK, Knop JM, Oliva R, Möbitz S, Winter R. Untangling the interaction of α-synuclein with DNA i-motifs and hairpins by volume-sensitive single-molecule FRET spectroscopy. RSC Chem Biol 2021; 2:1196-1200. [PMID: 34458831 PMCID: PMC8341996 DOI: 10.1039/d1cb00108f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The intrinsically disordered protein α-synuclein causes Parkinson's disease by forming toxic oligomeric aggregates inside neurons. Single-molecule FRET experiments revealed conformational changes of noncanonical DNA structures, such as i-motifs and hairpins, in the presence of α-synuclein. Volumetric analyses revealed differences in binding mode, which is also affected by cellular osmolytes. The conformational landscape of noncanonical DNA structures is markedly affected by monomeric and aggregated α-synuclein, by osmolytes such as TMAO, and by pressure.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjib K Mukherjee
- Physical Chemistry I-Biophysical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn Strasse 4a Dortmund D-44227 Germany
| | - Jim-Marcel Knop
- Physical Chemistry I-Biophysical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn Strasse 4a Dortmund D-44227 Germany
| | - Rosario Oliva
- Physical Chemistry I-Biophysical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn Strasse 4a Dortmund D-44227 Germany
| | - Simone Möbitz
- Physical Chemistry I-Biophysical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn Strasse 4a Dortmund D-44227 Germany
| | - Roland Winter
- Physical Chemistry I-Biophysical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn Strasse 4a Dortmund D-44227 Germany
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14
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Liu W, Xu Y, Li X, Meng Y, Wang H, Liu C, Liu C, Wang L. A DNA G-quadruplex converts SOD1 into fibrillar aggregates. CHINESE CHEM LETT 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.01.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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15
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Angelli JN, Passos YM, Brito JMA, Silva JL, Cordeiro Y, Vieira TCRG. Rabbit PrP Is Partially Resistant to in vitro Aggregation Induced by Different Biological Cofactors. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:689315. [PMID: 34220442 PMCID: PMC8249948 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.689315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases have been described in humans and other mammals, including sheep, goats, cattle, and deer. Since mice, hamsters, and cats are susceptible to prion infection, they are often used to study the mechanisms of prion infection and conversion. Mammals, such as horses and dogs, however, do not naturally contract the disease and are resistant to infection, while others, like rabbits, have exhibited low susceptibility. Infection involves the conversion of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) to the scrapie form (PrPSc), and several cofactors have already been identified as important adjuvants in this process, such as glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), lipids, and nucleic acids. The molecular mechanisms that determine transmissibility between species remain unclear, as well as the barriers to transmission. In this study, we examine the interaction of recombinant rabbit PrPC (RaPrP) with different biological cofactors such as GAGs (heparin and dermatan sulfate), phosphatidic acid, and DNA oligonucleotides (A1 and D67) to evaluate the importance of these cofactors in modulating the aggregation of rabbit PrP and explain the animal’s different degrees of resistance to infection. We used spectroscopic and chromatographic approaches to evaluate the interaction with cofactors and their effect on RaPrP aggregation, which we compared with murine PrP (MuPrP). Our data show that all cofactors induce RaPrP aggregation and exhibit pH dependence. However, RaPrP aggregated to a lesser extent than MuPrP in the presence of any of the cofactors tested. The binding affinity with cofactors does not correlate with these low levels of aggregation, suggesting that the latter are related to the stability of PrP at acidic pH. The absence of the N-terminus affected the interaction with cofactors, influencing the efficiency of aggregation. These findings demonstrate that the interaction with polyanionic cofactors is related to rabbit PrP being less susceptible to aggregation in vitro and that the N-terminal domain is important to the efficiency of conversion, increasing the interaction with cofactors. The decreased effect of cofactors in rabbit PrP likely explains its lower propensity to prion conversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana N Angelli
- Federal Institute of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Yulli M Passos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Julyana M A Brito
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jerson L Silva
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Yraima Cordeiro
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Tuane C R G Vieira
- Federal Institute of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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16
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Shmookler Reis RJ, Atluri R, Balasubramaniam M, Johnson J, Ganne A, Ayyadevara S. "Protein aggregates" contain RNA and DNA, entrapped by misfolded proteins but largely rescued by slowing translational elongation. Aging Cell 2021; 20:e13326. [PMID: 33788386 PMCID: PMC8135009 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
All neurodegenerative diseases feature aggregates, which usually contain disease-specific diagnostic proteins; non-protein constituents, however, have rarely been explored. Aggregates from SY5Y-APPSw neuroblastoma, a cell model of familial Alzheimer's disease, were crosslinked and sequences of linked peptides identified. We constructed a normalized "contactome" comprising 11 subnetworks, centered on 24 high-connectivity hubs. Remarkably, all 24 are nucleic acid-binding proteins. This led us to isolate and sequence RNA and DNA from Alzheimer's and control aggregates. RNA fragments were mapped to the human genome by RNA-seq and DNA by ChIP-seq. Nearly all aggregate RNA sequences mapped to specific genes, whereas DNA fragments were predominantly intergenic. These nucleic acid mappings are all significantly nonrandom, making an artifactual origin extremely unlikely. RNA (mostly cytoplasmic) exceeded DNA (chiefly nuclear) by twofold to fivefold. RNA fragments recovered from AD tissue were ~1.5-to 2.5-fold more abundant than those recovered from control tissue, similar to the increase in protein. Aggregate abundances of specific RNA sequences were strikingly differential between cultured SY5Y-APPSw glioblastoma cells expressing APOE3 vs. APOE4, consistent with APOE4 competition for E-box/CLEAR motifs. We identified many G-quadruplex and viral sequences within RNA and DNA of aggregates, suggesting that sequestration of viral genomes may have driven the evolution of disordered nucleic acid-binding proteins. After RNA-interference knockdown of the translational-procession factor EEF2 to suppress translation in SY5Y-APPSw cells, the RNA content of aggregates declined by >90%, while reducing protein content by only 30% and altering DNA content by ≤10%. This implies that cotranslational misfolding of nascent proteins may ensnare polysomes into aggregates, accounting for most of their RNA content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Shmookler Reis
- Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System Little Rock AR USA
- Department of Geriatrics University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
- BioInformatics Program University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock AR USA
| | - Ramani Atluri
- Department of Geriatrics University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
| | | | - Jay Johnson
- BioInformatics Program University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock AR USA
| | - Akshatha Ganne
- BioInformatics Program University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock AR USA
| | - Srinivas Ayyadevara
- Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System Little Rock AR USA
- Department of Geriatrics University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
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17
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M Passos Y, J do Amaral M, C Ferreira N, Macedo B, Chaves JAP, E de Oliveira V, P B Gomes M, L Silva J, Cordeiro Y. The interplay between a GC-rich oligonucleotide and copper ions on prion protein conformational and phase transitions. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 173:34-43. [PMID: 33476618 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.01.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The prion protein (PrP) misfolding to its infectious form is critical to the development of prion diseases, whereby various ligands are suggested to participate, such as copper and nucleic acids (NA). The PrP globular domain was shown to undergo NA-driven liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS); this latter may precede pathological aggregation. Since Cu(II) is a physiological ligand of PrP, we argue whether it modulates phase separation altogether with nucleic acids. Using recombinant PrP, we investigate the effects of Cu(II) (at 6 M equivalents) and a previously described PrP-binding GC-rich DNA (equimolarly to protein) on PrP conformation, oligomerization, and phase transitions using a range of biophysical techniques. Raman spectroscopy data reveals the formation of the ternary complex. Microscopy suggests that phase separation is mainly driven by DNA, whereas Cu(II) has no influence. Our results show that DNA can be an adjuvant, leading to the structural conversion of PrP, even in the presence of an endogenous ligand, copper. These results provide new insights into the role of Cu(II) and NA on the phase separation, structural conversion, and aggregation of PrP, which are critical events leading to neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulli M Passos
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-590, RJ, Brazil
| | - Mariana J do Amaral
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-590, RJ, Brazil
| | - Natalia C Ferreira
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-590, RJ, Brazil; Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, MT, USA
| | - Bruno Macedo
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-590, RJ, Brazil
| | - Juliana A P Chaves
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-590, RJ, Brazil
| | - Vanessa E de Oliveira
- Departamento de Ciências da Natureza, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio das Ostras 28890-000, RJ, Brazil
| | - Mariana P B Gomes
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Bio-Manguinhos, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Jerson L Silva
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-590, RJ, Brazil
| | - Yraima Cordeiro
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-590, RJ, Brazil.
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18
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Pang Y, Kovachev P, Sanyal S. Ribosomal RNA Modulates Aggregation of the Podospora Prion Protein HET-s. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176340. [PMID: 32882892 PMCID: PMC7504336 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of the nucleic acids in prion aggregation/disaggregation is becoming more and more evident. Here, using HET-s prion from fungi Podospora anserina (P. anserina) as a model system, we studied the role of RNA, particularly of different domains of the ribosomal RNA (rRNA), in its aggregation process. Our results using Rayleigh light scattering, Thioflavin T (ThT) binding, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and cross-seeding assay show that rRNA, in particular the domain V of the major rRNA from the large subunit of the ribosome, substantially prevents insoluble amyloid and amorphous aggregation of the HET-s prion in a concentration-dependent manner. Instead, it facilitates the formation of the soluble oligomeric “seeds”, which are capable of promoting de novo HET-s aggregation. The sites of interactions of the HET-s prion protein on domain V rRNA were identified by primer extension analysis followed by UV-crosslinking, which overlap with the sites previously identified for the protein-folding activity of the ribosome (PFAR). This study clarifies a missing link between the rRNA-based PFAR and the mode of propagation of the fungal prions.
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19
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Mukherjee SK, Knop J, Möbitz S, Winter RHA. Alteration of the Conformational Dynamics of a DNA Hairpin by α-Synuclein in the Presence of Aqueous Two-Phase Systems. Chemistry 2020; 26:10987-10991. [PMID: 32453478 PMCID: PMC7496936 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202002119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The effect of an amyloidogenic intrinsically disordered protein, α-synuclein, which is associated with Parkinson's disease (PD), on the conformational dynamics of a DNA hairpin (DNA-HP) was studied by employing the single-molecule Förster resonance energy transfer method. The open-to-closed conformational equilibrium of the DNA-HP is drastically affected by binding of monomeric α-synuclein to the loop region of the DNA-HP. Formation of a protein-bound intermediate conformation is fostered in the presence of an aqueous two-phase system mimicking intracellular liquid-liquid phase separation. Using pressure modulation, additional mechanistic information about the binding complex could be retrieved. Hence, in addition to toxic amyloid formation, α-synuclein may alter expression profiles of disease-modifying genes in PD. Furthermore, these findings might also have significant bearings on the understanding of the physiology of organisms thriving at high pressures in the deep sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjib K. Mukherjee
- Physical Chemistry I–Biophysical ChemistryFaculty of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyTU Dortmund UniversityOtto-Hahn Str. 4a44227DortmundGermany
| | - Jim‐Marcel Knop
- Physical Chemistry I–Biophysical ChemistryFaculty of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyTU Dortmund UniversityOtto-Hahn Str. 4a44227DortmundGermany
| | - Simone Möbitz
- Physical Chemistry I–Biophysical ChemistryFaculty of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyTU Dortmund UniversityOtto-Hahn Str. 4a44227DortmundGermany
| | - Roland H. A. Winter
- Physical Chemistry I–Biophysical ChemistryFaculty of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyTU Dortmund UniversityOtto-Hahn Str. 4a44227DortmundGermany
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20
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Pradhan P, Srivastava A, Singh J, Biswas B, Saini A, Siddique I, Kumari P, Khan MA, Mishra A, Yadav PK, Kumar S, Bhavesh NS, Venkatraman P, Vivekanandan P, Kundu B. Prion protein transcription is auto-regulated through dynamic interactions with G-quadruplex motifs in its own promoter. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194479. [PMID: 31931179 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2019.194479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cellular prion protein (PrP) misfolds into an aberrant and infectious scrapie form (PrPSc) that lead to fatal transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). Association of prions with G-quadruplex (GQ) forming nucleic acid motifs has been reported, but implications of these interactions remain elusive. Herein, we show that the promoter region of the human prion gene (PRNP) contains two putative GQ motifs (Q1 and Q2) that assume stable, hybrid, intra-molecular quadruplex structures and bind with high affinity to PrP. Here, we investigate the ability of PrP to bind to the quadruplexes in its own promoter. We used a battery of techniques including SPR, NMR, CD, MD simulations and cell culture-based reporter assays. Our results show that PrP auto-regulates its expression by binding and resolving the GQs present in its own promoter. Furthermore, we map this resolvase-like activity to the N-terminal region (residues 23-89) of PrP. Our findings highlight a positive transcriptional-translational feedback regulation of the PRNP gene by PrP through dynamic unwinding of GQs in its promoter. Taken together, our results shed light on a yet unknown mechanism of regulation of the PRNP gene. This work provides the necessary framework for a plethora of studies on understanding the regulation of PrP levels and its implications in prion pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Pradhan
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Ankit Srivastava
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Jasdeep Singh
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Banhi Biswas
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Akanksha Saini
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Ibrar Siddique
- National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Pooja Kumari
- Transcription Regulation group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Mohd Asim Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Delhi, South Campus, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Akhilesh Mishra
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Pramod Kumar Yadav
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Shivani Kumar
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Neel Sarovar Bhavesh
- Transcription Regulation group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Prasanna Venkatraman
- Tata Memorial Centre, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, 2nd floor, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400094, India
| | - Perumal Vivekanandan
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India.
| | - Bishwajit Kundu
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India.
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21
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Reidenbach AG, Minikel EV, Zhao HT, Guzman SG, Leed AJ, Mesleh MF, Kordasiewicz HB, Schreiber SL, Vallabh SM. Characterization of the Prion Protein Binding Properties of Antisense Oligonucleotides. Biomolecules 2019; 10:E1. [PMID: 31861275 PMCID: PMC7022474 DOI: 10.3390/biom10010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) designed to lower prion protein (PrP) expression in the brain through RNase H1-mediated degradation of PrP RNA are in development as prion disease therapeutics. ASOs were previously reported to sequence-independently interact with PrP and inhibit prion accumulation in cell culture, yet in vivo studies using a new generation of ASOs found that only PrP-lowering sequences were effective at extending survival. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) PrP has been proposed as a pharmacodynamic biomarker for trials of such ASOs, but is only interpretable if PrP lowering is indeed the relevant mechanism of action in vivo and if measurement of PrP is unconfounded by any PrP-ASO interaction. Here, we examine the PrP-binding and antiprion properties of ASOs in vitro and in cell culture. Binding parameters determined by isothermal titration calorimetry were similar across all ASOs tested, indicating that ASOs of various chemistries bind full-length recombinant PrP with low- to mid-nanomolar affinity in a sequence-independent manner. Nuclear magnetic resonance, dynamic light scattering, and visual inspection of ASO-PrP mixtures suggested, however, that this interaction is characterized by the formation of large aggregates, a conclusion further supported by the salt dependence of the affinity measured by isothermal titration calorimetry. Sequence-independent inhibition of prion accumulation in cell culture was observed. The inefficacy of non-PrP-lowering ASOs against prion disease in vivo may be because their apparent activity in vitro is an artifact of aggregation, or because the concentration of ASOs in relevant compartments within the central nervous system (CNS) quickly drops below the effective concentration for sequence-independent antiprion activity after bolus dosing into CSF. Measurements of PrP concentration in human CSF were not impacted by the addition of ASO. These findings support the further development of PrP-lowering ASOs and of CSF PrP as a pharmacodynamic biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew G. Reidenbach
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.G.R.); (E.V.M.); (S.G.G.); (S.L.S.)
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Eric Vallabh Minikel
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.G.R.); (E.V.M.); (S.G.G.); (S.L.S.)
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Prion Alliance, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Hien T. Zhao
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, CA 92010, USA; (H.T.Z.); (H.B.K.)
| | - Stacy G. Guzman
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.G.R.); (E.V.M.); (S.G.G.); (S.L.S.)
- Exceptional Research Opportunities Program (EXROP), Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Alison J. Leed
- Center for the Development of Therapeutics, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.J.L.); (M.F.M.)
| | - Michael F. Mesleh
- Center for the Development of Therapeutics, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.J.L.); (M.F.M.)
| | | | - Stuart L. Schreiber
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.G.R.); (E.V.M.); (S.G.G.); (S.L.S.)
- Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Sonia M. Vallabh
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; (A.G.R.); (E.V.M.); (S.G.G.); (S.L.S.)
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Prion Alliance, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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22
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Matos CO, Passos YM, do Amaral MJ, Macedo B, Tempone MH, Bezerra OCL, Moraes MO, Almeida MS, Weber G, Missailidis S, Silva JL, Uversky VN, Pinheiro AS, Cordeiro Y. Liquid-liquid phase separation and fibrillation of the prion protein modulated by a high-affinity DNA aptamer. FASEB J 2019; 34:365-385. [PMID: 31914616 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901897r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Structural conversion of cellular prion protein (PrPC) into scrapie PrP (PrPSc) and subsequent aggregation are key events associated with the onset of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). Experimental evidence supports the role of nucleic acids (NAs) in assisting this conversion. Here, we asked whether PrP undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) and if this process is modulated by NAs. To this end, two 25-mer DNA aptamers, A1 and A2, were selected against the globular domain of recombinant murine PrP (rPrP90-231) using SELEX methodology. Multiparametric structural analysis of these aptamers revealed that A1 adopts a hairpin conformation. Aptamer binding caused partial unfolding of rPrP90-231 and modulated its ability to undergo LLPS and fibrillate. In fact, although free rPrP90-231 phase separated into large droplets, aptamer binding increased the number of droplets but noticeably reduced their size. Strikingly, a modified A1 aptamer that does not adopt a hairpin structure induced formation of amyloid fibrils on the surface of the droplets. We show here that PrP undergoes LLPS, and that the PrP interaction with NAs modulates phase separation and promotes PrP fibrillation in a NA structure and concentration-dependent manner. These results shed new light on the roles of NAs in PrP misfolding and TSEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina O Matos
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Yulli M Passos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mariana J do Amaral
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, National Center for Structural Biology and Bioimaging (CENABIO), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bruno Macedo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Matheus H Tempone
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ohanna C L Bezerra
- Leprosy Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Milton O Moraes
- Leprosy Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcius S Almeida
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, National Center for Structural Biology and Bioimaging (CENABIO), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gerald Weber
- Department of Physics, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Sotiris Missailidis
- Institute of Technology in Immunobiologics (Bio-Manguinhos), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jerson L Silva
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, National Center for Structural Biology and Bioimaging (CENABIO), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine, USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.,Laboratory of New Methods in Biology, Institute for Biological Instrumentation, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Russia
| | - Anderson S Pinheiro
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Yraima Cordeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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23
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Rha AK, Das D, Taran O, Ke Y, Mehta AK, Lynn DG. Electrostatic Complementarity Drives Amyloid/Nucleic Acid Co‐Assembly. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201907661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Allisandra K. Rha
- Chemistry and Biology Emory University 1521 Dickey Drive NE Atlanta GA 30322 USA
| | - Dibyendu Das
- Chemistry and Biology Emory University 1521 Dickey Drive NE Atlanta GA 30322 USA
| | - Olga Taran
- Chemistry and Biology Emory University 1521 Dickey Drive NE Atlanta GA 30322 USA
| | - Yonggang Ke
- Biomedical Engineering Emory and Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta GA 30322 USA
| | - Anil K. Mehta
- Chemistry and Biology Emory University 1521 Dickey Drive NE Atlanta GA 30322 USA
| | - David G. Lynn
- Chemistry and Biology Emory University 1521 Dickey Drive NE Atlanta GA 30322 USA
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Rha AK, Das D, Taran O, Ke Y, Mehta AK, Lynn DG. Electrostatic Complementarity Drives Amyloid/Nucleic Acid Co-Assembly. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019; 59:358-363. [PMID: 31617300 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201907661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Proteinaceous plaques associated with neurodegenerative diseases contain many biopolymers including the polyanions glycosaminoglycans and nucleic acids. Polyanion-induced amyloid fibrillation has been implicated in disease etiology, but structural models for amyloid/nucleic acid co-assemblies remain limited. Here we constrain nucleic acid/peptide interactions with model peptides that exploit electrostatic complementarity and define a novel amyloid/nucleic acid co-assembly. The structure provides a model for nucleic acid/amyloid co-assembly as well as insight into the energetic determinants involved in templating amyloid assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allisandra K Rha
- Chemistry and Biology, Emory University, 1521 Dickey Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Dibyendu Das
- Chemistry and Biology, Emory University, 1521 Dickey Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Olga Taran
- Chemistry and Biology, Emory University, 1521 Dickey Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Yonggang Ke
- Biomedical Engineering, Emory and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Anil K Mehta
- Chemistry and Biology, Emory University, 1521 Dickey Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - David G Lynn
- Chemistry and Biology, Emory University, 1521 Dickey Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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25
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Kovachev PS, Gomes MPB, Cordeiro Y, Ferreira NC, Valadão LPF, Ascari LM, Rangel LP, Silva JL, Sanyal S. RNA modulates aggregation of the recombinant mammalian prion protein by direct interaction. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12406. [PMID: 31455808 PMCID: PMC6712051 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-48883-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have proposed that nucleic acids act as potential cofactors for protein aggregation and prionogenesis. By means of sedimentation, transmission electron microscopy, circular dichroism, static and dynamic light scattering, we have studied how RNA can influence the aggregation of the murine recombinant prion protein (rPrP). We find that RNA, independent of its sequence, source and size, modulates rPrP aggregation in a bimodal fashion, affecting both the extent and the rate of rPrP aggregation in a concentration dependent manner. Analogous to RNA-induced liquid-liquid phase transitions observed for other proteins implicated in neurodegenerative diseases, high protein to RNA ratios stimulate rPrP aggregation, while low ratios suppress it. However, the latter scenario also promotes formation of soluble oligomeric aggregates capable of seeding de novo rPrP aggregation. Furthermore, RNA co-aggregates with rPrP and thereby gains partial protection from RNase digestion. Our results also indicate that rPrP interacts with the RNAs with its N-terminus. In summary, this study elucidates the proposed adjuvant role of RNA in prion protein aggregation and propagation, and thus advocates an auxiliary role of the nucleic acids in protein aggregation in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petar Stefanov Kovachev
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Box-596, 75124, Sweden
| | - Mariana P B Gomes
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Bio-Manguinhos, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Yraima Cordeiro
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Natália C Ferreira
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil.,Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, United States of America
| | - Leticia P Felix Valadão
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Lucas M Ascari
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Luciana P Rangel
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Jerson L Silva
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto Nacional de Ciência Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Suparna Sanyal
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Box-596, 75124, Sweden.
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26
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Protein misfolding, aggregation and mechanism of amyloid cytotoxicity: An overview and therapeutic strategies to inhibit aggregation. Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 134:1022-1037. [PMID: 31128177 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.05.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Protein and peptides are converted from their soluble forms into highly ordered fibrillar aggregates under various conditions inside the cell. Such transitions confer diverse neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease Prion's disease, Parkinson's disease, polyQ and share abnormal folding of potentially cytotoxic protein species linked with degeneration and death of precise neuronal populations. Presently, major advances are made to understand and get detailed insight into the structural basis and mechanism of amyloid formation, cytotoxicity and therapeutic approaches to combat them. Here we highlight classifies and summarizes the detailed overview of protein misfolding and aggregation at their molecular level including the factors that promote protein aggregation under in vivo and in vitro conditions. In addition, we describe the recent technologies that aid the characterization of amyloid aggregates along with several models that might be responsible for amyloid induced cytotoxicity to cells. Overview on the inhibition of amyloidosis by targeting different small molecules (both natural and synthetic origin) have been also discussed, that provides important approaches to identify novel targets and develop specific therapeutic strategies to combat protein aggregation related neurodegenerative diseases.
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27
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A Sequence-Dependent DNA Condensation Induced by Prion Protein. J Nucleic Acids 2018; 2018:9581021. [PMID: 29657864 PMCID: PMC5838432 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9581021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Different studies indicated that the prion protein induces hybridization of complementary DNA strands. Cell culture studies showed that the scrapie isoform of prion protein remained bound with the chromosome. In present work, we used an oxazole dye, YOYO, as a reporter to quantitative characterization of the DNA condensation by prion protein. We observe that the prion protein induces greater fluorescence quenching of YOYO intercalated in DNA containing only GC bases compared to the DNA containing four bases whereas the effect of dye bound to DNA containing only AT bases is marginal. DNA-condensing biological polyamines are less effective than prion protein in quenching of DNA-bound YOYO fluorescence. The prion protein induces marginal quenching of fluorescence of the dye bound to oligonucleotides, which are resistant to condensation. The ultrastructural studies with electron microscope also validate the biophysical data. The GC bases of the target DNA are probably responsible for increased condensation in the presence of prion protein. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a human cellular protein inducing a sequence-dependent DNA condensation. The increased condensation of GC-rich DNA by prion protein may suggest a biological function of the prion protein and a role in its pathogenesis.
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28
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Abstract
Mammalian prion proteins (PrPs) that cause transmissible spongiform encephalopathies are misfolded conformations of the host cellular PrP. The misfolded form, the scrapie PrP (PrP(Sc)), can aggregate into amyloid fibrils that progressively accumulate in the brain, evolving to a pathological phenotype. A particular characteristic of PrP(Sc) is to be found as different strains, related to the diversity of conformational states it can adopt. Prion strains are responsible for the multiple phenotypes observed in prion diseases, presenting different incubation times and diverse deposition profiles in the brain. PrP biochemical properties are also strain-dependent, such as different digestion pattern after proteolysis and different stability. Although they have long been studied, strain formation is still a major unsolved issue in prion biology. The recreation of strain-specific conformational features is of fundamental importance to study this unique pathogenic phenomenon. In our recent paper, we described that murine PrP, when expressed in bacteria, forms amyloid inclusion bodies that possess different strain-like characteristics, depending on the PrP construct. Here, we present an extra-view of these data and propose that bacteria might become a successful model to generate preparative amounts of prion strain-specific assemblies for high-resolution structural analysis as well as for addressing the determinants of infectivity and transmissibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Macedo
- a Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina and Departament de Bioquimica i Biologia Molecular , Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona , Bellaterra ( Barcelona ), Spain ;,b Faculdade de Farmacia , Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Yraima Cordeiro
- b Faculdade de Farmacia , Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Salvador Ventura
- a Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina and Departament de Bioquimica i Biologia Molecular , Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona , Bellaterra ( Barcelona ), Spain
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29
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Unraveling Prion Protein Interactions with Aptamers and Other PrP-Binding Nucleic Acids. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18051023. [PMID: 28513534 PMCID: PMC5454936 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18051023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 04/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are a group of neurodegenerative disorders that affect humans and other mammals. The etiologic agents common to these diseases are misfolded conformations of the prion protein (PrP). The molecular mechanisms that trigger the structural conversion of the normal cellular PrP (PrPC) into the pathogenic conformer (PrPSc) are still poorly understood. It is proposed that a molecular cofactor would act as a catalyst, lowering the activation energy of the conversion process, therefore favoring the transition of PrPC to PrPSc. Several in vitro studies have described physical interactions between PrP and different classes of molecules, which might play a role in either PrP physiology or pathology. Among these molecules, nucleic acids (NAs) are highlighted as potential PrP molecular partners. In this context, the SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment) methodology has proven extremely valuable to investigate PrP–NA interactions, due to its ability to select small nucleic acids, also termed aptamers, that bind PrP with high affinity and specificity. Aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotides that can be folded into a wide range of structures (from harpins to G-quadruplexes). They are selected from a nucleic acid pool containing a large number (1014–1016) of random sequences of the same size (~20–100 bases). Aptamers stand out because of their potential ability to bind with different affinities to distinct conformations of the same protein target. Therefore, the identification of high-affinity and selective PrP ligands may aid the development of new therapies and diagnostic tools for TSEs. This review will focus on the selection of aptamers targeted against either full-length or truncated forms of PrP, discussing the implications that result from interactions of PrP with NAs, and their potential advances in the studies of prions. We will also provide a critical evaluation, assuming the advantages and drawbacks of the SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment) technique in the general field of amyloidogenic proteins.
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30
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Kovachev PS, Banerjee D, Rangel LP, Eriksson J, Pedrote MM, Martins-Dinis MMDC, Edwards K, Cordeiro Y, Silva JL, Sanyal S. Distinct modulatory role of RNA in the aggregation of the tumor suppressor protein p53 core domain. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:9345-9357. [PMID: 28420731 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.762096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Inactivation of the tumor suppressor protein p53 by mutagenesis, chemical modification, protein-protein interaction, or aggregation has been associated with different human cancers. Although DNA is the typical substrate of p53, numerous studies have reported p53 interactions with RNA. Here, we have examined the effects of RNA of varied sequence, length, and origin on the mechanism of aggregation of the core domain of p53 (p53C) using light scattering, intrinsic fluorescence, transmission electron microscopy, thioflavin-T binding, seeding, and immunoblot assays. Our results are the first to demonstrate that RNA can modulate the aggregation of p53C and full-length p53. We found bimodal behavior of RNA in p53C aggregation. A low RNA:protein ratio (∼1:50) facilitates the accumulation of large amorphous aggregates of p53C. By contrast, at a high RNA:protein ratio (≥1:8), the amorphous aggregation of p53C is clearly suppressed. Instead, amyloid p53C oligomers are formed that can act as seeds nucleating de novo aggregation of p53C. We propose that structured RNAs prevent p53C aggregation through surface interaction and play a significant role in the regulation of the tumor suppressor protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petar Stefanov Kovachev
- From the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Box-596, 75124, Sweden
| | - Debapriya Banerjee
- From the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Box-596, 75124, Sweden
| | - Luciana Pereira Rangel
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Jonny Eriksson
- Department of Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, 75124, Sweden, and
| | - Murilo M Pedrote
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto Nacional de Ciência Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Mafalda Maria D C Martins-Dinis
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto Nacional de Ciência Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Katarina Edwards
- Department of Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, 75124, Sweden, and
| | - Yraima Cordeiro
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Jerson L Silva
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto Nacional de Ciência Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Suparna Sanyal
- From the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Box-596, 75124, Sweden,
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31
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Dutta M, Mattaparthi VSK. Inhibition of Aβ₁-₄₂ peptide aggregation using short ss-oligonucleotide as polyions: an in silico approach. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2016; 35:1401-1406. [PMID: 27174215 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2016.1189358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Dutta
- a Molecular Modelling and Simulation Lab, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology , Tezpur University , Tezpur 784 028 , Assam , India
| | - Venkata Satish Kumar Mattaparthi
- a Molecular Modelling and Simulation Lab, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology , Tezpur University , Tezpur 784 028 , Assam , India
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32
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Silva JL, Cordeiro Y. The "Jekyll and Hyde" Actions of Nucleic Acids on the Prion-like Aggregation of Proteins. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:15482-90. [PMID: 27288413 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.r116.733428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein misfolding results in devastating degenerative diseases and cancer. Among the culprits involved in these illnesses are prions and prion-like proteins, which can propagate by converting normal proteins to the wrong conformation. For spongiform encephalopathies, a real prion can be transmitted among individuals. In other disorders, the bona fide prion characteristics are still under investigation. Besides inducing misfolding of native proteins, prions bind nucleic acids and other polyanions. Here, we discuss how nucleic acid binding might influence protein misfolding for both disease-related and benign, functional prions and why the line between bad and good amyloids might be more subtle than previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerson L Silva
- From the Programa de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Centro Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear Jiri Jonas, and
| | - Yraima Cordeiro
- the Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil
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33
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Interaction of RNA with a C-terminal fragment of the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-associated TDP43 reduces cytotoxicity. Sci Rep 2016; 6:19230. [PMID: 26757674 PMCID: PMC4725827 DOI: 10.1038/srep19230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a devastating neurodegenerative disease, is formation of inclusion bodies (IBs) from misfolded proteins in neuronal cells. TAR RNA/DNA-binding protein 43 kDa (TDP43) is an ALS-causative protein forming IBs in ALS patients. The relation between localization of the IBs and neurotoxicity remains largely unknown. We characterized aggregation of fluorescently tagged TDP43 and its carboxyl-terminal fragments (CTFs) by analytical fluorescence imaging techniques. Quantitative time-lapse analysis in individual live cells showed that fluorescent-protein-tagged TDP43 was cleaved and a 35 kDa TDP43 CTF (TDP35) formed ubiquitin (Ub)-negative cytoplasmic IBs. Although TDP35 formed mildly toxic Ub-negative IBs in the cytoplasm, TDP25, another type of a TDP43 CTF, efficiently formed sufficiently toxic Ub-positive IBs. One- or two-color fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS/FCCS) revealed that coaggregation of TDP25 with TDP43 was initiated by depletion of the RNA that binds to TDP25. Moreover, nuclear localization tagging TDP25 reduced the rate of neuronal cell death. These observations point to the need to elucidate the novel sequestration mechanism and details of the toxicity of the misfolded and aggregation-prone TDP43 CTFs (as well as the RNA binding and nuclear retention) in order to identify possible preventive interventions against ALS.
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34
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Zaman M, Chaturvedi SK, Zaidi N, Qadeer A, Chandel TI, Nusrat S, Alam P, Khan RH. DNA induced aggregation of stem bromelain; a mechanistic insight. RSC Adv 2016. [DOI: 10.1039/c6ra01079b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Negatively charged species such as nucleic acids have commonly been found to be associated with the proteinaceous deposits in the tissues of patients with amyloid diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masihuz Zaman
- Interdisciplinary Biotechnology Unit
- Aligarh Muslim University
- Aligarh-202002
- India
| | | | - Nida Zaidi
- Interdisciplinary Biotechnology Unit
- Aligarh Muslim University
- Aligarh-202002
- India
| | - Atiyatul Qadeer
- Interdisciplinary Biotechnology Unit
- Aligarh Muslim University
- Aligarh-202002
- India
| | - Tajalli Ilm Chandel
- Interdisciplinary Biotechnology Unit
- Aligarh Muslim University
- Aligarh-202002
- India
| | - Saima Nusrat
- Interdisciplinary Biotechnology Unit
- Aligarh Muslim University
- Aligarh-202002
- India
| | - Parvez Alam
- Interdisciplinary Biotechnology Unit
- Aligarh Muslim University
- Aligarh-202002
- India
| | - Rizwan Hasan Khan
- Interdisciplinary Biotechnology Unit
- Aligarh Muslim University
- Aligarh-202002
- India
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35
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Mammalian prion protein (PrP) forms conformationally different amyloid intracellular aggregates in bacteria. Microb Cell Fact 2015; 14:174. [PMID: 26536866 PMCID: PMC4634817 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-015-0361-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background An increasing number of proteins are being shown to assemble into amyloid structures that lead to pathological states. Among them, mammalian prions outstand due to their ability to transmit the pathogenic conformation, becoming thus infectious. The structural conversion of the cellular prion protein (PrPC), into its misfolded pathogenic form (PrPSc) is the central event of prion-driven pathologies. The study of the structural properties of intracellular amyloid aggregates in general and of prion-like ones in particular is a challenging task. In this context, the evidence that the inclusion bodies formed by amyloid proteins in bacteria display amyloid-like structural and functional properties make them a privileged system to model intracellular amyloid aggregation. Results Here we provide the first demonstration that recombinant murine PrP and its C-terminal domain (90–231) attain amyloid conformations inside bacteria. Moreover, the inclusions formed by these two PrP proteins display conformational diversity, since they differ in fibril morphology, binding affinity to amyloid dyes, stability, resistance to proteinase K digestion and neurotoxicity. Conclusions Overall, our results suggest that modelling PrP amyloid formation in microbial cell factories might open an avenue for a better understanding of the structural features modulating the pathogenic impact of this intriguing protein. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12934-015-0361-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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36
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Moreno-Del Álamo M, de la Espina SMD, Fernández-Tresguerres ME, Giraldo R. Pre-amyloid oligomers of the proteotoxic RepA-WH1 prionoid assemble at the bacterial nucleoid. Sci Rep 2015; 5:14669. [PMID: 26423724 PMCID: PMC4589793 DOI: 10.1038/srep14669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Upon binding to short specific dsDNA sequences in vitro, the N-terminal WH1 domain of the plasmid DNA replication initiator RepA assembles as amyloid fibres. These are bundles of single or double twisted tubular filaments in which distorted RepA-WH1 monomers are the building blocks. When expressed in Escherichia coli, RepA-WH1 triggers the first synthetic amyloid proteinopathy in bacteria, recapitulating some of the features of mammalian prion diseases: it is vertically transmissible, albeit non-infectious, showing up in at least two phenotypically distinct and interconvertible strains. Here we report B3h7, a monoclonal antibody specific for oligomers of RepA-WH1, but which does not recognize the mature amyloid fibres. Unlike a control polyclonal antibody generated against the soluble protein, B3h7 interferes in vitro with DNA-promoted or amyloid-seeded assembly of RepA-WH1 fibres, thus the targeted oligomers are on-pathway amyloidogenic intermediates. Immuno-electron microscopy with B3h7 on thin sections of E. coli cells expressing RepA-WH1 consistently labels the bacterial nucleoid, but not the large cytoplasmic aggregates of the protein. This observation points to the nucleoid as the place where oligomeric amyloid precursors of RepA-WH1 are generated, and suggests that, once nucleated by DNA, further growth must continue in the cytoplasm due to entropic exclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Moreno-Del Álamo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas - CSIC, Madrid E28040, Spain
| | | | | | - Rafael Giraldo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas - CSIC, Madrid E28040, Spain
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37
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Arutyunov D, Szymanski CM. A novel DNA-binding protein from Campylobacter jejuni bacteriophage NCTC12673. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2015; 362:fnv160. [PMID: 26363017 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fnv160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously suggested that the double-stranded genomic DNA of Campylobacter jejuni bacteriophage NCTC12673 was complexed with proteins. Mass spectrometry of peptides obtained from tryptic digests of purified phage DNA indicated that phage protein Gp001 co-purified with the DNA. Gp001 is an acidic protein that lacks any obvious homology or conserved domains found in known DNA-binding proteins. The DNA-binding ability of recombinant Gp001 was examined using an electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Slow DNA-Gp001 complex formation was observed at pH 5.5, but not at neutral or basic pH. This nucleoprotein complex had difficulty entering agarose gels used in the assay while proteinase K pretreatment released the DNA from the complex. No mobility shift was observed when the DNA was immediately subjected to electrophoresis after mixing with Gp001, even if both components were separately pre-incubated at pH 5.5. The complexed DNA was unable to transform chemically competent Escherichia coli cells and was less susceptible to degradation by nucleases. The formation of Gp001-DNA complexes at low pH may provide a mechanism for maintaining DNA integrity while the phage pursues its host through the gastrointestinal tract. Also, this feature can potentially be used to improve DNA delivery protocols applied in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Arutyunov
- Department of Biological Sciences and Alberta Glycomics Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Christine M Szymanski
- Department of Biological Sciences and Alberta Glycomics Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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38
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da Luz MHM, Peres IT, Santos TG, Martins VR, Icimoto MY, Lee KS. Dopamine induces the accumulation of insoluble prion protein and affects autophagic flux. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:12. [PMID: 25698927 PMCID: PMC4313710 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 01/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulation of protein aggregates is a histopathological hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases, but in most cases the aggregation occurs without defined mutations or clinical histories, suggesting that certain endogenous metabolites can promote aggregation of specific proteins. One example that supports this hypothesis is dopamine and its metabolites. Dopamine metabolism generates several oxidative metabolites that induce aggregation of α-synuclein, and represents the main etiology of Parkinson's diseases. Because dopamine and its metabolites are unstable and can be highly reactive, we investigated whether these molecules can also affect other proteins that are prone to aggregate, such as cellular prion protein (PrPC). In this study, we showed that dopamine treatment of neuronal cells reduced the number of viable cells and increased the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as demonstrated in previous studies. Overall PrPC expression level was not altered by dopamine treatment, but its unglycosylated form was consistently reduced at 100 μM of dopamine. At the same concentration, the level of phosphorylated mTOR and 4EBP1 was also reduced. Moreover, dopamine treatment decreased the solubility of PrPC, and increased its accumulation in autophagosomal compartments with concomitant induction of LC3-II and p62/SQSTM1 levels. In vitro oxidation of dopamine promoted formation of high-order oligomers of recombinant prion protein. These results suggest that dopamine metabolites alter the conformation of PrPC, which in turn is sorted to degradation pathway, causing autophagosome overload and attenuation of protein synthesis. Accumulation of PrPC aggregates is an important feature of prion diseases. Thus, this study brings new insight into the dopamine metabolism as a source of endogenous metabolites capable of altering PrPC solubility and its subcellular localization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcio H M da Luz
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil ; Biomedicina, Universidade Metodista de São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Italo T Peres
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tiago G Santos
- International Research Center, A C Camargo Cancer Center Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vilma R Martins
- International Research Center, A C Camargo Cancer Center Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Y Icimoto
- Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kil S Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
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de Moraes MC, Santos JB, Dos Anjos DM, Rangel LP, Vieira TCRG, Moaddel R, da Silva JL. Prion protein-coated magnetic beads: synthesis, characterization and development of a new ligands screening method. J Chromatogr A 2014; 1379:1-8. [PMID: 25576041 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2014.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2014] [Revised: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Prion diseases are characterized by protein aggregation and neurodegeneration. Conversion of the native prion protein (PrP(C)) into the abnormal scrapie PrP isoform (PrP(Sc)), which undergoes aggregation and can eventually form amyloid fibrils, is a critical step leading to the characteristic path morphological hallmark of these diseases. However, the mechanism of conversion remains unclear. It is known that ligands can act as cofactors or inhibitors in the conversion mechanism of PrP(C) into PrP(Sc). Within this context, herein, we describe the immobilization of PrP(C) onto the surface of magnetic beads and the morphological characterization of PrP(C)-coated beads by fluorescence confocal microscopy. PrP(C)-coated magnetic beads were used to identify ligands from a mixture of compounds, which were monitored by UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS. This affinity-based method allowed the isolation of the anti-prion compound quinacrine, an inhibitor of PrP aggregation. The results indicate that this approach can be applied to not only "fish" for anti-prion compounds from complex matrixes, but also to screening for and identify possible cellular cofactors involved in the deflagration of prion diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Cristina de Moraes
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Química, Departamento de Química Orgânica, 24210-141 Niterói, RJ, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Juliana Bosco Santos
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Daniel Meira Dos Anjos
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Luciana Pereira Rangel
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Faculdade de Farmácia, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Tuane Cristine Ramos Gonçalves Vieira
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ruin Moaddel
- Biomedical Research Center, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Jerson Lima da Silva
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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40
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Smith JE, Mowles AK, Mehta AK, Lynn DG. Looked at life from both sides now. Life (Basel) 2014; 4:887-902. [PMID: 25513758 PMCID: PMC4284472 DOI: 10.3390/life4040887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2014] [Revised: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
As the molecular top–down causality emerging through comparative genomics is combined with the bottom–up dynamic chemical networks of biochemistry, the molecular symbiotic relationships driving growth of the tree of life becomes strikingly apparent. These symbioses can be mutualistic or parasitic across many levels, but most foundational is the complex and intricate mutualism of nucleic acids and proteins known as the central dogma of biological information flow. This unification of digital and analog molecular information within a common chemical network enables processing of the vast amounts of information necessary for cellular life. Here we consider the molecular information pathways of these dynamic biopolymer networks from the perspective of their evolution and use that perspective to inform and constrain pathways for the construction of mutualistic polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian E Smith
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Allisandra K Mowles
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Anil K Mehta
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - David G Lynn
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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41
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Banerjee D, Sanyal S. Protein folding activity of the ribosome (PFAR) -- a target for antiprion compounds. Viruses 2014; 6:3907-24. [PMID: 25341659 PMCID: PMC4213570 DOI: 10.3390/v6103907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2014] [Revised: 10/13/2014] [Accepted: 10/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are fatal neurodegenerative diseases affecting mammals. Prions are misfolded amyloid aggregates of the prion protein (PrP), which form when the alpha helical, soluble form of PrP converts to an aggregation-prone, beta sheet form. Thus, prions originate as protein folding problems. The discovery of yeast prion(s) and the development of a red-/white-colony based assay facilitated safe and high-throughput screening of antiprion compounds. With this assay three antiprion compounds; 6-aminophenanthridine (6AP), guanabenz acetate (GA), and imiquimod (IQ) have been identified. Biochemical and genetic studies reveal that these compounds target ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and inhibit specifically the protein folding activity of the ribosome (PFAR). The domain V of the 23S/25S/28S rRNA of the large ribosomal subunit constitutes the active site for PFAR. 6AP and GA inhibit PFAR by competition with the protein substrates for the common binding sites on the domain V rRNA. PFAR inhibition by these antiprion compounds opens up new possibilities for understanding prion formation, propagation and the role of the ribosome therein. In this review, we summarize and analyze the correlation between PFAR and prion processes using the antiprion compounds as tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debapriya Banerjee
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Box-596, BMC, Uppsala SE-75124, Sweden.
| | - Suparna Sanyal
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Box-596, BMC, Uppsala SE-75124, Sweden.
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Zhao D, Zhang S, Meng Y, Xiongwei D, Zhang D, Liang Y, Wang L, Liu C. Polyanion binding accelerates the formation of stable and low-toxic aggregates of ALS-linked SOD1 mutant A4V. Proteins 2014; 82:3356-72. [PMID: 25220364 DOI: 10.1002/prot.24691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2014] [Revised: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The toxic property thus far shared by both ALS-linked SOD1 variants and wild-type SOD1 is an increased propensity to aggregation. However, whether SOD1 oligomers or aggregates are toxic to cells remains to be well defined. Moreover, how the toxic SOD1 species are removed from intra- and extracellular environments also needs to be further explored. The DNA binding has been shown to be capable of accelerating the aggregatio\n of wild-type and oxidized SOD1 forms under acidic and neutral conditions. In this study, we explore the binding of DNA and heparin, two types of essential life polyanions, to A4V, an ALS-linked SOD1 mutant, under acidic conditions, and its consequences. The polyanion binding alters the A4V conformation, neutralizes its local positive charges, and increases its local concentrations along the polyanion chain, which are sufficient to lead to acceleration of the pH-dependent A4V aggregation. The accelerated aggregation, which is ascribed to the polyanion binding-mediated removal or shortening of the lag phase in aggregation, contributes to the formation of amorphous A4V nanoparticles. The prolonged incubation with polyanions not only results in the complete conversion of likely soluble toxic A4V oligomers into non- and low-toxic SDS-resistant aggregates, but also increases their stability. Although this is only an initial step toward reducing the toxicity of SOD1 mutants, the accelerating role of polyanions in protein aggregation might become one of the rapid pathways that remove toxic forms of SOD1 mutants from intra- and extracellular environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education and School of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, China
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43
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Abraham JN, Kedracki D, Prado E, Gourmel C, Maroni P, Nardin C. Effect of the Interaction of the amyloid β (1-42) peptide with short single-stranded synthetic nucleotide sequences: morphological characterization of the inhibition of fibrils formation and fibrils disassembly. Biomacromolecules 2014; 15:3253-8. [PMID: 25093956 DOI: 10.1021/bm501004q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The formation of extracellular neuritic plaques in the brain of individuals who suffered from Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major pathological hallmark. These plaques consist of filamentous aggregates of the amyloid beta (1-42) (Aβ42) proteins. Prevention or reduction of the formation of these fibrils is foreseen as a potential therapeutic approach. In this context, we investigated the interactions between the Aβ42 protein and polyions, in particular short single stranded synthetic nucleotide sequences. The experimental outcomes reported herein provide evidence of the inhibition of amyloid fibril genesis as well as disassembly of existing fibers through electrostatic interaction between the Aβ42 protein and the polyions. Since the polyions and the Aβ42 protein are oppositely charged, the formation of (micellar) inter polyelectrolyte complexes (IPECs) is likely to occur. Since the abnormal deposition of amyloid fibers is an archetype of AD, the outcomes of these investigations, supported by atomic force microscopy imaging in the dry and liquid states, as well as circular dichroism and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, are of high interest for the development of future strategies to cure a disease that concerns an ever aging population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jancy Nixon Abraham
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, University of Geneva , Quai Ernest Ansermet 30, CH-1211, Geneva 4, Switzerland
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Biophysical and morphological studies on the dual interaction of non-octarepeat prion protein peptides with copper and nucleic acids. J Biol Inorg Chem 2014; 19:839-51. [DOI: 10.1007/s00775-014-1115-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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45
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Pathological implications of nucleic acid interactions with proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Biophys Rev 2014; 6:97-110. [PMID: 28509960 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-013-0132-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein misfolding disorders (PMDs) refer to a group of diseases related to the misfolding of particular proteins that aggregate and deposit in the cells and tissues of humans and other mammals. The mechanisms that trigger protein misfolding and aggregation are still not fully understood. Increasing experimental evidence indicates that abnormal interactions between PMD-related proteins and nucleic acids (NAs) can induce conformational changes. Here, we discuss these protein-NA interactions and address the role of deoxyribonucleic (DNA) and ribonucleic (RNA) acid molecules in the conformational conversion of different proteins that aggregate in PMDs, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and prion diseases. Studies on the affinity, stability, and specificity of proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases and NAs are specifically addressed. A landscape of reciprocal effects resulting from the binding of prion proteins, amyloid-β peptides, tau proteins, huntingtin, and α-synuclein are presented here to clarify the possible role of NAs, not only as encoders of genetic information but also in triggering PMDs.
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Ferreira NC, Marques IA, Conceição WA, Macedo B, Machado CS, Mascarello A, Chiaradia-Delatorre LD, Yunes RA, Nunes RJ, Hughson AG, Raymond LD, Pascutti PG, Caughey B, Cordeiro Y. Anti-prion activity of a panel of aromatic chemical compounds: in vitro and in silico approaches. PLoS One 2014; 9:e84531. [PMID: 24400098 PMCID: PMC3882252 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The prion protein (PrP) is implicated in the Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (TSEs), which comprise a group of fatal neurodegenerative diseases affecting humans and other mammals. Conversion of cellular PrP (PrP(C)) into the scrapie form (PrP(Sc)) is the hallmark of TSEs. Once formed, PrP(Sc) aggregates and catalyzes PrP(C) misfolding into new PrP(Sc) molecules. Although many compounds have been shown to inhibit the conversion process, so far there is no effective therapy for TSEs. Besides, most of the previously evaluated compounds failed in vivo due to poor pharmacokinetic profiles. In this work we propose a combined in vitro/in silico approach to screen for active anti-prion compounds presenting acceptable drugability and pharmacokinetic parameters. A diverse panel of aromatic compounds was screened in neuroblastoma cells persistently infected with PrP(Sc) (ScN2a) for their ability to inhibit PK-resistant PrP (PrP(Res)) accumulation. From ∼200 compounds, 47 were effective in decreasing the accumulation of PrP(Res) in ScN2a cells. Pharmacokinetic and physicochemical properties were predicted in silico, allowing us to obtain estimates of relative blood brain barrier permeation and mutagenicity. MTT reduction assays showed that most of the active compounds were non cytotoxic. Compounds that cleared PrP(Res) from ScN2a cells, were non-toxic in the MTT assay, and presented a good pharmacokinetic profile were investigated for their ability to inhibit aggregation of an amyloidogenic PrP peptide fragment (PrP(109-149)). Molecular docking results provided structural models and binding affinities for the interaction between PrP and the most promising compounds. In summary, using this combined in vitro/in silico approach we have identified new small organic anti-scrapie compounds that decrease the accumulation of PrP(Res) in ScN2a cells, inhibit the aggregation of a PrP peptide, and possess pharmacokinetic characteristics that support their drugability. These compounds are attractive candidates for prion disease therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia C. Ferreira
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Icaro A. Marques
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Wesley A. Conceição
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bruno Macedo
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Clarice S. Machado
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Mascarello
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | | | - Rosendo Augusto Yunes
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Ricardo José Nunes
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Andrew G. Hughson
- Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Montana, United States of America
| | - Lynne D. Raymond
- Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Montana, United States of America
| | - Pedro G. Pascutti
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Byron Caughey
- Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Montana, United States of America
| | - Yraima Cordeiro
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Mays CE, Coomaraswamy J, Watts JC, Yang J, Ko KW, Strome B, Mercer RC, Wohlgemuth SL, Schmitt-Ulms G, Westaway D. Endoproteolytic processing of the mammalian prion glycoprotein family. FEBS J 2013; 281:862-76. [DOI: 10.1111/febs.12654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2013] [Revised: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 11/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Charles E. Mays
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases; University of Alberta; Edmonton Canada
| | | | - Joel C. Watts
- Department of Biochemistry and Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases; University of Toronto; ON Canada
| | - Jing Yang
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases; University of Alberta; Edmonton Canada
| | - Kerry W.S. Ko
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases; University of Alberta; Edmonton Canada
| | - Bob Strome
- Department of Biochemistry and Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases; University of Toronto; ON Canada
| | - Robert C.C. Mercer
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases; University of Alberta; Edmonton Canada
| | - Serene L. Wohlgemuth
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases; University of Alberta; Edmonton Canada
| | - Gerold Schmitt-Ulms
- Department of Biochemistry and Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases; University of Toronto; ON Canada
| | - David Westaway
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases; University of Alberta; Edmonton Canada
- Division of Neurology; Department of Biochemistry; University of Alberta; Edmonton Canada
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Camunas-Soler J, Frutos S, Bizarro CV, de Lorenzo S, Fuentes-Perez ME, Ramsch R, Vilchez S, Solans C, Moreno-Herrero F, Albericio F, Eritja R, Giralt E, Dev SB, Ritort F. Electrostatic binding and hydrophobic collapse of peptide-nucleic acid aggregates quantified using force spectroscopy. ACS NANO 2013; 7:5102-5113. [PMID: 23706043 DOI: 10.1021/nn4007237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge of the mechanisms of interaction between self-aggregating peptides and nucleic acids or other polyanions is key to the understanding of many aggregation processes underlying several human diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases). Determining the affinity and kinetic steps of such interactions is challenging due to the competition between hydrophobic self-aggregating forces and electrostatic binding forces. Kahalalide F (KF) is an anticancer hydrophobic peptide that contains a single positive charge that confers strong aggregative properties with polyanions. This makes KF an ideal model to elucidate the mechanisms by which self-aggregation competes with binding to a strongly charged polyelectrolyte such as DNA. We use optical tweezers to apply mechanical forces to single DNA molecules and show that KF and DNA interact in a two-step kinetic process promoted by the electrostatic binding of DNA to the aggregate surface followed by the stabilization of the complex due to hydrophobic interactions. From the measured pulling curves we determine the spectrum of binding affinities, kinetic barriers, and lengths of DNA segments sequestered within the KF-DNA complex. We find there is a capture distance beyond which the complex collapses into compact aggregates stabilized by strong hydrophobic forces and discuss how the bending rigidity of the nucleic acid affects this process. We hypothesize that within an in vivo context, the enhanced electrostatic interaction of KF due to its aggregation might mediate the binding to other polyanions. The proposed methodology should be useful to quantitatively characterize other compounds or proteins in which the formation of aggregates is relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Camunas-Soler
- Small Biosystems Lab, Departament de Física Fonamental, Universitat de Barcelona, Avinguda Diagonal 647, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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Pang Y, Kurella S, Voisset C, Samanta D, Banerjee D, Schabe A, Das Gupta C, Galons H, Blondel M, Sanyal S. The antiprion compound 6-aminophenanthridine inhibits the protein folding activity of the ribosome by direct competition. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:19081-9. [PMID: 23673663 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.466748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Domain V of the 23S/25S/28S rRNA of the large ribosomal subunit constitutes the active center for the protein folding activity of the ribosome (PFAR). Using in vitro transcribed domain V rRNAs from Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae as the folding modulators and human carbonic anhydrase as a model protein, we demonstrate that PFAR is conserved from prokaryotes to eukaryotes. It was shown previously that 6-aminophenanthridine (6AP), an antiprion compound, inhibits PFAR. Here, using UV cross-linking followed by primer extension, we show that the protein substrates and 6AP interact with a common set of nucleotides on domain V of 23S rRNA. Mutations at the interaction sites decreased PFAR and resulted in loss or change of the binding pattern for both the protein substrates and 6AP. Moreover, kinetic analysis of human carbonic anhydrase refolding showed that 6AP decreased the yield of the refolded protein but did not affect the rate of refolding. Thus, we conclude that 6AP competitively occludes the protein substrates from binding to rRNA and thereby inhibits PFAR. Finally, we propose a scheme clarifying the mechanism by which 6AP inhibits PFAR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Pang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden
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50
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Camero S, Benítez MJ, Jiménez JS. Anomalous Protein–DNA Interactions Behind Neurological Disorders. PROTEIN-NUCLEIC ACIDS INTERACTIONS 2013; 91:37-63. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-411637-5.00002-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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