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Komáromy D, Monzón DM, Marić I, Monreal Santiago G, Ottelé J, Altay M, Schaeffer G, Otto S. Generalist versus Specialist Self-Replicators. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202303837. [PMID: 38294075 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202303837] [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: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Darwinian evolution, including the selection of the fittest species under given environmental conditions, is a major milestone in the development of synthetic living systems. In this regard, generalist or specialist behavior (the ability to replicate in a broader or narrower, more specific food environment) are of importance. Here we demonstrate generalist and specialist behavior in dynamic combinatorial libraries composed of a peptide-based and an oligo(ethylene glycol) based building block. Three different sets of macrocyclic replicators could be distinguished based on their supramolecular organization: two prepared from a single building block as well as one prepared from an equimolar mixture of them. Peptide-containing hexamer replicators were found to be generalists, i. e. they could replicate in a broad range of food niches, whereas the octamer peptide-based replicator and hexameric ethyleneoxide-based replicator were proven to be specialists, i. e. they only replicate in very specific food niches that correspond to their composition. However, sequence specificity cannot be demonstrated for either of the generalist replicators. The generalist versus specialist nature of these replicators was linked to their supramolecular organization. Assembly modes that accommodate structurally different building blocks lead to generalist replicators, while assembly modes that are more restrictive yield specialist replicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dávid Komáromy
- University of Groningen, Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Diego M Monzón
- Instituto de Bio-Orgánica "Antonio González" (IUBO-AG), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidad de La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Ivana Marić
- University of Groningen, Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Guillermo Monreal Santiago
- University of Groningen, Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jim Ottelé
- University of Groningen, Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Meniz Altay
- University of Groningen, Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gaël Schaeffer
- University of Groningen, Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- University of Groningen, Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
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2
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Markovitch O, Wu J, Otto S. Binding of Precursors to Replicator Assemblies Can Improve Replication Fidelity and Mediate Error Correction. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202317997. [PMID: 38380789 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202317997] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Copying information is vital for life's propagation. Current life forms maintain a low error rate in replication, using complex machinery to prevent and correct errors. However, primitive life had to deal with higher error rates, limiting its ability to evolve. Discovering mechanisms to reduce errors would alleviate this constraint. Here, we introduce a new mechanism that decreases error rates and corrects errors in synthetic self-replicating systems driven by self-assembly. Previous work showed that macrocycle replication occurs through the accumulation of precursor material on the sides of the fibrous replicator assemblies. Stochastic simulations now reveal that selective precursor binding to the fiber surface enhances replication fidelity and error correction. Centrifugation experiments show that replicator fibers can exhibit the necessary selectivity in precursor binding. Our results suggest that synthetic replicator systems are more evolvable than previously thought, encouraging further evolution-focused experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omer Markovitch
- Stratingh Institute, Centre for Systems Chemistry, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Juntian Wu
- Stratingh Institute, Centre for Systems Chemistry, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Stratingh Institute, Centre for Systems Chemistry, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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3
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Schoenmakers LLJ, Reydon TAC, Kirschning A. Evolution at the Origins of Life? Life (Basel) 2024; 14:175. [PMID: 38398684 PMCID: PMC10890241 DOI: 10.3390/life14020175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The role of evolutionary theory at the origin of life is an extensively debated topic. The origin and early development of life is usually separated into a prebiotic phase and a protocellular phase, ultimately leading to the Last Universal Common Ancestor. Most likely, the Last Universal Common Ancestor was subject to Darwinian evolution, but the question remains to what extent Darwinian evolution applies to the prebiotic and protocellular phases. In this review, we reflect on the current status of evolutionary theory in origins of life research by bringing together philosophy of science, evolutionary biology, and empirical research in the origins field. We explore the various ways in which evolutionary theory has been extended beyond biology; we look at how these extensions apply to the prebiotic development of (proto)metabolism; and we investigate how the terminology from evolutionary theory is currently being employed in state-of-the-art origins of life research. In doing so, we identify some of the current obstacles to an evolutionary account of the origins of life, as well as open up new avenues of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludo L. J. Schoenmakers
- Konrad Lorenz Institute for Evolution and Cognition Research (KLI), 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Thomas A. C. Reydon
- Institute of Philosophy, Centre for Ethics and Law in the Life Sciences (CELLS), Leibniz University Hannover, 30159 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Andreas Kirschning
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Leibniz University Hannover, 30167 Hannover, Germany;
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4
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Liu K, Blokhuis A, van Ewijk C, Kiani A, Wu J, Roos WH, Otto S. Light-driven eco-evolutionary dynamics in a synthetic replicator system. Nat Chem 2024; 16:79-88. [PMID: 37653230 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-023-01301-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Darwinian evolution involves the inheritance and selection of variations in reproducing entities. Selection can be based on, among others, interactions with the environment. Conversely, the replicating entities can also affect their environment generating a reciprocal feedback on evolutionary dynamics. The onset of such eco-evolutionary dynamics marks a stepping stone in the transition from chemistry to biology. Yet the bottom-up creation of a molecular system that exhibits eco-evolutionary dynamics has remained elusive. Here we describe the onset of such dynamics in a minimal system containing two synthetic self-replicators. The replicators are capable of binding and activating a co-factor, enabling them to change the oxidation state of their environment through photoredox catalysis. The replicator distribution adapts to this change and, depending on light intensity, one or the other replicator becomes dominant. This study shows how behaviour analogous to eco-evolutionary dynamics-which until now has been restricted to biology-can be created using an artificial minimal replicator system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Liu
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Alex Blokhuis
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Chris van Ewijk
- Molecular Biophysics, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Armin Kiani
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Juntian Wu
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Wouter H Roos
- Molecular Biophysics, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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5
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Stingley KJ, Carpenter BA, Kean KM, Waters ML. Mismatched covalent and noncovalent templating leads to large coiled coil-templated macrocycles. Chem Sci 2023; 14:4935-4944. [PMID: 37181761 PMCID: PMC10171189 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc00231d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Herein we describe the use of dynamic combinatorial chemistry to self-assemble complex coiled coil motifs. We amide-coupled a series of peptides designed to form homodimeric coiled coils with 3,5-dithiobenzoic acid (B) at the N-terminus and then allowed each B-peptide to undergo disulfide exchange. In the absence of peptide, monomer B forms cyclic trimers and tetramers, and thus we expected that addition of the peptide to monomer B would shift the equilibrium towards the tetramer to maximize coiled coil formation. Unexpectedly, we found that internal templation of the B-peptide through coiled coil formation shifts the equilibrium towards larger macrocycles up to 13 B-peptide subunits, with a preference for 4, 7, and 10-membered macrocycles. These macrocyclic assemblies display greater helicity and thermal stability relative to intermolecular coiled coil homodimer controls. The preference for large macrocycles is driven by the strength of the coiled coil, as increasing the coiled coil affinity increases the fraction of larger macrocycles. This system represents a new approach towards the development of complex peptide and protein assemblies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyla J Stingley
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill CB 3290 Chapel Hill NC 27599 USA
| | - Benjamin A Carpenter
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill CB 3290 Chapel Hill NC 27599 USA
| | - Kelsey M Kean
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill CB 3290 Chapel Hill NC 27599 USA
| | - Marcey L Waters
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill CB 3290 Chapel Hill NC 27599 USA
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6
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Marić I, Yang L, Li X, Santiago GM, Pappas CG, Qiu X, Dijksman JA, Mikhailov K, van Rijn P, Otto S. Tailorable and Biocompatible Supramolecular-Based Hydrogels Featuring two Dynamic Covalent Chemistries. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202216475. [PMID: 36744522 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202216475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Dynamic covalent chemistry (DCC) has proven to be a valuable tool in creating fascinating molecules, structures, and emergent properties in fully synthetic systems. Here we report a system that uses two dynamic covalent bonds in tandem, namely disulfides and hydrazones, for the formation of hydrogels containing biologically relevant ligands. The reversibility of disulfide bonds allows fiber formation upon oxidation of dithiol-peptide building block, while the reaction between NH-NH2 functionalized C-terminus and aldehyde cross-linkers results in a gel. The same bond-forming reaction was exploited for the "decoration" of the supramolecular assemblies by cell-adhesion-promoting sequences (RGD and LDV). Fast triggered gelation, cytocompatibility and ability to "on-demand" chemically customize fibrillar scaffold offer potential for applying these systems as a bioactive platform for cell culture and tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Marić
- Stratingh Institute, Centre for Systems Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen (The, Netherlands
- Dutch Polymer Institute, P. O. Box 902, 5600 AX, Eindhoven (The, Netherlands
| | - Liangliang Yang
- University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Biomedical Engineering-FB40 and W. J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen (The, Netherlands
| | - Xiufeng Li
- Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter, Wageningen University, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen (The, Netherlands
| | - Guillermo Monreal Santiago
- Stratingh Institute, Centre for Systems Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen (The, Netherlands
| | - Charalampos G Pappas
- Stratingh Institute, Centre for Systems Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen (The, Netherlands
| | - Xinkai Qiu
- Stratingh Institute and Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Joshua A Dijksman
- Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter, Wageningen University, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen (The, Netherlands
| | - Kirill Mikhailov
- Stratingh Institute, Centre for Systems Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen (The, Netherlands
| | - Patrick van Rijn
- University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Biomedical Engineering-FB40 and W. J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen (The, Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Stratingh Institute, Centre for Systems Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen (The, Netherlands
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7
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Bartolec B, Kiani A, Beatty MA, Altay M, Monreal Santiago G, Otto S. Selection of diverse polymorphic structures from a small dynamic molecular network controlled by the environment. Chem Sci 2022; 13:14300-14304. [PMID: 36545148 PMCID: PMC9749116 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc03909e] [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: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex interplay between systems and their environment plays an important role in processes ranging from self-assembly to evolution. Polymorphism, where, from the same ingredients different products can be formed, is likely to be an important enabler for evolutionary adaptation. Environmental pressures may induce polymorphic behaviour, where different pressures result in different structural organisation. Here we show that by combining covalent and non-covalent bond formation three distinct polymorphs can emerge from the same small dynamic molecular network: vesicular aggregates, self-replicating fibres and nanoribbons, depending on the nature of the solvent environment. Additionally, a particular set of conditions allows the transient co-existence of both vesicles and fibres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris Bartolec
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AG GroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Armin Kiani
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AG GroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Meagan A. Beatty
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AG GroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Meniz Altay
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AG GroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Guillermo Monreal Santiago
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AG GroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AG GroningenThe Netherlands
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8
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Liu B, Wu J, Geerts M, Markovitch O, Pappas CG, Liu K, Otto S. Out-of-Equilibrium Self-Replication Allows Selection for Dynamic Kinetic Stability in a System of Competing Replicators. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202117605. [PMID: 35179808 PMCID: PMC9314957 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202117605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Among the key characteristics of living systems are their ability to self-replicate and the fact that they exist in an open system away from equilibrium. Herein, we show how the outcome of the competition between two self-replicators, differing in size and building block composition, is different depending on whether the experiments are conducted in a closed vial or in an open and out-of-equilibrium replication-destruction regime. In the closed system, the slower replicator eventually prevails over the faster competitor. In a replication-destruction regime, implemented through a flow system, the outcome of the competition is reversed and the faster replicator dominates. The interpretation of the experimental observations is supported by a mass-action-kinetics model. These results represent one of the few experimental manifestations of selection among competing self-replicators based on dynamic kinetic stability and pave the way towards Darwinian evolution of abiotic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Juntian Wu
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Marc Geerts
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Omer Markovitch
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
- Origins CenterUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 79747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life SciencesUniversity of Groningen9747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Charalampos G. Pappas
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Kai Liu
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
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9
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Schaeffer G, Eleveld MJ, Ottelé J, Kroon PC, Frederix PWJM, Yang S, Otto S. Stochastic Emergence of Two Distinct Self-Replicators from a Dynamic Combinatorial Library. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:6291-6297. [PMID: 35357150 PMCID: PMC9011346 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c12591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Unraveling how chemistry can give rise to biology is one of the greatest challenges of contemporary science. Achieving life-like properties in chemical systems is therefore a popular topic of research. Synthetic chemical systems are usually deterministic: the outcome is determined by the experimental conditions. In contrast, many phenomena that occur in nature are not deterministic but caused by random fluctuations (stochastic). Here, we report on how, from a mixture of two synthetic molecules, two different self-replicators emerge in a stochastic fashion. Under the same experimental conditions, the two self-replicators are formed in various ratios over several repeats of the experiment. We show that this variation is caused by a stochastic nucleation process and that this stochasticity is more pronounced close to a phase boundary. While stochastic nucleation processes are common in crystal growth and chiral symmetry breaking, it is unprecedented for systems of synthetic self-replicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaël Schaeffer
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel J. Eleveld
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jim Ottelé
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter C. Kroon
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen
Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute & Zernike Institute
for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| | - Pim W. J. M. Frederix
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen
Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute & Zernike Institute
for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| | - Shuo Yang
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
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10
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Hatai J, Altay Y, Sood A, Kiani A, Eleveld MJ, Motiei L, Margulies D, Otto S. An Optical Probe for Real-Time Monitoring of Self-Replicator Emergence and Distinguishing between Replicators. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:3074-3082. [PMID: 35139307 PMCID: PMC8874894 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c11594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Self-replicating systems play an important role in research on the synthesis and origin of life. Monitoring of these systems has mostly relied on techniques such as NMR or chromatography, which are limited in throughput and demanding when monitoring replication in real time. To circumvent these problems, we now developed a pattern-generating fluorescent molecular probe (an ID-probe) capable of discriminating replicators of different chemical composition and monitoring the process of replicator formation in real time, giving distinct signatures for starting materials, intermediates, and final products. Optical monitoring of replicators dramatically reduces the analysis time and sample quantities compared to most currently used methods and opens the door for future high-throughput experimentation in protocell environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joydev Hatai
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Yigit Altay
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ankush Sood
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Armin Kiani
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel J. Eleveld
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Leila Motiei
- Department
of Chemical and Structural Biology, Weizmann
Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - David Margulies
- Department
of Chemical and Structural Biology, Weizmann
Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre
for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
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11
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Liu B, Wu J, Geerts M, Markovitch O, Pappas CG, Liu K, Otto S. Out‐of‐equilibrium self‐replication allows selection for dynamic kinetic stability in a system of competing replicators. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202117605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- University of Groningen: Rijksuniversiteit Groningen Stratingh Institute for Chemistry NETHERLANDS
| | - Juntian Wu
- University of Groningen: Rijksuniversiteit Groningen Stratingh Institute for Chemistry NETHERLANDS
| | - Marc Geerts
- University of Groningen: Rijksuniversiteit Groningen Stratingh Institute for Chemistry NETHERLANDS
| | - Omer Markovitch
- University of Groningen: Rijksuniversiteit Groningen Stratingh Institute for Chemistry NETHERLANDS
| | - Charalampos G. Pappas
- University of Groningen: Rijksuniversiteit Groningen Stratingh Institute for Chemistry NETHERLANDS
| | - Kai Liu
- University of Groningen: Rijksuniversiteit Groningen Stratingh Institute for Chemistry NETHERLANDS
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Centre for Systems Chemistry Nijenborgh 4 9747AG Groningen NETHERLANDS
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12
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Abstract
As the remit of chemistry expands beyond molecules to systems, new synthetic targets appear on the horizon. Among these, life represents perhaps the ultimate synthetic challenge. Building on an increasingly detailed understanding of the inner workings of living systems and advances in organic synthesis and supramolecular chemistry, the de novo synthesis of life (i.e., the construction of a new form of life based on completely synthetic components) is coming within reach. This Account presents our first steps in the journey toward this long-term goal. The synthesis of life requires the functional integration of different subsystems that harbor the different characteristics that are deemed essential to life. The most important of these are self-replication, metabolism, and compartmentalization. Integrating these features into a single system, maintaining this system out of equilibrium, and allowing it to undergo Darwinian evolution should ideally result in the emergence of life. Our journey toward de novo life started with the serendipitous discovery of a new mechanism of self-replication. We found that self-assembly in a mixture of interconverting oligomers is a general way of achieving self-replication, where the assembly process drives the synthesis of the very molecules that assemble. Mechanically induced breakage of the growing replicating assemblies resulted in their exponential growth, which is an important enabler for achieving Darwinian evolution. Through this mechanism, the self-replication of compounds containing peptides, nucleobases, and fully synthetic molecules was achieved. Several examples of evolutionary dynamics have been observed in these systems, including the spontaneous diversification of replicators allowing them to specialize on different food sets, history dependence of replicator composition, and the spontaneous emergence of parasitic behavior. Peptide-based replicator assemblies were found to organize their peptide units in space in a manner that, inadvertently, gives rise to microenvironments that are capable of catalysis of chemical reactions or binding-induced activation of cofactors. Among the reactions that can be catalyzed by the replicators are ones that produce the precursors from which these replicators grow, amounting to the first examples of the assimilation of a proto-metabolism. Operating these replicators in a chemically fueled out-of-equilibrium replication-destruction regime was found to promote an increase in their molecular complexity. Fueling counteracts the inherent tendency of replicators to evolve toward lower complexity (caused by the fact that smaller replicators tend to replicate faster). Among the remaining steps on the road to de novo life are now to assimilate compartmentalization and achieve open-ended evolution of the resulting system. Success in the synthesis of de novo life, once obtained, will have far-reaching implications for our understanding of what life is, for the search for extraterrestrial life, for how life may have originated on earth, and for every-day life by opening up new vistas in the form living technology and materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh
Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
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13
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Diels-Alder Cycloadditions for Peptide Macrocycle Formation. Methods Mol Biol 2021. [PMID: 34596848 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1689-5_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
Macrocyclization can confer enhanced stability, target affinity, and membrane permeability to peptide scaffolds, all of which are desirable properties for chemical probes and therapeutics. A wide array of macrocyclization chemistries have been reported over the last few decades; however, these often have limited compatibility with each other and across chemical environments, thus restricting access to specific molecular properties. In an effort to address some of these limitations, we recently described the use of Diels-Alder [4 + 2] cycloadditions for peptide macrocyclization. Among the attributes of this chemistry, we demonstrated that Diels-Alder cyclization can template diverse peptide secondary structures, proceed in organic or aqueous environments, and endow improved pharmacologic properties on cyclized peptides. Here, we present synthetic processes and characterization methods for the synthesis of Diels-Alder cyclized peptides.
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14
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Komáromy D, Tiemersma-Wegman T, Kemmink J, Portale G, Adamski PR, Blokhuis A, Aalbers FS, Marić I, Santiago GM, Ottelé J, Sood A, Saggiomo V, Liu B, van der Meulen P, Otto S. Stoichiometry alone can steer supramolecular systems on complex free energy surfaces with high selectivity. Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chempr.2021.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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15
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Liu B, Beatty MA, Pappas CG, Liu K, Ottelé J, Otto S. Self‐Sorting in Dynamic Combinatorial Libraries Leads to the Co‐Existence of Foldamers and Self‐Replicators. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202101052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen Netherlands
| | - Meagan A. Beatty
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen Netherlands
| | - Charalampos G. Pappas
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen Netherlands
| | - Kai Liu
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen Netherlands
| | - Jim Ottelé
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen Netherlands
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16
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Liu B, Beatty MA, Pappas CG, Liu K, Ottelé J, Otto S. Self-Sorting in Dynamic Combinatorial Libraries Leads to the Co-Existence of Foldamers and Self-Replicators. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:13569-13573. [PMID: 33949062 PMCID: PMC8252005 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202101052] [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: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Nature segregates fundamental tasks such as information storage/transmission and catalysis between two different compound classes (e.g. polynucleotides for replication and folded polyamides for catalysis). This division of labor is likely a product of evolution, raising the question of how simpler systems in which replicators and folded macromolecules co-exist may emerge in the transition from chemistry to biology. In synthetic systems, achieving co-existence of replicators and foldamers in a single molecular network remains an unsolved problem. Previous work on dynamic molecular networks has given rise to either self-replicating fibers or well-defined foldamer structures (or completely un-sorted complex systems). We report a system in which two cross-reactive dithiol (nucleobase- and peptide-based) building blocks self-sort into a replicator fiber and foldamer that both emerge spontaneously and co-exist. The self-sorting behavior remains prevalent across different building block ratios as two phases of emergence occur: replicator growth followed by foldamer formation. This is attributed to the autocatalytic formation of the replicator fiber, followed by enrichment of the system in the remaining building block, which is subsequently incorporated into a foldamer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Meagan A Beatty
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Charalampos G Pappas
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Kai Liu
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Jim Ottelé
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, Netherlands
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17
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Yang S, Schaeffer G, Mattia E, Markovitch O, Liu K, Hussain AS, Ottelé J, Sood A, Otto S. Chemical Fueling Enables Molecular Complexification of Self-Replicators*. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:11344-11349. [PMID: 33689197 PMCID: PMC8251556 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202016196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Unravelling how the complexity of living systems can (have) emerge(d) from simple chemical reactions is one of the grand challenges in contemporary science. Evolving systems of self-replicating molecules may hold the key to this question. Here we show that, when a system of replicators is subjected to a regime where replication competes with replicator destruction, simple and fast replicators can give way to more complex and slower ones. The structurally more complex replicator was found to be functionally more proficient in the catalysis of a model reaction. These results show that chemical fueling can maintain systems of replicators out of equilibrium, populating more complex replicators that are otherwise not readily accessible. Such complexification represents an important requirement for achieving open-ended evolution as it should allow improved and ultimately also new functions to emerge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Yang
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Gael Schaeffer
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Elio Mattia
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Omer Markovitch
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
- Origins CenterUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 79747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Kai Liu
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Andreas S. Hussain
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Jim Ottelé
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Ankush Sood
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 49747 AGGroningenThe Netherlands
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18
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Pappas CG, Liu B, Marić I, Ottelé J, Kiani A, van der Klok ML, Onck PR, Otto S. Two Sides of the Same Coin: Emergence of Foldamers and Self-Replicators from Dynamic Combinatorial Libraries. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:7388-7393. [PMID: 33955219 PMCID: PMC8154527 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c00788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
![]()
The ability of molecules
and systems to make copies of themselves
and the ability of molecules to fold into stable, well-defined three-dimensional
conformations are of considerable importance in the formation and
persistence of life. The question of how, during the emergence of
life, oligomerization reactions become selective and channel these
reactions toward a small number of specific products remains largely
unanswered. Herein, we demonstrate a fully synthetic chemical system
where structurally complex foldamers and self-replicating assemblies
emerge spontaneously and with high selectivity from pools of oligomers
as a result of forming noncovalent interactions. Whether foldamers
or replicators form depends on remarkably small differences in building
block structures and composition and experimental conditions. We also
observed the dynamic transformation of a foldamer into a replicator.
These results show that the structural requirements/design criteria
for building blocks that lead to foldamers are similar to those that
lead to replicators. What determines whether folding or replication
takes place is not necessarily the type of noncovalent interaction,
but only whether they occur intra- or intermolecularly. This work
brings together, for the first time, the fields of replicator and
foldamer chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos G Pappas
- Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bin Liu
- Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ivana Marić
- Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jim Ottelé
- Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Armin Kiani
- Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marcus L van der Klok
- Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Patrick R Onck
- Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
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19
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Yang S, Schaeffer G, Mattia E, Markovitch O, Liu K, Hussain AS, Ottelé J, Sood A, Otto S. Chemical Fueling Enables Molecular Complexification of Self‐Replicators**. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202016196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Yang
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Gael Schaeffer
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Elio Mattia
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Omer Markovitch
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
- Origins Center University of Groningen Nijenborgh 7 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Kai Liu
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Andreas S. Hussain
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Jim Ottelé
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Ankush Sood
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry Stratingh Institute University of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
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20
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Ameta S, Matsubara YJ, Chakraborty N, Krishna S, Thutupalli S. Self-Reproduction and Darwinian Evolution in Autocatalytic Chemical Reaction Systems. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:308. [PMID: 33916135 PMCID: PMC8066523 DOI: 10.3390/life11040308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the emergence of life from (primitive) abiotic components has arguably been one of the deepest and yet one of the most elusive scientific questions. Notwithstanding the lack of a clear definition for a living system, it is widely argued that heredity (involving self-reproduction) along with compartmentalization and metabolism are key features that contrast living systems from their non-living counterparts. A minimal living system may be viewed as "a self-sustaining chemical system capable of Darwinian evolution". It has been proposed that autocatalytic sets of chemical reactions (ACSs) could serve as a mechanism to establish chemical compositional identity, heritable self-reproduction, and evolution in a minimal chemical system. Following years of theoretical work, autocatalytic chemical systems have been constructed experimentally using a wide variety of substrates, and most studies, thus far, have focused on the demonstration of chemical self-reproduction under specific conditions. While several recent experimental studies have raised the possibility of carrying out some aspects of experimental evolution using autocatalytic reaction networks, there remain many open challenges. In this review, we start by evaluating theoretical studies of ACSs specifically with a view to establish the conditions required for such chemical systems to exhibit self-reproduction and Darwinian evolution. Then, we follow with an extensive overview of experimental ACS systems and use the theoretically established conditions to critically evaluate these empirical systems for their potential to exhibit Darwinian evolution. We identify various technical and conceptual challenges limiting experimental progress and, finally, conclude with some remarks about open questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Ameta
- Simons Centre for the Study of Living Machines, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560065, India
| | - Yoshiya J. Matsubara
- Simons Centre for the Study of Living Machines, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560065, India
| | - Nayan Chakraborty
- Simons Centre for the Study of Living Machines, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560065, India
| | - Sandeep Krishna
- Simons Centre for the Study of Living Machines, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560065, India
| | - Shashi Thutupalli
- Simons Centre for the Study of Living Machines, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560065, India
- International Centre for Theoretical Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560089, India
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21
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Markovitch O, Ottelé J, Veldman O, Otto S. Automated device for continuous stirring while sampling in liquid chromatography systems. Commun Chem 2020; 3:180. [PMID: 36703458 PMCID: PMC9814086 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-020-00427-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ultra-performance liquid chromatography is a common analysis tool, and stirring is common in many laboratory setups. Here we show a device which enables continuous stirring of samples whilst inside an ultra-performance liquid chromatography system. Utilizing standard magnetic stirring bars that fit standard vials, the device allows for the automation of experimental setups that require stirring. The device is designed such that it can replace the standard sample holder and fits in its place, while being battery operated. The use of three-dimensional (3D) printing and commercially available parts enables low-effort and low-cost device production, as well as easy modifications. Testing the device was performed by video analysis and by following the kinetics of a dynamic combinatorial library that is known to be exquisitely sensitive to agitation, as a result of involving a fiber growth-breakage mechanism. Design files and schematics are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omer Markovitch
- Origins Center, Groningen, The Netherlands ,grid.4830.f0000 0004 0407 1981Center for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jim Ottelé
- grid.4830.f0000 0004 0407 1981Center for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Obe Veldman
- Veldman Technische Ontwikkeling en Advisering, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- grid.4830.f0000 0004 0407 1981Center for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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22
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Salley D, Keenan GA, Long DL, Bell NL, Cronin L. A Modular Programmable Inorganic Cluster Discovery Robot for the Discovery and Synthesis of Polyoxometalates. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2020; 6:1587-1593. [PMID: 32999934 PMCID: PMC7517417 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.0c00415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The exploration of complex multicomponent chemical reactions leading to new clusters, where discovery requires both molecular self-assembly and crystallization, is a major challenge. This is because the systematic approach required for an experimental search is limited when the number of parameters in a chemical space becomes too large, restricting both exploration and reproducibility. Herein, we present a synthetic strategy to systematically search a very large set of potential reactions, using an inexpensive, high-throughput platform that is modular in terms of both hardware and software and is capable of running multiple reactions with in-line analysis, for the automation of inorganic and materials chemistry. The platform has been used to explore several inorganic chemical spaces to discover new and reproduce known tungsten-based, mixed transition-metal polyoxometalate clusters, giving a digital code that allows the easy repeat synthesis of the clusters. Among the many species identified in this work, the most significant is the discovery of a novel, purely inorganic W24FeIII-superoxide cluster formed under ambient conditions. The modular wheel platform was employed to undertake two chemical space explorations, producing compounds 1-4: (C2H8N)10Na2[H6Fe(O2)W24O82] (1, {W24Fe}), (C2H8N)72Na16[H16Co8W200O660(H2O)40] (2, {W200Co8}), (C2H8N)72Na16[H16Ni8W200O660(H2O)40] (3, {W200Ni8}), and (C2H8N)14[H26W34V4O130] (4, {W34V4}), along with many other known species, such as simple Keggin clusters and 1D {W11M2+} chains.
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23
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Del Grosso E, Ponzo I, Ragazzon G, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Disulfide‐Linked Allosteric Modulators for Multi‐cycle Kinetic Control of DNA‐Based Nanodevices. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202008007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Irene Ponzo
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Giulio Ragazzon
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences University of Trieste Via L. Giorgieri 1 34127 Trieste Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Padua Via Marzolo 1 35131 Padua Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
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24
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Del Grosso E, Ponzo I, Ragazzon G, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Disulfide‐Linked Allosteric Modulators for Multi‐cycle Kinetic Control of DNA‐Based Nanodevices. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:21058-21063. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202008007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Irene Ponzo
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Giulio Ragazzon
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences University of Trieste Via L. Giorgieri 1 34127 Trieste Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Padua Via Marzolo 1 35131 Padua Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
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25
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From self-replication to replicator systems en route to de novo life. Nat Rev Chem 2020; 4:386-403. [PMID: 37127968 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-020-0196-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The process by which chemistry can give rise to biology remains one of the biggest mysteries in contemporary science. The de novo synthesis and origin of life both require the functional integration of three key characteristics - replication, metabolism and compartmentalization - into a system that is maintained out of equilibrium and is capable of open-ended Darwinian evolution. This Review takes systems of self-replicating molecules as starting points and describes the steps necessary to integrate additional characteristics of life. We analyse how far experimental self-replicators have come in terms of Darwinian evolution. We also cover models of replicator communities that attempt to solve Eigen's paradox, whereby accurate replication needs complex machinery yet obtaining such complex self-replicators through evolution requires accurate replication. Successful models rely on a collective metabolism and a way of (transient) compartmentalization, suggesting that the invention and integration of these two characteristics is driven by evolution. Despite our growing knowledge, there remain numerous key challenges that may be addressed by a combined theoretical and experimental approach.
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26
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Ottelé J, Hussain AS, Mayer C, Otto S. Chance emergence of catalytic activity and promiscuity in a self-replicator. Nat Catal 2020. [DOI: 10.1038/s41929-020-0463-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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27
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Emergence of light-driven protometabolism on recruitment of a photocatalytic cofactor by a self-replicator. Nat Chem 2020; 12:603-607. [PMID: 32591744 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-020-0494-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Establishing how life can emerge from inanimate matter is among the grand challenges of contemporary science. Chemical systems that capture life's essential characteristics-replication, metabolism and compartmentalization-offer a route to understanding this momentous process. The synthesis of life, whether based on canonical biomolecules or fully synthetic molecules, requires the functional integration of these three characteristics. Here we show how a system of fully synthetic self-replicating molecules, on recruiting a cofactor, acquires the ability to transform thiols in its environment into disulfide precursors from which the molecules can replicate. The binding of replicator and cofactor enhances the activity of the latter in oxidizing thiols into disulfides through photoredox catalysis and thereby accelerates replication by increasing the availability of the disulfide precursors. This positive feedback marks the emergence of light-driven protometabolism in a system that bears no resemblance to canonical biochemistry and constitutes a major step towards the highly challenging aim of creating a new and completely synthetic form of life.
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28
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Abstract
We report a new class of building blocks for Dynamic Combinatorial Chemistry (DCC) based on the pyrroloindole scaffold. The attachment of l-cysteine on the α, α′ positions of the core makes the molecule suitable for disulfide exchange in aqueous dynamic combinatorial libraries (DCLs). The synthesis of the core follows a modified version of the Knoevenagel–Hemetsberger approach. The new building block (l-PI) is fluorescent (Φ = 48%) and relatively stable towards thermal and photodegradation. The chirality of the cysteine is transferred to the electron-rich pyrroloindole core. Homo- and heterochiral DCLs of l-PI with electron-deficient l- and d-naphthalenediimide (NDI) lead to similar library distributions regardless of the enantiomer used. When no salt is present, the major component is a dimer, while dimers and tetramers are obtained at increased ionic strength.
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29
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Liu B, Pappas CG, Ottelé J, Schaeffer G, Jurissek C, Pieters PF, Altay M, Marić I, Stuart MCA, Otto S. Spontaneous Emergence of Self-Replicating Molecules Containing Nucleobases and Amino Acids. J Am Chem Soc 2020; 142:4184-4192. [PMID: 32023041 PMCID: PMC7059183 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.9b10796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
![]()
The conditions that led to the formation
of the first organisms
and the ways that life originates from a lifeless chemical soup are
poorly understood. The recent hypothesis of “RNA-peptide coevolution”
suggests that the current close relationship between amino acids and
nucleobases may well have extended to the origin of life. We now show
how the interplay between these compound classes can give rise to
new self-replicating molecules using a dynamic combinatorial approach.
We report two strategies for the fabrication of chimeric amino acid/nucleobase
self-replicating macrocycles capable of exponential growth. The first
one relies on mixing nucleobase- and peptide-based building blocks,
where the ligation of these two gives rise to highly specific chimeric
ring structures. The second one starts from peptide nucleic acid (PNA)
building blocks in which nucleobases are already linked to amino acids
from the start. While previously reported nucleic acid-based self-replicating
systems rely on presynthesis of (short) oligonucleotide sequences,
self-replication in the present systems start from units containing
only a single nucleobase. Self-replication is accompanied by self-assembly,
spontaneously giving rise to an ordered one-dimensional arrangement
of nucleobase nanostructures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Charalampos G Pappas
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jim Ottelé
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gaël Schaeffer
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Christoph Jurissek
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Priscilla F Pieters
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Meniz Altay
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ivana Marić
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marc C A Stuart
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
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Solà J, Jimeno C, Alfonso I. Exploiting complexity to implement function in chemical systems. Chem Commun (Camb) 2020; 56:13273-13286. [DOI: 10.1039/d0cc04170j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
This feature article reflects a personal overview of the importance of complexity as an additional parameter to be considered in chemical research, being illustrated with selected examples in molecular recognition and catalysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Solà
- Department of Biological Chemistry
- Institute of Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia
- IQAC-CSIC
- 08034 Barcelona
- Spain
| | - Ciril Jimeno
- Department of Biological Chemistry
- Institute of Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia
- IQAC-CSIC
- 08034 Barcelona
- Spain
| | - Ignacio Alfonso
- Department of Biological Chemistry
- Institute of Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia
- IQAC-CSIC
- 08034 Barcelona
- Spain
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32
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Le Vay K, Weise LI, Libicher K, Mascarenhas J, Mutschler H. Templated Self‐Replication in Biomimetic Systems. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 3:e1800313. [DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201800313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Le Vay
- Biomimetic SystemsMax Planck Institute of Biochemistry Martinsried Germany
| | - Laura Isabel Weise
- Biomimetic SystemsMax Planck Institute of Biochemistry Martinsried Germany
| | - Kai Libicher
- Biomimetic SystemsMax Planck Institute of Biochemistry Martinsried Germany
| | - Judita Mascarenhas
- Department of Systems and Synthetic MicrobiologyMax Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology Marburg Germany
| | - Hannes Mutschler
- Biomimetic SystemsMax Planck Institute of Biochemistry Martinsried Germany
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33
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Grzelczak M. Colloidal systems chemistry. Replication, reproduction and selection at nanoscale. J Colloid Interface Sci 2019; 537:269-279. [PMID: 30448648 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2018.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Development of synthetic systems carrying life-like features is a long-standing challenge in chemistry and material science. Poor understanding of mechanisms ruling the emergence of life-like features in an inanimate matter makes the challenge even more exciting. The growing field of systems chemistry takes the lead in defining life-like dynamic signatures in minimalistic (macro)molecular systems through the development of multicomponent synthetic models using tools from organic and supramolecular chemistry. Recent progress in nanoscience makes available a range of novel materials that can undoubtedly enrich systems chemistry. Therefore, with the aim of placing nano- and colloidal science within the context of systems chemistry, the recent experimental and theoretical developments dealing with the use of nanoparticles and their assemblies in the realisation of the concepts such as replication, reproduction and selection are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Grzelczak
- Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC), Paseo Manuel de Lardizabal 4, Donostia - San Sebastián 20018, Spain; Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48013 Bilbao, Spain.
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34
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Bartolec B, Altay M, Otto S. Template-promoted self-replication in dynamic combinatorial libraries made from a simple building block. Chem Commun (Camb) 2018; 54:13096-13098. [PMID: 30395138 DOI: 10.1039/c8cc06253f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We report dynamic combinatorial libraries made from a simple building block that is on the verge of enabling self-assembly driven self-replication. Adding a template provides a sufficient additional push yielding self-replication. Self-assembly and self-replication can emerge with building blocks that are considerably smaller than those reported thus far.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Bartolec
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands.
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35
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Affiliation(s)
- Meniz Altay
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Yigit Altay
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems ChemistryStratingh InstituteUniversity of Groningen Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
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36
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Bai Y, Chotera A, Taran O, Liang C, Ashkenasy G, Lynn DG. Achieving biopolymer synergy in systems chemistry. Chem Soc Rev 2018; 47:5444-5456. [PMID: 29850753 DOI: 10.1039/c8cs00174j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic and materials chemistry initiatives have enabled the translation of the macromolecular functions of biology into synthetic frameworks. These explorations into alternative chemistries of life attempt to capture the versatile functionality and adaptability of biopolymers in new orthogonal scaffolds. Information storage and transfer, however, so beautifully represented in the central dogma of biology, require multiple components functioning synergistically. Over a single decade, the emerging field of systems chemistry has begun to catalyze the construction of mutualistic biopolymer networks, and this review begins with the foundational small-molecule-based dynamic chemical networks and peptide amyloid-based dynamic physical networks on which this effort builds. The approach both contextualizes the versatile approaches that have been developed to enrich chemical information in synthetic networks and highlights the properties of amyloids as potential alternative genetic elements. The successful integration of both chemical and physical networks through β-sheet assisted replication processes further informs the synergistic potential of these networks. Inspired by the cooperative synergies of nucleic acids and proteins in biology, synthetic nucleic-acid-peptide chimeras are now being explored to extend their informational content. With our growing range of synthetic capabilities, structural analyses, and simulation technologies, this foundation is radically extending the structural space that might cross the Darwinian threshold for the origins of life as well as creating an array of alternative systems capable of achieving the progressive growth of novel informational materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yushi Bai
- Emory University, 1521 Dickey Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA.
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37
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Altay Y, Altay M, Otto S. Existing Self-Replicators Can Direct the Emergence of New Ones. Chemistry 2018; 24:11911-11915. [PMID: 29901838 DOI: 10.1002/chem.201803027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The study of the interplay between different self-replicating molecules constitutes an important new phase in the synthesis of life and in unravelling the origin of life. Here we show how existing replicators can direct the nature of a newly formed replicator. Starting from the same building block, 6-ring replicators formed when the mixture was exposed to pre-existing 6-membered replicators, while pre-formed 8-membered replicators funneled the building block into 8-ring replicators. Not only ring size, but also the mode of assembly of the rings into stacks was inherited from the pre-existing replicators. These results show that the nature of self-replicating molecules can be strongly influenced by the interplay between different self-replicators, overriding preferences innate to the structure of the building block.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yigit Altay
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Meniz Altay
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
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38
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Altay M, Altay Y, Otto S. Parasitic Behavior of Self-Replicating Molecules. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2018; 57:10564-10568. [PMID: 29856109 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201804706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Self-replication plays a central role in the origin of life and in strategies to synthesize life de novo. Studies on self-replication have focused mostly on isolated systems, while the dynamics of systems containing multiple replicators have received comparatively little attention. Yet most evolutionary scenarios involve the interplay between different replicators. Here we report the emergence of parasitic behavior in a system containing self-replicators derived from two subtly different building blocks 1 and 2. Replicators from 2 form readily through cross-catalysis by pre-existing replicators made from 1. Once formed, the new replicators consume the original replicators to which they owe their existence. These results resemble parasitic and predatory behavior that is normally associated with living systems and show how such lifelike behavior has its roots in relatively simple systems of self-replicating molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meniz Altay
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747, AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Yigit Altay
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747, AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747, AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
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39
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Fine-tuning the physicochemical properties of peptide-based blood-brain barrier shuttles. Bioorg Med Chem 2018; 26:2099-2106. [PMID: 29567297 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2018.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
N-methylation is a powerful method to modify the physicochemical properties of peptides. We previously found that a fully N-methylated tetrapeptide, Ac-(N-MePhe)4-CONH2, was more lipophilic than its non-methylated analog Ac-(Phe)4-CONH2. In addition, the former crossed artificial and cell membranes while the latter did not. Here we sought to optimize the physicochemical properties of peptides and address how the number and position of N-methylated amino acids affect these properties. To this end, 15 analogs of Ac-(Phe)4-CONH2 were designed and synthesized in solid-phase. The solubility of the peptides in water and their lipophilicity, as measured by ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) retention times, were determined. To study the permeability of the peptides, the Parallel Artificial Membrane Permeability Assay (PAMPA) was used as an in vitro model of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Contrary to the parent peptide, the 15 analogs crossed the artificial membrane, thereby showing that N-methylation improved permeability. We also found that N-methylation enhanced lipophilicity but decreased the water solubility of peptides. Our results showed that both the number and position of N-methylated residues are important factors governing the physicochemical properties of peptides. There was no correlation between the number of N-methylated amide bonds and any of the properties measured. However, for the peptides consecutively N-methylated from the N-terminus to the C-terminus (p1, p5, p11, p12 and p16), lipophilicity correlated well with the number of N-methylated amide bonds and the permeability of the peptides. Moreover, the peptides were non-toxic to HEK293T cells, as determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) assay.
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40
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Kosikova T, Philp D. Exploring the emergence of complexity using synthetic replicators. Chem Soc Rev 2018; 46:7274-7305. [PMID: 29099123 DOI: 10.1039/c7cs00123a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
A significant number of synthetic systems capable of replicating themselves or entities that are complementary to themselves have appeared in the last 30 years. Building on an understanding of the operation of synthetic replicators in isolation, this field has progressed to examples where catalytic relationships between replicators within the same network and the extant reaction conditions play a role in driving phenomena at the level of the whole system. Systems chemistry has played a pivotal role in the attempts to understand the origin of biological complexity by exploiting the power of synthetic chemistry, in conjunction with the molecular recognition toolkit pioneered by the field of supramolecular chemistry, thereby permitting the bottom-up engineering of increasingly complex reaction networks from simple building blocks. This review describes the advances facilitated by the systems chemistry approach in relating the expression of complex and emergent behaviour in networks of replicators with the connectivity and catalytic relationships inherent within them. These systems, examined within well-stirred batch reactors, represent conceptual and practical frameworks that can then be translated to conditions that permit replicating systems to overcome the fundamental limits imposed on selection processes in networks operating under closed conditions. This shift away from traditional spatially homogeneous reactors towards dynamic and non-equilibrium conditions, such as those provided by reaction-diffusion reaction formats, constitutes a key change that mimics environments within cellular systems, which possess obvious compartmentalisation and inhomogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Kosikova
- School of Chemistry and EaStCHEM, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST, UK.
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41
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Komáromy D, Tezcan M, Schaeffer G, Marić I, Otto S. Effector-Triggered Self-Replication in Coupled Subsystems. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201707191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dávid Komáromy
- Centre for Systems Chemistry; Stratingh Institute; University of Groningen; Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Meniz Tezcan
- Centre for Systems Chemistry; Stratingh Institute; University of Groningen; Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Gaël Schaeffer
- Centre for Systems Chemistry; Stratingh Institute; University of Groningen; Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Ivana Marić
- Centre for Systems Chemistry; Stratingh Institute; University of Groningen; Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry; Stratingh Institute; University of Groningen; Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
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42
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Komáromy D, Tezcan M, Schaeffer G, Marić I, Otto S. Effector-Triggered Self-Replication in Coupled Subsystems. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017; 56:14658-14662. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201707191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dávid Komáromy
- Centre for Systems Chemistry; Stratingh Institute; University of Groningen; Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Meniz Tezcan
- Centre for Systems Chemistry; Stratingh Institute; University of Groningen; Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Gaël Schaeffer
- Centre for Systems Chemistry; Stratingh Institute; University of Groningen; Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Ivana Marić
- Centre for Systems Chemistry; Stratingh Institute; University of Groningen; Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry; Stratingh Institute; University of Groningen; Nijenborgh 4 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands
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Altay Y, Tezcan M, Otto S. Emergence of a New Self-Replicator from a Dynamic Combinatorial Library Requires a Specific Pre-Existing Replicator. J Am Chem Soc 2017; 139:13612-13615. [PMID: 28910535 PMCID: PMC5632813 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.7b07346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Our
knowledge regarding the early steps in the formation of evolvable
life and what constitutes the minimal molecular basis of life remains
far from complete. The recent emergence of systems chemistry reinvigorated
the investigation of systems of self-replicating molecules to address
these questions. Most of these studies focus on single replicators
and the effects of replicators on the emergence of other replicators
remains under-investigated. Here we show the cross-catalyzed emergence
of a novel self-replicator from a dynamic combinatorial library made
from a threonine containing peptide building block, which, by itself,
only forms trimers and tetramers that do not replicate. Upon seeding
of this library with different replicators of different macrocycle
size (hexamers and octamers), we observed the emergence of hexamer
replicator consisting of six units of the threonine peptide only when
it is seeded with an octamer replicator containing eight units of
a serine building block. These results reveal for the first time how
a new replicator can emerge in a process that relies critically on
the assistance by another replicator through cross-catalysis and that
replicator composition is history dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yigit Altay
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute , Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Meniz Tezcan
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute , Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute , Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
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44
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Frederix PWJM, Idé J, Altay Y, Schaeffer G, Surin M, Beljonne D, Bondarenko AS, Jansen TLC, Otto S, Marrink SJ. Structural and Spectroscopic Properties of Assemblies of Self-Replicating Peptide Macrocycles. ACS NANO 2017; 11:7858-7868. [PMID: 28723067 PMCID: PMC5616102 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.7b02211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Self-replication at the molecular level is often seen as essential to the early origins of life. Recently a mechanism of self-replication has been discovered in which replicator self-assembly drives the process. We have studied one of the examples of such self-assembling self-replicating molecules to a high level of structural detail using a combination of computational and spectroscopic techniques. Molecular Dynamics simulations of self-assembled stacks of peptide-derived replicators provide insights into the structural characteristics of the system and serve as the basis for semiempirical calculations of the UV-vis, circular dichroism (CD) and infrared (IR) absorption spectra that reflect the chiral organization and peptide secondary structure of the stacks. Two proposed structural models are tested by comparing calculated spectra to experimental data from electron microscopy, CD and IR spectroscopy, resulting in a better insight into the specific supramolecular interactions that lead to self-replication. Specifically, we find a cooperative self-assembly process in which β-sheet formation leads to well-organized structures, while also the aromatic core of the macrocycles plays an important role in the stability of the resulting fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pim W. J. M. Frederix
- University
of Groningen, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, Nijenborgh 7, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
- University
of Groningen, Center for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute for
Chemistry, Nijenborgh
4, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
- E-mail:
| | - Julien Idé
- Laboratory
of Chemistry of Novel Materials, University
of Mons − UMONS, Place du Parc 20, B-7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Yigit Altay
- University
of Groningen, Center for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute for
Chemistry, Nijenborgh
4, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gaël Schaeffer
- University
of Groningen, Center for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute for
Chemistry, Nijenborgh
4, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Mathieu Surin
- Laboratory
of Chemistry of Novel Materials, University
of Mons − UMONS, Place du Parc 20, B-7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - David Beljonne
- Laboratory
of Chemistry of Novel Materials, University
of Mons − UMONS, Place du Parc 20, B-7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Anna S. Bondarenko
- University
of Groningen, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, Nijenborgh 4, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas L. C. Jansen
- University
of Groningen, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, Nijenborgh 4, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- University
of Groningen, Center for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute for
Chemistry, Nijenborgh
4, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
- University
of Groningen, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, Nijenborgh 4, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
- E-mail:
| | - Siewert J. Marrink
- University
of Groningen, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, Nijenborgh 7, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
- University
of Groningen, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, Nijenborgh 4, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
- E-mail:
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45
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Wong ASY, Huck WTS. Grip on complexity in chemical reaction networks. Beilstein J Org Chem 2017; 13:1486-1497. [PMID: 28845192 PMCID: PMC5550812 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.13.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A new discipline of "systems chemistry" is emerging, which aims to capture the complexity observed in natural systems within a synthetic chemical framework. Living systems rely on complex networks of chemical reactions to control the concentration of molecules in space and time. Despite the enormous complexity in biological networks, it is possible to identify network motifs that lead to functional outputs such as bistability or oscillations. To truly understand how living systems function, we need a complete understanding of how chemical reaction networks (CRNs) create function. We propose the development of a bottom-up approach to design and construct CRNs where we can follow the influence of single chemical entities on the properties of the network as a whole. Ultimately, this approach should allow us to not only understand such complex networks but also to guide and control their behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert S Y Wong
- Institute for Molecular Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wilhelm T S Huck
- Institute for Molecular Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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46
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Hakim AS, Omara ST, Syame SM, Fouad EA. Serotyping, antibiotic susceptibility, and virulence genes screening of Escherichia coli isolates obtained from diarrheic buffalo calves in Egyptian farms. Vet World 2017; 10:769-773. [PMID: 28831220 PMCID: PMC5553145 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2017.769-773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM In Egypt as in many other countries, river water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) is considered an important source of high-quality milk and meat supply. The objective of this study was to investigate serotypes, virulence genes, and antibiotic resistance determinants profiles of Escherichia coli isolated from buffalo at some places in Egypt; noticibly, this issue was not discussed in the country yet. MATERIALS AND METHODS A number of 58 rectal samples were collected from diarrheic buffalo calves in different regions in Egypt, and bacteriological investigated for E. coli existence. The E. coli isolates were biochemically, serologicaly identified, tested for antibiotic susceptibility, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyzed for the presence of antibiotic resistance determinants and virulence genes. RESULTS Overall 14 isolates typed as E. coli (24.1%); 6 were belonged to serogroup O78 (10.3%), followed by O125 (4 isolates, 6.9%), then O158 (3 isolates, 5.2%) and one isolate O8 (1.7%), among them, there were 5 E. coli isolates showed a picture of hemolysis (35.7%). The isolates exhibited a high resistance to β lactams over 60%, followed by sulfa (50%) and aminoglucoside (42.8%) group, in the same time the isolates were sensitive to quinolone, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, tetracycline (100%), and cephalosporine groups (71.4%). A multiplex PCR was applied to the 14 E. coli isolates revealed that all were carrying at least one gene, as 10 carried blaTEM (71.4%), 8 Sul1 (57.1%), and 6 aadB (42.8%), and 9 isolates could be considered multidrug resistant (MDR) by an incidence of 64.3%. A PCR survey was stratified for the most important E. coli virulence genes, and showed the presence of Shiga toxins in 9 isolates carried either one or the two Stx genes (64.3%), 5 isolates carried hylA gene (35.7%), and eae in 2 isolates only (14.3%), all isolates carried at least one virulence gene except two (85.7%). CONCLUSION The obtained data displayed that in Egypt, buffalo as well as other ruminants could be a potential source of MDR pathogenic E. coli variants which have a public health importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf S Hakim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Shimaa T Omara
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sohier M Syame
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ehab A Fouad
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
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47
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Duim H, Otto S. Towards open-ended evolution in self-replicating molecular systems. Beilstein J Org Chem 2017; 13:1189-1203. [PMID: 28694865 PMCID: PMC5496545 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.13.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review we discuss systems of self-replicating molecules in the context of the origin of life and the synthesis of de novo life. One of the important aspects of life is the ability to reproduce and evolve continuously. In this review we consider some of the prerequisites for obtaining unbounded evolution of self-replicating molecules and describe some recent advances in this field. While evolution experiments involving self-replicating molecules have shown promising results, true open-ended evolution has not been realized so far. A full understanding of the requirements for open-ended evolution would provide a better understanding of how life could have emerged from molecular building blocks and what is needed to create a minimal form of life in the laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herman Duim
- Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
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Komáromy D, Stuart MCA, Monreal Santiago G, Tezcan M, Krasnikov VV, Otto S. Self-Assembly Can Direct Dynamic Covalent Bond Formation toward Diversity or Specificity. J Am Chem Soc 2017; 139:6234-6241. [PMID: 28398730 PMCID: PMC5423079 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.7b01814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
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With
the advent of reversible covalent chemistry the study of the
interplay between covalent bond formation and noncovalent interactions
has become increasingly relevant. Here we report that the interplay
between reversible disulfide chemistry and self-assembly can give
rise either to molecular diversity, i.e., the emergence of a unprecedentedly
large range of macrocycles or to molecular specificity, i.e., the
autocatalytic emergence of a single species. The two phenomena are
the result of two different modes of self-assembly, demonstrating
that control over self-assembly pathways can enable control over covalent
bond formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dávid Komáromy
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen , Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marc C A Stuart
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen , Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Guillermo Monreal Santiago
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen , Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Meniz Tezcan
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen , Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Victor V Krasnikov
- Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen , Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen , Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
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Kushida Y, Saito N, Shigeno M, Yamaguchi M. Multiple competing pathways for chemical reaction: drastic reaction shortcut for the self-catalytic double-helix formation of helicene oligomers. Chem Sci 2017; 8:1414-1421. [PMID: 28451281 PMCID: PMC5390785 DOI: 10.1039/c6sc01893a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Competition among multiple pathways in a chemical reaction exhibits notable kinetic phenomena, particularly when amplification by self-catalysis is involved. A pseudoenantiomeric 1 : 1 mixture of an aminomethylene helicene (P)-tetramer and an (M)-pentamer formed enantiomeric hetero-double helices B and C in solution when random coil A was cooled. When a solution of A at 70 °C was directly cooled to 25 °C, the A-to-B reaction was predominant, then B was slowly converted to C over 60 h. The slow conversion in the A-to-B-to-C reaction was due to the formation of the hetero-double helix B, which was an off-pathway intermediate, and the slow B-to-C conversion. In contrast, when a solution of A at 70 °C was snap-cooled to -25 °C before then maintaining the solution at 25 °C, the A-to-C reaction predominated, and the formation of C was complete within 4 h. The reactions involve competition between the self-catalytic A-to-B and A-to-C pathways, where B and C catalyze the A-to-B and A-to-C reactions, respectively. Subtle differences in the initial states generated by thermal pretreatment were amplified by the self-catalytic process, which resulted in a drastic reaction shortcut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yo Kushida
- Department of Organic Chemistry , Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Tohoku University , Aoba , Sendai , 980-8578 , Japan .
| | - Nozomi Saito
- Department of Organic Chemistry , Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Tohoku University , Aoba , Sendai , 980-8578 , Japan .
| | - Masanori Shigeno
- Department of Organic Chemistry , Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Tohoku University , Aoba , Sendai , 980-8578 , Japan .
| | - Masahiko Yamaguchi
- Department of Organic Chemistry , Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Tohoku University , Aoba , Sendai , 980-8578 , Japan .
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50
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Abstract
A series of exciting phenomena that can occur in supramolecular systems away from equilibrium are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonen Ashkenasy
- Department of Chemistry
- Ben-Gurion University of the Negev
- Beer Sheva
- Israel
| | | | - Sijbren Otto
- Centre for Systems Chemistry
- Stratingh Institute
- University of Groningen
- 9747 AG Groningen
- The Netherlands
| | - Annette F. Taylor
- Chemical and Biological Engineering
- University of Sheffield
- Sheffield S1 3JD
- UK
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