1
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Kobayashi TA, Shimada H, Sano FK, Itoh Y, Enoki S, Okada Y, Kusakizako T, Nureki O. Dimeric transport mechanism of human vitamin C transporter SVCT1. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5569. [PMID: 38956111 PMCID: PMC11219872 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49899-2] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Vitamin C plays important roles as a cofactor in many enzymatic reactions and as an antioxidant against oxidative stress. As some mammals including humans cannot synthesize vitamin C de novo from glucose, its uptake from dietary sources is essential, and is mediated by the sodium-dependent vitamin C transporter 1 (SVCT1). Despite its physiological significance in maintaining vitamin C homeostasis, the structural basis of the substrate transport mechanism remained unclear. Here, we report the cryo-EM structures of human SVCT1 in different states at 2.5-3.5 Å resolutions. The binding manner of vitamin C together with two sodium ions reveals the counter ion-dependent substrate recognition mechanism. Furthermore, comparisons of the inward-open and occluded structures support a transport mechanism combining elevator and distinct rotational motions. Our results demonstrate the molecular mechanism of vitamin C transport with its underlying conformational cycle, potentially leading to future industrial and medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takaaki A Kobayashi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroto Shimada
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Research Division, Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Fumiya K Sano
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuzuru Itoh
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sawako Enoki
- Department of Physics, and Universal Biology Institute (UBI), Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Okada
- Department of Physics, and Universal Biology Institute (UBI), Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Laboratory for Cell Polarity Regulation, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), Osaka, Japan
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN), The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Kusakizako
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Osamu Nureki
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
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2
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Omori S, Hanazono Y, Nishi H, Kinoshita K. The role of the STAS domain in SLC26A9 for chloride ion transporter function. Biophys J 2024; 123:1751-1762. [PMID: 38773769 PMCID: PMC11214054 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The anion exchanger solute carrier family 26 (SLC26)A9, consisting of the transmembrane (TM) domain and the cytoplasmic STAS domain, plays an essential role in regulating chloride transport across cell membranes. Recent studies have indicated that C-terminal helices block the entrance of the putative ion transport pathway. However, the precise functions of the STAS domain and C-terminal helix, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms governing the transport process, remain poorly understood. In this study, we performed molecular dynamics simulations of three distinct models of human SLC26A9, full-length, STAS domain removal (ΔSTAS), and C-terminus removal (ΔC), to investigate their conformational dynamics and ion-binding properties. Stable binding of ions to the binding sites was exclusively observed in the ΔC model in these simulations. Comparing the full-length and ΔC simulations, the ΔC model displayed enhanced motion of the STAS domain. Furthermore, comparing the ΔSTAS and ΔC simulations, the ΔSTAS simulation failed to exhibit stable ion bindings to the sites despite the absence of the C-terminus blocking the ion transmission pathway in both systems. These results suggest that the removal of the C-terminus not only unblocks the access of ions to the permeation pathway but also triggers STAS domain motion, gating the TM domain to promote ions' entry into their binding site. Further analysis revealed that the asymmetric motion of the STAS domain leads to the expansion of the ion permeation pathway within the TM domain, resulting in the stiffening of the flexible TM12 helix near the ion-binding site. This structural change in the TM12 helix stabilizes chloride ion binding, which is essential for SLC26A9's alternate-access mechanism. Overall, our study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of SLC26A9 transport and may pave the way for the development of novel treatments for diseases associated with dysregulated ion transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Omori
- Graduate School of Information Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan; Department of Bioscience, Nagahama Institute of Bio-Science and Technology, Nagahama, Shiga, Japan
| | - Yuya Hanazono
- Graduate School of Information Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan; Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hafumi Nishi
- Graduate School of Information Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan; Faculty of Core Research, Ochanomizu University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kengo Kinoshita
- Graduate School of Information Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan; Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan; Institute of Development, Aging, and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan.
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3
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Zhang C, Wei G, Zhou N, Wang Y, Feng J, Wang X, Zhang A, Chen K. Systematic Engineering of Escherichia coli for Efficient Production of Pseudouridine from Glucose and Uracil. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:1303-1311. [PMID: 38529630 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we proposed a biological approach to efficiently produce pseudouridine (Ψ) from glucose and uracil in vivo using engineered Escherichia coli. By screening host strains and core enzymes, E. coli MG1655 overexpressing Ψ monophosphate (ΨMP) glycosidase and ΨMP phosphatase was obtained, which displayed the highest Ψ concentration. Then, optimization of the RBS sequences, enhancement of ribose 5-phosphate supply in the cells, and overexpression of the membrane transport protein UraA were investigated. Finally, fed-batch fermentation of Ψ in a 5 L fermentor can reach 27.5 g/L with a yield of 89.2 mol % toward uracil and 25.6 mol % toward glucose within 48 h, both of which are the highest to date. In addition, the Ψ product with a high purity of 99.8% can be purified from the fermentation broth after crystallization. This work provides an efficient and environmentally friendly protocol for allowing for the possibility of Ψ bioproduction on an industrial scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Guoguang Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Ning Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Yingying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Jia Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Alei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Kequan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
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4
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Firrincieli A, Tornatore E, Piacenza E, Cappelletti M, Saiano F, Pavia FC, Alduina R, Zannoni D, Presentato A. The actinomycete Kitasatospora sp. SeTe27, subjected to adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) in the presence of selenite, varies its cellular morphology, redox stability, and tolerance to the toxic oxyanion. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 354:141712. [PMID: 38484991 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
The effects of oxyanions selenite (SeO32-) in soils are of high concern in ecotoxicology and microbiology as they can react with mineral particles and microorganisms. This study investigated the evolution of the actinomycete Kitasatospora sp. SeTe27 in response to selenite. To this aim, we used the Adaptive Laboratory Evolution (ALE) technique, an experimental approach that mimics natural evolution and enhances microbial fitness for specific growth conditions. The original strain (wild type; WT) isolated from uncontaminated soil gave us a unique model system as it has never encountered the oxidative damage generated by the prooxidant nature of selenite. The WT strain exhibited a good basal level of selenite tolerance, although its growth and oxyanion removal capacity were limited compared to other environmental isolates. Based on these premises, the WT and the ALE strains, the latter isolated at the end of the laboratory evolution procedure, were compared. While both bacterial strains had similar fatty acid profiles, only WT cells exhibited hyphae aggregation and extensively produced membrane-like vesicles when grown in the presence of selenite (challenged conditions). Conversely, ALE selenite-grown cells showed morphological adaptation responses similar to the WT strain under unchallenged conditions, demonstrating the ALE strain improved resilience against selenite toxicity. Whole-genome sequencing revealed specific missense mutations in genes associated with anion transport and primary and secondary metabolisms in the ALE variant. These results were interpreted to show that some energy-demanding processes are attenuated in the ALE strain, prioritizing selenite bioprocessing to guarantee cell survival in the presence of selenite. The present study indicates some crucial points for adapting Kitasatospora sp. SeTe27 to selenite oxidative stress to best deal with selenium pollution. Moreover, the importance of exploring non-conventional bacterial genera, like Kitasatospora, for biotechnological applications is emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Firrincieli
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Via San Camillo de Lellis snc, 01100, Viterbo, Italy.
| | - Enrico Tornatore
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Elena Piacenza
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Martina Cappelletti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FABIT), University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Filippo Saiano
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Sciences (SAAF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 4, 90128, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Francesco Carfì Pavia
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 8, 90128, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Rosa Alduina
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Davide Zannoni
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FABIT), University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Presentato
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Italy.
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5
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Drew D, Boudker O. Ion and lipid orchestration of secondary active transport. Nature 2024; 626:963-974. [PMID: 38418916 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07062-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Transporting small molecules across cell membranes is an essential process in cell physiology. Many structurally diverse, secondary active transporters harness transmembrane electrochemical gradients of ions to power the uptake or efflux of nutrients, signalling molecules, drugs and other ions across cell membranes. Transporters reside in lipid bilayers on the interface between two aqueous compartments, where they are energized and regulated by symported, antiported and allosteric ions on both sides of the membrane and the membrane bilayer itself. Here we outline the mechanisms by which transporters couple ion and solute fluxes and discuss how structural and mechanistic variations enable them to meet specific physiological needs and adapt to environmental conditions. We then consider how general bilayer properties and specific lipid binding modulate transporter activity. Together, ion gradients and lipid properties ensure the effective transport, regulation and distribution of small molecules across cell membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Drew
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Olga Boudker
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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6
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Zhang W, Ding D, Lu Y, Chen H, Jiang P, Zuo P, Wang G, Luo J, Yin Y, Luo J, Yin Y. Structural and functional insights into the lipid regulation of human anion exchanger 2. Nat Commun 2024; 15:759. [PMID: 38272905 PMCID: PMC10810954 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-44966-0] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Anion exchanger 2 (AE2) is an electroneutral Na+-independent Cl-/HCO3- exchanger belongs to the SLC4 transporter family. The widely expressed AE2 participates in a variety of physiological processes, including transepithelial acid-base secretion and osteoclastogenesis. Both the transmembrane domains (TMDs) and the N-terminal cytoplasmic domain (NTD) are involved in regulation of AE2 activity. However, the regulatory mechanism remains unclear. Here, we report a 3.2 Å cryo-EM structure of the AE2 TMDs in complex with PIP2 and a 3.3 Å full-length mutant AE2 structure in the resting state without PIP2. We demonstrate that PIP2 at the TMD dimer interface is involved in the substrate exchange process. Mutation in the PIP2 binding site leads to the displacement of TM7 and further stabilizes the interaction between the TMD and the NTD. Reduced substrate transport activity and conformation similar to AE2 in acidic pH indicating the central contribution of PIP2 to the function of AE2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqi Zhang
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Dian Ding
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yishuo Lu
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Hongyi Chen
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Peijun Jiang
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Peng Zuo
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Guangxi Wang
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Juan Luo
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Yue Yin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jianyuan Luo
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yuxin Yin
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China.
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7
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Wang L, Hoang A, Gil-Iturbe E, Laganowsky A, Quick M, Zhou M. Mechanism of anion exchange and small-molecule inhibition of pendrin. Nat Commun 2024; 15:346. [PMID: 38184688 PMCID: PMC10771415 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44612-1] [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: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Pendrin (SLC26A4) is an anion exchanger that mediates bicarbonate (HCO3-) exchange for chloride (Cl-) and is crucial for maintaining pH and salt homeostasis in the kidney, lung, and cochlea. Pendrin also exports iodide (I-) in the thyroid gland. Pendrin mutations in humans lead to Pendred syndrome, causing hearing loss and goiter. Inhibition of pendrin is a validated approach for attenuating airway hyperresponsiveness in asthma and for treating hypertension. However, the mechanism of anion exchange and its inhibition by drugs remains poorly understood. We applied cryo-electron microscopy to determine structures of pendrin from Sus scrofa in the presence of either Cl-, I-, HCO3- or in the apo-state. The structures reveal two anion-binding sites in each protomer, and functional analyses show both sites are involved in anion exchange. The structures also show interactions between the Sulfate Transporter and Anti-Sigma factor antagonist (STAS) and transmembrane domains, and mutational studies suggest a regulatory role. We also determine the structure of pendrin in a complex with niflumic acid (NFA), which uncovers a mechanism of inhibition by competing with anion binding and impeding the structural changes necessary for anion exchange. These results reveal directions for understanding the mechanisms of anion selectivity and exchange and their regulations by the STAS domain. This work also establishes a foundation for analyzing the pathophysiology of mutations associated with Pendred syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lie Wang
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anthony Hoang
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eva Gil-Iturbe
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Arthur Laganowsky
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Matthias Quick
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Area Neuroscience - Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Ming Zhou
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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8
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Geertsma ER, Oliver D. SLC26 Anion Transporters. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2024; 283:319-360. [PMID: 37947907 DOI: 10.1007/164_2023_698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Solute carrier family 26 (SLC26) is a family of functionally diverse anion transporters found in all kingdoms of life. Anions transported by SLC26 proteins include chloride, bicarbonate, and sulfate, but also small organic dicarboxylates such as fumarate and oxalate. The human genome encodes ten functional homologs, several of which are causally associated with severe human diseases, highlighting their physiological importance. Here, we review novel insights into the structure and function of SLC26 proteins and summarize the physiological relevance of human members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Geertsma
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Dominik Oliver
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
- Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), Universities of Marburg and Giessen, Marburg, Giessen, Germany.
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9
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Xu L, Jia W, Tao X, Ye F, Zhang Y, Ding ZJ, Zheng SJ, Qiao S, Su N, Zhang Y, Wu S, Guo J. Structures and mechanisms of the Arabidopsis cytokinin transporter AZG1. NATURE PLANTS 2024; 10:180-191. [PMID: 38172575 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-023-01590-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Cytokinins are essential for plant growth and development, and their tissue distributions are regulated by transmembrane transport. Recent studies have revealed that members of the 'Aza-Guanine Resistant' (AZG) protein family from Arabidopsis thaliana can mediate cytokinin uptake in roots. Here we present 2.7 to 3.3 Å cryo-electron microscopy structures of Arabidopsis AZG1 in the apo state and in complex with its substrates trans-zeatin (tZ), 6-benzyleaminopurine (6-BAP) or kinetin. AZG1 forms a homodimer and each subunit shares a similar topology and domain arrangement with the proteins of the nucleobase/ascorbate transporter (NAT) family. These structures, along with functional analyses, reveal the molecular basis for cytokinin recognition. Comparison of the AZG1 structures determined in inward-facing conformations and predicted by AlphaFold2 in the occluded conformation allowed us to propose that AZG1 may carry cytokinins across the membrane through an elevator mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyi Xu
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Neurology of the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Nanhu Brain-computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Wei Jia
- National Engineering Laboratory of Intelligent Food Technology and Equipment, Zhejiang Key Laboratory for Agro-Food Processing, College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Calibra Lab at DIAN Diagnostics, Key Laboratory of Digital Technology in Medical Diagnostics of Zhejiang Provinces, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xin Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-Resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Fan Ye
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Neurology of the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Nanhu Brain-computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Neurology of the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Nanhu Brain-computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhong Jie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shao Jian Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuai Qiao
- International Institutes of Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
| | - Nannan Su
- International Institutes of Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory of Intelligent Food Technology and Equipment, Zhejiang Key Laboratory for Agro-Food Processing, College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Shan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-Resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Jiangtao Guo
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Neurology of the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Nanhu Brain-computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, China.
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Cardiology, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Intervention and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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10
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Kuwabara MF, Haddad BG, Lenz-Schwab D, Hartmann J, Longo P, Huckschlag BM, Fuß A, Questino A, Berger TK, Machtens JP, Oliver D. Elevator-like movements of prestin mediate outer hair cell electromotility. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7145. [PMID: 37932294 PMCID: PMC10628124 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42489-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The outstanding acuity of the mammalian ear relies on cochlear amplification, an active mechanism based on the electromotility (eM) of outer hair cells. eM is a piezoelectric mechanism generated by little-understood, voltage-induced conformational changes of the anion transporter homolog prestin (SLC26A5). We used a combination of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and biophysical approaches to identify the structural dynamics of prestin that mediate eM. MD simulations showed that prestin samples a vast conformational landscape with expanded (ES) and compact (CS) states beyond previously reported prestin structures. Transition from CS to ES is dominated by the translational-rotational movement of prestin's transport domain, akin to elevator-type substrate translocation by related solute carriers. Reversible transition between CS and ES states was supported experimentally by cysteine accessibility scanning, cysteine cross-linking between transport and scaffold domains, and voltage-clamp fluorometry (VCF). Our data demonstrate that prestin's piezoelectric dynamics recapitulate essential steps of a structurally conserved ion transport cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto F Kuwabara
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Philipps University Marburg, 35037, Marburg, Germany
| | - Bassam G Haddad
- Institute of Biological Information Processing (IBI-1), Molekular- und Zellphysiologie, and JARA-HPC, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Dominik Lenz-Schwab
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Philipps University Marburg, 35037, Marburg, Germany
| | - Julia Hartmann
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Philipps University Marburg, 35037, Marburg, Germany
| | - Piersilvio Longo
- Institute of Biological Information Processing (IBI-1), Molekular- und Zellphysiologie, and JARA-HPC, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Britt-Marie Huckschlag
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Philipps University Marburg, 35037, Marburg, Germany
| | - Anneke Fuß
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Philipps University Marburg, 35037, Marburg, Germany
| | - Annalisa Questino
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Philipps University Marburg, 35037, Marburg, Germany
| | - Thomas K Berger
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Philipps University Marburg, 35037, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jan-Philipp Machtens
- Institute of Biological Information Processing (IBI-1), Molekular- und Zellphysiologie, and JARA-HPC, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Dominik Oliver
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Philipps University Marburg, 35037, Marburg, Germany.
- DFG Research Training Group, Membrane Plasticity in Tissue Development and Remodeling, GRK 2213, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany.
- Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), Universities of Marburg and Giessen, Marburg, Germany.
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11
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Lu Y, Zuo P, Chen H, Shan H, Wang W, Dai Z, Xu H, Chen Y, Liang L, Ding D, Jin Y, Yin Y. Structural insights into the conformational changes of BTR1/SLC4A11 in complex with PIP 2. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6157. [PMID: 37788993 PMCID: PMC10547724 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41924-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BTR1 (SLC4A11) is a NH3 stimulated H+ (OH-) transporter belonging to the SLC4 family. Dysfunction of BTR1 leads to diseases such as congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy (CHED) and Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). However, the mechanistic basis of BTR1 activation by alkaline pH, transport activity regulation and pathogenic mutations remains elusive. Here, we present cryo-EM structures of human BTR1 in the outward-facing state in complex with its activating ligands PIP2 and the inward-facing state with the pathogenic R125H mutation. We reveal that PIP2 binds at the interface between the transmembrane domain and the N-terminal cytosolic domain of BTR1. Disruption of either the PIP2 binding site or protonation of PIP2 phosphate groups by acidic pH can transform BTR1 into an inward-facing conformation. Our results provide insights into the mechanisms of how the transport activity and conformation changes of BTR1 are regulated by PIP2 binding and interaction of TMD and NTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yishuo Lu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Peng Zuo
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Hongyi Chen
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Hui Shan
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Weize Wang
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zonglin Dai
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | | | | | - Ling Liang
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Dian Ding
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yan Jin
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yuxin Yin
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China.
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
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12
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Weng J, Zhou X, Wiriyasermkul P, Ren Z, Chen K, Gil-Iturbe E, Zhou M, Quick M. Insight into the mechanism of H +-coupled nucleobase transport. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2302799120. [PMID: 37549264 PMCID: PMC10438392 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2302799120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Members of the nucleobase/ascorbic acid transporter (NAT) gene family are found in all kingdoms of life. In mammals, the concentrative uptake of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) by members of the NAT family is driven by the Na+ gradient, while the uptake of nucleobases in bacteria is powered by the H+ gradient. Here, we report the structure and function of PurTCp, a NAT family member from Colwellia psychrerythraea. The structure of PurTCp was determined to 2.80 Å resolution by X-ray crystallography. PurTCp forms a homodimer, and each protomer has 14 transmembrane segments folded into a transport domain (core domain) and a scaffold domain (gate domain). A purine base is present in the structure and defines the location of the substrate binding site. Functional studies reveal that PurTCp transports purines but not pyrimidines and that purine binding and transport is dependent on the pH. Mutation of a conserved aspartate residue close to the substrate binding site reveals the critical role of this residue in H+-dependent transport of purines. Comparison of the PurTCp structure with transporters of the same structural fold suggests that rigid-body motions of the substrate-binding domain are central for substrate translocation across the membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Weng
- Department of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY10032
| | - Xiaoming Zhou
- Department of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY10032
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY10032
| | - Pattama Wiriyasermkul
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY10032
| | - Zhenning Ren
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX77030
| | - Kehan Chen
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX77030
| | - Eva Gil-Iturbe
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY10032
| | - Ming Zhou
- Department of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY10032
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX77030
| | - Matthias Quick
- Department of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY10032
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY10032
- Area Neuroscience - Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY10032
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13
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Andersen CG, Bavnhøj L, Pedersen BP. May the proton motive force be with you: A plant transporter review. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2023; 79:102535. [PMID: 36796226 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2023.102535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
As our ecosystems experience challenges associated with climate change, an improved understanding of the fundamental biochemical processes governing plant physiology is needed. Strikingly, current structural information on plant membrane transporters is severely limited compared to other kingdoms of life, with only 18 unique structures in total. To advance future breakthroughs and insight in plant cell molecular biology, structural knowledge of membrane transporters is indispensable. This review summarizes the current status of structural knowledge in the plant membrane transporter field. Plants utilize the proton motive force (PMF) to drive secondary active transport. We discuss the PMF, how it relates to secondary active transport and provide a classification of PMF driven secondary active transport, discussing recently published structures of symporters, antiporters, and uniporters from plants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laust Bavnhøj
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark. https://twitter.com/laustbavnhoej
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14
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Wang M, He J, Li S, Cai Q, Zhang K, She J. Structural basis of vitamin C recognition and transport by mammalian SVCT1 transporter. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1361. [PMID: 36914666 PMCID: PMC10011568 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37037-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient for human health, and its deficiency has long been known to cause scurvy. Sodium-dependent vitamin C transporters (SVCTs) are responsible for vitamin C uptake and tissue distribution in mammals. Here, we present cryogenic electron microscopy structures of mouse SVCT1 in both the apo and substrate-bound states. Mouse SVCT1 forms a homodimer with each protomer containing a core domain and a gate domain. The tightly packed extracellular interfaces between the core domain and gate domain stabilize the protein in an inward-open conformation for both the apo and substrate-bound structures. Vitamin C binds at the core domain of each subunit, and two potential sodium ions are identified near the binding site. The coordination of sodium ions by vitamin C explains their coupling transport. SVCTs probably deliver substrate through an elevator mechanism in combination with local structural arrangements. Altogether, our results reveal the molecular mechanism by which SVCTs recognize vitamin C and lay a foundation for further mechanistic studies on SVCT substrate transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxing Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Jin He
- MOE Key Laboratory for Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- MOE Key Laboratory for Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Qianwen Cai
- MOE Key Laboratory for Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Kaiming Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
- Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
| | - Ji She
- MOE Key Laboratory for Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
- Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
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15
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Beltran JL, McGrath LG, Caruso S, Bain RK, Hendrix CE, Kamran H, Johnston HG, Collings RM, Henry MCN, Abera TAL, Donoso VA, Carriker EC, Thurtle-Schmidt BH. Borate Transporters and SLC4 Bicarbonate Transporters Share Key Functional Properties. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:membranes13020235. [PMID: 36837738 PMCID: PMC9959716 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13020235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Borate transporters are membrane transport proteins that regulate intracellular borate levels. In plants, borate is a micronutrient essential for growth but is toxic in excess, while in yeast, borate is unnecessary for growth and borate export confers tolerance. Borate transporters share structural homology with human bicarbonate transporters in the SLC4 family despite low sequence identity and differences in transported solutes. Here, we characterize the S. cerevisiae borate transporter Bor1p and examine whether key biochemical features of SLC4 transporters extend to borate transporters. We show that borate transporters and SLC4 transporters share multiple properties, including lipid-promoted dimerization, sensitivity to stilbene disulfonate-derived inhibitors, and a requirement for an acidic residue at the solute binding site. We also identify several amino acids critical for Bor1p function and show that disease-causing mutations in human SLC4A1 will eliminate in vivo function when their homologous mutations are introduced in Bor1p. Our data help elucidate mechanistic features of Bor1p and reveal significant functional properties shared between borate transporters and SLC4 transporters.
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16
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CryoEM structures of anion exchanger 1 capture multiple states of inward- and outward-facing conformations. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1372. [PMID: 36517642 PMCID: PMC9751308 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04306-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Anion exchanger 1 (AE1, band 3) is a major membrane protein of red blood cells and plays a key role in acid-base homeostasis, urine acidification, red blood cell shape regulation, and removal of carbon dioxide during respiration. Though structures of the transmembrane domain (TMD) of three SLC4 transporters, including AE1, have been resolved previously in their outward-facing (OF) state, no mammalian SLC4 structure has been reported in the inward-facing (IF) conformation. Here we present the cryoEM structures of full-length bovine AE1 with its TMD captured in both IF and OF conformations. Remarkably, both IF-IF homodimers and IF-OF heterodimers were detected. The IF structures feature downward movement in the core domain with significant unexpected elongation of TM11. Molecular modeling and structure guided mutagenesis confirmed the functional significance of residues involved in TM11 elongation. Our data provide direct evidence for an elevator-like mechanism of ion transport by an SLC4 family member.
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17
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Ben Mariem O, Saporiti S, Guerrini U, Laurenzi T, Palazzolo L, Indiveri C, Barile M, De Fabiani E, Eberini I. In silico investigation on structure-function relationship of members belonging to the human SLC52 transporter family. Proteins 2022; 91:619-633. [PMID: 36511838 DOI: 10.1002/prot.26453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Riboflavin is an essential water-soluble vitamin that needs to be provided through the diet because of the conversion into flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and flavin mononucleotide (FMN), important cofactors in hundreds of flavoenzymes. The adsorption and distribution of riboflavin is mediated by transmembrane transporters of the SLC52 family, namely RFVT1-3, whose mutations are mainly associated with two diseases, MADD and the Brown-Vialetto-Van Laere syndrome. Interest in RFVTs as pharmacological targets has increased in the last few years due to their overexpression in several cancer cells, which can be exploited both by blocking the uptake of riboflavin into the cancerous cells, and by performing cancer targeted delivery of drugs with a high affinity for RFVTs. In this work, we propose three-dimensional structural models for all three human riboflavin transporters obtained by state-of-the-art artificial intelligence-based methods, which were then further refined with molecular dynamics simulations. Furthermore, two of the most notable mutations concerning RFVT2 and RFVT3 (W31S and N21S, respectively) were investigated studying the interactions between the wild-type and mutated transporters with riboflavin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Ben Mariem
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Giuseppe Balzaretti 9, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Saporiti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Giuseppe Balzaretti 9, Milan, Italy
| | - Uliano Guerrini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Giuseppe Balzaretti 9, Milan, Italy
| | - Tommaso Laurenzi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Giuseppe Balzaretti 9, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Palazzolo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Giuseppe Balzaretti 9, Milan, Italy
| | - Cesare Indiveri
- CNR Institute of Biomembranes, Bioenergetics and Molecular Biotechnologies (IBIOM), Bari, Italy.,Department DiBEST (Biologia, Ecologia, Scienze della Terra) Unit of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci cubo 4C, Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Maria Barile
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari A.Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Emma De Fabiani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Giuseppe Balzaretti 9, Milan, Italy
| | - Ivano Eberini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Giuseppe Balzaretti 9, Milan, Italy.,DSRC, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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18
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TTYH family members form tetrameric complexes at the cell membrane. Commun Biol 2022; 5:886. [PMID: 36042377 PMCID: PMC9427776 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03862-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The conserved Tweety homolog (TTYH) family consists of three paralogs in vertebrates, displaying a ubiquitous expression pattern. Although considered as ion channels for almost two decades, recent structural and functional analyses refuted this role. Intriguingly, while all paralogs shared a dimeric stoichiometry following detergent solubilization, their structures revealed divergence in their relative subunit orientation. Here, we determined the stoichiometry of intact mouse TTYH (mTTYH) complexes in cells. Using cross-linking and single-molecule fluorescence microscopy, we demonstrate that mTTYH1 and mTTYH3 form tetramers at the plasma membrane, stabilized by interactions between their extracellular domains. Using blue-native PAGE, fluorescence-detection size-exclusion chromatography, and hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS), we reveal that detergent solubilization results in tetramers destabilization, leading to their dissolution into dimers. Moreover, HDX-MS demonstrates that the extracellular domains are stabilized in the context of the tetrameric mTTYH complex. Together, our results expose the innate tetrameric organization of TTYH complexes at the cell membrane. Future structural analyses of these assemblies in native membranes are required to illuminate their long-sought cellular function.
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19
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Dimakis D, Pyrris Y, Diallinas G. Transmembrane helices 5 and 12 control transport dynamics, substrate affinity, and specificity in the elevator-type UapA transporter. Genetics 2022; 222:6650625. [PMID: 35894659 PMCID: PMC9434233 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyac107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of solute transporters have been shown to function with the so-called sliding-elevator mechanism. Despite structural and functional differences, all elevator-type transporters use a common mechanism of substrate translocation via reversible movements of a mobile core domain (the elevator) hosting the substrate binding site along a rigid scaffold domain stably anchored in the plasma membrane via homodimerization. One of the best-studied elevator transporters is the UapA uric acid-xanthine/H+ symporter of the filamentous fungus Aspergillus nidulans. Here, we present a genetic analysis for deciphering the role of transmembrane segments (TMS) 5 and 12 in UapA transport function. We show that specific residues in both TMS5 and TMS12 control, negatively or positively, the dynamics of transport, but also substrate binding affinity and specificity. More specifically, mutations in TMS5 can lead not only to increased rate of transport but also to an inactive transporter due to high-affinity substrate-trapping, whereas mutations in TMS12 lead to apparently uncontrolled sliding and broadened specificity, leading in specific cases to UapA-mediated purine toxicity. Our findings shed new light on how elevator transporters function and how this knowledge can be applied to genetically modify their transport characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Dimakis
- Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15784 Athens, Greece
| | - Yiannis Pyrris
- Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15784 Athens, Greece
| | - George Diallinas
- Corresponding author: Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimioupolis, 15784 Athens, Greece.
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20
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Wiuf A, Steffen JH, Becares ER, Grønberg C, Mahato DR, Rasmussen SGF, Andersson M, Croll T, Gotfryd K, Gourdon P. The two-domain elevator-type mechanism of zinc-transporting ZIP proteins. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabn4331. [PMID: 35857505 PMCID: PMC9278863 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abn4331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Zinc is essential for all organisms and yet detrimental at elevated levels. Hence, homeostasis of this metal is tightly regulated. The Zrt/Irt-like proteins (ZIPs) represent the only zinc importers in metazoans. Mutations in human ZIPs cause serious disorders, but the mechanism by which ZIPs transfer zinc remains elusive. Hitherto, structural information is only available for a model member, BbZIP, and as a single, ion-bound conformation, precluding mechanistic insights. Here, we elucidate an inward-open metal-free BbZIP structure, differing substantially in the relative positions of the two separate domains of ZIPs. With accompanying coevolutional analyses, mutagenesis, and uptake assays, the data point to an elevator-type transport mechanism, likely shared within the ZIP family, unifying earlier functional data. Moreover, the structure reveals a previously unknown ninth transmembrane segment that is important for activity in vivo. Our findings outline the mechanistic principles governing ZIP-protein transport and enhance the molecular understanding of ZIP-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Wiuf
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Mærsk Tower 7-9, Nørre Allé 14, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jonas Hyld Steffen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Mærsk Tower 7-9, Nørre Allé 14, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva Ramos Becares
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Mærsk Tower 7-9, Nørre Allé 14, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christina Grønberg
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Mærsk Tower 7-9, Nørre Allé 14, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dhani Ram Mahato
- Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, Linnaeus Väg 10, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Søren G. F. Rasmussen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Maersk Tower 7-5, Nørre Allé 14, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Magnus Andersson
- Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, Linnaeus Väg 10, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tristan Croll
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Keith Peters Building, Hills Rd., Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Kamil Gotfryd
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Mærsk Tower 7-9, Nørre Allé 14, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pontus Gourdon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Mærsk Tower 7-9, Nørre Allé 14, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sölvegatan 19, SE-221 84 Lund, Sweden
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21
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Structure, dynamics and assembly of the ankyrin complex on human red blood cell membrane. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2022; 29:698-705. [PMID: 35655099 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-022-00779-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The cytoskeleton of a red blood cell (RBC) is anchored to the cell membrane by the ankyrin complex. This complex is assembled during RBC genesis and comprises primarily band 3, protein 4.2 and ankyrin, whose mutations contribute to numerous human inherited diseases. High-resolution structures of the ankyrin complex have been long sought-after to understand its assembly and disease-causing mutations. Here, we analyzed native complexes on the human RBC membrane by stepwise fractionation. Cryo-electron microscopy structures of nine band-3-associated complexes reveal that protein 4.2 stabilizes the cytoplasmic domain of band 3 dimer. In turn, the superhelix-shaped ankyrin binds to this protein 4.2 via ankyrin repeats (ARs) 6-13 and to another band 3 dimer via ARs 17-20, bridging two band 3 dimers in the ankyrin complex. Integration of these structures with both prior data and our biochemical data supports a model of ankyrin complex assembly during erythropoiesis and identifies interactions essential for the mechanical stability of RBC.
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22
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Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of selenium yeast (SY) on rumen fermentation parameters, rumen bacterial diversity, and expression pathways in goats. A total of 18 Qianbei-pockmarked weather goats from Guizhou (body weight, 25.75 ± 1.75 kg; mean ± standard deviation) were assigned to three groups according to a completely randomized design. Control group (CON, n = 6) kids were fed a basal diet, while treatment 1 (LS, n = 6) and treatment 2 (HS, n = 6) kids were fed a basal diet with 2.4 and 4.8 mg/kg SY, respectively. The feeding trial lasted for 74 days. The results indicated that the ruminal fluid of LS goats had significantly higher levels of propionic, caproic, isobutyric, and isovaleric acids than that of the CON. The levels of butyric and valeric acids were higher in the HS group than in the CON. The acetate:propionate ratio was significantly higher in the CON than in the two treatments. In addition, the inclusion of 2.4 mg/kg SY can lead to a significant decrease in the relative abundances of Euryarchaeota, and Proteobacteria at the phylum level compared to the CON and the HS groups. At the genus level, the LS group had a significant decrease in the relative abundance of Methanobrevibacter and Sarcina, whereas it could lead to a significant increase in the relative abundance of Clostridium in the ruminal fluid relative of the other two groups. At the species level, the LS group had a significant decrease in the relative abundance of bacterium_P3, bacterium_P201, and Sarcina_sp._DSM_11001 compared to the other groups. Moreover, the CON group had a significant decrease in the relative abundance of bacterium_P201 compared to the other two treatments. Compared to the CON, the addition of 2.4 mg/kg SY significantly enriched carbohydrate metabolism pathways in the ruminal fluid for gene encoding. Additionally, goats receiving SY showed a significant upregulation of glycosyl transferase and carbohydrate binding module pathways. These results suggest that dietary supplementation with SY modulates fermentation parameters, and it affects microbial diversity and microbial metagenome in the rumen of Qianbei-pockmarked goats.
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23
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Kalli AC, Reithmeier RAF. Organization and Dynamics of the Red Blood Cell Band 3 Anion Exchanger SLC4A1: Insights From Molecular Dynamics Simulations. Front Physiol 2022; 13:817945. [PMID: 35283786 PMCID: PMC8914234 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.817945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have provided new insights into the organization and dynamics of the red blood cell Band 3 anion exchanger (AE1, SLC4A1). Band 3, like many solute carriers, works by an alternating access mode of transport where the protein rapidly (104/s) changes its conformation between outward and inward-facing states via a transient occluded anion-bound intermediate. While structural studies of membrane proteins usually reveal valuable structural information, these studies provide a static view often in the presence of detergents. Membrane transporters are embedded in a lipid bilayer and associated lipids play a role in their folding and function. In this review, we highlight MD simulations of Band 3 in realistic lipid bilayers that revealed specific lipid and protein interactions and were used to re-create a model of the Wright (Wr) blood group antigen complex of Band 3 and Glycophorin A. Current MD studies of Band 3 and related transporters are focused on describing the trajectory of substrate binding and translocation in real time. A structure of the intact Band 3 protein has yet to be achieved experimentally, but cryo-electron microscopy in combination with MD simulations holds promise to capture the conformational changes associated with anion transport in exquisite molecular detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antreas C. Kalli
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine and Astbury Center for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Reinhart A. F. Reithmeier
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Reinhart A. F. Reithmeier,
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24
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Wu H, Liu S, Su P, Xie Z, Gui T, Zhao L, Liu Y, Chen L. Molecular insight into coordination sites for substrates and their coupling kinetics in Na
+
/HCO
3
−
cotransporter NBCe1. J Physiol 2022; 600:3083-3111. [DOI: 10.1113/jp282034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Han Wu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education School of Life Science & Technology Huazhong University of Science & Technology Wuhan 430074 China
| | - Shiyong Liu
- School of Physics Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan 430074 China
| | - Pan Su
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education School of Life Science & Technology Huazhong University of Science & Technology Wuhan 430074 China
| | - Zhang‐Dong Xie
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education School of Life Science & Technology Huazhong University of Science & Technology Wuhan 430074 China
| | - Tian‐Xiang Gui
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education School of Life Science & Technology Huazhong University of Science & Technology Wuhan 430074 China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province Wuhan 430070 China
| | - Ying Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education School of Life Science & Technology Huazhong University of Science & Technology Wuhan 430074 China
| | - Li‐Ming Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education School of Life Science & Technology Huazhong University of Science & Technology Wuhan 430074 China
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25
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Butan C, Song Q, Bai JP, Tan WJT, Navaratnam D, Santos-Sacchi J. Single particle cryo-EM structure of the outer hair cell motor protein prestin. Nat Commun 2022; 13:290. [PMID: 35022426 PMCID: PMC8755724 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27915-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian outer hair cell (OHC) protein prestin (Slc26a5) differs from other Slc26 family members due to its unique piezoelectric-like property that drives OHC electromotility, the putative mechanism for cochlear amplification. Here, we use cryo-electron microscopy to determine prestin’s structure at 3.6 Å resolution. Prestin is structurally similar to the anion transporter Slc26a9. It is captured in an inward-open state which may reflect prestin’s contracted state. Two well-separated transmembrane (TM) domains and two cytoplasmic sulfate transporter and anti-sigma factor antagonist (STAS) domains form a swapped dimer. The transmembrane domains consist of 14 transmembrane segments organized in two 7+7 inverted repeats, an architecture first observed in the bacterial symporter UraA. Mutation of prestin’s chloride binding site removes salicylate competition with anions while retaining the prestin characteristic displacement currents (Nonlinear Capacitance), undermining the extrinsic voltage sensor hypothesis for prestin function. Prestin, expressed in outer hair cell (OHC), belongs to the Slc26 transporter family and functions as a voltage-driven motor that drives OHC electromotility. Here, the authors report cryo-EM structure and characterization of gerbil prestin, with insights into its mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Butan
- Department of Surgery (Otolaryngology), Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Qiang Song
- Department of Surgery (Otolaryngology), Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jun-Ping Bai
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Winston J T Tan
- Department of Surgery (Otolaryngology), Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Dhasakumar Navaratnam
- Department of Surgery (Otolaryngology), Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA. .,Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA. .,Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Joseph Santos-Sacchi
- Department of Surgery (Otolaryngology), Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA. .,Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA. .,Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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26
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Progress in understanding the structural mechanism underlying prestin's electromotile activity. Hear Res 2021; 423:108423. [PMID: 34987017 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2021.108423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Prestin (SLC26A5), a member of the SLC26 transporter family, is the molecular actuator that drives OHC electromotility (eM). A wealth of biophysical data indicates that eM is mediated by an area motor mechanism, in which prestin molecules act as elementary actuators by changing their area in the membrane in response to changes in membrane potential. The area changes of a large and densely packed population of prestin molecules sum up, resulting in macroscopic cellular movement. At the single protein level, this model implies major voltage-driven conformational rearrangements. However, the nature of these structural dynamics remained unknown. A main obstacle in elucidating the eM mechanism has been the lack of structural information about SLC26 transporters. The recent emergence of several high-resolution cryo-EM structures of prestin as well as other SLC26 transporter family members now provides a reliable picture of prestin's molecular architecture. Thus, SLC26 transporters including prestin generally are dimers, and each protomer is folded according to a 7+7 transmembrane domain inverted repeat (7TMIR) architecture. Here, we review these structural findings and discuss insights into a potential molecular mechanism. Most important, distinct conformations were observed when purifying and imaging prestin bound to either its physiological ligand, chloride, or to competitively inhibitory anions, sulfate or salicylate. Despite differences in detail, these structural snapshots indicate that the conformational landscape of prestin includes rearrangements between the two major domains of prestin's transmembrane region (TMD), core and scaffold ('gate') domains. Notably, distinct conformations differ in the area the TMD occupies in the membrane and in their impact on the immediate lipid environment. Both effects can contribute to generate membrane deformation and thus may underly electromotility. Further functional studies will be necessary to determine whether these or similar structural rearrangements are driven by membrane potential to mediate piezoelectric activity. This article is part of the Special Issue Outer hair cell Edited by Joseph Santos-Sacchi and Kumar Navaratnam.
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27
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Holzhüter K, Geertsma ER. Uniport, Not Proton-Symport, in a Non-Mammalian SLC23 Transporter. J Mol Biol 2021; 434:167393. [PMID: 34896363 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
SLC23 family members are transporters of either nucleobases or ascorbate. While the mammalian SLC23 ascorbate transporters are sodium-coupled, the non-mammalian nucleobase transporters have been proposed, but not formally shown, to be proton-coupled symporters. This assignment is exclusively based on in vivo transport assays using protonophores. Here, by establishing the first in vitro transport assay for this protein family, we demonstrate that a representative member of the SLC23 nucleobase transporters operates as a uniporter instead. We explain these conflicting assignments by identifying a critical role of uracil phosphoribosyltransferase, the enzyme converting uracil to UMP, in driving uracil uptake in vivo. Detailed characterization of uracil phosphoribosyltransferase reveals that the sharp reduction of uracil uptake in whole cells in presence of protonophores is caused by acidification-induced enzyme inactivation. The SLC23 family therefore consists of both uniporters and symporters in line with the structurally related SLC4 and SLC26 families that have previously been demonstrated to accommodate both transport modes as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Holzhüter
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biocenter, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue Str. 9, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Eric R Geertsma
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biocenter, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue Str. 9, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, D-01307 Dresden, Germany.
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28
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Tatsaki E, Anagnostopoulou E, Zantza I, Lazou P, Mikros E, Frillingos S. Identification of New Specificity Determinants in Bacterial Purine Nucleobase Transporters based on an Ancestral Sequence Reconstruction Approach. J Mol Biol 2021; 433:167329. [PMID: 34710398 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The relation of sequence with specificity in membrane transporters is challenging to explore. Most relevant studies until now rely on comparisons of present-day homologs. In this work, we study a set of closely related transporters by employing an evolutionary, ancestral-reconstruction approach and reveal unexpected new specificity determinants. We analyze a monophyletic group represented by the xanthine-specific XanQ of Escherichia coli in the Nucleobase-Ascorbate Transporter/Nucleobase-Cation Symporter-2 (NAT/NCS2) family. We reconstructed AncXanQ, the putative common ancestor of this clade, expressed it in E. coli K-12, and found that, in contrast to XanQ, it encodes a high-affinity permease for both xanthine and guanine, which also recognizes adenine, hypoxanthine, and a range of analogs. AncXanQ conserves all binding-site residues of XanQ and differs substantially in only five intramembrane residues outside the binding site. We subjected both homologs to rationally designed mutagenesis and present evidence that these five residues are linked with the specificity change. In particular, we reveal Ser377 of XanQ (Gly in AncXanQ) as a major determinant. Replacement of this Ser with Gly enlarges the specificity of XanQ towards an AncXanQ-phenotype. The ortholog from Neisseria meningitidis retaining Gly at this position is also a xanthine/guanine transporter with extended substrate profile like AncXanQ. Molecular Dynamics shows that the S377G replacement tilts transmembrane helix 12 resulting in rearrangement of Phe376 relative to Phe94 in the XanQ binding pocket. This effect may rationalize the enlarged specificity. On the other hand, the specificity effect of S377G can be masked by G27S or other mutations through epistatic interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterini Tatsaki
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Eleni Anagnostopoulou
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece. https://twitter.com/EleniAnagn
| | - Iliana Zantza
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Panayiota Lazou
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Emmanuel Mikros
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Stathis Frillingos
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece; Institute of Biosciences, University Research Center of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.
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29
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Jennings ML. Cell Physiology and Molecular Mechanism of Anion Transport by Erythrocyte Band 3/AE1. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2021; 321:C1028-C1059. [PMID: 34669510 PMCID: PMC8714990 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00275.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The major transmembrane protein of the red blood cell, known as band 3, AE1, and SLC4A1, has two main functions: 1) catalysis of Cl-/HCO3- exchange, one of the steps in CO2 excretion; 2) anchoring the membrane skeleton. This review summarizes the 150 year history of research on red cell anion transport and band 3 as an experimental system for studying membrane protein structure and ion transport mechanisms. Important early findings were that red cell Cl- transport is a tightly coupled 1:1 exchange and band 3 is labeled by stilbenesulfonate derivatives that inhibit anion transport. Biochemical studies showed that the protein is dimeric or tetrameric (paired dimers) and that there is one stilbenedisulfonate binding site per subunit of the dimer. Transport kinetics and inhibitor characteristics supported the idea that the transporter acts by an alternating access mechanism with intrinsic asymmetry. The sequence of band 3 cDNA provided a framework for detailed study of protein topology and amino acid residues important for transport. The identification of genetic variants produced insights into the roles of band 3 in red cell abnormalities and distal renal tubular acidosis. The publication of the membrane domain crystal structure made it possible to propose concrete molecular models of transport. Future research directions include improving our understanding of the transport mechanism at the molecular level and of the integrative relationships among band 3, hemoglobin, carbonic anhydrase, and gradients (both transmembrane and subcellular) of HCO3-, Cl-, O2, CO2, pH, and NO metabolites during pulmonary and systemic capillary gas exchange.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Jennings
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
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30
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Wang W, Tsirulnikov K, Zhekova HR, Kayık G, Khan HM, Azimov R, Abuladze N, Kao L, Newman D, Noskov SY, Zhou ZH, Pushkin A, Kurtz I. Cryo-EM structure of the sodium-driven chloride/bicarbonate exchanger NDCBE. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5690. [PMID: 34584093 PMCID: PMC8478935 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25998-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SLC4 transporters play significant roles in pH regulation and cellular sodium transport. The previously solved structures of the outward facing (OF) conformation for AE1 (SLC4A1) and NBCe1 (SLC4A4) transporters revealed an identical overall fold despite their different transport modes (chloride/bicarbonate exchange versus sodium-carbonate cotransport). However, the exact mechanism determining the different transport modes in the SLC4 family remains unknown. In this work, we report the cryo-EM 3.4 Å structure of the OF conformation of NDCBE (SLC4A8), which shares transport properties with both AE1 and NBCe1 by mediating the electroneutral exchange of sodium-carbonate with chloride. This structure features a fully resolved extracellular loop 3 and well-defined densities corresponding to sodium and carbonate ions in the tentative substrate binding pocket. Further, we combine computational modeling with functional studies to unravel the molecular determinants involved in NDCBE and SLC4 transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiguang Wang
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA ,grid.509979.b0000 0004 7666 6191Electron Imaging Center for Nanomachines, California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Kirill Tsirulnikov
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Hristina R. Zhekova
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Centre for Molecular Simulation, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Gülru Kayık
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Centre for Molecular Simulation, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Hanif Muhammad Khan
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Centre for Molecular Simulation, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Rustam Azimov
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Natalia Abuladze
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Liyo Kao
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Debbie Newman
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Sergei Yu. Noskov
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Centre for Molecular Simulation, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Z. Hong Zhou
- grid.509979.b0000 0004 7666 6191Electron Imaging Center for Nanomachines, California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA ,grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Alexander Pushkin
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Ira Kurtz
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA ,grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA USA
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31
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Diallinas G. Transporter Specificity: A Tale of Loosened Elevator-Sliding. Trends Biochem Sci 2021; 46:708-717. [PMID: 33903007 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2021.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Elevator-type transporters are a group of proteins translocating nutrients and metabolites across cell membranes. Despite structural and functional differences, elevator-type transporters use a common mechanism of substrate translocation via reversible movements of a mobile core domain (the elevator), which includes the substrate binding site, along a rigid scaffold domain, stably anchored in the plasma membrane. How substrate specificity is determined in elevator transporters remains elusive. Here, I discuss how a recent report on the sliding elevator mechanism, seen under the context of genetic analysis of a prototype fungal transporter, sheds light on how specificity might be genetically modified. I propose that flexible specificity alterations might occur by 'loosening' of the sliding mechanism from tight coupling to substrate binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Diallinas
- Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimioupolis, 15784, Athens, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology, Heraklion, Greece.
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32
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Ernst M, Robertson JL. The Role of the Membrane in Transporter Folding and Activity. J Mol Biol 2021; 433:167103. [PMID: 34139219 PMCID: PMC8756397 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The synthesis, folding, and function of membrane transport proteins are critical factors for defining cellular physiology. Since the stability of these proteins evolved amidst the lipid bilayer, it is no surprise that we are finding that many of these membrane proteins demonstrate coupling of their structure or activity in some way to the membrane. More and more transporter structures are being determined with some information about the surrounding membrane, and computational modeling is providing further molecular details about these solvation structures. Thus, the field is moving towards identifying which molecular mechanisms - lipid interactions, membrane perturbations, differential solvation, and bulk membrane effects - are involved in linking membrane energetics to transporter stability and function. In this review, we present an overview of these mechanisms and the growing evidence that the lipid bilayer is a major determinant of the fold, form, and function of membrane transport proteins in membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Ernst
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Janice L Robertson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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33
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Structure and function of an Arabidopsis thaliana sulfate transporter. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4455. [PMID: 34294705 PMCID: PMC8298490 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24778-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant sulfate transporters (SULTR) mediate absorption and distribution of sulfate (SO42-) and are essential for plant growth; however, our understanding of their structures and functions remains inadequate. Here we present the structure of a SULTR from Arabidopsis thaliana, AtSULTR4;1, in complex with SO42- at an overall resolution of 2.8 Å. AtSULTR4;1 forms a homodimer and has a structural fold typical of the SLC26 family of anion transporters. The bound SO42- is coordinated by side-chain hydroxyls and backbone amides, and further stabilized electrostatically by the conserved Arg393 and two helix dipoles. Proton and SO42- are co-transported by AtSULTR4;1 and a proton gradient significantly enhances SO42- transport. Glu347, which is ~7 Å from the bound SO42-, is required for H+-driven transport. The cytosolic STAS domain interacts with transmembrane domains, and deletion of the STAS domain or mutations to the interface compromises dimer formation and reduces SO42- transport, suggesting a regulatory function of the STAS domain.
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34
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Alexander CR, Huntley RB, Schultes NP, Mourad GS. Functional characterization of the adenine transporter EaAdeP from the fire blight pathogen Erwinia amylovora and its effect on disease establishment in apples and pears. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2021; 367:5932216. [PMID: 33152083 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fnaa173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Erwinia amylovora is the causal agent of fire blight, an economically important disease of apples and pears. As part of the infection process, Er. amylovora propagates on different plant tissues each with distinct nutrient environments. Here, the biochemical properties of the Er. amylovora adenine permease (EaAdeP) are investigated. Heterologous expression of EaAdeP in nucleobase transporter-deficient Escherichia coli strains, coupled with radiolabel uptake studies, revealed that EaAdeP is a high affinity adenine transporter with a Km of 0.43 ± 0.09 μM. Both Es. coli and Er. amylovora carrying extra copies of EaAdeP are sensitive to growth on the toxic analog 8-azaadenine. EaAdeP is expressed during immature pear fruit infection. Immature pear and apple fruit virulence assays reveal that an E. amylovora ΔadeP::Camr mutant is still able to cause disease symptoms, however, with growth at a lower level, indicating that external adenine is utilized in disease establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candace R Alexander
- Department of Biology, Purdue University Fort Wayne, 2101 East Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46805, USA
| | - Regan B Huntley
- Department of Plant Pathology & Ecology, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, 123 Huntington Street, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Neil P Schultes
- Department of Plant Pathology & Ecology, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, 123 Huntington Street, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - George S Mourad
- Department of Biology, Purdue University Fort Wayne, 2101 East Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46805, USA
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35
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Muñoz-Montesino C, Peña E, Roa FJ, Sotomayor K, Escobar E, Rivas CI. Transport of Vitamin C in Cancer. Antioxid Redox Signal 2021; 35:61-74. [PMID: 33607936 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that has an intricate relationship with cancer and has been studied for more than 60 years. However, the specific mechanisms that allow malignant cells to uptake, metabolize, and compartmentalize vitamin C remain unclear. In normal human cells, two different transporter systems are responsible for its acquisition: glucose transporters (GLUTs) transport the oxidized form of vitamin C (dehydroascorbic acid) and sodium-coupled ascorbic acid transporters (SVCTs) transport the reduced form (ascorbic acid [AA]). In this study, we review the mechanisms described for vitamin C uptake and metabolization in cancer. Recent Advances: Several studies performed recently in vivo and in vitro have provided the scientific community a better understanding of the differential capacities of cancer cells to acquire vitamin C: tumors from different origins do not express SVCTs in the plasma membrane and are only able to acquire vitamin C in its oxidized form. Interestingly, cancer cells differentially express a mitochondrial form of SVCT2. Critical Issues: Why tumors have reduced AA uptake capacity at the plasma membrane, but develop the capacity of AA transport within mitochondria, remains a mystery. However, it shows that understanding vitamin C physiology in tumor survival might be key to decipher the controversies in its relationship with cancer. Future Directions: A comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms by which cancer cells acquire, compartmentalize, and use vitamin C will allow the design of new therapeutic approaches in human cancer. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 35, 61-74.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carola Muñoz-Montesino
- Departamento de Fisiología and Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Eduardo Peña
- Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Francisco J Roa
- Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Kirsty Sotomayor
- Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Elizabeth Escobar
- Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Coralia I Rivas
- Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
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36
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Structural and functional insights into the mechanism of action of plant borate transporters. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12328. [PMID: 34112901 PMCID: PMC8192573 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91763-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Boron has essential roles in plant growth and development. BOR proteins are key in the active uptake and distribution of boron, and regulation of intracellular boron concentrations. However, their mechanism of action remains poorly studied. BOR proteins are homologues of the human SLC4 family of transporters, which includes well studied mammalian transporters such as the human Anion Exchanger 1 (hAE1). Here we generated Arabidopsis thaliana BOR1 (AtBOR1) variants based (i) on known disease causing mutations of hAE1 (S466R, A500R) and (ii) a loss of function mutation (D311A) identified in the yeast BOR protein, ScBOR1p. The AtBOR1 variants express in yeast and localise to the plasma membrane, although both S466R and A500R exhibit lower expression than the WT AtBOR1 and D311A. The D311A, S466R and A500R mutations result in a loss of borate efflux activity in a yeast bor1p knockout strain. A. thaliana plants containing these three individual mutations exhibit substantially decreased growth phenotypes in soil under conditions of low boron. These data confirm an important role for D311 in the function of the protein and show that mutations equivalent to disease-causing mutations in hAE1 have major effects in AtBOR1. We also obtained a low resolution cryo-EM structure of a BOR protein from Oryza sativa, OsBOR3, lacking the 30 C-terminal amino acid residues. This structure confirms the gate and core domain organisation previously observed for related proteins, and is strongly suggestive of an inward facing conformation.
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37
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Pizzagalli MD, Bensimon A, Superti‐Furga G. A guide to plasma membrane solute carrier proteins. FEBS J 2021; 288:2784-2835. [PMID: 32810346 PMCID: PMC8246967 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This review aims to serve as an introduction to the solute carrier proteins (SLC) superfamily of transporter proteins and their roles in human cells. The SLC superfamily currently includes 458 transport proteins in 65 families that carry a wide variety of substances across cellular membranes. While members of this superfamily are found throughout cellular organelles, this review focuses on transporters expressed at the plasma membrane. At the cell surface, SLC proteins may be viewed as gatekeepers of the cellular milieu, dynamically responding to different metabolic states. With altered metabolism being one of the hallmarks of cancer, we also briefly review the roles that surface SLC proteins play in the development and progression of cancer through their influence on regulating metabolism and environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia D. Pizzagalli
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of SciencesViennaAustria
| | - Ariel Bensimon
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of SciencesViennaAustria
| | - Giulio Superti‐Furga
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of SciencesViennaAustria
- Center for Physiology and PharmacologyMedical University of ViennaAustria
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38
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Fairweather SJ, Shah N, Brӧer S. Heteromeric Solute Carriers: Function, Structure, Pathology and Pharmacology. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 21:13-127. [PMID: 33052588 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2020_584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Solute carriers form one of three major superfamilies of membrane transporters in humans, and include uniporters, exchangers and symporters. Following several decades of molecular characterisation, multiple solute carriers that form obligatory heteromers with unrelated subunits are emerging as a distinctive principle of membrane transporter assembly. Here we comprehensively review experimentally established heteromeric solute carriers: SLC3-SLC7 amino acid exchangers, SLC16 monocarboxylate/H+ symporters and basigin/embigin, SLC4A1 (AE1) and glycophorin A exchanger, SLC51 heteromer Ost α-Ost β uniporter, and SLC6 heteromeric symporters. The review covers the history of the heteromer discovery, transporter physiology, structure, disease associations and pharmacology - all with a focus on the heteromeric assembly. The cellular locations, requirements for complex formation, and the functional role of dimerization are extensively detailed, including analysis of the first complete heteromer structures, the SLC7-SLC3 family transporters LAT1-4F2hc, b0,+AT-rBAT and the SLC6 family heteromer B0AT1-ACE2. We present a systematic analysis of the structural and functional aspects of heteromeric solute carriers and conclude with common principles of their functional roles and structural architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Fairweather
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia. .,Resarch School of Chemistry, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
| | - Nishank Shah
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Stefan Brӧer
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
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39
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Elevator-type mechanisms of membrane transport. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 48:1227-1241. [PMID: 32369548 PMCID: PMC7329351 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Membrane transporters are integral membrane proteins that mediate the passage of solutes across lipid bilayers. These proteins undergo conformational transitions between outward- and inward-facing states, which lead to alternating access of the substrate-binding site to the aqueous environment on either side of the membrane. Dozens of different transporter families have evolved, providing a wide variety of structural solutions to achieve alternating access. A sub-set of structurally diverse transporters operate by mechanisms that are collectively named 'elevator-type'. These transporters have one common characteristic: they contain a distinct protein domain that slides across the membrane as a rigid body, and in doing so it 'drags" the transported substrate along. Analysis of the global conformational changes that take place in membrane transporters using elevator-type mechanisms reveals that elevator-type movements can be achieved in more than one way. Molecular dynamics simulations and experimental data help to understand how lipid bilayer properties may affect elevator movements and vice versa.
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40
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Context-dependent Cryptic Roles of Specific Residues in Substrate Selectivity of the UapA Purine Transporter. J Mol Biol 2021; 433:166814. [PMID: 33497644 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.166814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Members of the ubiquitous Nucleobase Ascorbate Transporter (NAT) family are H+ or Na+ symporters specific for the cellular uptake of either purines and pyrimidines or L-ascorbic acid. Despite the fact that several bacterial and fungal members have been extensively characterised at a genetic, biochemical or cellular level, and crystal structures of NAT members from Escherichia coli and Aspergillus nidulans have been determined pointing to a mechanism of transport, we have little insight on how substrate selectivity is determined. Here, we present systematic mutational analyses, rational combination of mutations, and novel genetic screens that reveal cryptic context-dependent roles of partially conserved residues in the so-called NAT signature motif in determining the specificity of the UapA transporter of A. nidulans. We show that specific NAT signature motif substitutions, alone and in combinations with each other or with distant mutations in residues known to affect substrate selectivity, lead to novel UapA versions possessing variable transport capacities and specificities for nucleobases. In particular, we show that a UapA version including the quadruple mutation T405S/F406Y/A407S/Q408E in the NAT signature motif (UapA-SYSE) becomes incapable of purine transport, but gains a novel pyrimidine-related profile, which can be further altered to a more promiscuous purine/pyrimidine profile when combined with replacements at distantly located residues, especially at F528. Our results reveal that UapA specificity is genetically highly modifiable and allow us to speculate on how the elevator-type mechanism of transport might account for this flexibility.
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41
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Chorev DS, Robinson CV. The importance of the membrane for biophysical measurements. Nat Chem Biol 2020; 16:1285-1292. [PMID: 33199903 PMCID: PMC7116504 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-020-0574-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Within cell membranes numerous protein assemblies reside. Among their many functions, these assemblies regulate the movement of molecules between membranes, facilitate signaling into and out of cells, allow movement of cells by cell-matrix attachment, and regulate the electric potential of the membrane. With such critical roles, membrane protein complexes are of considerable interest for human health, yet they pose an enduring challenge for structural biologists because it is difficult to study these protein structures at atomic resolution in in situ environments. To advance structural and functional insights for these protein assemblies, membrane mimetics are typically employed to recapitulate some of the physical and chemical properties of the lipid bilayer membrane. However, extraction from native membranes can sometimes change the structure and lipid-binding properties of these complexes, leading to conflicting results and fueling a drive to study complexes directly from native membranes. Here we consider the co-development of membrane mimetics with technological breakthroughs in both cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and native mass spectrometry (nMS). Together, these developments are leading to a plethora of high-resolution protein structures, as well as new knowledge of their lipid interactions, from different membrane-like environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dror S Chorev
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Carol V Robinson
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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42
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Su P, Wu H, Wang M, Cai L, Liu Y, Chen LM. IRBIT activates NBCe1-B by releasing the auto-inhibition module from the transmembrane domain. J Physiol 2020; 599:1151-1172. [PMID: 33237573 PMCID: PMC7898672 DOI: 10.1113/jp280578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Key points The electrogenic Na+/HCO3−cotransporter NBCe1‐B is widely expressed in many tissues, including pancreas, submandibular gland, brain, heart, etc. NBCe1‐B has very low activity under basal condition due to auto‐inhibition, but can be fully activated by protein interaction with the IP3R‐binding protein released with inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate (IRBIT). The structural components of the auto‐inhibition domain and the IRBIT‐binding domain of NBCe1‐B are finely characterized based on systematic mutations in the present study and data from previous studies. Reducing negative charges on the cytosol side of the transmembrane domain greatly decreases the magnitude of the auto‐inhibition of NBCe1‐B. We propose that the auto‐inhibition domain functions as a brake module that inactivates NBCe1‐B by binding to, via electrostatic attraction, the transmembrane domain; IRBIT activates NBCe1‐B by releasing the brake from the transmembrane domain via competitive binding to the auto‐inhibition domain.
Abstract The electrogenic Na+/HCO3− cotransporter NBCe1‐B is widely expressed in many tissues in the body. NBCe1‐B exhibits only basal activity due to the action of the auto‐inhibition domain (AID) in its unique amino‐terminus. However, NBCe1‐B can be activated by interaction with the IP3R‐binding protein released with inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate (IRBIT). Here, we investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the auto‐inhibition of NBCe1‐B and its activation by IRBIT. The IRBIT‐binding domain (IBD) of NBCe1‐B spans residues 1−52, essentially consisting of two arms, one negatively charged (residues 1−24) and the other positively charged (residues 40−52). The AID mainly spans residues 40−85, overlapping with the IBD in the positively charged arm. The magnitude of auto‐inhibition of NBCe1‐B is greatly decreased by manipulating the positively charged residues in the AID or by replacing a set of negatively charged residues with neutral ones in the transmembrane domain. The interaction between IRBIT and NBCe1‐B is abolished by mutating a set of negatively charged Asp/Glu residues (to Asn/Gln) plus a set of Ser/Thr residues (to Ala) in the PEST domain of IRBIT. However, this interaction is not affected by replacing the same set of Ser/Thr residues in the PEST domain with Asp. We propose that: (1) the AID, acting as a brake, binds to the transmembrane domain via electrostatic interaction to slow down NBCe1‐B; (2) IRBIT activates NBCe1‐B by releasing the brake from the transmembrane domain. The electrogenic Na+/HCO3−cotransporter NBCe1‐B is widely expressed in many tissues, including pancreas, submandibular gland, brain, heart, etc. NBCe1‐B has very low activity under basal condition due to auto‐inhibition, but can be fully activated by protein interaction with the IP3R‐binding protein released with inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate (IRBIT). The structural components of the auto‐inhibition domain and the IRBIT‐binding domain of NBCe1‐B are finely characterized based on systematic mutations in the present study and data from previous studies. Reducing negative charges on the cytosol side of the transmembrane domain greatly decreases the magnitude of the auto‐inhibition of NBCe1‐B. We propose that the auto‐inhibition domain functions as a brake module that inactivates NBCe1‐B by binding to, via electrostatic attraction, the transmembrane domain; IRBIT activates NBCe1‐B by releasing the brake from the transmembrane domain via competitive binding to the auto‐inhibition domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Su
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science & Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Han Wu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science & Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science & Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lu Cai
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science & Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science & Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Li-Ming Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science & Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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43
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Gatchell IT, Huntley RB, Schultes NP, Mourad GS. The guanine-hypoxanthine permease GhxP of Erwinia amylovora facilitates the influx of the toxic guanine derivative 6-thioguanine. J Appl Microbiol 2020; 130:2018-2028. [PMID: 33152175 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM Erwinia amylovora is the causal agent of fire blight, a devastating disease of apples and pears. This study determines whether the E. amylovora guanine-hypoxanthine transporter (EaGhxP) is required for virulence and if it can import the E. amylovora produced toxic analogue 6-thioguanine (6TG) into cells. METHODS AND RESULTS Characterization of EaGhxP in guanine transport deficient Escherichia coli reveals that it can transport guanine, hypoxanthine and the toxic analogues 8-azaguanine (8AG) and 6TG. Similarly, EaGhxP transports 8AG and 6TG into E. amylovora cells. EaGhxP has a high affinity for 6TG with a Ki of 3·7 µmol l-1 . An E. amylovora ⊿ghxP::Camr strain shows resistance to growth on 8AG and 6TG. Although EaGhxP is expressed during active disease propagation, it is not necessary for virulence as determined on immature apple and pear assays. CONCLUSIONS EaGhxP is not required for virulence, but it does import 6TG into E. amylovora cells. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY As part of the disease establishment process, E. amylovora synthesizes and exports a toxic guanine derivative 6TG. Our results are counter intuitive and show that EaGhxP, an influx transporter, can move 6TG into cells raising questions regarding the role of 6TG in disease establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- I T Gatchell
- Department of Biology, Purdue University Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, IN, USA
| | - R B Huntley
- Department of Plant Pathology & Ecology, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - N P Schultes
- Department of Plant Pathology & Ecology, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - G S Mourad
- Department of Biology, Purdue University Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, IN, USA
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44
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Chi X, Jin X, Chen Y, Lu X, Tu X, Li X, Zhang Y, Lei J, Huang J, Huang Z, Zhou Q, Pan X. Structural insights into the gating mechanism of human SLC26A9 mediated by its C-terminal sequence. Cell Discov 2020; 6:55. [PMID: 32818062 PMCID: PMC7417587 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-020-00193-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The human SLC26 transporter family exhibits various transport characteristics, and family member SLC26A9 performs multiple roles, including acting as Cl-/HCO3- exchangers, Cl- channels, and Na+ transporters. Some mutations of SLC26A9 are correlated with abnormalities in respiration and digestion systems. As a potential target colocalizing with CFTR in cystic fibrosis patients, SLC26A9 is of great value in drug development. Here, we present a cryo-EM structure of the human SLC26A9 dimer at 2.6 Å resolution. A segment at the C-terminal end is bound to the entry of the intracellular vestibule of the putative transport pathway, which has been proven by electrophysiological experiments to be a gating modulator. Multiple chloride and sodium ions are resolved in the high-resolution structure, identifying novel ion-binding pockets for the first time. Together, our structure takes important steps in elucidating the structural features and regulatory mechanism of SLC26A9, with potential significance in the treatment of cystic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximin Chi
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024 China
| | - Xueqin Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084 China
| | - Yun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024 China
| | - Xiaoli Lu
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024 China
| | - Xinyu Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Xiaorong Li
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024 China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024 China
| | - Jianlin Lei
- Technology Center for Protein Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084 China
| | - Jing Huang
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024 China
| | - Zhuo Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191 China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Qiang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024 China
| | - Xiaojing Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084 China
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45
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Functional (un)cooperativity in elevator transport proteins. Biochem Soc Trans 2020; 48:1047-1055. [PMID: 32573703 DOI: 10.1042/bst20190970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The activity of enzymes is subject to regulation at multiple levels. Cooperativity, the interconnected behavior of active sites within a protein complex, directly affects protein activity. Cooperativity is a mode of regulation that requires neither extrinsic factors nor protein modifications. Instead, it allows enzymes themselves to modulate reaction rates. Cooperativity is an important regulatory mechanism in soluble proteins, but also examples of cooperative membrane proteins have been described. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on interprotomer cooperativity in elevator-type proteins, a class of membrane transporters characterized by large rigid-body movements perpendicular to the membrane, and highlight well-studied examples and experimental approaches.
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An Erwinia amylovora uracil transporter mutant retains virulence on immature apple and pear fruit. Microb Pathog 2020; 147:104363. [PMID: 32615243 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2020.104363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Erwinia amylovora is the causal agent of fire blight, a devastating disease of apples and pears. A previous study revealed that an E. amylovora uracil auxotroph was still virulent and can cause disease, suggesting that uracil can be obtained from the host environment. The E. amylovora genome contains a locus encoding for a uracil transporter belonging to the nucleobase cation symporter 2 family, displaying a high level of amino acid sequence similarity to the Escherichia coli UraA. Expression of E. amylovora UraA in nucleobase transporter-deficient E. coli strains, coupled with radiolabeled uptake studies reveal that E. amylovora UraA is a high affinity uracil transporter with a Km of 0.57 μM. Both E. coli and E. amylovora carrying extra copies of E. amylovora UraA are sensitive to growth on the toxic analog 5-fluorouracil. An E. amylovora ΔuraA::Camr mutant is still able to grow and cause disease symptoms on immature pears and apples.
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47
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Botou M, Yalelis V, Lazou P, Zantza I, Papakostas K, Charalambous V, Mikros E, Flemetakis E, Frillingos S. Specificity profile of NAT/NCS2 purine transporters in
Sinorhizobium
(
Ensifer
)
meliloti. Mol Microbiol 2020; 114:151-171. [DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Botou
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry Department of Medicine School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
| | - Vassilis Yalelis
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry Department of Medicine School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
| | - Panayiota Lazou
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry Department of Medicine School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
| | - Iliana Zantza
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department of Pharmacy School of Health Sciences National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Konstantinos Papakostas
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry Department of Medicine School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
| | - Vassiliki Charalambous
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry Department of Medicine School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
| | - Emmanuel Mikros
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department of Pharmacy School of Health Sciences National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Emmanouil Flemetakis
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology Department of Biotechnology Agricultural University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Stathis Frillingos
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry Department of Medicine School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
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Zimmermann I, Egloff P, Hutter CAJ, Kuhn BT, Bräuer P, Newstead S, Dawson RJP, Geertsma ER, Seeger MA. Generation of synthetic nanobodies against delicate proteins. Nat Protoc 2020; 15:1707-1741. [PMID: 32269381 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-020-0304-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Here, we provide a protocol to generate synthetic nanobodies, known as sybodies, against any purified protein or protein complex within a 3-week period. Unlike methods that require animals for antibody generation, sybody selections are carried out entirely in vitro under controlled experimental conditions. This is particularly relevant for the generation of conformation-specific binders against labile membrane proteins or protein complexes and allows selections in the presence of non-covalent ligands. Sybodies are especially suited for cases where binder generation via immune libraries fails due to high sequence conservation, toxicity or insufficient stability of the target protein. The procedure entails a single round of ribosome display using the sybody libraries encoded by mRNA, followed by two rounds of phage display and binder identification by ELISA. The protocol is optimized to avoid undesired reduction in binder diversity and enrichment of non-specific binders to ensure the best possible selection outcome. Using the efficient fragment exchange (FX) cloning method, the sybody sequences are transferred from the phagemid to different expression vectors without the need to amplify them by PCR, which avoids unintentional shuffling of complementary determining regions. Using quantitative PCR (qPCR), the efficiency of each selection round is monitored to provide immediate feedback and guide troubleshooting. Our protocol can be carried out by any trained biochemist or molecular biologist using commercially available reagents and typically gives rise to 10-30 unique sybodies exhibiting binding affinities in the range of 500 pM-500 nM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwan Zimmermann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Linkster Therapeutics AG, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Egloff
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Linkster Therapeutics AG, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cedric A J Hutter
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Benedikt T Kuhn
- Institute of Biochemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Philipp Bräuer
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Simon Newstead
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Roger J P Dawson
- Linkster Therapeutics AG, Zurich, Switzerland.,Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Eric R Geertsma
- Institute of Biochemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Markus A Seeger
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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49
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Campagnaro GD, de Koning HP. Purine and pyrimidine transporters of pathogenic protozoa - conduits for therapeutic agents. Med Res Rev 2020; 40:1679-1714. [PMID: 32144812 DOI: 10.1002/med.21667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Purines and pyrimidines are essential nutrients for any cell. Most organisms are able to synthesize their own purines and pyrimidines, but this ability was lost in protozoans that adapted to parasitism, leading to a great diversification in transporter activities in these organisms, especially for the acquisition of amino acids and nucleosides from their hosts throughout their life cycles. Many of these transporters have been shown to have sufficiently different substrate affinities from mammalian transporters, making them good carriers for therapeutic agents. In this review, we summarize the knowledge obtained on purine and pyrimidine activities identified in protozoan parasites to date and discuss their importance for the survival of these parasites and as drug carriers, as well as the perspectives of developments in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo D Campagnaro
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow, UK
| | - Harry P de Koning
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow, UK
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50
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Jiang T, Wen PC, Trebesch N, Zhao Z, Pant S, Kapoor K, Shekhar M, Tajkhorshid E. Computational Dissection of Membrane Transport at a Microscopic Level. Trends Biochem Sci 2020; 45:202-216. [PMID: 31813734 PMCID: PMC7024014 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2019.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Membrane transporters are key gatekeeper proteins at cellular membranes that closely control the traffic of materials. Their function relies on structural rearrangements of varying degrees that facilitate substrate translocation across the membrane. Characterizing these functionally important molecular events at a microscopic level is key to our understanding of membrane transport, yet challenging to achieve experimentally. Recent advances in simulation technology and computing power have rendered molecular dynamics (MD) simulation a powerful biophysical tool to investigate a wide range of dynamical events spanning multiple spatial and temporal scales. Here, we review recent studies of diverse membrane transporters using computational methods, with an emphasis on highlighting the technical challenges, key lessons learned, and new opportunities to illuminate transporter structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Jiang
- NIH Center for Macromolecular Modeling and Bioinformatics, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Po-Chao Wen
- NIH Center for Macromolecular Modeling and Bioinformatics, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Noah Trebesch
- NIH Center for Macromolecular Modeling and Bioinformatics, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Zhiyu Zhao
- NIH Center for Macromolecular Modeling and Bioinformatics, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Shashank Pant
- NIH Center for Macromolecular Modeling and Bioinformatics, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Karan Kapoor
- NIH Center for Macromolecular Modeling and Bioinformatics, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Mrinal Shekhar
- NIH Center for Macromolecular Modeling and Bioinformatics, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Emad Tajkhorshid
- NIH Center for Macromolecular Modeling and Bioinformatics, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
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