Structure and mechanism of the hexameric MecA-ClpC molecular machine

Nucleotide-induced ClpC oligomerization and its non-preferential association with ClpP isoforms of pathogenic Leptospira

Bacterial caseinolytic protease-chaperone complexes participate in the elimination of misfolded and aggregated protein substrates. The spirochete Leptospira interrogans possess a set of Clp-chaperones (ClpX, ClpA, and ClpC), which may associate functionally with two different isoforms of LinClpP (ClpP1 and ClpP2). The L. interrogans ClpC (LinClpC) belongs to class-I chaperone with two active ATPase domains separated by a middle domain. Using the size exclusion chromatography, ANS dye binding, and dynamic light scattering analysis, the LinClpC is suggested to undergo nucleotide-induced oligomerization. LinClpC associates with either pure LinClpP1 or LinClpP2 isoforms non-preferentially and with equal affinity. Regardless, pure LinClpP isoforms cannot constitute an active protease complex with LinClpC. Interestingly, the heterocomplex LinClpP1P2 in association with LinClpC forms a functional proteolytic machinery and degrade β-casein or FITC-casein in an energy-independent manner. Adding either ATP or ATPγS further fosters the LinClpCP1P2 complex protease activity by nurturing the functional oligomerization of LinClpC. The antibiotic, acyldepsipeptides (ADEP1) display a higher activatory role on LinClpP1P2 protease activity than LinClpC. Altogether, this work illustrates an in-depth study of hetero-tetradecamer LinClpP1P2 association with its cognate ATPase and unveils a new insight into the structural reorganization of LinClpP1P2 in the presence of chaperone, LinClpC to gain protease activity.

Structural insights into the Clp protein degradation machinery

The Clp protease system is important for maintaining proteostasis in bacteria. It consists of ClpP serine proteases and an AAA+ Clp-ATPase such as ClpC1. The hexameric ATPase ClpC1 utilizes the energy of ATP binding and hydrolysis to engage, unfold, and translocate substrates into the proteolytic chamber of homo- or hetero-tetradecameric ClpP for degradation. The assembly between the hetero-tetradecameric ClpP1P2 chamber and the Clp-ATPases containing tandem ATPase domains from the same species has not been studied in depth. Here, we present cryo-EM structures of the substrate-bound ClpC1:shClpP1P2 from Streptomyces hawaiiensis, and shClpP1P2 in complex with ADEP1, a natural compound produced by S. hawaiiensis and known to cause over-activation and dysregulation of the ClpP proteolytic core chamber. Our structures provide detailed information on the shClpP1-shClpP2, shClpP2-ClpC1, and ADEP1-shClpP1/P2 interactions, reveal conformational transition of ClpC1 during the substrate translocation, and capture a rotational ATP hydrolysis mechanism likely dominated by the D1 ATPase activity of chaperones.IMPORTANCEThe Clp-dependent proteolysis plays an important role in bacterial homeostasis and pathogenesis. The ClpP protease system is an effective drug target for antibacterial therapy. Streptomyces hawaiiensis can produce a class of potent acyldepsipeptide antibiotics such as ADEP1, which could affect the ClpP protease activity. Although S. hawaiiensis hosts one of the most intricate ClpP systems in nature, very little was known about its Clp protease mechanism and the impact of ADEP molecules on ClpP. The significance of our research is in dissecting the functional mechanism of the assembled Clp degradation machinery, as well as the interaction between ADEP1 and the ClpP proteolytic chamber, by solving high-resolution structures of the substrate-bound Clp system in S. hawaiiensis. The findings shed light on our understanding of the Clp-dependent proteolysis in bacteria, which will enhance the development of antimicrobial drugs targeting the Clp protease system, and help fighting against bacterial multidrug resistance.

Mass spectrometry and split luciferase complementation assays reveal the MecA protein interactome of Streptococcus mutans

MecA is a highly conserved adaptor protein encoded by prokaryotes from the Bacillota phylum. MecA mutants exhibit similar pleiotropic defects in a variety of organisms, although most of these phenotypes currently lack a mechanistic basis. MecA mediates ClpCP-dependent proteolysis of its substrates, but only several such substrates have been reported in the literature and there are suggestions that proteolysis-independent regulatory mechanisms may also exist. Here, we provide the first comprehensive characterization of the MecA interactome and further assess its regulatory role in Clp-dependent proteolysis. Untargeted coimmunoprecipitation assays coupled with mass spectrometry revealed that the MecA ortholog from the oral pathobiont Streptococcus mutans likely serves as a major protein interaction network hub by potentially complexing with >100 distinct protein substrates, most of which function in highly conserved metabolic pathways. The interactome results were independently verified using a newly developed prokaryotic split luciferase complementation assay (SLCA) to detect MecA protein-protein interactions in vivo. In addition, we further develop a new application of SLCA to support in vivo measurements of MecA relative protein binding affinities. SLCA results were independently verified using targeted coimmunoprecipitation assays, suggesting the general utility of this approach for prokaryotic protein-protein interaction studies. Our results indicate that MecA indeed regulates its interactome through both Clp-dependent proteolysis as well as through an as-yet undefined proteolysis-independent mechanism that may affect more than half of its protein interactome. This suggests a significant aspect of the MecA regulatory function still has yet to be discovered.IMPORTANCEDespite multiple decades of study, the regulatory mechanism and function of MecA have remained largely a mystery. The current study provides the first detailed roadmap to investigate these functions in other medically significant bacteria. Furthermore, this study developed new genetic approaches to assay prokaryotic protein-protein interactions via the split luciferase complementation assay (SLCA). SLCA technology is commonly employed in eukaryotic genetic research but has not yet been established for studies of bacterial protein-protein interactions. The SLCA protein binding affinity assay described here is a new technological advance exclusive to the current study and has not been reported elsewhere.

BacPROTACs targeting Clp protease: a promising strategy for anti-mycobacterial drug discovery

Tuberculosis (TB) has claimed more lives over the course of two millennia than any other infectious disease worldwide. In 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that 10.6 million people were diagnosed with TB, resulting in the deaths of 1.4 million HIV-negative individuals. The emergence of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), defined as resistance to at least rifampicin (RIF) and isoniazid (INH), and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB), poses the primary challenge to overcome in the coming years. We have recently conducted an extensive analysis of investments and research endeavours in the field, with the overarching objective of achieving the established milestone of TB eradication by the year 2030. Over the past several years, there has been notable progress in advancing a multitude of promising compounds, each possessing distinct mechanisms of action, into clinical phases of development. However, it is worth noting that strains of mycobacteria resistant to current antitubercular drugs have already emerged for some of these compounds The exploration of the innovative Proteolytic Target Chimeras (PROTACs) protein degradation approach has emerged as a viable avenue for the discovery of novel antimicrobials. While the ubiquitin system is exclusive to eukaryotic cells, certain bacteria use a similar degradation system that relies on the recognition of phosphorylated arginine residues (pArg) by the ClpC:ClpP (ClpCP) protease, thereby leading to protein degradation. In this opinion article, we have described and analized the advances in the use of PROTACs that leverage bacterial proteolytic machinery (BacPROTACs) to design new antitubercular agents. Scope Statement. The development of novel pharmaceuticals for tuberculosis treatment is deemed urgently necessary due to the emergence of resistant strains. In this context, the introduction of new technologies capable of alleviating the disease and attaining the objectives outlined by the World Health Organization is imperative. Among the innovative strategies, the degradation of proteins that are crucial for the survival of the bacillus holds promise for generating new medications, particularly those that are effective at treating latent (non-replicating) Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Within this perspective, we present the advancements and obstacles encountered in the exploration of new BacPROTAC compounds, with the intention of encouraging research and illuminating challenges associated with the implementation of BacPROTACs to address to the global tuberculosis crisis.

Targeting bacterial degradation machinery as an antibacterial strategy

The exploitation of a cell's natural degradation machinery for therapeutic purposes is an exciting research area in its infancy with respect to bacteria. Here, we review current strategies targeting the ClpCP system, which is a proteolytic degradation complex essential in the biology of many bacterial species of scientific interest. Strategies include using natural product antibiotics or acyldepsipeptides to initiate the up- or down-regulation of ClpCP activity. We also examine exciting recent forays into BacPROTACs to trigger the degradation of specific proteins of interest through the hijacking of the ClpCP machinery. These strategies represent an important emerging avenue for combatting antimicrobial resistance.

Interactome Analysis Identifies MSMEI_3879 as a Substrate of Mycolicibacterium smegmatis ClpC1

The prevalence of drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections has prompted extensive efforts to exploit new drug targets in this globally important pathogen. ClpC1, the unfoldase component of the essential ClpC1P1P2 protease, has emerged as one particularly promising antibacterial target. However, efforts to identify and characterize compounds that impinge on ClpC1 activity are constrained by our limited knowledge of Clp protease function and regulation. To expand our understanding of ClpC1 physiology, we employed a coimmunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry workflow to identify proteins that interact with ClpC1 in Mycolicibacterium smegmatis, a surrogate for M. tuberculosis. We identify a diverse panel of interaction partners, many of which coimmunoprecipitate with both the regulatory N-terminal domain and the ATPase core of ClpC1. Notably, our interactome analysis establishes MSMEI_3879, a truncated gene product unique to M. smegmatis, as a novel proteolytic substrate. Degradation of MSMEI_3879 by ClpC1P1P2 in vitro requires exposure of its N-terminal sequence, reinforcing the idea that ClpC1 selectively recognizes disordered motifs on substrates. Fluorescent substrates incorporating MSMEI_3879 may be useful in screening for novel ClpC1-targeting antibiotics to help address the challenge of M. tuberculosis drug resistance. IMPORTANCE Drug-resistant tuberculosis infections are a major challenge to global public health. Much effort has been invested in identifying new drug targets in the causative pathogen, Mycobacterium tuberculosis. One such target is the ClpC1 unfoldase. Compounds have been identified that kill M. tuberculosis by disrupting ClpC1 activity, yet the physiological function of ClpC1 in cells has remained poorly defined. Here, we identify interaction partners of ClpC1 in a model mycobacterium. By building a broader understanding of the role of this prospective drug target, we can more effectively develop compounds that inhibit its essential cellular activities.

Bioinformatic identification of ClpI, a distinct class of Clp unfoldases in Actinomycetota

All clades of bacteria possess Hsp100/Clp family unfoldase enzymes that contribute to aspects of protein quality control. In Actinomycetota, these include ClpB, which functions as an independent chaperone and disaggregase, and ClpC, which cooperates with the ClpP1P2 peptidase to carry out regulated proteolysis of client proteins. We initially sought to algorithmically catalog Clp unfoldase orthologs from Actinomycetota into ClpB and ClpC categories. In the process, we uncovered a phylogenetically distinct third group of double-ringed Clp enzymes, which we term ClpI. ClpI enzymes are architecturally similar to ClpB and ClpC, with intact ATPase modules and motifs associated with substrate unfolding and translation. While ClpI possess an M-domain similar in length to that of ClpC, its N-terminal domain is more variable than the strongly conserved N-terminal domain of ClpC. Surprisingly, ClpI sequences are divisible into sub-classes that either possess or lack the LGF-motifs required for stable assembly with ClpP1P2, suggesting distinct cellular roles. The presence of ClpI enzymes likely provides bacteria with expanded complexity and regulatory control over protein quality control programs, supplementing the conserved roles of ClpB and ClpC.

Deciphering the mechanism and function of Hsp100 unfoldases from protein structure

Hsp100 chaperones, also known as Clp proteins, constitute a family of ring-forming ATPases that differ in 3D structure and cellular function from other stress-inducible molecular chaperones. While the vast majority of ATP-dependent molecular chaperones promote the folding of either the nascent chain or a newly imported polypeptide to reach its native conformation, Hsp100 chaperones harness metabolic energy to perform the reverse and facilitate the unfolding of a misfolded polypeptide or protein aggregate. It is now known that inside cells and organelles, different Hsp100 members are involved in rescuing stress-damaged proteins from a previously aggregated state or in recycling polypeptides marked for degradation. Protein degradation is mediated by a barrel-shaped peptidase that physically associates with the Hsp100 hexamer to form a two-component system. Notable examples include the ClpA:ClpP (ClpAP) and ClpX:ClpP (ClpXP) proteases that resemble the ring-forming FtsH and Lon proteases, which unlike ClpAP and ClpXP, feature the ATP-binding and proteolytic domains in a single polypeptide chain. Recent advances in electron cryomicroscopy (cryoEM) together with single-molecule biophysical studies have now provided new mechanistic insight into the structure and function of this remarkable group of macromolecular machines.

Structure of the drug target ClpC1 unfoldase in action provides insights on antibiotic mechanism of action

The unfoldase ClpC1 is one of the most exciting drug targets against tuberculosis. This AAA+ unfoldase works in cooperation with the ClpP1P2 protease and is the target of at least four natural product antibiotics: cyclomarin, ecumicin, lassomycin, and rufomycin. Although these molecules are promising starting points for drug development, their mechanisms of action remain largely unknown. Taking advantage of a middle domain mutant, we determined the first structure of Mycobacterium tuberculosis ClpC1 in its apo, cyclomarin-, and ecumicin-bound states via cryo-EM. The obtained structure displays features observed in other members of the AAA+ family and provides a map for further drug development. While the apo and cyclomarin-bound structures are indistinguishable and have N-terminal domains that are invisible in their respective EM maps, around half of the ecumicin-bound ClpC1 particles display three of their six N-terminal domains in an extended conformation. Our structural observations suggest a mechanism where ecumicin functions by mimicking substrate binding, leading to ATPase activation and changes in protein degradation profile.

Unique Structural Fold of LonBA Protease from Bacillus subtilis, a Member of a Newly Identified Subfamily of Lon Proteases

ATP-dependent Lon proteases are key participants in the quality control system that supports the homeostasis of the cellular proteome. Based on their unique structural and biochemical properties, Lon proteases have been assigned in the MEROPS database to three subfamilies (A, B, and C). All Lons are single-chain, multidomain proteins containing an ATPase and protease domains, with different additional elements present in each subfamily. LonA and LonC proteases are soluble cytoplasmic enzymes, whereas LonBs are membrane-bound. Based on an analysis of the available sequences of Lon proteases, we identified a number of enzymes currently assigned to the LonB subfamily that, although presumably membrane-bound, include structural features more similar to their counterparts in the LonA subfamily. This observation was confirmed by the crystal structure of the proteolytic domain of the enzyme previously assigned as Bacillus subtilis LonB, combined with the modeled structure of its ATPase domain. Several structural features present in both domains differ from their counterparts in either LonA or LonB subfamilies. We thus postulate that this enzyme is the founding member of a newly identified LonBA subfamily, so far found only in the gene sequences of firmicutes.

Acyldepsipeptide Analogues: A Future Generation Antibiotics for Tuberculosis Treatment

Acyldepsipeptides (ADEPs) are a new class of emerging antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which are currently explored for treatment of pathogenic infections, including tuberculosis (TB). These cyclic hydrophobic peptides have a unique bacterial target to the conventional anti-TB drugs, and present a therapeutic window to overcome Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (M. tb) drug resistance. ADEPs exerts their antibacterial activity on M. tb strains through activation of the protein homeostatic regulatory protease, the caseinolytic protease (ClpP1P2). ClpP1P2 is normally regulated and activated by the ClpP-ATPases to degrade misfolded and toxic peptides and/or short proteins. ADEPs bind and dysregulate all the homeostatic capabilities of ClpP1P2 while inducing non-selective proteolysis. The uncontrolled proteolysis leads to M. tb cell death within the host. ADEPs analogues that have been tested possess cytotoxicity and poor pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. However, these can be improved by drug design techniques. Moreover, the use of nanomaterial in conjunction with ADEPs would yield effective synergistic effect. This new mode of action has potential to combat and eradicate the extensive multi-drug resistance (MDR) problem that is currently faced by the public health pertaining bacterial infections, especially TB.

Antibacterial peptide CyclomarinA creates toxicity by deregulating the Mycobacterium tuberculosis ClpC1/ClpP1P2 protease

The ring-forming AAA+ hexamer ClpC1 associates with the peptidase ClpP1P2 to form a central, ATP-driven protease in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). ClpC1 is essential for Mtb viability and has been identified as the target of antibacterial peptides like CyclomarinA (CymA) that exhibit strong toxicity towards Mtb. The mechanistic actions of these drugs are poorly understood, but seem diverse, as they have different effects on ClpC1's ATPase and proteolytic activities. Here, we dissected how ClpC1 activity is controlled and how this control is deregulated by CymA. We show that ClpC1 exists in diverse activity states correlating with its assembly. The basal activity of ClpC1 is low, as it predominantly exists in an inactive, non-hexameric resting state. We show CymA stimulates ClpC1 activity by promoting formation of super-complexes composed of multiple ClpC1 hexameric rings, enhancing ClpC1/ClpP1P2 degradation activity towards a diverse range of substrates. Both the ClpC1 resting state and the CymA-induced alternative assembly state rely on interactions between the ClpC1 coiled-coil middle domains (MDs). Accordingly, we found mutation of the conserved aromatic F444 residue located at the MD tip blocks MD interactions and prevents assembly into higher order complexes, thereby leading to constitutive ClpC1 hexamer formation. We demonstrate this assembly state exhibits the highest ATPase and proteolytic activities, yet its heterologous expression in Escherichia coli is toxic, indicating that the formation of such a state must be tightly controlled. Taken together, these findings define the basis of control of ClpC1 activity and show how ClpC1 overactivation by an antibacterial drug generates toxicity.

BacPROTACs mediate targeted protein degradation in bacteria

Hijacking the cellular protein degradation system offers unique opportunities for drug discovery, as exemplified by proteolysis-targeting chimeras. Despite their great promise for medical chemistry, so far, it has not been possible to reprogram the bacterial degradation machinery to interfere with microbial infections. Here, we develop small-molecule degraders, so-called BacPROTACs, that bind to the substrate receptor of the ClpC:ClpP protease, priming neo-substrates for degradation. In addition to their targeting function, BacPROTACs activate ClpC, transforming the resting unfoldase into its functional state. The induced higher-order oligomer was visualized by cryo-EM analysis, providing a structural snapshot of activated ClpC unfolding a protein substrate. Finally, drug susceptibility and degradation assays performed in mycobacteria demonstrate in vivo activity of BacPROTACs, allowing selective targeting of endogenous proteins via fusion to an established degron. In addition to guiding antibiotic discovery, the BacPROTAC technology presents a versatile research tool enabling the inducible degradation of bacterial proteins.

AAA+ protease-adaptor structures reveal altered conformations and ring specialization

ClpAP, a two-ring AAA+ protease, degrades N-end-rule proteins bound by the ClpS adaptor. Here we present high-resolution cryo-EM structures of Escherichia coli ClpAPS complexes, showing how ClpA pore loops interact with the ClpS N-terminal extension (NTE), which is normally intrinsically disordered. In two classes, the NTE is bound by a spiral of pore-1 and pore-2 loops in a manner similar to substrate-polypeptide binding by many AAA+ unfoldases. Kinetic studies reveal that pore-2 loops of the ClpA D1 ring catalyze the protein remodeling required for substrate delivery by ClpS. In a third class, D2 pore-1 loops are rotated, tucked away from the channel and do not bind the NTE, demonstrating asymmetry in engagement by the D1 and D2 rings. These studies show additional structures and functions for key AAA+ elements. Pore-loop tucking may be used broadly by AAA+ unfoldases, for example, during enzyme pausing/unloading.

Division of labor between the pore-1 loops of the D1 and D2 AAA+ rings coordinates substrate selectivity of the ClpAP protease

ClpAP, an ATP-dependent protease consisting of ClpA, a double-ring hexameric unfoldase of the ATPases associated with diverse cellular activities superfamily, and the ClpP peptidase, degrades damaged and unneeded proteins to support cellular proteostasis. ClpA recognizes many protein substrates directly, but it can also be regulated by an adapter, ClpS, that modifies ClpA’s substrate profile toward N-degron substrates. Conserved tyrosines in the 12 pore-1 loops lining the central channel of the stacked D1 and D2 rings of ClpA are critical for degradation, but the roles of these residues in individual steps during direct or adapter-mediated degradation are poorly understood. Using engineered ClpA hexamers with zero, three, or six pore-1 loop mutations in each ATPases associated with diverse cellular activities superfamily ring, we found that active D1 pore loops initiate productive engagement of substrates, whereas active D2 pore loops are most important for mediating the robust unfolding of stable native substrates. In complex with ClpS, active D1 pore loops are required to form a high affinity ClpA•ClpS•substrate complex, but D2 pore loops are needed to “tug on” and remodel ClpS to transfer the N-degron substrate to ClpA. Overall, we find that the pore-1 loop tyrosines in D1 are critical for direct substrate engagement, whereas ClpS-mediated substrate delivery requires unique contributions from both the D1 and D2 pore loops. In conclusion, our study illustrates how pore loop engagement, substrate capture, and powering of the unfolding/translocation steps are distributed between the two rings of ClpA, illuminating new mechanistic features that may be common to double-ring protein unfolding machines.

The AAA+ superfamily: a review of the structural and mechanistic principles of these molecular machines

ATPases associated with diverse cellular activities (AAA+ proteins) are a superfamily of proteins found throughout all domains of life. The hallmark of this family is a conserved AAA+ domain responsible for a diverse range of cellular activities. Typically, AAA+ proteins transduce chemical energy from the hydrolysis of ATP into mechanical energy through conformational change, which can drive a variety of biological processes. AAA+ proteins operate in a variety of cellular contexts with diverse functions including disassembly of SNARE proteins, protein quality control, DNA replication, ribosome assembly, and viral replication. This breadth of function illustrates both the importance of AAA+ proteins in health and disease and emphasizes the importance of understanding conserved mechanisms of chemo-mechanical energy transduction. This review is divided into three major portions. First, the core AAA+ fold is presented. Next, the seven different clades of AAA+ proteins and structural details and reclassification pertaining to proteins in each clade are described. Finally, two well-known AAA+ proteins, NSF and its close relative p97, are reviewed in detail.

Entropic Inhibition: How the Activity of a AAA+ Machine Is Modulated by Its Substrate-Binding Domain

ClpB is a tightly regulated AAA+ disaggregation machine. Each ClpB molecule is composed of a flexibly attached N-terminal domain (NTD), an essential middle domain (MD) that activates the machine by tilting, and two nucleotide-binding domains. The NTD is not well-characterized structurally and is commonly considered to serve as a dispensable substrate-binding domain. Here, we use single-molecule FRET spectroscopy to directly monitor the real-time dynamics of ClpB's NTD and reveal its unexpected autoinhibitory function. We find that the NTD fluctuates on the microsecond time scale, and these dynamics result in steric hindrance that limits the conformational space of the MD to restrict its tilting. This leads to significantly inhibited ATPase and disaggregation activities of ClpB, an effect that is alleviated upon binding of a substrate protein or the cochaperone DnaK. This entropic inhibition mechanism, which is mediated by ultrafast motions of the NTD and is not dependent on any strong interactions, might be common in related ATP-dependent proteases and other multidomain proteins to ensure their fast and reversible activation.

Transcription initiation as a control point in plastid gene expression

The extensive processing and protein-assisted stabilization of transcripts have been taken as evidence for a viewpoint that the control of gene expression had shifted entirely in evolution from transcriptional in the bacterial endosymbiont to posttranscriptional in the plastid. This suggestion is however at odds with many observations on plastid gene transcription. Chloroplasts of flowering plants and mosses contain two or more RNA polymerases with distinct promoter preference and division of labor for the coordinated synthesis of plastid RNAs. Plant and algal plastids further possess multiple nonredundant sigma factors that function as transcription initiation factors. The controlled accumulation of plastid sigma factors and modification of their activity by sigma-binding proteins and phosphorylation constitute additional transcriptional regulatory strategies. Plant and algal plastids also contain dedicated one- or two-component transcriptional regulators. Transcription initiation thus continues to form a critical control point at which varied developmental and environmental signals intersect with plastid gene expression.

ClpL is a functionally active tetradecameric AAA+ chaperone, distinct from hexameric/dodecameric ones

AAA+ (ATPases associated with diverse cellular activities) chaperones are involved in a plethora of cellular activities to ensure protein homeostasis. The function of AAA+ chaperones is mostly modulated by their hexameric/dodecameric quaternary structures. Here we report the structural and biochemical characterizations of a tetradecameric AAA+ chaperone, ClpL from Streptococcus pneumoniae. ClpL exists as a tetradecamer in solution in the presence of ATP. The cryo-EM structure of ClpL at 4.5 Å resolution reveals a striking tetradecameric arrangement. Solution structures of ClpL derived from small-angle X-ray scattering data suggest that the tetradecameric ClpL could assume a spiral conformation found in active hexameric/dodecameric AAA+ chaperone structures. Vertical positioning of the middle domain accounts for the head-to-head arrangement of two heptameric rings. Biochemical activity assays with site-directed mutagenesis confirmed the critical roles of residues both in the integrity of the tetradecameric arrangement and activities of ClpL. Non-conserved Q321 and R670 are crucial in the heptameric ring assembly of ClpL. These results establish that ClpL is a functionally active tetradecamer, clearly distinct from hexameric/dodecameric AAA+ chaperones.

Crossing the Vacuolar Rubicon: Structural Insights into Effector Protein Trafficking in Apicomplexan Parasites

Apicomplexans form a large phylum of parasitic protozoa, including the genera Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, and Cryptosporidium, the causative agents of malaria, toxoplasmosis, and cryptosporidiosis, respectively. They cause diseases not only in humans but also in animals, with dramatic consequences in agriculture. Most apicomplexans are vacuole-dwelling and obligate intracellular parasites; as they invade the host cell, they become encased in a parasitophorous vacuole (PV) derived from the host cellular membrane. This creates a parasite-host interface that acts as a protective barrier but also constitutes an obstacle through which the pathogen must import nutrients, eliminate wastes, and eventually break free upon egress. Completion of the parasitic life cycle requires intense remodeling of the infected host cell. Host cell subversion is mediated by a subset of essential effector parasitic proteins and virulence factors actively trafficked across the PV membrane. In the malaria parasite Plasmodium, a unique and highly specialized ATP-driven vacuolar secretion system, the Plasmodium translocon of exported proteins (PTEX), transports effector proteins across the vacuolar membrane. Its core is composed of the three essential proteins EXP2, PTEX150, and HSP101, and is supplemented by the two auxiliary proteins TRX2 and PTEX88. Many but not all secreted malarial effector proteins contain a vacuolar trafficking signal or Plasmodium export element (PEXEL) that requires processing by an endoplasmic reticulum protease, plasmepsin V, for proper export. Because vacuolar parasitic protein export is essential to parasite survival and virulence, this pathway is a promising target for the development of novel antimalarial therapeutics. This review summarizes the current state of structural and mechanistic knowledge on the Plasmodium parasitic vacuolar secretion and effector trafficking pathway, describing its most salient features and discussing the existing differences and commonalities with the vacuolar effector translocation MYR machinery recently described in Toxoplasma and other apicomplexans of significance to medical and veterinary sciences.

Structural and mechanistic insights into Hsp104 function revealed by synchrotron X-ray footprinting

Hsp104 is a hexameric AAA+ ring translocase, which drives protein disaggregation in nonmetazoan eukaryotes. Cryo-EM structures of Hsp104 have suggested potential mechanisms of substrate translocation, but precisely how Hsp104 hexamers disaggregate proteins remains incompletely understood. Here, we employed synchrotron X-ray footprinting to probe the solution-state structures of Hsp104 monomers in the absence of nucleotide and Hsp104 hexamers in the presence of ADP or ATPγS (adenosine 5'-O-(thiotriphosphate)). Comparing side-chain solvent accessibilities between these three states illuminated aspects of Hsp104 structure and guided design of Hsp104 variants to probe the disaggregase mechanism in vitro and in vivo We established that Hsp104 hexamers switch from a more-solvated state in ADP to a less-solvated state in ATPγS, consistent with switching from an open spiral to a closed ring visualized by cryo-EM. We pinpointed critical N-terminal domain (NTD), NTD-nucleotide-binding domain 1 (NBD1) linker, NBD1, and middle domain (MD) residues that enable intrinsic disaggregase activity and Hsp70 collaboration. We uncovered NTD residues in the loop between helices A1 and A2 that can be substituted to enhance disaggregase activity. We elucidated a novel potentiated Hsp104 MD variant, Hsp104-RYD, which suppresses α-synuclein, fused in sarcoma (FUS), and TDP-43 toxicity. We disambiguated a secondary pore-loop in NBD1, which collaborates with the NTD and NBD1 tyrosine-bearing pore-loop to drive protein disaggregation. Finally, we defined Leu-601 in NBD2 as crucial for Hsp104 hexamerization. Collectively, our findings unveil new facets of Hsp104 structure and mechanism. They also connect regions undergoing large changes in solvation to functionality, which could have profound implications for protein engineering.

Recombinant expression, biophysical and functional characterization of ClpS from Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Intracellular proteolysis is attracting more and more attention for its unique and important character in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mt). The ClpS protein from Mt (MtClpS) plays a critical role in intracellular proteolysis by recognizing N-end rule substrates, which makes it become a potential target for antibacterial drugs. However, the molecular mechanism of MtClpS recognizing N-end rule substrates remains unclear. Preparation of highly concentrated and pure MtClpS protein is a prerequisite for further structural and functional studies. In the present work, we tried several fusion tags and various expression conditions to maximize the production of MtClpS in Escherichia coli. We established an efficient approach for preparing the MtClpS protein with a high yield of 24.7 mg/l and a high purity of 98%. After buffer screening, we obtained a stable MtClpS protein sample concentrated at 0.63 mM in the presence of glycerol, l-Arginine, and l-Glutamate. Moreover, circular dichroism characterization indicated that the secondary structure of MtClpS consists of 38% α-helix and 24% β-sheet. The 2D 1H-15N HSQC nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum showed a good dispersion of resonance peaks with uniform intensity, indicating that the purified MtClpS protein was well folded and conformationally homogeneous. Isothermal titration calorimetry experiments revealed significant interactions of MtClpS with N-end rule peptides beginning with Leu, Tyr, Trp, or Phe. Furthermore, residues D34, D35, and H66 were confirmed as key residues for MtClpS recognizing the N-end rule peptide. The successful expression and biophysical characterization of MtClpS enabled us to gain insight into the molecular mechanism of MtClpS recognizing N-end rule substrates. The obtained stable and pure recombinant MtClpS will enable future inhibitor screening experiments.

New insights into structural and functional relationships between LonA proteases and ClpB chaperones

LonA proteases and ClpB chaperones are key components of the protein quality control system in bacterial cells. LonA proteases form a unique family of ATPases associated with diverse cellular activities (AAA+ ) proteins due to the presence of an unusual N-terminal region comprised of two domains: a β-structured N domain and an α-helical domain, including the coiled-coil fragment, which is referred to as HI(CC). The arrangement of helices in the HI(CC) domain is reminiscent of the structure of the H1 domain of the first AAA+ module of ClpB chaperones. It has been hypothesized that LonA proteases with a single AAA+ module may also contain a part of another AAA+ module, the full version of which is present in ClpB. Here, we established and tested the structural basis of this hypothesis using the known crystal structures of various fragments of LonA proteases and ClpB chaperones, as well as the newly determined structure of the Escherichia coli LonA fragment (235-584). The similarities and differences in the corresponding domains of LonA proteases and ClpB chaperones were examined in structural terms. The results of our analysis, complemented by the finding of a singular match in the location of the most conserved axial pore-1 loop between the LonA NB domain and the NB2 domain of ClpB, support our hypothesis that there is a structural and functional relationship between two coiled-coil fragments and implies a similar mechanism of engagement of the pore-1 loops in the AAA+ modules of LonAs and ClpBs.

Xenogeneic modulation of the ClpCP protease of Bacillus subtilis by a phage-encoded adaptor-like protein

Like eukaryotic and archaeal viruses, which coopt the host's cellular pathways for their replication, bacteriophages have evolved strategies to alter the metabolism of their bacterial host. SPO1 bacteriophage infection of Bacillus subtilis results in comprehensive remodeling of cellular processes, leading to conversion of the bacterial cell into a factory for phage progeny production. A cluster of 26 genes in the SPO1 genome, called the host takeover module, encodes for potentially cytotoxic proteins that specifically shut down various processes in the bacterial host, including transcription, DNA synthesis, and cell division. However, the properties and bacterial targets of many genes of the SPO1 host takeover module remain elusive. Through a systematic analysis of gene products encoded by the SPO1 host takeover module, here we identified eight gene products that attenuated B. subtilis growth. Of the eight phage gene products that attenuated bacterial growth, a 25-kDa protein called Gp53 was shown to interact with the AAA+ chaperone protein ClpC of the ClpCP protease of B. subtilis Our results further reveal that Gp53 is a phage-encoded adaptor-like protein that modulates the activity of the ClpCP protease to enable efficient SPO1 phage progeny development. In summary, our findings indicate that the bacterial ClpCP protease is the target of xenogeneic (dys)regulation by a SPO1 phage-derived factor and add Gp53 to the list of antibacterial products that target bacterial protein degradation and therefore may have utility for the development of novel antibacterial agents.

High-Resolution Structure of ClpC1-Rufomycin and Ligand Binding Studies Provide a Framework to Design and Optimize Anti-Tuberculosis Leads

Addressing the urgent need to develop novel drugs against drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis ( M. tb) strains, ecumicin (ECU) and rufomycin I (RUFI) are being explored as promising new leads targeting cellular proteostasis via the caseinolytic protein ClpC1. Details of the binding topology and chemical mode of (inter)action of these cyclopeptides help drive further development of novel potency-optimized entities as tuberculosis drugs. ClpC1 M. tb protein constructs with mutations driving resistance to ECU and RUFI show reduced binding affinity by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Despite certain structural similarities, ECU and RUFI resistant mutation sites did not overlap in their SPR binding patterns. SPR competition experiments show ECU prevents RUFI binding, whereas RUFI partially inhibits ECU binding. The X-ray structure of the ClpC1-NTD-RUFI complex reveals distinct differences compared to the previously reported ClpC1-NTD-cyclomarin A structure. Surprisingly, the complex structure revealed that the epoxide moiety of RUFI opened and covalently bound to ClpC1-NTD via the sulfur atom of Met1. Furthermore, RUFI analogues indicate that the epoxy group of RUFI is critical for binding and bactericidal activity. The outcomes demonstrate the significance of ClpC1 as a novel target and the importance of SAR analysis of identified macrocyclic peptides for drug discovery.

Triple deletion of clpC, porB, and mepA enhances production of small ubiquitin-like modifier-N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide in Corynebacterium glutamicum

In our previous work, a two-plasmid CRISPR/Cas9 system was constructed for genome editing in Corynebacterium glutamicum. To increase the transformation efficiency and simplify the plasmid curing steps, an all-in-one CRISPR/Cas9 system was constructed for efficient genome editing. In addition, to research proteolysis during the production of recombinant proteins and generate a host for enhanced expression of recombinant proteins, the system was used to delete three genes, clpC, porB, and mepA in C. glutamicum CGMCC1.15647, which encoded the Clp protease subunit ClpC, anion selective channel protein B, and metallopeptidase A, respectively. After the evaluation of different plasmids and hosts, small ubiquitin-like modifier-N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (SUMO-NT-proBNP), an important protein used for the diagnosis of mild heart failure was successfully expressed in the triple mutant ΔclpCΔporBΔmepA, which exhibit threefold higher levels of protein expression compared with the wild-type. In conclusion, we created a simplified CRISPR tool for genome editing in C. glutamicum, provided a method to generate a host for enhanced expression of recombinant proteins and successfully expressed SUMO-NT-proBNP in C. glutamicum. This tool and method will greatly facilitate genetic engineering and metabolic optimization of this important platform organism.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis ClpC1 N-Terminal Domain Is Dispensable for Adaptor Protein-Dependent Allosteric Regulation

ClpC1 hexamers couple the energy of ATP hydrolysis to unfold and, subsequently, translocate specific protein substrates into the associated ClpP protease. Substrate recognition by ATPases associated with various cellular activities (AAA+) proteases is driven by the ATPase component, which selectively determines protein substrates to be degraded. The specificity of these unfoldases for protein substrates is often controlled by an adaptor protein with examples that include MecA regulation of Bacillus subtilis ClpC or ClpS-mediated control of Escherichia coli ClpA. No adaptor protein-mediated control has been reported for mycobacterial ClpC1. Using pulldown and stopped-flow fluorescence methods, we report data demonstrating that Mycobacterium tuberculosis ClpC1 catalyzed unfolding of an SsrA-tagged protein is negatively impacted by association with the ClpS adaptor protein. Our data indicate that ClpS-dependent inhibition of ClpC1 catalyzed SsrA-dependent protein unfolding does not require the ClpC1 N-terminal domain but instead requires the presence of an interaction surface located in the ClpC1 Middle Domain. Taken together, our results demonstrate for the first time that mycobacterial ClpC1 is subject to adaptor protein-mediated regulation in vitro.

Deficiency of MecA in Streptococcus mutans Causes Major Defects in Cell Envelope Biogenesis, Cell Division, and Biofilm Formation

MecA is an adaptor protein that guides the ClpC/P-mediated proteolysis. A S. mutans MecA-deficient mutant was constructed by double-crossover allelic exchange and analyzed for the effects of such a deficiency on cell biology and biofilm formation. Unlike the wild-type, UA159, the mecA mutant, TW416, formed mucoid and smooth colonies, severely clumped in broth and had a reduced growth rate. Transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that TW416 grows primarily in chains of giant “swollen” cells with multiple asymmetric septa, unlike the coccoid form of UA159. As compared to UA159, biofilm formation by TW416 was significantly reduced regardless of the carbohydrate sources used for growth (P < 0.001). Western blot analysis of TW416 whole cell lysates showed a reduced expression of the glucosyltransferase GtfC and GtfB, as well as the P1 and WapA adhesins providing an explanation for the defective biofilm formation of TW416. When analyzed by a colorimetric assay, the cell wall phosphate of the mutant murein sacculi was almost 20-fold lower than the parent strain (P < 0.001). Interestingly, however, when analyzed using immunoblotting of the murein sacculi preps with UA159 whole cell antiserum as a probe, TW416 was shown to possess significantly higher signal intensity as compared to the wild-type. There is also evidence that MecA in S. mutans is more than an adaptor protein, although how it modulates the bacterial pathophysiology, including cell envelope biogenesis, cell division, and biofilm formation awaits further investigation.

Threshold regulation and stochasticity from the MecA/ClpCP proteolytic system in Streptococcus mutans competence

Many bacterial species use the MecA/ClpCP proteolytic system to block entry into genetic competence. In Streptococcus mutans, MecA/ClpCP degrades ComX (also called SigX), an alternative sigma factor for the comY operon and other late competence genes. Although the mechanism of MecA/ClpCP has been studied in multiple Streptococcus species, its role within noisy competence pathways is poorly understood. S. mutans competence can be triggered by two different peptides, CSP and XIP, but it is not known whether MecA/ClpCP acts similarly for both stimuli, how it affects competence heterogeneity, and how its regulation is overcome. We have studied the effect of MecA/ClpCP on the activation of comY in individual S. mutans cells. Our data show that MecA/ClpCP is active under both XIP and CSP stimulation, that it provides threshold control of comY, and that it adds noise in comY expression. Our data agree quantitatively with a model in which MecA/ClpCP prevents adventitious entry into competence by sequestering or intercepting low levels of ComX. Competence is permitted when ComX levels exceed a threshold, but cell‐to‐cell heterogeneity in MecA levels creates variability in that threshold. Therefore, MecA/ClpCP provides a stochastic switch, located downstream of the already noisy comX, that enhances phenotypic diversity.

The antibiotic cyclomarin blocks arginine-phosphate-induced millisecond dynamics in the N-terminal domain of ClpC1 from Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Mycobacterium tuberculosis can remain dormant in the host, an ability that explains the failure of many current tuberculosis treatments. Recently, the natural products cyclomarin, ecumicin, and lassomycin have been shown to efficiently kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis persisters. Their target is the N-terminal domain of the hexameric AAA+ ATPase ClpC1, which recognizes, unfolds, and translocates protein substrates, such as proteins containing phosphorylated arginine residues, to the ClpP1P2 protease for degradation. Surprisingly, these antibiotics do not inhibit ClpC1 ATPase activity, and how they cause cell death is still unclear. Here, using NMR and small-angle X-ray scattering, we demonstrate that arginine-phosphate binding to the ClpC1 N-terminal domain induces millisecond dynamics. We show that these dynamics are caused by conformational changes and do not result from unfolding or oligomerization of this domain. Cyclomarin binding to this domain specifically blocked these N-terminal dynamics. On the basis of these results, we propose a mechanism of action involving cyclomarin-induced restriction of ClpC1 dynamics, which modulates the chaperone enzymatic activity leading eventually to cell death.

ClpC and MecA, components of a proteolytic machine, prevent Spo0A-P-dependent transcription without degradation

In Bacillus subtilis, a proteolytic machine composed of MecA, ClpC and ClpP degrades the transcription factor ComK, controlling its accumulation during growth. MecA also inhibits sporulation and biofilm formation by down-regulating spoIIG and sinI, genes that are dependent for their transcription on the phosphorylated protein Spo0A-P. Additionally, MecA has been shown to interact in vitro with Spo0A. Although the inhibitory effect on transcription requires MecA's binding partner ClpC, inhibition is not accompanied by the degradation of Spo0A, pointing to a previously unsuspected regulatory mechanism involving these proteins. Here, we further investigate the MecA and ClpC effects on Spo0A-P-dependent transcription. We show that MecA inhibits the transcription of several Spo0A-P activated genes, but fails to de-repress several Spo0A-P repressed promoters. This demonstrates that MecA and ClpC do not act by preventing the binding of Spo0A-P to its target promoters. Consistent with this, MecA by itself has no effect in vitro on the transcription from PspoIIG while the addition of both MecA and ClpC has a strong inhibitory effect. A complex of MecA and ClpC likely binds to Spo0A-P on its target promoters, preventing the activation of transcription. Thus, components of a degradative machine have been harnessed to directly repress transcription.

Structural determinants for protein unfolding and translocation by the Hsp104 protein disaggregase

The ring-forming Hsp104 ATPase cooperates with Hsp70 and Hsp40 molecular chaperones to rescue stress-damaged proteins from both amorphous and amyloid-forming aggregates. The ability to do so relies upon pore loops present in the first ATP-binding domain (AAA-1; loop-1 and loop-2 ) and in the second ATP-binding domain (AAA-2; loop-3) of Hsp104, which face the protein translocating channel and couple ATP-driven changes in pore loop conformation to substrate translocation. A hallmark of loop-1 and loop-3 is an invariable and mutational sensitive aromatic amino acid (Tyr²⁵⁷ and Tyr⁶⁶²) involved in substrate binding. However, the role of conserved aliphatic residues (Lys²⁵⁶, Lys²⁵⁸, and Val⁶⁶³) flanking the pore loop tyrosines, and the function of loop-2 in protein disaggregation has not been investigated. Here we present the crystal structure of an N-terminal fragment of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hsp104 exhibiting molecular interactions involving both AAA-1 pore loops, which resemble contacts with bound substrate. Corroborated by biochemical experiments and functional studies in yeast, we show that aliphatic residues flanking Tyr²⁵⁷ and Tyr⁶⁶² are equally important for substrate interaction, and abolish Hsp104 function when mutated to glycine. Unexpectedly, we find that loop-2 is sensitive to aspartate substitutions that impair Hsp104 function and abolish protein disaggregation when loop-2 is replaced by four aspartate residues. Our observations suggest that Hsp104 pore loops have non-overlapping functions in protein disaggregation and together coordinate substrate binding, unfolding, and translocation through the Hsp104 hexamer.

Stand-alone ClpG disaggregase confers superior heat tolerance to bacteria

AAA+ disaggregases solubilize aggregated proteins and confer heat tolerance to cells. Their disaggregation activities crucially depend on partner proteins, which target the AAA+ disaggregases to protein aggregates while concurrently stimulating their ATPase activities. Here, we report on two potent ClpG disaggregase homologs acquired through horizontal gene transfer by the species Pseudomonas aeruginosa and subsequently abundant P. aeruginosa clone C. ClpG exhibits high, stand-alone disaggregation potential without involving any partner cooperation. Specific molecular features, including high basal ATPase activity, a unique aggregate binding domain, and almost exclusive expression in stationary phase distinguish ClpG from other AAA+ disaggregases. Consequently, ClpG largely contributes to heat tolerance of P. aeruginosa primarily in stationary phase and boosts heat resistance 100-fold when expressed in Escherichia coli This qualifies ClpG as a potential persistence and virulence factor in P. aeruginosa.

Regulatory coiled-coil domains promote head-to-head assemblies of AAA+ chaperones essential for tunable activity control

Ring-forming AAA+ chaperones exert ATP-fueled substrate unfolding by threading through a central pore. This activity is potentially harmful requiring mechanisms for tight repression and substrate-specific activation. The AAA+ chaperone ClpC with the peptidase ClpP forms a bacterial protease essential to virulence and stress resistance. The adaptor MecA activates ClpC by targeting substrates and stimulating ClpC ATPase activity. We show how ClpC is repressed in its ground state by determining ClpC cryo-EM structures with and without MecA. ClpC forms large two-helical assemblies that associate via head-to-head contacts between coiled-coil middle domains (MDs). MecA converts this resting state to an active planar ring structure by binding to MD interaction sites. Loss of ClpC repression in MD mutants causes constitutive activation and severe cellular toxicity. These findings unravel an unexpected regulatory concept executed by coiled-coil MDs to tightly control AAA+ chaperone activity.

Phylogenetic analysis predicts structural divergence for proteobacterial ClpC proteins

Regulated proteolysis is required in all organisms for the removal of misfolded or degradation-tagged protein substrates in cellular quality control pathways. The molecular machines that catalyze this process are known as ATP-dependent proteases with examples that include ClpAP and ClpCP. Clp/Hsp100 subunits form ring-structures that couple the energy of ATP binding and hydrolysis to protein unfolding and subsequent translocation of denatured protein into the compartmentalized ClpP protease for degradation. Copies of the clpA, clpC, clpE, clpK, and clpL genes are present in all characterized bacteria and their gene products are highly conserved in structure and function. However, the evolutionary relationship between these proteins remains unclear. Here we report a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis that suggests divergent evolution yielded ClpA from an ancestral ClpC protein and that ClpE/ClpL represent intermediates between ClpA/ClpC. This analysis also identifies a group of proteobacterial ClpC proteins that are likely not functional in regulated proteolysis. Our results strongly suggest that bacterial ClpC proteins should not be assumed to all function identically due to the structural differences identified here.

Overlapping and Specific Functions of the Hsp104 N Domain Define Its Role in Protein Disaggregation

Hsp104 is a ring-forming protein disaggregase that rescues stress-damaged proteins from an aggregated state. To facilitate protein disaggregation, Hsp104 cooperates with Hsp70 and Hsp40 chaperones (Hsp70/40) to form a bi-chaperone system. How Hsp104 recognizes its substrates, particularly the importance of the N domain, remains poorly understood and multiple, seemingly conflicting mechanisms have been proposed. Although the N domain is dispensable for protein disaggregation, it is sensitive to point mutations that abolish the function of the bacterial Hsp104 homolog in vitro, and is essential for curing yeast prions by Hsp104 overexpression in vivo. Here, we present the crystal structure of an N-terminal fragment of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hsp104 with the N domain of one molecule bound to the C-terminal helix of the neighboring D1 domain. Consistent with mimicking substrate interaction, mutating the putative substrate-binding site in a constitutively active Hsp104 variant impairs the recovery of functional protein from aggregates. We find that the observed substrate-binding defect can be rescued by Hsp70/40 chaperones, providing a molecular explanation as to why the N domain is dispensable for protein disaggregation when Hsp70/40 is present, yet essential for the dissolution of Hsp104-specific substrates, such as yeast prions, which likely depends on a direct N domain interaction.

Structural Elements Regulating AAA+ Protein Quality Control Machines

Members of the ATPases Associated with various cellular Activities (AAA+) superfamily participate in essential and diverse cellular pathways in all kingdoms of life by harnessing the energy of ATP binding and hydrolysis to drive their biological functions. Although most AAA+ proteins share a ring-shaped architecture, AAA+ proteins have evolved distinct structural elements that are fine-tuned to their specific functions. A central question in the field is how ATP binding and hydrolysis are coupled to substrate translocation through the central channel of ring-forming AAA+ proteins. In this mini-review, we will discuss structural elements present in AAA+ proteins involved in protein quality control, drawing similarities to their known role in substrate interaction by AAA+ proteins involved in DNA translocation. Elements to be discussed include the pore loop-1, the Inter-Subunit Signaling (ISS) motif, and the Pre-Sensor I insert (PS-I) motif. Lastly, we will summarize our current understanding on the inter-relationship of those structural elements and propose a model how ATP binding and hydrolysis might be coupled to polypeptide translocation in protein quality control machines.

Selective adaptor dependent protein degradation in bacteria

Energy dependent proteolysis is essential for all life, but uncontrolled degradation leads to devastating consequences. In bacteria, oligomeric AAA+ proteases are responsible for controlling protein destruction and are regulated in part by adaptor proteins. Adaptors are regulatory factors that shape protease substrate choice by either restricting or enhancing substrate recognition in several ways. In some cases, protease activity or assembly itself requires adaptor binding. Adaptors can also alter specificity by acting as scaffolds to tether particular substrates to already active proteases. Finally, hierarchical assembly of adaptors can use combinations of several activities to enhance the protease's selectivity. Because the lifetime of the constituent proteins directly affects the duration of a particular signaling pathway, regulated proteolysis impacts almost all cellular responses. In this review, we describe recent progress in regulated protein degradation, focusing on fundamental principles of adaptors and how they perform critical biological functions, such as promoting cell cycle progression and quality control.

Avidity for Polypeptide Binding by Nucleotide-Bound Hsp104 Structures

Recent Hsp104 structural studies have reported both planar and helical models of the hexameric structure. The conformation of Hsp104 monomers within the hexamer is affected by nucleotide ligation. After nucleotide-driven hexamer formation, Hsp104-catalyzed disruption of protein aggregates requires binding to the peptide substrate. Here, we examine the oligomeric state of Hsp104 and its peptide binding competency in the absence of nucleotide and in the presence of ADP, ATPγS, AMPPNP, or AMPPCP. Surprisingly, we found that only ATPγS facilitates avid peptide binding by Hsp104. We propose that the modulation between high- and low-peptide affinity states observed with these ATP analogues is an important component of the disaggregation mechanism of Hsp104.

Mutation analysis of the interactions between Mycobacterium tuberculosis caseinolytic protease C1 (ClpC1) and ecumicin

Ecumicin is a well-known and potent inhibitor of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Although the target of ecumicin is caseinolytic protease C1 (ClpC1), the exact mechanism by which ecumicin inhibits ClpC1 has not been identified. To analyze ecumicin's action on ClpC1, site-directed mutagenesis was performed on its binding site. The estimated binding residues within ClpC1 to ecumicin were selected via in silico analysis using molecular docking. The selected residues were mutated by site-directed mutagenesis and the effects on ecumicin binding were analyzed. Mutation at the R83 residue, especially the R83A mutation, in ClpC1 resulted in strong resistance to ATPase activation and inhibition of proteolytic activity. In addition, binding of ecumicin to the R83A ClpC1 N-terminal domain (residues 1-145) was not observed in native gel analysis. These results reveal that the R83 residue plays an important role in the binding of ecumicin. This result provides a basis for the development of an anti-tuberculosis agent based on ecumicin derivatives.

Conformational control of the bacterial Clp protease by natural product antibiotics

Natural products targeting the bacterial Clp protease unravel key interfaces for protein–protein–interaction and long-distance conformational control.

Structural basis for the disaggregase activity and regulation of Hsp104

The Hsp104 disaggregase is a two-ring ATPase machine that rescues various forms of non-native proteins including the highly resistant amyloid fibers. The structural-mechanistic underpinnings of how the recovery of toxic protein aggregates is promoted and how this potent unfolding activity is prevented from doing collateral damage to cellular proteins are not well understood. Here, we present structural and biochemical data revealing the organization of Hsp104 from Chaetomium thermophilum at 3.7 Å resolution. We show that the coiled-coil domains encircling the disaggregase constitute a ‘restraint mask’ that sterically controls the mobility and thus the unfolding activity of the ATPase modules. In addition, we identify a mechanical linkage that coordinates the activity of the two ATPase rings and accounts for the high unfolding potential of Hsp104. Based on these findings, we propose a general model for how Hsp104 and related chaperones operate and are kept under control until recruited to appropriate substrates.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.21516.001

Arginine phosphorylation marks proteins for degradation by a Clp protease

Protein turnover is a tightly controlled process that is crucial for the removal of aberrant polypeptides and for cellular signalling. Whereas ubiquitin marks eukaryotic proteins for proteasomal degradation, a general tagging system for the equivalent bacterial Clp proteases is not known. Here we describe the targeting mechanism of the ClpC-ClpP proteolytic complex from Bacillus subtilis. Quantitative affinity proteomics using a ClpP-trapping mutant show that proteins phosphorylated on arginine residues are selectively targeted to ClpC-ClpP. In vitro reconstitution experiments demonstrate that arginine phosphorylation by the McsB kinase is required and sufficient for the degradation of substrate proteins. The docking site for phosphoarginine is located in the amino-terminal domain of the ClpC ATPase, as resolved at high resolution in a co-crystal structure. Together, our data demonstrate that phosphoarginine functions as a bona fide degradation tag for the ClpC-ClpP protease. This system, which is widely distributed across Gram-positive bacteria, is functionally analogous to the eukaryotic ubiquitin-proteasome system.

Development of Potent Antiviral Drugs Inspired by Viral Hexameric DNA-Packaging Motors with Revolving Mechanism

The intracellular parasitic nature of viruses and the emergence of antiviral drug resistance necessitate the development of new potent antiviral drugs. Recently, a method for developing potent inhibitory drugs by targeting biological machines with high stoichiometry and a sequential-action mechanism was described. Inspired by this finding, we reviewed the development of antiviral drugs targeting viral DNA-packaging motors. Inhibiting multisubunit targets with sequential actions resembles breaking one bulb in a series of Christmas lights, which turns off the entire string. Indeed, studies on viral DNA packaging might lead to the development of new antiviral drugs. Recent elucidation of the mechanism of the viral double-stranded DNA (dsDNA)-packaging motor with sequential one-way revolving motion will promote the development of potent antiviral drugs with high specificity and efficiency. Traditionally, biomotors have been classified into two categories: linear and rotation motors. Recently discovered was a third type of biomotor, including the viral DNA-packaging motor, beside the bacterial DNA translocases, that uses a revolving mechanism without rotation. By analogy, rotation resembles the Earth's rotation on its own axis, while revolving resembles the Earth's revolving around the Sun (see animations at http://rnanano.osu.edu/movie.html). Herein, we review the structures of viral dsDNA-packaging motors, the stoichiometries of motor components, and the motion mechanisms of the motors. All viral dsDNA-packaging motors, including those of dsDNA/dsRNA bacteriophages, adenoviruses, poxviruses, herpesviruses, mimiviruses, megaviruses, pandoraviruses, and pithoviruses, contain a high-stoichiometry machine composed of multiple components that work cooperatively and sequentially. Thus, it is an ideal target for potent drug development based on the power function of the stoichiometries of target complexes that work sequentially.

Fundamental Characteristics of AAA+ Protein Family Structure and Function

Many complex cellular events depend on multiprotein complexes known as molecular machines to efficiently couple the energy derived from adenosine triphosphate hydrolysis to the generation of mechanical force. Members of the AAA+ ATPase superfamily (ATPases Associated with various cellular Activities) are critical components of many molecular machines. AAA+ proteins are defined by conserved modules that precisely position the active site elements of two adjacent subunits to catalyze ATP hydrolysis. In many cases, AAA+ proteins form a ring structure that translocates a polymeric substrate through the central channel using specialized loops that project into the central channel. We discuss the major features of AAA+ protein structure and function with an emphasis on pivotal aspects elucidated with archaeal proteins.

An atomic structure of the human 26S proteasome

We report the cryo-EM structure of the human 26S proteasome at an average resolution of 3.5 Å, allowing atomic modeling of 28 subunits in the core particle (CP) and 18 subunits in the regulatory particle (RP). The C-terminal residues of Rpt3 and Rpt5 subunits in the RP can be seen inserted into surface pockets formed between adjacent α subunits in the CP. Each of the six Rpt subunits contains a bound nucleotide, and the central gate of the CP α-ring is closed despite RP association. The six pore 1 loops in the Rpt ring are arranged similarly to a spiral staircase along the axial channel of substrate transport, which is constricted by the pore 2 loops. We also determined the cryo-EM structure of the human proteasome bound to the deubiquitinating enzyme USP14 at 4.35-Å resolution. Together, our structures provide a framework for mechanistic understanding of eukaryotic proteasome function.