1
|
Abstract
Type IV secretion systems (T4SSs) are nanomachines that Gram-negative, Gram-positive bacteria, and some archaea use to transport macromolecules across their membranes into bacterial or eukaryotic host targets or into the extracellular milieu. They are the most versatile secretion systems, being able to deliver both proteins and nucleoprotein complexes into targeted cells. By mediating conjugation and/or competence, T4SSs play important roles in determining bacterial genome plasticity and diversity; they also play a pivotal role in the spread of antibiotic resistance within bacterial populations. T4SSs are also used by human pathogens such as Legionella pneumophila, Bordetella pertussis, Brucella sp., or Helicobacter pylori to sustain infection. Since they are essential virulence factors for these important pathogens, T4SSs might represent attractive targets for vaccines and therapeutics. The best-characterized conjugative T4SSs of Gram-negative bacteria are composed of twelve components that are conserved across many T4SSs. In this chapter, we will review our current structural knowledge on the T4SSs by describing the structures of the individual components and how they assemble into large macromolecular assemblies. With the combined efforts of X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and more recently electron microscopy, structural biology of the T4SS has made spectacular progress during the past fifteen years and has unraveled the properties of unique proteins and complexes that assemble dynamically in a highly sophisticated manner.
Collapse
|
2
|
Groenewold MK, Hebecker S, Fritz C, Czolkoss S, Wiesselmann M, Heinz DW, Jahn D, Narberhaus F, Aktas M, Moser J. Virulence of Agrobacterium tumefaciens requires lipid homeostasis mediated by the lysyl-phosphatidylglycerol hydrolase AcvB. Mol Microbiol 2018; 111:269-286. [PMID: 30353924 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Agrobacterium tumefaciens transfers oncogenic T-DNA via the type IV secretion system (T4SS) into plants causing tumor formation. The acvB gene encodes a virulence factor of unknown function required for plant transformation. Here we specify AcvB as a periplasmic lysyl-phosphatidylglycerol (L-PG) hydrolase, which modulates L-PG homeostasis. Through functional characterization of recombinant AcvB variants, we showed that the C-terminal domain of AcvB (residues 232-456) is sufficient for full enzymatic activity and defined key residues for catalysis. Absence of the hydrolase resulted in ~10-fold increase in L-PG in Agrobacterium membranes and abolished T-DNA transfer and tumor formation. Overproduction of the L-PG synthase gene (lpiA) in wild-type A. tumefaciens resulted in a similar increase in the L-PG content (~7-fold) and a virulence defect even in the presence of intact AcvB. These results suggest that elevated L-PG amounts (either by overproduction of the synthase or absence of the hydrolase) are responsible for the virulence phenotype. Gradually increasing the L-PG content by complementation with different acvB variants revealed that cellular L-PG levels above 3% of total phospholipids interfere with T-DNA transfer. Cumulatively, this study identified AcvB as a novel virulence factor required for membrane lipid homeostasis and T-DNA transfer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maike K Groenewold
- Structure and Function of Proteins, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Stefanie Hebecker
- Institute for Microbiology, Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Christiane Fritz
- Lehrstuhl für Biologie der Mikroorganismen, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - Simon Czolkoss
- Lehrstuhl für Biologie der Mikroorganismen, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - Milan Wiesselmann
- Institute for Microbiology, Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Dirk W Heinz
- Structure and Function of Proteins, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Dieter Jahn
- Institute for Microbiology, Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Franz Narberhaus
- Lehrstuhl für Biologie der Mikroorganismen, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - Meriyem Aktas
- Lehrstuhl für Biologie der Mikroorganismen, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jürgen Moser
- Institute for Microbiology, Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106, Braunschweig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Del Giudice MG, Döhmer PH, Spera JM, Laporte FT, Marchesini MI, Czibener C, Ugalde JE. VirJ Is a Brucella Virulence Factor Involved in the Secretion of Type IV Secreted Substrates. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:12383-93. [PMID: 27059960 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.730994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The VirB secretion apparatus in Brucella belongs to the type IV secretion systems present in many pathogenic bacteria and is absolutely necessary for the efficient evasion of the Brucella-containing vacuole from the phagocytic route in professional phagocytes. This system is responsible for the secretion of a plethora of effector proteins that alter the biology of the host cell and promote the intracellular replication process. Although many VirB substrates have been identified in Brucella, we still know very little about the secretion mechanism that mediates their translocation across the two membranes and the periplasmic space. In this manuscript, we describe the identification of a gene, virJ, that codes for a protein with periplasmic localization that is involved in the intracellular replication process and virulence in mice. Our analysis revealed that this protein is necessary for the secretion of at least two VirB substrates that have a periplasmic intermediate and that it directly interacts with them. We additionally show that VirJ also associates with the apparatus per se and that its absence affects the assembly of the complex. We hypothesize that VirJ is part of a secretion platform composed of the translocon and several secretion substrates and that it probably coordinates the proper assembly of this macromolecular complex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariela Giselda Del Giudice
- From the Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas "Dr. Rodolfo A. Ugalde", Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas (IIB-INTECH), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, San Martín 1650, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Peter Hans Döhmer
- From the Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas "Dr. Rodolfo A. Ugalde", Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas (IIB-INTECH), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, San Martín 1650, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Manuel Spera
- From the Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas "Dr. Rodolfo A. Ugalde", Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas (IIB-INTECH), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, San Martín 1650, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernando Tomás Laporte
- From the Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas "Dr. Rodolfo A. Ugalde", Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas (IIB-INTECH), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, San Martín 1650, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Inés Marchesini
- From the Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas "Dr. Rodolfo A. Ugalde", Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas (IIB-INTECH), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, San Martín 1650, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Czibener
- From the Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas "Dr. Rodolfo A. Ugalde", Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas (IIB-INTECH), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, San Martín 1650, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Esteban Ugalde
- From the Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas "Dr. Rodolfo A. Ugalde", Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas (IIB-INTECH), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, San Martín 1650, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Park J, Zhang Y, Chen C, Dudley EG, Harvill ET. Diversity of secretion systems associated with virulence characteristics of the classical bordetellae. MICROBIOLOGY-SGM 2015; 161:2328-40. [PMID: 26459829 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.000197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Secretion systems are key virulence factors, modulating interactions between pathogens and the host's immune response. Six potential secretion systems (types 1-6; T1SS-T6SS) have been discussed in classical bordetellae, respiratory commensals/pathogens of mammals. The prototypical Bordetella bronchiseptica strain RB50 genome seems to contain all six systems, whilst two human-restricted subspecies, Bordetella parapertussis and Bordetella pertussis, have lost different subsets of these. This implicates secretion systems in the divergent evolutionary histories that have led to their success in different niches. Based on our previous work demonstrating that changes in secretion systems are associated with virulence characteristics, we hypothesized there would be substantial divergence of the loci encoding each amongst sequenced strains. Here, we describe extensive differences in secretion system loci; 10 of the 11 sequenced strains had lost subsets of genes or one entire secretion system locus. These loci contained genes homologous to those present in the respective loci in distantly related organisms, as well as genes unique to bordetellae, suggesting novel and/or auxiliary functions. The high degree of conservation of the T3SS locus, a complex machine with interdependent parts that must be conserved, stands in dramatic contrast to repeated loss of T5aSS 'autotransporters', which function as an autonomous unit. This comparative analysis provided insights into critical aspects of each pathogen's adaptation to its different niche, and the relative contributions of recombination, mutation and horizontal gene transfer. In addition, the relative conservation of various secretion systems is an important consideration in the ongoing search for more highly conserved protective antigens for the next generation of pertussis vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jihye Park
- 1 Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 2 Graduate Program in Bioinformatics and Genomics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Ying Zhang
- 1 Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Chun Chen
- 3 Department of Food Science, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Edward G Dudley
- 3 Department of Food Science, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Eric T Harvill
- 1 Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 4 Singapore Centre on Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Identification of a novel conjugative plasmid in mycobacteria that requires both type IV and type VII secretion. mBio 2014; 5:e01744-14. [PMID: 25249284 PMCID: PMC4173767 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01744-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Conjugative plasmids have been identified in a wide variety of different bacteria, ranging from proteobacteria to firmicutes, and conjugation is one of the most efficient routes for horizontal gene transfer. The most widespread mechanism of plasmid conjugation relies on different variants of the type IV secretion pathway. Here, we describe the identification of a novel type of conjugative plasmid that seems to be unique for mycobacteria. Interestingly, while this plasmid is efficiently exchanged between different species of slow-growing mycobacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, it could not be transferred to any of the fast-growing mycobacteria tested. Genetic analysis of the conjugative plasmid showed the presence of a locus containing homologues of three type IV secretion system components and a relaxase. In addition, a new type VII secretion locus was present. Using transposon insertion mutagenesis, we show that in fact both these secretion systems are essential for conjugation, indicating that this plasmid represents a new class of conjugative plasmids requiring two secretion machineries. This plasmid could form a useful new tool to exchange or introduce DNA in slow-growing mycobacteria. Conjugative plasmids play an important role in horizontal gene transfer between different bacteria and, as such, in their adaptation and evolution. This effect is most obvious in the spread of antibiotic resistance genes. Thus far, conjugation of natural plasmids has been described only rarely for mycobacterial species. In fact, it is generally accepted that M. tuberculosis does not show any recent sign of horizontal gene transfer. In this study, we describe the identification of a new widespread conjugative plasmid that can also be efficiently transferred to M. tuberculosis. This plasmid therefore poses both a threat and an opportunity. The threat is that, through the acquisition of antibiotic resistance markers, this plasmid could start a rapid spread of antibiotic resistance genes between pathogenic mycobacteria. The opportunity is that we could use this plasmid to generate new tools for the efficient introduction of foreign DNA in slow-growing mycobacteria.
Collapse
|
6
|
Low HH, Gubellini F, Rivera-Calzada A, Braun N, Connery S, Dujeancourt A, Lu F, Redzej A, Fronzes R, Orlova EV, Waksman G. Structure of a type IV secretion system. Nature 2014; 508:550-553. [PMID: 24670658 PMCID: PMC3998870 DOI: 10.1038/nature13081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 228] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial type IV secretion systems translocate virulence factors into eukaryotic cells, distribute genetic material between bacteria and have shown potential as a tool for the genetic modification of human cells. Given the complex choreography of the substrate through the secretion apparatus, the molecular mechanism of the type IV secretion system has proved difficult to dissect in the absence of structural data for the entire machinery. Here we use electron microscopy to reconstruct the type IV secretion system encoded by the Escherichia coli R388 conjugative plasmid. We show that eight proteins assemble in an intricate stoichiometric relationship to form an approximately 3 megadalton nanomachine that spans the entire cell envelope. The structure comprises an outer membrane-associated core complex connected by a central stalk to a substantial inner membrane complex that is dominated by a battery of 12 VirB4 ATPase subunits organized as side-by-side hexameric barrels. Our results show a secretion system with markedly different architecture, and consequently mechanism, to other known bacterial secretion systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harry H. Low
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, UCL and Birkbeck, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX, UK
| | - Francesca Gubellini
- Institut Pasteur, G5 Biologie structurale de la sécrétion bactérienne and UMR 3528-CNRS, 25 rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Angel Rivera-Calzada
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, UCL and Birkbeck, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX, UK
| | - Nathalie Braun
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, UCL and Birkbeck, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX, UK
| | - Sarah Connery
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, UCL and Birkbeck, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX, UK
| | - Annick Dujeancourt
- Institut Pasteur, G5 Biologie structurale de la sécrétion bactérienne and UMR 3528-CNRS, 25 rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Fang Lu
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, UCL and Birkbeck, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX, UK
| | - Adam Redzej
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, UCL and Birkbeck, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX, UK
| | - Rémi Fronzes
- Institut Pasteur, G5 Biologie structurale de la sécrétion bactérienne and UMR 3528-CNRS, 25 rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Elena V. Orlova
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, UCL and Birkbeck, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX, UK
| | - Gabriel Waksman
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, UCL and Birkbeck, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Döhmer PH, Valguarnera E, Czibener C, Ugalde JE. Identification of a type IV secretion substrate of Brucella abortus that participates in the early stages of intracellular survival. Cell Microbiol 2014; 16:396-410. [PMID: 24119283 PMCID: PMC3945426 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.12224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2012] [Revised: 09/03/2013] [Accepted: 10/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Brucella abortus, the aetiological agent of bovine brucellosis, is an intracellular pathogen whose virulence is completely dependent on a type IV secretion system. This secretion system translocates effector proteins into the host cell to modulate the intracellular fate of the bacterium in order to establish a secure niche were it actively replicates. Although much has been done in understanding how this secretion system participates in the virulence process, few effector proteins have been identified to date. We describe here the identification of a type IV secretion substrate (SepA) that is only present in Brucella spp. and has no detectable homology to known proteins. This protein is secreted in a virB-dependent manner in a two-step process involving a periplasmic intermediate and secretion is necessary for its function. The deletion mutant showed a defect in the early stages of intracellular replication in professional and non-professional phagocytes although it invades the cells more efficiently than the wild-type parental strain. Our results indicate that, even though the mutant was more invasive, it had a defect in excluding the lysosomal marker Lamp-1 and was inactivated more efficiently during the early phases of the intracellular life cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter H. Döhmer
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas “Dr. Rodolfo A. Ugalde”, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús, IIB-INTECH, CONICET, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Cecilia Czibener
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas “Dr. Rodolfo A. Ugalde”, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús, IIB-INTECH, CONICET, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan E. Ugalde
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas “Dr. Rodolfo A. Ugalde”, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús, IIB-INTECH, CONICET, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Christie PJ, Whitaker N, González-Rivera C. Mechanism and structure of the bacterial type IV secretion systems. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2014; 1843:1578-91. [PMID: 24389247 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2013.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2013] [Revised: 12/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The bacterial type IV secretion systems (T4SSs) translocate DNA and protein substrates to bacterial or eukaryotic target cells generally by a mechanism dependent on direct cell-to-cell contact. The T4SSs encompass two large subfamilies, the conjugation systems and the effector translocators. The conjugation systems mediate interbacterial DNA transfer and are responsible for the rapid dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes and virulence determinants in clinical settings. The effector translocators are used by many Gram-negative bacterial pathogens for delivery of potentially hundreds of virulence proteins to eukaryotic cells for modulation of different physiological processes during infection. Recently, there has been considerable progress in defining the structures of T4SS machine subunits and large machine subassemblies. Additionally, the nature of substrate translocation sequences and the contributions of accessory proteins to substrate docking with the translocation channel have been elucidated. A DNA translocation route through the Agrobacterium tumefaciens VirB/VirD4 system was defined, and both intracellular (DNA ligand, ATP energy) and extracellular (phage binding) signals were shown to activate type IV-dependent translocation. Finally, phylogenetic studies have shed light on the evolution and distribution of T4SSs, and complementary structure-function studies of diverse systems have identified adaptations tailored for novel functions in pathogenic settings. This review summarizes the recent progress in our understanding of the architecture and mechanism of action of these fascinating machines, with emphasis on the 'archetypal' A. tumefaciens VirB/VirD4 T4SS and related conjugation systems. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Protein trafficking and secretion in bacteria. Guest Editors: Anastassios Economou and Ross Dalbey.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Christie
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, UT-Houston Medical School, 6431 Fannin, JFB1.765, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Neal Whitaker
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, UT-Houston Medical School, 6431 Fannin, JFB1.765, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Christian González-Rivera
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, UT-Houston Medical School, 6431 Fannin, JFB1.765, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Nester EW. Agrobacterium: nature's genetic engineer. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2014; 5:730. [PMID: 25610442 PMCID: PMC4285021 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2014.00730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Agrobacterium was identified as the agent causing the plant tumor, crown gall over 100 years ago. Since then, studies have resulted in many surprising observations. Armin Braun demonstrated that Agrobacterium infected cells had unusual nutritional properties, and that the bacterium was necessary to start the infection but not for continued tumor development. He developed the concept of a tumor inducing principle (TIP), the factor that actually caused the disease. Thirty years later the TIP was shown to be a piece of a tumor inducing (Ti) plasmid excised by an endonuclease. In the next 20 years, most of the key features of the disease were described. The single-strand DNA (T-DNA) with the endonuclease attached is transferred through a type IV secretion system into the host cell where it is likely coated and protected from nucleases by a bacterial secreted protein to form the T-complex. A nuclear localization signal in the endonuclease guides the transferred strand (T-strand), into the nucleus where it is integrated randomly into the host chromosome. Other secreted proteins likely aid in uncoating the T-complex. The T-DNA encodes enzymes of auxin, cytokinin, and opine synthesis, the latter a food source for Agrobacterium. The genes associated with T-strand formation and transfer (vir) map to the Ti plasmid and are only expressed when the bacteria are in close association with a plant. Plant signals are recognized by a two-component regulatory system which activates vir genes. Chromosomal genes with pleiotropic functions also play important roles in plant transformation. The data now explain Braun's old observations and also explain why Agrobacterium is nature's genetic engineer. Any DNA inserted between the border sequences which define the T-DNA will be transferred and integrated into host cells. Thus, Agrobacterium has become the major vector in plant genetic engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eugene W. Nester
- *Correspondence: Eugene W. Nester, Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, 1959 N.E. Pacific Street, Box 357735, Seattle, WA 98195, USA e-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Smith AM, Harrison JS, Sprague KM, Roy H. A conserved hydrolase responsible for the cleavage of aminoacylphosphatidylglycerol in the membrane of Enterococcus faecium. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:22768-76. [PMID: 23793054 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.484402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Aminoacylphosphatidylglycerol synthases (aaPGSs) are enzymes that transfer amino acids from aminoacyl-tRNAs (aa-tRNAs) to phosphatidylglycerol (PG) to form aa-PG in the cytoplasmic membrane of bacteria. aa-PGs provide bacteria with resistance to a range of antimicrobial compounds and stress conditions. Enterococcus faecium encodes a triple-specific aaPGS (RakPGS) that utilizes arginine, alanine, and lysine as substrates. Here we identify a novel hydrolase (AhyD), encoded immediately adjacent to rakPGS in E. faecium, which is responsible for the hydrolysis of aa-PG. The genetic synteny of aaPGS and ahyD is conserved in >60 different bacterial species. Deletion of ahyD in E. faecium resulted in increased formation of Ala-PG and Lys-PG and increased sensitivity to bacitracin. Our results suggest that AhyD and RakPGS act together to maintain optimal levels of aa-PG in the bacterial membrane to confer resistance to certain antimicrobial compounds and stress conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela M Smith
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida 32826, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mela F, Fritsche K, de Boer W, van den Berg M, van Veen JA, Maharaj NN, Leveau JHJ. Comparative genomics of bacteria from the genus Collimonas: linking (dis)similarities in gene content to phenotypic variation and conservation. ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2012; 4:424-432. [PMID: 23760828 DOI: 10.1111/j.1758-2229.2012.00336.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Collimonas is a genus of soil bacteria comprising three recognized species: C. fungivorans, C. pratensis and C. arenae. Collimonads share the ability to degrade chitin (chitinolysis), feed on living fungal hyphae (mycophagy), and dissolve minerals (weathering), but vary in their inhibition of fungi (fungistasis). To better understand this phenotypic variability, we analysed the genomic content of four strains representing three Collimonas species (Ter14, Ter6, Ter91 and Ter10) by hybridization to a microarray based on reference strain C. fungivorans Ter331. The analysis revealed genes unique to strain Ter331 (e.g. those on the extrachromosomal element pTer331) and genes present in some but not all of the tested strains. Among the latter were several candidates that may contribute to fungistasis, including genes for the production and secretion of antifungals. We hypothesize that differential possession of these genes underlies the specialization of Collimonas strains towards different fungal hosts. We identified a set of 136 genes that were common in all tested Collimonas strains, but absent from the genomes of three other members of the family Oxalobacteraceae. Predicted products of these 'Collimonas core' genes include lytic, secreted enzymes such as chitinases, peptidases, nucleases and phosphatases with a putative role in mycophagy and weathering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Mela
- Department of Microbial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen, the Netherlands Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands Department of Plant Pathology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
von Bargen K, Gorvel JP, Salcedo SP. Internal affairs: investigating the Brucella intracellular lifestyle. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2012; 36:533-62. [PMID: 22373010 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6976.2012.00334.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2011] [Revised: 01/10/2012] [Accepted: 02/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacteria of the genus Brucella are Gram-negative pathogens of several animal species that cause a zoonotic disease in humans known as brucellosis or Malta fever. Within their hosts, brucellae reside within different cell types where they establish a replicative niche and remain protected from the immune response. The aim of this article is to discuss recent advances in the field in the specific context of the Brucella intracellular 'lifestyle'. We initially discuss the different host cell targets and their relevance during infection. As it represents the key to intracellular replication, the focus is then set on the maturation of the Brucella phagosome, with particular emphasis on the Brucella factors that are directly implicated in intracellular trafficking and modulation of host cell signalling pathways. Recent data on the role of the type IV secretion system are discussed, novel effector molecules identified and how some of them impact on trafficking events. Current knowledge on Brucella gene regulation and control of host cell death are summarized, as they directly affect intracellular persistence. Understanding how Brucella molecules interplay with their host cell targets to modulate cellular functions and establish the intracellular niche will help unravel how this pathogen causes disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristine von Bargen
- Faculté de Sciences de Luminy, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Aix Marseille Université, UM 2, Marseille Cedex, France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
Pertussis toxin, produced and secreted by the whooping cough agent Bordetella pertussis, is one of the most complex soluble bacterial proteins. It is actively secreted through the B. pertussis cell envelope by the Ptl secretion system, a member of the widespread type IV secretion systems. The toxin is composed of five subunits (named S1 to S5 according to their decreasing molecular weights) arranged in an A-B structure. The A protomer is composed of the enzymatically active S1 subunit, which catalyzes ADP-ribosylation of the α subunit of trimeric G proteins, thereby disturbing the metabolic functions of the target cells, leading to a variety of biological activities. The B oligomer is composed of 1S2:1S3:2S4:1S5 and is responsible for binding of the toxin to the target cell receptors and for intracellular trafficking via receptor-mediated endocytosis and retrograde transport. The toxin is one of the most important virulence factors of B. pertussis and is a component of all current vaccines against whooping cough.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Locht
- Inserm U1019, CNRS UMR8204, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Univ Lille Nord de France, France.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Marchesini MI, Herrmann CK, Salcedo SP, Gorvel JP, Comerci DJ. In search of Brucella abortus type IV secretion substrates: screening and identification of four proteins translocated into host cells through VirB system. Cell Microbiol 2011; 13:1261-74. [PMID: 21707904 DOI: 10.1111/j.1462-5822.2011.01618.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Type IV secretion systems (T4SS) are specialized protein complexes used by many bacterial pathogens for the delivery of effector molecules that subvert varied host cellular processes. Brucella spp. are facultative intracellular pathogens capable of survival and replication inside mammalian cells. Brucella T4SS (VirB) is essential to subvert lysosome fusion and to create an organelle permissive for replication. One possible role for VirB is to translocate effector proteins that modulate host cellular functions for the biogenesis of the replicative organelle. We hypothesized that proteins with eukaryotic domains or protein-protein interaction domains, among others, would be good candidates for modulation of host cell functions. To identify these candidates, we performed an in silico screen looking for proteins with distinctive features. Translocation of 84 potential substrates was assayed using adenylate cyclase reporter. By this approach, we identified six proteins that are delivered to the eukaryotic cytoplasm upon infection of macrophage-like cells and we could determine that four of them, encoded by genes BAB1_1043, BAB1_2005, BAB1_1275 and BAB2_0123, require a functional T4SS for their delivery. We confirmed VirB-mediated translocation of one of the substrates by immunofluorescence confocal microscopy, and we found that the N-terminal 25 amino acids are required for its delivery into cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Inés Marchesini
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas-Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
The coupling protein Cagbeta and its interaction partner CagZ are required for type IV secretion of the Helicobacter pylori CagA protein. Infect Immun 2010; 78:5244-51. [PMID: 20876293 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00796-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial type IV secretion systems are macromolecule transporters with essential functions for horizontal gene transfer and for symbiotic and pathogenic interactions with eukaryotic host cells. Helicobacter pylori, the causative agent of type B gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastric adenocarcinoma, and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, uses the Cag type IV secretion system to inject its effector protein CagA into gastric cells. This protein translocation results in altered host cell gene expression profiles and cytoskeletal rearrangements, and it has been linked to cancer development. Interactions of CagA with host cell proteins have been studied in great detail, but little is known about the molecular details of CagA recognition as a type IV secretion substrate or of the translocation process. Apart from components of the secretion apparatus, we previously identified several CagA translocation factors that are either required for or support CagA translocation. To identify protein-protein interactions between these translocation factors, we used a yeast two-hybrid approach comprising all cag pathogenicity island genes. Among several other interactions involving translocation factors, we found a strong interaction between the coupling protein homologue Cagβ (HP0524) and the Cag-specific translocation factor CagZ (HP0526). We show that CagZ has a stabilizing effect on Cagβ, and we demonstrate protein-protein interactions between the cytoplasmic part of Cagβ and CagA and between CagZ and Cagβ, using immunoprecipitation and pull-down assays. Together, our data suggest that these interactions represent a substrate-translocation factor complex at the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane.
Collapse
|
16
|
Saier MH, Ma CH, Rodgers L, Tamang DG, Yen MR. Protein secretion and membrane insertion systems in bacteria and eukaryotic organelles. ADVANCES IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2009; 65:141-97. [PMID: 19026865 DOI: 10.1016/s0065-2164(08)00606-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Milton H Saier
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0116, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Sohlenkamp C, Galindo-Lagunas KA, Guan Z, Vinuesa P, Robinson S, Thomas-Oates J, Raetz CRH, Geiger O. The lipid lysyl-phosphatidylglycerol is present in membranes of Rhizobium tropici CIAT899 and confers increased resistance to polymyxin B under acidic growth conditions. MOLECULAR PLANT-MICROBE INTERACTIONS : MPMI 2007; 20:1421-1430. [PMID: 17977153 DOI: 10.1094/mpmi-20-11-1421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Lysyl-phosphatidylglycerol (LPG) is a well-known membrane lipid in several gram-positive bacteria but is almost unheard of in gram-negative bacteria. In Staphylococcus aureus, the gene product of mprF is responsible for LPG formation. Low pH-inducible genes, termed IpiA, have been identified in the gram-negative alpha-proteobacteria Rhizobium tropici and Sinorhizobium medicae in screens for acid-sensitive mutants and they encode homologs of MprF. An analysis of the sequenced bacterial genomes reveals that genes coding for homologs of MprF from S. aureus are present in several classes of organisms throughout the bacterial kingdom. In this study, we show that the expression of lpiA from R. tropici in the heterologous hosts Escherichia coli and Sinorhizobium meliloti causes formation of LPG. A wild-type strain of R. tropici forms LPG (about 1% of the total lipids) when the cells are grown in minimal medium at pH 4.5 but not when grown in minimal medium at neutral pH or in complex tryptone yeast (TY) medium at either pH. LPG biosynthesis does not occur when lpiA is deleted and is restored upon complementation of lpiA-deficient mutants with a functional copy of the lpiA gene. When grown in the low-pH medium, lpiA-deficient rhizobial mutants are over four times more susceptible to the cationic peptide polymyxin B than the wild type.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sohlenkamp
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad s/n, Apdo. Postal 565-A, Cuernavaca, Morelos, CP62210, Mexico.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Salgado-Pabón W, Jain S, Turner N, van der Does C, Dillard JP. A novel relaxase homologue is involved in chromosomal DNA processing for type IV secretion in Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Mol Microbiol 2007; 66:930-47. [PMID: 17927698 PMCID: PMC2586181 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2958.2007.05966.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The Neisseria gonorrhoeae type IV secretion system secretes chromosomal DNA that acts in natural transformation. To examine the mechanism of DNA processing for secretion, we made mutations in the putative relaxase gene traI and used nucleases to characterize the secreted DNA. The nuclease experiments demonstrated that the secreted DNA is single-stranded and blocked at the 5' end. Mutation of traI identified Tyr93 as required for DNA secretion, while substitution of Tyr201 resulted in intermediate levels of DNA secretion. TraI exhibits features of relaxases, but also has features that are absent in previously characterized relaxases, including an HD phosphohydrolase domain and an N-terminal hydrophobic region. The HD domain residue Asp120 was required for wild-type levels of DNA secretion. Subcellular localization studies demonstrated that the TraI N-terminal region promotes membrane interaction. We propose that Tyr93 initiates DNA processing and Tyr201 is required for termination or acts in DNA binding. Disruption of an inverted-repeat sequence eliminated DNA secretion, suggesting that this sequence may serve as the origin of transfer for chromosomal DNA secretion. The TraI domain architecture, although not previously described, is present in 53 uncharacterized proteins, suggesting that the mechanism of TraI function is a widespread process for DNA donation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wilmara Salgado-Pabón
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Saier MH. Protein Secretion and Membrane Insertion Systems in Gram-Negative Bacteria. J Membr Biol 2007; 214:75-90. [PMID: 17546510 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-006-0049-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2006] [Revised: 11/07/2006] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In contrast to other organisms, gram-negative bacteria have evolved numerous systems for protein export. Eight types are known that mediate export across or insertion into the cytoplasmic membrane, while eight specifically mediate export across or insertion into the outer membrane. Three of the former secretory pathway (SP) systems, type I SP (ISP, ABC), IIISP (Fla/Path) and IVSP (Conj/Vir), can export proteins across both membranes in a single energy-coupled step. A fourth generalized mechanism for exporting proteins across the two-membrane envelope in two distinct steps (which we here refer to as type II secretory pathways [IISP]) utilizes either the general secretory pathway (GSP or Sec) or the twin-arginine targeting translocase for translocation across the inner membrane, and either the main terminal branch or one of several protein-specific export systems for translocation across the outer membrane. We here survey the various well-characterized protein translocation systems found in living organisms and then focus on the systems present in gram-negative bacteria. Comparisons between these systems suggest specific biogenic, mechanistic and evolutionary similarities as well as major differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milton H Saier
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0116, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Karnholz A, Hoefler C, Odenbreit S, Fischer W, Hofreuter D, Haas R. Functional and topological characterization of novel components of the comB DNA transformation competence system in Helicobacter pylori. J Bacteriol 2006; 188:882-93. [PMID: 16428391 PMCID: PMC1347336 DOI: 10.1128/jb.188.3.882-893.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori is one of the most diverse bacterial species known. A rational basis for this genetic variation may be provided by its natural competence for genetic transformation and high-frequency recombination. Many bacterial competence systems have homology with proteins that are involved in the assembly of type IV pili and type II secretion systems. In H. pylori, DNA uptake relies on a transport system related to type IV secretion systems (T4SS) designated the comB system. The prototype of a T4SS in Agrobacterium tumefaciens consists of 11 VirB proteins and VirD4, which form the core unit necessary for the delivery of single proteins or large nucleoprotein complexes into target cells. In the past we identified proteins ComB4 and ComB7 through ComB10 as being involved in the process of DNA uptake in H. pylori. In this study we identified and functionally characterized further (T4SS-homologous) components of the comB transformation competence system. By combining computer prediction modeling, experimental topology determination, generation of knockout strains, and genetic complementation studies we identified ComB2, ComB3, and ComB6 as essential components of the transformation apparatus, structurally and functionally homologous to VirB2, VirB3, and VirB6, respectively. comB2, comB3, and comB4 are organized as a separate operon. Thus, for the H. pylori comB system, all T4SS core components have been identified except for homologues to VirB1, VirD4, VirB5, and VirB11.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arno Karnholz
- Max von Pettenkofer-Institut für Hygiene und Medizinische Mikrobiologie, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Pettenkoferstr. 9a, D-80336 München, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Hohlfeld S, Pattis I, Püls J, Plano GV, Haas R, Fischer W. A C-terminal translocation signal is necessary, but not sufficient for type IV secretion of theHelicobacter pyloriCagA protein. Mol Microbiol 2006; 59:1624-37. [PMID: 16469000 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2958.2006.05050.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Type IV secretion systems are increasingly recognized as important virulence determinants of Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. While the examination of several type IV-secreted proteins suggested that their secretion depends on C-terminal signals, the nature of these signals and their conservation among different systems remain unclear. Here, we have characterized the secretion signal of the Helicobacter pylori CagA protein, which is translocated by the Cag type IV secretion apparatus into eucaryotic cells. The production of fusion proteins of CagA and green fluorescent protein (GFP) did not result in translocation of GFP to epithelial cells, but a fusion of GFP with the CagA C-terminus exerted a dominant-negative effect upon wild-type CagA translocation. We show that CagA translocation depends on the presence of its 20 C-terminal amino acids, containing an array of positively charged residues. Interestingly, these positive charges are neither necessary nor sufficient for CagA translocation, but replacing the C-terminal region of CagA with that of other type IV-secreted proteins reconstitutes CagA translocation competence. Using a novel type IV translocation assay with a phosphorylatable peptide tag, we show that removal of the N-terminal part of the CagA protein renders the protein translocation-incompetent as well. Thus, the Cag type IV secretion system seems to diverge from other systems not only with respect to its composition and architecture, but also in terms of substrate recognition and transport.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Hohlfeld
- Max von Pettenkofer-Institut für Hygiene und Medizinische Mikrobiologie, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Pettenkoferstr. 9a, D-80336 Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Christie PJ, Atmakuri K, Krishnamoorthy V, Jakubowski S, Cascales E. Biogenesis, architecture, and function of bacterial type IV secretion systems. Annu Rev Microbiol 2006; 59:451-85. [PMID: 16153176 PMCID: PMC3872966 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.micro.58.030603.123630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 511] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Type IV secretion (T4S) systems are ancestrally related to bacterial conjugation machines. These systems assemble as a translocation channel, and often also as a surface filament or protein adhesin, at the envelopes of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. These organelles mediate the transfer of DNA and protein substrates to phylogenetically diverse prokaryotic and eukaryotic target cells. Many basic features of T4S are known, including structures of machine subunits, steps of machine assembly, substrates and substrate recognition mechanisms, and cellular consequences of substrate translocation. A recent advancement also has enabled definition of the translocation route for a DNA substrate through a T4S system of a Gram-negative bacterium. This review emphasizes the dynamics of assembly and function of model conjugation systems and the Agrobacterium tumefaciens VirB/D4 T4S system. We also summarize salient features of the increasingly studied effector translocator systems of mammalian pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Christie
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, UT-Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cascales E, Atmakuri K, Liu Z, Binns AN, Christie PJ. Agrobacterium tumefaciens oncogenic suppressors inhibit T-DNA and VirE2 protein substrate binding to the VirD4 coupling protein. Mol Microbiol 2005; 58:565-79. [PMID: 16194240 PMCID: PMC2749481 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2958.2005.04852.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Agrobacterium tumefaciens uses a type IV secretion (T4S) system composed of VirB proteins and VirD4 to deliver oncogenic DNA (T-DNA) and protein substrates to susceptible plant cells during the course of infection. Here, by use of the Transfer DNA ImmunoPrecipitation (TrIP) assay, we present evidence that the mobilizable plasmid RSF1010 (IncQ) follows the same translocation pathway through the VirB/D4 secretion channel as described previously for the T-DNA. The RSF1010 transfer intermediate and the Osa protein of plasmid pSa (IncW), related in sequence to the FiwA fertility inhibition factor of plasmid RP1 (IncPalpha), render A. tumefaciens host cells nearly avirulent. By use of a semi-quantitative TrIP assay, we show that both of these 'oncogenic suppressor factors' inhibit binding of T-DNA to the VirD4 substrate receptor. Both factors also inhibit binding of the VirE2 protein substrate to VirD4, as shown by coimmunoprecipitation and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays. Osa fused to the green fluorescent protein (GFP) also blocks T-DNA and VirE2 binding to VirD4, and Osa-GFP colocalizes with VirD4 at A. tumefaciens cell poles. RSF1010 and Osa interfere specifically with VirD4 receptor function and not with VirB channel activity, as shown by (i) TrIP and (ii) a genetic screen for effects of the oncogenic suppressors on pCloDF13 translocation through a chimeric secretion channel composed of the pCloDF13-encoded MobB receptor and VirB channel subunits. Our findings establish that a competing plasmid substrate and a plasmid fertility inhibition factor act on a common target, the T4S receptor, to inhibit docking of DNA and protein substrates to the translocation apparatus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Cascales
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas-Houston, Medical School, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Krishnamohan Atmakuri
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas-Houston, Medical School, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zhenying Liu
- Plant Science Institute, Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6018, USA
| | - Andrew N. Binns
- Plant Science Institute, Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6018, USA
| | - Peter J. Christie
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas-Houston, Medical School, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- For correspondence. E-mail ; Tel. (+1) 713 500 5440; Fax (+1) 713 500 5499
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Type IV secretion: the Agrobacterium VirB/D4 and related conjugation systems. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2005; 1694:219-34. [PMID: 15546668 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2004.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2003] [Revised: 02/03/2004] [Accepted: 02/03/2004] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The translocation of DNA across biological membranes is an essential process for many living organisms. In bacteria, type IV secretion systems (T4SS) are used to deliver DNA as well as protein substrates from donor to target cells. The T4SS are structurally complex machines assembled from a dozen or more membrane proteins in response to environmental signals. In Gram-negative bacteria, the conjugation machines are composed of a cell envelope-spanning secretion channel and an extracellular pilus. These dynamic structures (i) direct formation of stable contacts-the mating junction-between donor and recipient cell membranes, (ii) transmit single-stranded DNA as a nucleoprotein particle, as well as protein substrates, across donor and recipient cell membranes, and (iii) mediate disassembly of the mating junction following substrate transfer. This review summarizes recent progress in our understanding of the mechanistic details of DNA trafficking with a focus on the paradigmatic Agrobacterium tumefaciens VirB/D4 T4SS and related conjugation systems.
Collapse
|
25
|
Jakubowski SJ, Krishnamoorthy V, Cascales E, Christie PJ. Agrobacterium tumefaciens VirB6 domains direct the ordered export of a DNA substrate through a type IV secretion System. J Mol Biol 2004; 341:961-77. [PMID: 15328612 PMCID: PMC3918220 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2004.06.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2004] [Revised: 06/09/2004] [Accepted: 06/15/2004] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The Agrobacterium tumefaciens VirB/D4 type IV secretion system (T4SS) translocates DNA and protein substrates across the bacterial cell envelope. Six presumptive channel subunits of this T4SS (VirD4, VirBll, VirB6, VirB8, VirB2, and VirB9) form close contacts with the VirD2-T-strand transfer intermediate during export, as shown recently by a novel transfer DNA immunoprecipitation (TrIP) assay. Here, we characterize the contribution of the hydrophobic channel component VirB6 to substrate translocation. Results of reporter protein fusion and cysteine accessibility studies support a model for VirB6 as a polytopic membrane protein with a periplasmic N terminus, five transmembrane segments, and a cytoplasmic C terminus. TrIP studies aimed at characterizing the effects of VirB6 insertion and deletion mutations on substrate translocation identified several VirB6 functional domains: (i) a central region composed of a large periplasmic loop (P2) (residues 84 to 165) mediates the interaction of VirB6 with the exiting T-strand; (ii) a multi-membrane-spanning region carboxyl-terminal to loop P2 (residues 165 to 245) is required for substrate transfer from VirB6 to the bitopic membrane subunit VirB8; and (iii) the two terminal regions (residues 1 to 64 and 245 to 290) are required for substrate transfer to the periplasmic and outer membrane-associated VirB2 and VirB9 subunits. Our findings support a model whereby the periplasmic loop P2 comprises a portion of the secretion channel and distinct domains of VirB6 participate in channel subunit interactions required for substrate passage to the cell exterior.
Collapse
|
26
|
Cascales E, Christie PJ. Definition of a bacterial type IV secretion pathway for a DNA substrate. Science 2004; 304:1170-3. [PMID: 15155952 PMCID: PMC3882297 DOI: 10.1126/science.1095211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 286] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Bacteria use conjugation systems, a subfamily of the type IV secretion systems, to transfer DNA to recipient cells. Despite 50 years of research, the architecture and mechanism of action of the channel mediating DNA transfer across the bacterial cell envelope remains obscure. By use of a sensitive, quantifiable assay termed transfer DNA immunoprecipitation (TrIP), we identify contacts between a DNA substrate (T-DNA) and 6 of 12 components of the VirB/D4 conjugation system of the phytopathogen Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Our results define the translocation pathway for a DNA substrate through a bacterial conjugation machine, specifying the contributions of each subunit of the secretory apparatus to substrate passage.
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
Bacteria use type IV secretion systems for two fundamental objectives related to pathogenesis--genetic exchange and the delivery of effector molecules to eukaryotic target cells. Whereas gene acquisition is an important adaptive mechanism that enables pathogens to cope with a changing environment during invasion of the host, interactions between effector and host molecules can suppress defence mechanisms, facilitate intracellular growth and even induce the synthesis of nutrients that are beneficial to bacterial colonization. Rapid progress has been made towards defining the structures and functions of type IV secretion machines, identifying the effector molecules, and elucidating the mechanisms by which the translocated effectors subvert eukaryotic cellular processes during infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Cascales
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas-Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Rambow-Larsen AA, Weiss AA. Temporal expression of pertussis toxin and Ptl secretion proteins by Bordetella pertussis. J Bacteriol 2004; 186:43-50. [PMID: 14679223 PMCID: PMC303436 DOI: 10.1128/jb.186.1.43-50.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pertussis toxin is an AB(5) toxin comprised of protein subunits S1 through S5. The individual subunits are secreted by a Sec-dependent mechanism into the periplasm, where the toxin is assembled. The Ptl type IV secretion system mediates secretion of assembled toxin past the outer membrane. In this study, we examined the time course of protein expression, toxin assembly, and secretion as a function of the bacterial growth cycle. Logarithmic growth was observed after a 1-h lag phase. Secreted toxin was first observed at 3 h. Secretion continued throughout the logarithmic growth phase and decreased as the culture entered the stationary phase after about 24 h. On a per cell basis, toxin secretion occurred at a constant rate of 3 molecules/min/cell from 2 to 18 h. More of toxin subunits S1, S2, and S3 were produced than were secreted, resulting in periplasmic accumulation. Periplasmic S1, S2, and S3 were found to be soluble in the periplasm, as well as membrane associated. About one-half of the periplasmic S1, S2 and S3 subunits were incorporated into holotoxin. Secretion component PtlF was present at a low level at time zero, and the level increased between 2 and 24 h from 30 to 1,000 molecules per cell; however, the initial level of PtlF, 30 molecules per cell, supported maximal secretion. The accumulation of both periplasmic toxin and secretion components suggests that translation rates exceed the rate of secretion and that secretion, not toxin and Ptl complex assembly, is rate limiting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy A Rambow-Larsen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Bacteria use type IV secretion systems (T4SS) to translocate macromolecular substrates destined for bacterial, plant or human target cells. The T4SS are medically important, contributing to virulence-gene spread, genome plasticity and the alteration of host cellular processes during infection. The T4SS are ancestrally related to bacterial conjugation machines, but present-day functions include (i) conjugal transfer of DNA by cell-to-cell contact, (ii) translocation of effector molecules to eukaryotic target cells, and (iii) DNA uptake from or release to the extracellular milieu. Rapid progress has been made toward identification of type IV secretion substrates and the requirements for substrate recognition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyong Ding
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The University of Texas-Houston Medical School, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Atmakuri K, Ding Z, Christie PJ. VirE2, a type IV secretion substrate, interacts with the VirD4 transfer protein at cell poles of Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Mol Microbiol 2003; 49:1699-713. [PMID: 12950931 PMCID: PMC3882298 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2958.2003.03669.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Agrobacterium tumefaciens transfers oncogenic DNA and effector proteins to plant cells during the course of infection. Substrate translocation across the bacterial cell envelope is mediated by a type IV secretion (TFS) system composed of the VirB proteins, as well as VirD4, a member of a large family of inner membrane proteins implicated in the coupling of DNA transfer intermediates to the secretion machine. In this study, we demonstrate with novel cytological screens - a two-hybrid (C2H) assay and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) - and by immunoprecipitation of chemically cross-linked protein complexes that the VirE2 effector protein interacts directly with the VirD4 coupling protein at cell poles of A. tumefaciens. Analyses of truncation derivatives showed that VirE2 interacts via its C terminus with VirD4, and, further, an NH2-terminal membrane-spanning domain of VirD4 is dispensable for complex formation. VirE2 interacts with VirD4 independently of the virB-encoded transfer machine and T pilus, the putative periplasmic chaperones AcvB and VirJ, and the T-DNA transfer intermediate. Finally, VirE2 is recruited to polar-localized VirD4 as a complex with its stabilizing secretion chaperone VirE1, yet the effector-coupling protein interaction is not dependent on chaperone binding. Together, our findings establish for the first time that a protein substrate of a type IV secretion system is recruited to a member of the coupling protein superfamily.
Collapse
|
31
|
Affiliation(s)
- Annick Gauthier
- Biotechnology Laboratory and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Jakubowski SJ, Krishnamoorthy V, Christie PJ. Agrobacterium tumefaciens VirB6 protein participates in formation of VirB7 and VirB9 complexes required for type IV secretion. J Bacteriol 2003; 185:2867-78. [PMID: 12700266 PMCID: PMC154386 DOI: 10.1128/jb.185.9.2867-2878.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study characterized the contribution of Agrobacterium tumefaciens VirB6, a polytopic inner membrane protein, to the formation of outer membrane VirB7 lipoprotein and VirB9 protein multimers required for type IV secretion. VirB7 assembles as a disulfide cross-linked homodimer that associates with the T pilus and a VirB7-VirB9 heterodimer that stabilizes other VirB proteins during biogenesis of the secretion machine. Two presumptive VirB protein complexes, composed of VirB6, VirB7, and VirB9 and of VirB7, VirB9, and VirB10, were isolated by immunoprecipitation or glutathione S-transferase pulldown assays from detergent-solubilized membrane extracts of wild-type A348 and a strain producing only VirB6 through VirB10 among the VirB proteins. To examine the biological importance of VirB6 complex formation for type IV secretion, we monitored the effects of nonstoichiometric VirB6 production and the synthesis of VirB6 derivatives with 4-residue insertions (VirB6.i4) on VirB7 and VirB9 multimerization, T-pilus assembly, and substrate transfer. A virB6 gene deletion mutant accumulated VirB7 dimers at diminished steady-state levels, whereas complementation with a plasmid bearing wild-type virB6 partially restored accumulation of the dimers. VirB6 overproduction was correlated with formation of higher-order VirB9 complexes or aggregates and also blocked substrate transfer without a detectable disruption of T-pilus production; these phenotypes were displayed by cells grown at 28 degrees C, a temperature that favors VirB protein turnover, but not by cells grown at 20 degrees C. Strains producing several VirB6.i4 mutant proteins assembled novel VirB7 and VirB9 complexes detectable by nonreducing sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and two strains producing the D60.i4 and L191.i4 mutant proteins translocated IncQ plasmid and VirE2 effector protein substrates in the absence of a detectable T pilus. Our findings support a model that VirB6 mediates formation of VirB7 and VirB9 complexes required for biogenesis of the T pilus and the secretion channel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon J Jakubowski
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The University of Texas-Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ma Q, Zhai Y, Schneider JC, Ramseier TM, Saier MH. Protein secretion systems of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and P fluorescens. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2003; 1611:223-33. [PMID: 12659964 DOI: 10.1016/s0005-2736(03)00059-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Gram-negative bacteria have evolved numerous systems for the export of proteins across their dual-membrane envelopes. Three of these systems (types I, III and IV) secrete proteins across both membranes in a single energy-coupled step. Four systems (Sec, Tat, MscL and Holins) secrete only across the inner membrane, and four systems [the main terminal branch (MTB), fimbrial usher porin (FUP), autotransporter (AT) and two-partner secretion families (TPS)] secrete only across the outer membrane. We have examined the genome sequences of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 and Pseudomonas fluorescens Pf0-1 for these systems. All systems except type IV were found in P. aeruginosa, and all except types III and IV were found in P. fluorescens. The numbers of each such system were variable depending on the system and species examined. Biochemical and physiological functions were assigned to these systems when possible, and the structural constituents were analyzed. Available information regarding the mechanisms of transport and energy coupling as well as physiological functions is summarized. This report serves to identify and characterize protein secretion systems in two divergent pseudomonads, one an opportunistic human pathogen, the other a plant symbiont.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinhong Ma
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0116, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Gross R, Hacker J, Goebel W. The Leopoldina international symposium on parasitism, commensalism and symbiosis--common themes, different outcome. Mol Microbiol 2003; 47:1749-58. [PMID: 12622826 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2958.2003.03443.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The development of new methods, including genomics, which can even be applied to unculturable microorganisms, has significantly increased our knowledge about bacterial pathogenesis and symbiosis and, in consequence, is profoundly modifying our views on the evolution and the genetic and physiological basis of bacteria-host interactions. The presentations at this symposium revealed conceptual links between bacterial pathogenesis and symbiosis. The close co-operation of experts in both fields will result in significant synergy and new insights into basic mechanisms of bacteria-host interactions and their evolution. The meeting provided fascinating news about the genetic and metabolic consequences that the change in their lifestyle had for bacteria that developed from free-living to permanent host-associated organisms exemplified by intracellular pathogens or symbionts. In addition, surprising similarities but also striking differences between the strategies involved in the establishment of a symbiotic versus a parasitic lifestyle can be noted. In the long run, the characterization of such differences might lead to lifestyle prediction or to an evaluation of the pathogenic potential of newly isolated bacteria via the definition of genetic and/or metabolic signatures characteristic for pathogenic or symbiotic organisms. Moreover, it is expected that these investigations will lead to new strategies for the treatment or prevention of bacterial infections, or the avoidance of pathogen transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roy Gross
- Lehrstuhl für Mikrobiologie, Theodor-Boveri-Institut, Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Am Hubland, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|