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Agrawal K, Arora N. Serine protease allergen favours Th2 responses via PAR-2 and STAT3 activation in murine model. Allergy 2018; 73:569-575. [PMID: 28940472 DOI: 10.1111/all.13315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Protease activity of Per a 10 favours Th2 responses by differential regulation of IL-12p70 and IL-23 cytokine subunits. This study aimed to elucidate the underlying mechanism of differential regulation of IL-12p70 and IL-23. METHODS PAR-2 activation was blocked in murine model by administering SAM11 before each sensitization. CD11c+ p-STAT3+ cells were measured in lungs by flow cytometry. BMDCs were pretreated with SAM11 or isotype control or stattic and stimulated with Per a 10. p-STAT3 levels were measured using Western blot. Transcript levels of IL-12p35, IL-12/23p40 and IL-23p19 were measured using RT-PCR. Cytokine levels were analysed using ELISA. RESULTS Protease activity of Per a 10 increased p-STAT3 levels in mouse lungs, which was reduced upon PAR-2 blockage. Percentage of p-STAT3+ CD11c+ cells was higher in Per a 10-administered mice and was reduced upon PAR-2 blockage. IL-12p35 and IL-12p70 levels were higher, and IL-23p19 and IL-23 levels were lower in both SAM11-treated mice and BMDCs indicating a role of PAR-2-mediated signalling. IL-4, TSLP, IL-17A, EPO activity, total cell count and specific IgE and IgG1 levels were lower in SAM11-administered mice. Inhibiting STAT3 activation via stattic also leads to lower levels of IL-23p19 and IL-23 and higher levels of IL-12p35. CONCLUSIONS Per a 10 leads to PAR-2 activation on BMDCs resulting in downstream activation of STAT3 to regulate the balance between IL-12/IL-23 subunits causing a cytokine milieu rich in IL-23 to favour Th2 polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Agrawal
- Allergy and Immunology section; CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology; New Delhi India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR); CSIR-IGIB Campus; New Delhi India
| | - N. Arora
- Allergy and Immunology section; CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology; New Delhi India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR); CSIR-IGIB Campus; New Delhi India
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2
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Cloonan KR, Andreadis SS, Chen H, Jenkins NE, Baker TC. Attraction, Oviposition and Larval Survival of the Fungus Gnat, Lycoriella ingenua, on Fungal Species Isolated from Adults, Larvae, and Mushroom Compost. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0167074. [PMID: 27936070 PMCID: PMC5147838 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0167074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously showed that the females of the mushroom sciarid, Lycoriella ingenua (Dufour, 1839) (Diptera: Sciaridae), one of the most severe pests of the cultivated white button mushroom, Agaricus bisporus (J.E. Lange) Emil J. Imbach (Agaricales: Agaricaceae), are attracted to the mushroom compost that mushrooms are grown on and not to the mushrooms themselves. We also showed that females are attracted to the parasitic green mold, Trichoderma aggressivum. In an attempt to identify what is in the mushroom compost that attracts female L. ingenua, we isolated several species of fungi from adult males and females, third instar larvae, and mushroom compost itself. We then analyzed the attraction of females to these substrates using a static-flow two choice olfactometer, as well as their oviposition tendencies in another type of assay under choice and no-choice conditions. We also assessed the survival of larvae to adulthood when first instar larvae were placed on each of the isolated fungal species. We found that female flies were attracted most to the mycoparasitic green mold, T. aggressivum, to Penicilium citrinum isolated from adult female bodies, and to Scatylidium thermophilium isolated from the mushroom compost. Gravid female flies laid the most eggs on T. aggressivum, Aspergillus flavus isolated from third instar larval frass, Aspergillus fumigatus isolated from adult male bodies, and on P. citrinum. This egg-laying trend remained consistent under no-choice conditions as females aged. First instar larvae developed to adulthood only on S. thermophilium and Chaetomium sp. isolated from mushroom compost, and on P. citrinum. Our results indicate that the volatiles from a suite of different fungal species act in tandem in the natural setting of mushroom compost, with some first attracting gravid female flies and then others causing them to oviposit. The ecological context of these findings is important for creating an optimal strategy for using possible semiochemicals isolated from these fungal species to better monitor and control this pestiferous mushroom fly species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin R. Cloonan
- Department of Entomology, Penn State University, University Park, PA, United States of America
| | - Stefanos S. Andreadis
- Department of Entomology, Penn State University, University Park, PA, United States of America
| | - Haibin Chen
- Institute of Health and Environmental Ecology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Nina E. Jenkins
- Department of Entomology, Penn State University, University Park, PA, United States of America
| | - Thomas C. Baker
- Department of Entomology, Penn State University, University Park, PA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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3
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Mirsky HP, Cressman RF, Ladics GS. Comparative assessment of multiple criteria for the in silico prediction of cross-reactivity of proteins to known allergens. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2013; 67:232-9. [PMID: 23933007 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2013.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2013] [Revised: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 08/01/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Genetically modified crops are becoming important components of a sustainable food supply and must be brought to market efficiently while also safeguarding the public from cross-reactivity of novel proteins to known allergens. Bioinformatic assessments can help to identify proteins warranting further experimental checks for cross-reactivity. This study is a large-scale in silico evaluation of assessment criteria, including searches for: alignments between a query and an allergen having ≥ 35% identity over a length ≥ 80; any sequence (of some minimum length) found in both a query and an allergen; any alignment between a query and an allergen with an E-value below some threshold. The criteria and an allergen database (AllergenOnline) are used to assess 27,243 Viridiplantae proteins for potential allergenicity. (A protein is classed as a "real allergen" if it exceeds a test-specific level of identity to an AllergenOnline entry; assessment of real allergens in the query set is against a reduced database from which the identifying allergen has been removed.) Each criterion's ability to minimize false positives without increasing false negative levels of current methods is determined. At best, the data show a reduction in false positives to ∼6% (from ∼10% under current methods) without any increase in false negatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry P Mirsky
- DuPont Pioneer, Route 141, Henry Clay Bldg, #400, Wilmington, DE 19880-0400, USA.
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4
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Goel C, Govindaraj D, Singh BP, Farooque A, Kalra N, Arora N. Serine protease Per a 10 from Periplaneta americana bias dendritic cells towards type 2 by upregulating CD86 and low IL-12 secretions. Clin Exp Allergy 2012; 42:412-22. [PMID: 22356142 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2011.03937.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serine protease activity of Per a 10 from Periplaneta americana induces airway inflammation and systemic Th2 response towards self and bystander allergen. OBJECTIVE In the present study the effect of proteolytic activity of Per a 10 allergen on dendritic cells (DCs) polarization and consequent T cell response was investigated. METHODS Non-atopic subjects with no family history of asthma/allergy were recruited for the study. CD14(+) peripheral blood monocytes were purified, differentiated to immature DCs and stimulated with proteolytically active/inactivated native or recombinant Per a 10. DCs phenotype was analysed with flow cytometry and antigen presenting function assessed by co-culturing with autologous CD4(+) T cells. Cytokine levels were determined using ELISA. RESULTS Immature DCs differentiated into mature CD14(-)CD83(+)HLA-DR(+) cells after incubating with proteolytically active/inactivated or recombinant Per a 10. Proteolytically active Per a 10 induced significant CD86 up-regulation on DCs compared to inactivated or recombinant Per a 10 lacking enzymatic activity. Proteolytic activity of Per a 10 showed dose-dependent effect on expression of CD80, CD86, CD83, CD1a and HLA-DR. However, no significant differences were observed phenotypically in active or inactive forms except for CD86. Active Per a 10 stimulated DCs secreted significantly low IL-12 (P < 0.01) and high IL-6, compared to inactive forms of Per a 10. Naive CD4(+) T cells primed with active Per a 10 pulsed DCs also secreted significantly less IL-12 (P < 0.01) and high IL-4, IL-5 plus IL-6 (P < 0.01); in contrast to DCs pulsed with inactivated or recombinant Per a 10. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Proteolytic activity of Per a 10 modulates DCs towards type 2 by CD86 up-regulation, high IL-6 and reduced IL-12 secretions. Proteolytically inactive Per a 10 can be further explored for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Goel
- Allergy and Immunology Section, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR), Delhi, India
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5
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Chen JC, Chiu LL, Lee KL, Huang WN, Chuang JG, Liao HK, Chow LP. Identification of critical amino acids in an immunodominant IgE epitope of Pen c 13, a major allergen from Penicillium citrinum. PLoS One 2012; 7:e34627. [PMID: 22506037 PMCID: PMC3323554 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0034627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2011] [Accepted: 03/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pen c 13, identified as a 33-kDa alkaline serine protease, is a major allergen secreted by Penicillium citrinum. Detailed knowledge about the epitopes responsible for IgE binding would help inform the diagnosis/prognosis of fungal allergy and facilitate the rational design of hypoallergenic candidate vaccines. The goal of the present study was to characterize the IgE epitopes of Pen c 13. Methodology/Principal Findings Serum samples were collected from 10 patients with mold allergy and positive Pen c 13 skin test results. IgE-binding epitopes on rPen c 13 were mapped using an enzymatic digestion and chemical cleavage method, followed by dot-blotting and mass spectrometry. A B-cell epitope-predicting server and molecular modeling were used to predict the residues most likely involved in IgE binding. Theoretically predicted IgE-binding regions were further confirmed by site-directed mutagenesis assays. At least twelve different IgE-binding epitopes located throughout Pen c 13 were identified. Of these, peptides S16 (A148–E166) and S22 (A243–K274) were recognized by sera from 90% and 100% of the patients tested, and were further confirmed by inhibition assays. Peptide S22 was selected for further analysis of IgE-binding ability. The results of serum screening showed that the majority of IgE-binding ability resided in the C-terminus. One Pen c 13 mutant, G270A (T261–K274), exhibited clearly enhanced IgE reactivity, whereas another, K274A, exhibited dramatically reduced IgE reactivity. Conclusions/Significance Experimental analyses confirmed in silico-predicted residues involved in an important antigenic region of Pen c 13. The G270A mutant of Pen c 13 has the potential to serve as an additional tool for the diagnosis/prognosis of mold allergy, and the K274A mutant, as a hypoallergenic form of the epitope, may provide a framework for the design and development of a safe and efficient therapeutic strategy for treating human allergic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jui-Chieh Chen
- Graduate Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Li Chiu
- Graduate Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Lun Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ning Huang
- Department of Biotechnology, Yuanpei University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Jiing-Guang Chuang
- Graduate Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Kai Liao
- Graduate Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lu-Ping Chow
- Graduate Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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Role of Allergen Source-Derived Proteases in Sensitization via Airway Epithelial Cells. J Allergy (Cairo) 2012; 2012:903659. [PMID: 22523502 PMCID: PMC3303585 DOI: 10.1155/2012/903659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2011] [Revised: 09/14/2011] [Accepted: 10/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Protease activity is a characteristic common to many allergens. Allergen source-derived proteases interact with lung epithelial cells, which are now thought to play vital roles in both innate and adaptive immune responses. Allergen source-derived proteases act on airway epithelial cells to induce disruption of the tight junctions between epithelial cells, activation of protease-activated receptor-2, and the production of thymic stromal lymphopoietin. These facilitate allergen delivery across epithelial layers and enhance allergenicity or directly activate the immune system through a nonallergic mechanism. Furthermore, they cleave regulatory cell surface molecules involved in allergic reactions. Thus, allergen source-derived proteases are a potentially critical factor in the development of allergic sensitization and appear to be strongly associated with heightened allergenicity.
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7
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Shi C, Miller J. Characterization of the 41kDa allergen Asp v 13, a subtilisin-like serine protease from Aspergillus versicolor. Mol Immunol 2011; 48:1827-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2011.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2011] [Accepted: 05/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Chen JC, Chuang JG, Su YY, Chiang BL, Lin YS, Chow LP. The protease allergen Pen c 13 induces allergic airway inflammation and changes in epithelial barrier integrity and function in a murine model. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:26667-79. [PMID: 21613216 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.193987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal allergens are associated with the development of asthma, and some have been characterized as proteases. Here, we established an animal model of allergic airway inflammation in response to continuous exposure to proteolytically active Pen c 13, a major allergen secreted by Penicillium citrinum. In functional analyses, Pen c 13 exposure led to increased airway hyperresponsiveness, significant inflammatory cell infiltration, mucus overproduction, and collagen deposition in the lung, dramatically elevated serum levels of total IgE and Pen c 13-specific IgE and IgG1, and increased production of the Th2 cytokines IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 by splenocytes stimulated in vitro with Pen c 13. To examine the mechanisms involved in the regulation of allergenicity by Pen c 13, we performed two-dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis analysis combined with nano-LC-MS/MS, followed by bioinformatics analysis to identify potential targets that associated with allergic inflammation, which suggested that galectin-3 and laminin might be involved in novel pathogenic mechanisms. Finally, we focused on junctional proteins between cells, because, in addition to opening of the epithelial barrier by environmental proteases possibly being the initial step in the development of asthma, these proteins are also associated with actin rearrangement. Taken together, our findings indicate that Pen c 13 exposure causes junctional structure alterations and actin cytoskeletal rearrangements, resulting in increased permeability and airway structural changes. These effects probably change the lung microenvironment and foster the development of allergic sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jui-Chieh Chen
- Graduate Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
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9
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Fungal proteases and their pathophysiological effects. Mycopathologia 2011; 171:299-323. [PMID: 21259054 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-010-9386-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2010] [Accepted: 12/02/2010] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Proteolytic enzymes play an important role in fungal physiology and development. External digestion of protein substrates by secreted proteases is required for survival and growth of both saprophytic and pathogenic species. Extracellular serine, aspartic, and metalloproteases are considered virulence factors of many pathogenic species. New findings focus on novel membrane-associated proteases such as yapsins and ADAMs and their role in pathology. Proteases from fungi induce inflammatory responses by altering the permeability of epithelial barrier and by induction of proinflammatory cytokines through protease-activated receptors. Many fungal allergens possess proteolytic activity that appears to be essential in eliciting Th2 responses. Allergenic fungal proteases can act as adjuvants, potentiating responses to other allergens. Proteolytic enzymes from fungi contribute to inflammation through interactions with the kinin system as well as the coagulation and fibrinolytic cascades. Their effect on the host protease-antiprotease balance results from activation of endogenous proteases and degradation of protease inhibitors. Recent studies of the role of fungi in human health point to the growing importance of proteases not only as pathogenic agents in fungal infections but also in asthma, allergy, and damp building related illnesses. Proteolytic enzymes from fungi are widely used in biotechnology, mainly in food, leather, and detergent industries, in ecological bioremediation processes and to produce therapeutic peptides. The involvement of fungal proteases in diverse pathological mechanisms makes them potential targets of therapeutic intervention and candidates for biomarkers of disease and exposure.
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10
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Jacquet A. Interactions of airway epithelium with protease allergens in the allergic response. Clin Exp Allergy 2010; 41:305-11. [PMID: 21121984 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2010.03661.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Among the apparently innocuous environmental proteins routinely inhaled by human subjects, only a small proportion of these antigens triggers allergy in susceptible individuals. Although the molecular basis of the allergenicity of these airborne proteins remains to be fully characterized, numerous studies suggest that the ability of such proteins to promote allergic responses is at least due to their proteolytic activity. This review will summarize insights into the interactions of protease allergens with the respiratory epithelium. In addition to their capacity to facilitate their antigen presentation through epithelial barrier degradation, protease allergens can directly activate airway mucosal surfaces to recruit inflammatory cells and to initiate the airway remodelling process. A greater understanding of the effects of protease allergens in the airways inflammation as well as on the relevant targets could define novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment allergic asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Jacquet
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Pathumwan, Bangkok, Thailand.
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11
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Jami MS, García-Estrada C, Barreiro C, Cuadrado AA, Salehi-Najafabadi Z, Martín JF. The Penicillium chrysogenum extracellular proteome. Conversion from a food-rotting strain to a versatile cell factory for white biotechnology. Mol Cell Proteomics 2010; 9:2729-44. [PMID: 20823121 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m110.001412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The filamentous fungus Penicillium chrysogenum is well-known by its ability to synthesize β-lactam antibiotics as well as other secondary metabolites. Like other filamentous fungi, this microorganism is an excellent host for secretion of extracellular proteins because of the high capacity of its protein secretion machinery. In this work, we have characterized the extracellular proteome reference map of P. chrysogenum Wisconsin 54-1255 by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. This method allowed the correct identification of 279 spots by peptide mass fingerprinting and tandem MS. These 279 spots included 328 correctly identified proteins, which corresponded to 131 different proteins and their isoforms. One hundred and two proteins out of 131 were predicted to contain either classical or nonclassical secretion signal peptide sequences, providing evidence of the authentic extracellular location of these proteins. Proteins with higher representation in the extracellular proteome were those involved in plant cell wall degradation (polygalacturonase, pectate lyase, and glucan 1,3-β-glucosidase), utilization of nutrients (extracellular acid phosphatases and 6-hydroxy-d-nicotine oxidase), and stress response (catalase R). This filamentous fungus also secretes enzymes specially relevant for food industry, such as sulfydryl oxidase, dihydroxy-acid dehydratase, or glucoamylase. The identification of several antigens in the extracellular proteome also highlights the importance of this microorganism as one of the main indoor allergens. Comparison of the extracellular proteome among three strains of P. chrysogenum, the wild-type NRRL 1951, the Wis 54-1255 (an improved, moderate penicillin producer), and the AS-P-78 (a penicillin high-producer), provided important insights to consider improved strains of this filamentous fungus as versatile cell-factories of interest, beyond antibiotic production, for other aspects of white biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad-Saeid Jami
- Área de Microbiología, Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
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12
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Sevinc MS, Kumar V, Abebe M, Mohottalage S, Kumarathasan P, Vincent R, Vijay HM. Expression and characterization of Pen b 26 allergen of Penicillium brevicompactum in Escherichia coli. Protein Expr Purif 2009; 65:8-14. [PMID: 19248220 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2009.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Pen b 26 is one of the allergens produced by Penicillium brevicompactum which is one of the most prevalent in door airborne fungi and a major source of respiratory problems, including asthma. Pen b 26 wa scloned and expressed as an N-terminal as well as a C-terminal His6 tagged fusion protein in Escherichia coli. This allergen was purified by immobilized Ni2+-affinity chromatography. The purified Pen b 26 was characterized by immunological, biochemical and biophysical methods. C-His6 tagged Pen b 26 produced several fold greater yield than N-His6 tagged Pen b 26. The affinity of C-His6 tagged Pen b 26 for the specific antibody was also 2.75 times higher than N-His6 tagged Pen b 26
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Affiliation(s)
- M Serdal Sevinc
- Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, 251 F.G. Banting Driveway, Rm C229, Tunney's Pasture, Postal Locator 2202D2, Ottawa, Ont. K1A0K9, Canada.
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13
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Kukreja N, Sridhara S, Singh BP, Gaur SN, Arora N. Purification and immunological characterization of a 12-kDa allergen from Epicoccum purpurascens. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 56:32-40. [PMID: 19239492 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-695x.2009.00542.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to Epicoccum purpurascens is implicated in respiratory allergies and asthma. Several allergens of clinical importance were identified in Epicoccum extract (EE), but only one allergen has been isolated and characterized. In the present study, a 12-kDa allergen was isolated from an Epicoccum spore-mycelial extract by concanavalin-A sepharose, reverse-phase hydrophobic and gel filtration chromatography. The purified protein was recognized as a single 12-kDa allergen on immunoblot with a serum pool of Epicoccum-sensitive patients. Of the 94 respiratory allergy patients tested intradermally, 17 showed marked positive skin reactions to EE and 12 of them reacted with the 12-kDa protein, indicating a diagnostic sensitivity of 70%. More than 80% patients' sera showed immunoglobulin E (IgE) reactivity to the purified protein in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunoblot, identifying it as a major allergen. Preincubation of pooled serum with the protein led to inhibition of IgE binding to solid-phase-bound EE (effective concentration 50%=180 ng). Twelve of the 17 serum samples showed significant basophil histamine release upon stimulation with purified protein. The protein induced significant proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 13 patients. A high level of interleukin-4 in the culture supernatant of these cells indicated induction of a T-helper type 2 response. The purified 12-kDa protein is a clinically relevant allergen and has potential for the diagnosis and therapy of Epicoccum allergies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neetu Kukreja
- Allergy and Immunology Section, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR), Delhi University Campus, Delhi, India
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Matsuoka H, Niimi A, Matsumoto H, Ueda T, Takemura M, Yamaguchi M, Jinnai M, Otsuka K, Oguma T, Takeda T, Ito I, Chin K, Amitani R, Mishima M. Specific IgE response to trichophyton and asthma severity. Chest 2009; 135:898-903. [PMID: 19188557 DOI: 10.1378/chest.08-1783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sensitization to Trichophyton, a major dermatophyte, has been associated with asthma. Whether such sensitization is generally associated with the severity of asthma, like other molds such as Alternaria, is unknown. METHODS We compared 258 patients with asthma, which was classified by severity as mild (n = 123), moderate (101), or severe (34), and 114 healthy control subjects, with regard to specific IgE titers against Trichophyton rubrum and other common allergens such as mixed molds, house-dust mite, cat dander, dog dander, Japanese cedar pollen, mixed Graminea pollens and mixed weed pollens. RESULTS Positive rate of Trichophyton-specific IgE was higher in the patients with moderate asthma (15.8%) than in the control subjects (7.0%, p = 0.04) and patients with mild asthma (4.9%, p < 0.006), and it was also higher in the patients with severe asthma (32.4%) than in control subjects (p = 0.0001), and patients with mild asthma (p < 0.0001) and moderate asthma (p = 0.04), but it did not differ between the control subjects and patients with mild asthma. The positive rates of mixed molds, cat dander, and dog dander were almost invariably higher in patients in all asthma subgroups than in the control subjects but did not differ among patients in the three asthma subgroups. The positive rates of other allergens were not different in all groups. Reanalysis of positive rate of Trichophyton-specific IgE after excluding 52 subjects with positive results for mixed molds showed a similar statistical trend to that of the original cohort. This may negate the potential effect of cross-reactivity to these molds. Multivariate analysis of asthma subgroups identified positive IgE results for Trichophyton as an independent determinant of asthma severity. CONCLUSIONS Specific IgE response to Trichophyton may be associated with more severe asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirofumi Matsuoka
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akio Niimi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Hisako Matsumoto
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Ueda
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masaya Takemura
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masafumi Yamaguchi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Makiko Jinnai
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kojiro Otsuka
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Oguma
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomoshi Takeda
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Isao Ito
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kazuo Chin
- Department of Respiratory Care and Sleep Control Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ryoichi Amitani
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Michiaki Mishima
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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Serine protease activity of Cur l 1 from Curvularia lunata augments Th2 response in mice. J Clin Immunol 2008; 29:292-302. [PMID: 19020963 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-008-9261-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2008] [Accepted: 10/23/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Studies with mite allergens demonstrated that proteolytic activity augments allergic airway inflammation. This knowledge is limited to few enzyme allergens. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of serine protease Cur l 1 from Curvularia lunata in airway inflammation/hyper-responsiveness. METHODS Cur l 1 was purified and inactivated using a serine protease inhibitor. Balb/c mice were sensitized with enzymatically active Cur l 1 or C. lunata extract. Sensitized mice were given booster dose on day 14 with active or inactivated Cur l 1. Intranasal challenge was given on day 28, 29, and 30. Airway hyper-responsiveness was measured by plethysmography. Blood, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), spleen, and lungs from mice were analyzed for cellular infiltration, immunoglobulins, and cytokine levels. RESULTS Mice challenged with enzymatically active Cur l 1 demonstrated significantly higher airway inflammation than inactive Cur l 1 group mice (p < 0.01). There was a significant difference in serum IgE and IgG1 levels among mice immunized with active Cur l 1 and inactive Cur l 1 (p < 0.01). IL-4 and IL-5 were higher in BALF and splenocyte culture supernatant of active Cur l 1 than inactive Cur l 1 mice. Lung histology revealed increased eosinophil infiltration, goblet cell hyperplasia and mucus secretion in active group. CONCLUSION Proteolytic activity of Cur l 1 plays an important role in airway inflammation and the inactivated Cur l 1 has potential to be explored for immunotherapy.
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16
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Kukreja N, Sridhara S, Singh BP, Arora N. Effect of proteolytic activity of Epicoccum purpurascens major allergen, Epi p 1 in allergic inflammation. Clin Exp Immunol 2008; 154:162-71. [PMID: 18782325 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03762.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Enzymes play an important role in inducing airway inflammation, but knowledge is limited to few proteins. This study was carried out to assess the role of Epi p 1, a serine protease of Epicoccum purpurascens, in inducing allergy and inflammation in a murine model. Balb/c mice were sensitized with Epi p 1 active protease (EAP) or Epicoccum extract. Subsequently, Epi p 1 sensitized mice were boosted on day 14 with EAP or inactivated protease (EIAP). Three intranasal challenges were given and mice were killed to obtain blood, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), spleen and lung tissues. Cellular airways infiltration, immunoglobulin E (Ig)E titres and cytokine levels in BALF and splenocyte culture supernatant were compared. Mice immunized with EAP had higher Epi p 1-specific serum IgE and IgG1 than EIAP immunized mice (P < 0.01). There was a twofold difference in the number of eosinophils in BALF of EAP mice and EIAP mice (P < 0.01). A similar trend was recorded for eosinophil peroxidase activity (P < 0.05), indicating the role of proteolytic activity in inducing inflammation. Further, lung histology revealed increased leucocyte infiltration and airway narrowing, with higher inflammation scores in the EAP group than in the EIAP group. The lungs of EAP mice showed increased mucus and goblet cell metaplasia. Interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-5 levels were higher in BALF and splenocyte culture supernatant of EAP mice than in EIAP mice (P < 0.05), indicating a T helper 2 response. Proteolytic activity of Epi p 1 plays an important role in inducing allergic inflammation. The enzymatically inactive form may be investigated for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Kukreja
- Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR), University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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17
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Chiu LL, Lee KL, Lin YF, Chu CY, Su SN, Chow LP. Secretome analysis of novel IgE-binding proteins fromPenicillium citrinum. Proteomics Clin Appl 2008; 2:33-45. [DOI: 10.1002/prca.200780050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2007] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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18
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Shen HD, Tam MF, Tang RB, Chou H. Aspergillus and Penicillium allergens: focus on proteases. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2007; 7:351-6. [PMID: 17697643 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-007-0053-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Penicillium and Aspergillus species are prevalent airborne fungi. It is imperative to identify and characterize their major allergens. Alkaline and/or vacuolar serine proteases are major allergens of several prevalent Penicillium and Aspergillus species. They are also major immunoglobulin (Ig) E-reacting components of the most prevalent airborne yeast, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, and the most prevalent Cladosporium species, C. cladosporioides. IgE cross-reactivity has been detected among these major pan-fungal serine protease allergens. In addition, the alkaline serine protease of P. chrysogenum (Pen ch 13) induces histamine release from basophils of asthmatic patients, degrades the tight junction protein occludin, and stimulates release of proinflammatory mediators from human bronchial epithelial cells. In addition to induction of IgE and inflammatory airway responses, the alkaline serine protease allergen of A. fumigatus (Asp f 13) has synergistic effects on Asp f 2-induced immune response in mice. Studies of these serine protease major allergens elucidate the diverse allergic disease mechanisms and facilitate the development of better therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Horng-Der Shen
- Department of Medical Research and Education, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Shih-Pai, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan.
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19
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Simon-Nobbe B, Denk U, Pöll V, Rid R, Breitenbach M. The spectrum of fungal allergy. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2007; 145:58-86. [PMID: 17709917 DOI: 10.1159/000107578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 283] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungi can be found throughout the world. They may live as saprophytes, parasites or symbionts of animals and plants in indoor as well as outdoor environment. For decades, fungi belonging to the ascomycota as well as to the basidiomycota have been known to cause a broad panel of human disorders. In contrast to pollen, fungal spores and/or mycelial cells may not only cause type I allergy, the most prevalent disease caused by molds, but also a large number of other illnesses, including allergic bronchopulmonary mycoses, allergic sinusitis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis and atopic dermatitis; and, again in contrast to pollen-derived allergies, fungal allergies are frequently linked with allergic asthma. Sensitization to molds has been reported in up to 80% of asthmatic patients. Although research on fungal allergies dates back to the 19th century, major improvements in the diagnosis and therapy of mold allergy have been hampered by the fact that fungal extracts are highly variable in their protein composition due to strain variabilities, batch-to-batch variations, and by the fact that extracts may be prepared from spores and/or mycelial cells. Nonetheless, about 150 individual fungal allergens from approximately 80 mold genera have been identified in the last 20 years. First clinical studies with recombinant mold allergens have demonstrated their potency in clinical diagnosis. This review aims to give an overview of the biology of molds and diseases caused by molds in humans, as well as a detailed summary of the latest results on recombinant fungal allergens.
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Chiu LL, Perng DW, Yu CH, Su SN, Chow LP. Mold allergen, pen C 13, induces IL-8 expression in human airway epithelial cells by activating protease-activated receptor 1 and 2. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2007; 178:5237-44. [PMID: 17404307 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.178.8.5237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Allergenic serine proteases are important in the pathogenesis of asthma. One of these, Pen c 13, is the immunodominant allergen produced by Penicillium citrinum. Many serine proteases induce cytokine expression, but whether Pen c 13 does so in human respiratory epithelial cells is not known. In this study, we investigated whether Pen c 13 caused IL-8 release and activated protease-activated receptors (PARs) in airway epithelial cells. In airway-derived A549 cells and normal human airway epithelial cells, Pen c 13 induced IL-8 release in a dose-dependent manner. Pen c 13 also increased IL-8 release in a time-dependent manner in A549 cells. Pen c 13 cleaved PAR-1 and PAR-2 at their activation sites. Treatment with Pen c 13 induced intracellular Ca(2+) mobilization and desensitized the cells to the action of other proteases and PAR-1 and PAR-2 agonists. Moreover, Pen c 13-mediated IL-8 release was significantly decreased in Ca(2+)-free medium and was abolished by the protease inhibitors, PMSF and 4-(2-aminoethyl) benzenesulfonyl fluoride. Blocking Abs against the cleavage sites of PAR-1 and PAR-2, but not of PAR-4, inhibited Pen c 13-induced IL-8 production, as did inhibition of phospholipase C. Pen c 13 induced IL-8 expression via activation of ERK 1/2, and not of p38 and JNK. In addition, treatment of A549 cells or normal human airway epithelial cells with Pen c 13 increased phosphorylation of ERK 1/2 by a Ca(2+)-dependent pathway. These finding show that Pen c 13 induces IL-8 release in airway epithelial cells and that this is dependent on PAR-1 and PAR-2 activation and intracellular calcium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Chiu
- Graduate Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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21
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Benito MJ, Connerton IF, Córdoba JJ. Genetic characterization and expression of the novel fungal protease, EPg222 active in dry-cured meat products. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2006; 73:356-65. [PMID: 16941178 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-006-0498-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2006] [Revised: 04/19/2006] [Accepted: 05/08/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
EPg222 protease is a novel extracellular enzyme produced by Penicillium chrysogenum (Pg222) isolated from dry-cured hams that has the potential for use over a broad range of applications in industries that produce dry-cured meat products. The gene encoding EPg222 protease has been identified. Peptide sequences of EPg222 were obtained by de novo sequencing of tryptic peptides using mass spectrometry. The corresponding gene was amplified by PCR using degenerated primers based on a combination of conserved serine protease-encoding sequences and reverse translation of the peptide sequences. EPg222 is encoded as a gene of 1,361 bp interrupted by two introns. The deduced amino acid sequence indicated that the enzyme is synthesized as a preproenzyme with a putative signal sequence of 19 amino acids (aa), a prosequence of 96 aa and a mature protein of 283 aa. A cDNA encoding EPg222 has been cloned and expressed as a functionally active enzyme in Pichia pastoris. The recombinant enzyme exhibits similar activities to the native enzyme against a wide range of protein substrates including muscle myofibrillar protein. The mature sequence contains conserved aa residues characteristic of those forming the catalytic triad of serine proteases (Asp42, His76 and Ser228) but notably the food enzyme exhibits specific aa substitutions in the immunoglobulin-E recognition regions that have been identified in protein homologues that are allergenic.
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Benito
- Division of Food Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonnington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK.
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22
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Chan CH, Ko CC, Chang JG, Chen SF, Wu MS, Lin JT, Chow LP. Subcellular and Functional Proteomic Analysis of the Cellular Responses Induced by Helicobacter pylori. Mol Cell Proteomics 2006; 5:702-13. [PMID: 16401634 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m500029-mcp200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori infection is a crucial factor in the pathogenesis of several digestive disorders, including peptic ulcers, chronic gastritis, and gastric cancer. Moreover H. pylori induces disease-specific protein expression in gastric epithelial cells. The aim of the present study was to characterize proteins differentially expressed in H. pylori-infected gastric epithelial AGS cells. An in vitro model was established using a multiplicity of infection of 100 and evaluating the effectiveness of H. pylori infection by functional analyses. Changes in protein patterns were identified using a proteomic approach consisting of two-dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. The expression of many proteins was found to be altered, and 28 of these were identified and classified as protein synthesis- and folding-related proteins, cytoskeleton proteins, metabolic enzymes, transcription- and translation-related proteins, angiogenesis/metastasis-related proteins, cell communication/signal transduction-related proteins, or others (oxygen-regulated protein and oncoprotein). The expression profiles of eight of these proteins, laminin gamma-1 chain precursor, valosin-containing protein, heat shock 70-kDa protein, mitochondrial matrix protein P1, FK506-binding protein 4, T-complex protein 1, enolase alpha, and 14-3-3 beta were further examined in cancerous and paired surrounding normal tissues by immunoblot assay and immunohistochemical staining to identify molecular targets that may be involved in the pathogenesis of H. pylori-induced gastric diseases. On the basis of our results, valosin-containing protein, mitochondrial matrix protein P1, T-complex protein 1, enolase alpha, and 14-3-3 beta may play a crucial role in H. pylori-induced gastric carcinogenesis by mediating antiapoptotic and proliferative responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Hsin Chan
- Graduate Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
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23
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Elguezabal N, Lopitz-Otsoa F, Laín A, de Larrinoa IF, Moragues MD, Pontón J. Serodiagnosis of mycoses using recombinant antigens. Mycopathologia 2006; 160:97-109. [PMID: 16170604 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-005-0144-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2005] [Accepted: 06/29/2005] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The early diagnosis of mycoses is important for the institution of an effective antifungal therapy. Detection of antibodies against crude antigenic extracts is one of the standard techniques for the diagnosis of most mycoses. However, while these crude antigenic extracts are relatively easy to obtain, they usually show low reproducibility and are not very specific, since antibodies from patients with different mycoses may show cross-reactivity. The application of molecular biology techniques to the study of fungal antigens has allowed the production of recombinant antigens that may help to solve these problems. The purpose of this review is to discuss the use of recombinant fungal antigens in the diagnosis of mycoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Elguezabal
- Departamento de Inmunología, Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina y Odontología, Universidad del País Vasco, Bilbao, Vizcaya, Spain.
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24
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Sevinc MS, Kumar V, Abebe M, Casley WL, Vijay HM. Isolation and characterization of a cDNA clone encoding one IgE-binding fragment of Penicillium brevicompactum. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2005; 138:12-20. [PMID: 16088208 DOI: 10.1159/000087353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2005] [Accepted: 04/14/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The abundance of allergenic Penicillium species has been associated with an increased incidence of childhood asthma and pulmonary bleeding. Penicillium brevicompactum has been identified as the most prevalent indoor species of this genus. However, detailed studies on the allergens of the ubiquitous Penicillium species are still lacking. For the characterization of allergens of prevalent Penicillium species, molecular cloning of the allergen genes of P. brevicompactum was performed in the present study. METHODS A phage cDNA library of P. brevicompactum was constructed in Uni-ZAP XR vector using mRNA isolated from the organism. The cDNA library of P. brevicompactum was screened using pooled atopic sera. RESULTS Screening of P. brevicompactum cDNA library resulted in one positive clone encoding an estimated molecular weight of 11 kDa polypeptide, rich in acidic residues (>20%), with a pI of 3.87. This clone was designated as Pen b 26 and found to be reactive only against the atopic sera obtained from individuals sensitive to P. brevicompactum. The amino acid sequence analysis of Pen b 26 revealed that it had strong homology to the 60S acidic ribosomal protein P1 family from different eukaryotic sources, predominantly fungal aero-allergens. Other features of Pen b 26 including having high alpha-helical content (>50%), alanine-rich residues (>20%), and a well-conserved C-terminal epitope region fits well into the common properties of 60S acidic ribosomal proteins. CONCLUSIONS The results obtained suggest that the allergenic clone, Pen b 26 is a 60S acidic ribosomal protein P1 of P. brevicompactum and shows strong similarity to other P1 family proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Serdal Sevinc
- Environmental Health Directorate, F.G. Banting Building, Health Canada, Tunney's Pasture, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0L2, Postal Locator 2202D2, Canada
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25
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Abstract
Tinea pedis (athlete's foot) and onychomycosis (infection of the toenails) caused by the dermatophyte fungus Trichophyton are highly prevalent in adults. Several Trichophyton allergens have been identified based on elicitation of immunoglobulin E antibody-mediated immediate-hypersensitivity (IH) responses. Evidence of an etiologic role for Trichophyton in asthma in some subjects with IH and chronic dermatophytosis is provided by bronchial reactivity to Trichophyton. Improvement of asthma after systemic antifungal treatment corroborates this link. A unique feature of Trichophyton allergens is the ability of the same antigen to elicit delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) in individuals who lack IH reactivity. Delayed responses appear to confer protection, while IH responses do not, based on the association with acute versus chronic skin infection. The amino acid sequence identity of Trichophyton allergens with diverse enzyme families supports a dual role for these proteins in fungal pathogenesis and allergic disease. Characterizing the immunologic properties of Trichophyton allergens and defining immune mechanisms which drive dichotomous responses are pivotal to understanding the dermatophyte-allergy relationship. Recent studies have identified DTH-associated major T-cell epitopes which could facilitate the development of peptide vaccines. Characterization of additional molecular targets by using new techniques may aid not only in the eradication of infection but also in the resolution of allergic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith A Woodfolk
- Asthma and Allergic Diseases Center, P.O. Box 801355, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908-1355, USA.
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Wallner M, Gruber P, Radauer C, Maderegger B, Susani M, Hoffmann-Sommergruber K, Ferreira F. Lab scale and medium scale production of recombinant allergens in Escherichia coli. Methods 2004; 32:219-26. [PMID: 14962755 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2003.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2003] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant products have become invaluable tools for diagnostic as well as therapeutic purposes in modern medicine. Especially in cases where raw naturally derived products are difficult to standardize, well-defined recombinant single components represent the matter of choice. In the recent past, much effort has been undertaken to define individual proteins derived from various sources like pollen, spores of moulds, pet dander, and food causing Type 1 allergic reactions in humans. Therefore, methods for cloning, sequencing, and expressing cDNAs coding for allergens in Escherichia coli became of great interest to allergologists. For the recombinant production of allergens, suitable expression systems, growing conditions, and purification steps have to be established for each individual product. Finally, the purified recombinant allergen has to be carefully investigated for the biochemical, biophysical, and immunological properties. In the following paper, several prokaryotic expression systems, purification strategies, and analytical methods will be presented and pitfalls discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Wallner
- Institute of Genetics, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
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27
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Benito MJ, Rodríguez M, Núñez F, Asensio MA, Bermúdez ME, Córdoba JJ. Purification and characterization of an extracellular protease from Penicillium chrysogenum Pg222 active against meat proteins. Appl Environ Microbiol 2002; 68:3532-6. [PMID: 12089038 PMCID: PMC126788 DOI: 10.1128/aem.68.7.3532-3536.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
An extracellular protease from Penicillium chrysogenum (Pg222) isolated from dry-cured ham has been purified. The purification procedure involved several steps: ammonium sulfate precipitation, ion-exchange chromatography, filtration, and separation by high-performance liquid chromatography. Based on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) analysis and gel filtration, the purified fraction showed a molecular mass of about 35 kDa. The hydrolytic properties of the purified enzyme (EPg222) on extracted pork myofibrillar proteins under several conditions were evaluated by SDS-PAGE. EPg222 showed activity in the range of 10 to 60 degrees C in temperature, 0 to 3 M NaCl, and pH 5 to 7, with maximum activity at pH 6, 45 degrees C, and 0.25 M NaCl. Under these conditions the enzyme was most active against tropomyosin, actin, and myosin. EPg222 showed collagenolytic activity but did not hydrolyze myoglobin. EPg222 showed higher activity than other proteolytic enzymes like papain, trypsin, and Aspergillus oryzae protease. The N-terminal amino acid sequence was determined and was found to be Glu-Asn-Pro-Leu-Gln-Pro-Asn-Ala-Pro-Ser-Trp. This partial amino acid sequence revealed a 55% homology with serine proteases from Penicillium citrinum. The activity of this novel protease may be of interest in ripening and generating the flavor of dry-cured meat products.
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Benito
- Higiene de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de la Universidad s/n, 10071 Cáceres, Spain
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28
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Yu CJ, Chen YM, Su SN, Forouhar F, Lee SH, Chow LP. Molecular and immunological characterization and IgE epitope mapping of Pen n 18, a major allergen of Penicillium notatum. Biochem J 2002; 363:707-15. [PMID: 11964171 PMCID: PMC1222523 DOI: 10.1042/bj3630707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The mould genus, Penicillium, is a significant source of environmental aero-allergens. A major allergen from Penicillium notatum, Pen n 18, was identified by two-dimensional immunoblotting using monoclonal antibody G11A10, raised against the vacuolar serine protease of Penicillium citrinum, followed by matrix-assisted laser-desorption ionization-time-of-flight MS analysis of the peptide digest. Pen n 18 was then cloned and the amino acid sequence deduced from the cDNA sequence. The cDNA encoded a 494 amino acid protein, considerably larger than mature Pen n 18, the differences being due to the N- and C-terminal prosequences. The deduced amino acid sequence showed extensive similarity with those of vacuolar serine proteases from various fungi. The Pen n 18 coding sequence was expressed in Escherichia coli as a His-tagged fusion protein and purified by Ni(2+)-chelate affinity chromatography. On immunoblots, the purified recombinant protein specifically bound IgE from mould-allergic patients, and cross-inhibition assays demonstrated the presence of common IgE-binding epitopes on Pen n 18 and a major allergen of P. citrinum, Pen c 18. When mapping of the allergenic epitopes was performed, at least nine different linear IgE-binding epitopes, located throughout the Pen n 18 protein, were identified. Of these, peptide C12, located in the N-terminal region of the molecule, was recognized by serum from 75% of the patients tested and therefore appears to be an immunodominant IgE-binding epitope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Jung Yu
- Institute of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Jen-Ai Road, Taipei, Taiwan
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Hill PB, DeBoer DJ. The ACVD task force on canine atopic dermatitis (IV): environmental allergens. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2001; 81:169-86. [PMID: 11553378 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-2427(01)00298-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Numerous environmental allergens have been incriminated in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis (AD). These include dust and storage mite antigens, house dust, pollens from grasses, trees and weeds, mould spores, epidermal antigens, insect antigens, and miscellaneous antigens such as kapok. In this paper, we review the literature concerning the allergens that have been reported to contribute to canine AD. We conclude that attempts to identify the relevant canine antigens in the past have been plagued by a lack of standardisation of extracts and techniques, and the presence of false-positive and -negative reactions in allergy tests. Until these problems are rectified, it is unlikely that we will be able to provide a list of major and minor antigens for dogs. Hence, we recommend that future studies should be aimed at determining the major patterns of reactivity and cross-reactivity to specific protein allergens within antigenic extracts using electrophoresis and immunoblotting techniques. Once this information becomes available, it may be possible to use a selection of genetically engineered, highly pure antigens for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in canine allergy investigations. The use of such antigens will allow standardisation of canine allergy testing and immunotherapy so that the reliability and efficacy of these procedures can be objectively assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- P B Hill
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Hospital for Small Animals, Easter Bush Veterinary Centre, Roslin, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, Scotland, UK.
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Chow LP, Chiou SH, Hsiao MC, Yu CJ, Chiang BL. Characterization of Pen n 13, a major allergen from the mold Penicillium notatum. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2000; 269:14-20. [PMID: 10694469 DOI: 10.1006/bbrc.2000.2253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Penicillium notatum is a well-known indoor aeroallergen and is frequently included in skin test panels for allergic diagnosis. On two-dimensional immunoblotting using patients' sera containing IgE and monoclonal antibody D7B8 specific for Pen c 1 of P. citrinum, two allergens with a molecular mass of 33 kDa but different isoelectric points were identified. A novel cDNA coding for Pen n 13 was cloned and sequenced. The nucleotide sequence codes for a protein 397 amino acids including a putative signal peptide of 25 amino acids and a propeptide of 90 amino acids. The allergen is an alkaline serine protease that shares more than 39% identical residues with other kinds of mold allergens. The coding cDNA of Pen n 13 was cloned into vector pQE-30 and expressed in E. coli M15 as a His-tag fusion protein and purified to homogeneity. The fusion protein reacted with monoclonal antibodies of Pen c 1 and with IgE from Penicillium-allergic patients. Furthermore, it also cross-reacted strongly with IgE specific for the natural Pen c 1, indicating that similar IgE binding epitopes may exist in the allergens of P. notatum and P. citrinum. Antigenicity index plots indicated that there are several similar epitope regions of high antigenic indices in Pen c 1 and Pen n 13, corroborating that mold allergens belonging to the alkaline serine protease family possess similar protein structure and strong antigenic cross-reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- L P Chow
- Institute of Biochemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan 100, Republic of China
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31
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Yu CJ, Chiou SH, Lai WY, Chiang BL, Chow LP. Characterization of a novel allergen, a major IgE-binding protein from Aspergillus flavus, as an alkaline serine protease. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1999; 261:669-75. [PMID: 10441484 DOI: 10.1006/bbrc.1999.1093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillus species of fungi have been known to be one of the most prevalent aeroallergens. One important A. flavus allergen (Asp fl 1) was identified by means of immunoblotting with a serum pool of allergic patients on a two-dimensional electrophoretic gel. The cDNA coding for Asp fl 1 was cloned and sequenced. The clone encodes a full-length protein of 403 amino acid precursors of 42 kDa. After cleavage of a putative signal peptide of 21 amino acids and a prepeptide of 100 amino acids, a mature protein of 282 amino acids was obtained with a molecular mass of 33 kDa and a pI of 6.3. A degree of identity was found in a range of 27 to 84% among related allergens derived from bacteria allergen subtilisin, mold allergen Pen c 1, and virulence factor of A. fumigatus. Recombinant Asp fl 1 (rAsp fl 1) was cloned into vector pQE-30 and expressed in E. coli M15 as a histidine-tag fusion protein and purified to homogeneity. The IgE binding capacity of rAsp fl 1 was tested by immunoblotting using a serum pool of Aspergillus-allergic patients. Recombinant allergen cross-reacted strongly with IgE specific for natural Asp fl 1 and Pen c 1, indicating that common IgE epitopes may exist between allergens of A. flavus and P. citrinum.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Yu
- Institute of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia, Taipei, Taiwan
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