1
|
Rossi V, Unitt R, McNamara M. A new non-destructive method to decipher the origin of organic matter in fossils using Raman spectroscopy. RSC Adv 2024; 14:26747-26759. [PMID: 39183999 PMCID: PMC11342070 DOI: 10.1039/d4ra04364b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Ancient biomolecules provide a unique perspective on the past but are underutilized in paleontology because of challenges in interpreting the chemistry of fossils. Most organically preserved soft tissues in fossils have been altered by thermal maturation during the fossilization process, obscuring original chemistry. Here, we use a comprehensive program of thermal maturation experiments on soft tissues from diverse extant organisms to systematically test whether thermally altered biosignatures can be discriminated using Raman spectroscopy. All experimentally matured samples show chemical signatures that are superficially similar. Comparative analysis of Raman spectra following peak deconvolution, however, reveals strong tissue-specific signals. Application of this approach to fossils from the Bolca (49 Ma) and Libros (10 Ma) Konservat-Lagerstätten successfully discriminates fossil vertebrate soft tissue from that of fossil plants. Critically, our data confirm that a robust interrogation of Raman spectra coupled with multivariate analysis is a powerful tool to shed light on the taxonomic origins of thermally matured fossil soft tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Rossi
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork Cork T23 TK30 Ireland
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork Lee Road Cork T23 XE10 Ireland
| | - Richard Unitt
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork Cork T23 TK30 Ireland
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork Lee Road Cork T23 XE10 Ireland
| | - Maria McNamara
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork Cork T23 TK30 Ireland
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork Lee Road Cork T23 XE10 Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Motovilov KA, Mostert AB. Melanin: Nature's 4th bioorganic polymer. SOFT MATTER 2024; 20:5635-5651. [PMID: 39012013 DOI: 10.1039/d4sm00491d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
The pigments known as the melanins are widely recognized for their responsibility in the coloration of human skin, eyes, hair, and minimising the harmful effects of solar ultraviolet radiation. But specialists are aware that the melanins are present in all living kingdoms, barring viruses, and have functionality that extends beyond neutralizing ionising radiation. The ubiquitous presence of melanin in almost all human organs, recognized in recent years, as well as the presence of melanin in organisms that are evolutionarily distant from each other, indicate the fundamental importance of this class of material for all life forms. In this review, we argue for the need to accept melanins as the fourth primordial class of biological polymers, along with nucleic acids, proteins and polysaccharides. We consistently compare the properties of these canonical biological polymers with the properties of melanin and highlight key features that fundamentally distinguish melanins, their function and its mysteries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K A Motovilov
- Center for Photonics and 2D Materials, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Institutsky Lane 9, Dolgoprudny 141701, Moscow Region, Russia.
| | - A B Mostert
- Department of Physics and Centre for Integrative Semiconductor Materials, Swansea University Bay Campus, Fabian Way, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhao T, Pan Y. Transformation of β-sheets into disordered structures during the fossilization of feathers. Nat Ecol Evol 2024; 8:1233-1235. [PMID: 38867091 DOI: 10.1038/s41559-024-02432-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zhao
- Institute of Palaeontology, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Earth System Science, Yunnan University, Kunming, China.
| | - Yanhong Pan
- State Key Laboratory for Mineral Deposits Research, School of Earth Sciences and Engineering, Centre for Research and Education on Biological Evolution and Environment, Frontiers Science Center for Critical Earth Material Cycling, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Falk D, Wings O, Unitt R, Wade J, McNamara ME. Fossilized anuran soft tissues reveal a new taphonomic model for the Eocene Geiseltal Konservat-Lagerstätte, Germany. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7876. [PMID: 38654038 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55822-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The Eocene Geiseltal Konservat-Lagerstätte (Germany) is famous for reports of three dimensionally preserved soft tissues with sub-cellular detail. The proposed mode of preservation, direct replication in silica, is not known in other fossils and has not been verified using modern approaches. Here, we investigated the taphonomy of the Geiseltal anurans using diverse microbeam imaging and chemical analytical techniques. Our analyses confirm the preservation of soft tissues in all body regions but fail to yield evidence for silicified soft tissues. Instead, the anuran soft tissues are preserved as two layers that differ in microstructure and composition. Layer 1 comprises sulfur-rich carbonaceous microbodies interpreted as melanosomes. Layer 2 comprises the mid-dermal Eberth-Katschenko layer, preserved in calcium phosphate. In addition, patches of original aragonite crystals define the former position of the endolymphatic sac. The primary modes of soft tissue preservation are therefore sulfurization of melanosomes and phosphatization of more labile soft tissues, i.e., skin. This is consistent with the taphonomy of vertebrates in many other Konservat-Lagerstätten. These findings emphasize an emerging model for pervasive preservation of vertebrate soft tissues via melanosome films, particularly in stagnation-type deposits, with phosphatization of more labile tissues where tissue biochemistry is favorable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Falk
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Distillery Fields, North Mall, Cork, T23 TK30, Ireland.
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Lee Rd, Cork, T23 XE10, Ireland.
| | - Oliver Wings
- Natural History Museum Bamberg, Staatliche Naturwissenschaftliche Sammlungen Bayerns, Fleischstraße 2, 96047, Bamberg, Germany
| | - Richard Unitt
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Distillery Fields, North Mall, Cork, T23 TK30, Ireland
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Lee Rd, Cork, T23 XE10, Ireland
- Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, Knockmahon, Bunmahon, X42 T923, Ireland
| | - Jon Wade
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3AN, UK
| | - Maria E McNamara
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Distillery Fields, North Mall, Cork, T23 TK30, Ireland
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Lee Rd, Cork, T23 XE10, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Walker KT, Li IS, Keane J, Goosens VJ, Song W, Lee KY, Ellis T. Self-pigmenting textiles grown from cellulose-producing bacteria with engineered tyrosinase expression. Nat Biotechnol 2024:10.1038/s41587-024-02194-3. [PMID: 38565971 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-024-02194-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Environmental concerns are driving interest in postpetroleum synthetic textiles produced from microbial and fungal sources. Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a promising sustainable leather alternative, on account of its material properties, low infrastructure needs and biodegradability. However, for alternative textiles like BC to be fully sustainable, alternative ways to dye textiles need to be developed alongside alternative production methods. To address this, we genetically engineer Komagataeibacter rhaeticus to create a bacterial strain that grows self-pigmenting BC. Melanin biosynthesis in the bacteria from recombinant tyrosinase expression achieves dark black coloration robust to material use. Melanated BC production can be scaled up for the construction of prototype fashion products, and we illustrate the potential of combining engineered self-pigmentation with tools from synthetic biology, through the optogenetic patterning of gene expression in cellulose-producing bacteria. With this study, we demonstrate that combining genetic engineering with current and future methods of textile biofabrication has the potential to create a new class of textiles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth T Walker
- Imperial College Centre for Synthetic Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Ivy S Li
- Imperial College Centre for Synthetic Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Vivianne J Goosens
- Imperial College Centre for Synthetic Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Wenzhe Song
- Department of Aeronautics, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Koon-Yang Lee
- Department of Aeronautics, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Tom Ellis
- Imperial College Centre for Synthetic Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK.
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Slater TS, Ito S, Wakamatsu K, Zhang F, Sjövall P, Jarenmark M, Lindgren J, McNamara ME. Taphonomic experiments reveal authentic molecular signals for fossil melanins and verify preservation of phaeomelanin in fossils. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5651. [PMID: 37803012 PMCID: PMC10558522 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40570-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanin pigments play a critical role in physiological processes and shaping animal behaviour. Fossil melanin is a unique resource for understanding the functional evolution of melanin but the impact of fossilisation on molecular signatures for eumelanin and, especially, phaeomelanin is not fully understood. Here we present a model for the chemical taphonomy of fossil eumelanin and phaeomelanin based on thermal maturation experiments using feathers from extant birds. Our results reveal which molecular signatures are authentic signals for thermally matured eumelanin and phaeomelanin, which signatures are artefacts derived from the maturation of non-melanin molecules, and how these chemical data are impacted by sample preparation. Our model correctly predicts the molecular composition of eumelanins in diverse vertebrate fossils from the Miocene and Cretaceous and, critically, identifies direct molecular evidence for phaeomelanin in these fossils. This taphonomic framework adds to the geochemical toolbox that underpins reconstructions of melanin evolution and of melanin-based coloration in fossil vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany S Slater
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Shosuke Ito
- Institute for Melanin Chemistry, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Wakamatsu
- Institute for Melanin Chemistry, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Fucheng Zhang
- Institute of Geology and Paleontology, Linyi University, Linyi City, Shandong, China
| | - Peter Sjövall
- RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Materials and Production, 501 15, Borås, Sweden
| | | | - Johan Lindgren
- Department of Geology, Lund University, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
| | - Maria E McNamara
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang S, McNamara ME, Wang B, Hui H, Jiang B. The origins of colour patterns in fossil insects revealed by maturation experiments. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20231333. [PMID: 37727088 PMCID: PMC10509590 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.1333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Many fossil insects show monochromatic colour patterns that may provide valuable insights into ancient insect behaviour and ecology. Whether these patterns reflect original pigmentary coloration is, however, unknown, and their formation mechanism has not been investigated. Here, we performed thermal maturation experiments on extant beetles with melanin-based colour patterns. Scanning electron microscopy reveals that melanin-rich cuticle is more resistant to degradation than melanin-poor cuticle: with progressive maturation, melanin-poor cuticle regions experience preferential thinning and loss, yet melanin-rich cuticle remains. Comparative analysis of fossil insects with monotonal colour patterns confirms that the variations in tone correspond to variations in preserved cuticle thickness. These preserved colour patterns can thus be plausibly explained as melanin-based patterning. Recognition of melanin-based colour patterns in fossil insects opens new avenues for interpreting the evolution of insect coloration and behaviour through deep time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Mineral Deposits Research & Lunar and Planetary Science Institute, School of Earth Sciences and Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Palaeobiology and Stratigraphy, Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 39 East Beijing Road, Nanjing 210008, People's Republic of China
- School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork T23 TK30, Ireland
- Environmental Research Institute, Ellen Hutchins Building, University College Cork, Cork T23 XE10, Ireland
| | - Maria E. McNamara
- School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork T23 TK30, Ireland
- Environmental Research Institute, Ellen Hutchins Building, University College Cork, Cork T23 XE10, Ireland
| | - Bo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Palaeobiology and Stratigraphy, Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 39 East Beijing Road, Nanjing 210008, People's Republic of China
| | - Hejiu Hui
- State Key Laboratory for Mineral Deposits Research & Lunar and Planetary Science Institute, School of Earth Sciences and Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Baoyu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Mineral Deposits Research & Lunar and Planetary Science Institute, School of Earth Sciences and Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
DeMarco M, Ballard M, Grage E, Nourigheimasi F, Getter L, Shafiee A, Ghadiri E. Enhanced photochemical activity and ultrafast photocarrier dynamics in sustainable synthetic melanin nanoparticle-based donor-acceptor inkjet-printed molecular junctions. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:14346-14364. [PMID: 37602764 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr02387g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Melanin is a stable, widely light-absorbing, photoactive, and biocompatible material viable for energy conversion, photocatalysis, and bioelectronic applications. To achieve multifunctional nanostructures, we synthesized melanin nanoparticles of uniform size and controlled chemical composition (dopamelanin and eumelanin) and used them with titanium dioxide to fabricate donor-acceptor bilayers. Their size enhances the surface-to-volume ratio important for any surface-mediated functionality, such as photocatalysis, sensing, and drug loading and release, while controlling their chemical composition enables to control the film's functionality and reproducibility. Inkjet printing uniquely allowed us to control the deposited amount of materials with minimum ink waste suitable for reproducible materials deposition. We studied the photochemical characteristics of the donor-acceptor melanin-TiO2 nanostructured films via photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye under selective UV-NIR and Vis-NIR irradiation conditions. Under both irradiation conditions, they exhibited photocatalytic characteristics superior to pure melanin and, under UV-NIR irradiation, superior to TiO2 alone; TiO2 is photoactive only under UV irradiation. The enhanced photocatalytic characteristics of the melanin-TiO2 nanostructured bilayer films, particularly when excited by visible light, point to charge separation at the melanin-TiO2 interface as a possible mechanism. We performed ultrafast laser spectroscopy to investigate the photochemical characteristics of pure melanin and the melanin-TiO2 constructs and found that their time-resolved photoexcited spectral patterns differ. We performed singular value decomposition analysis to quantitatively deconvolute and compare the dynamics of photochemical processes for melanin and melanin-TiO2 heterostructures. This observation supports electronic interactions, namely, interfacial charge separation at the melanin and TiO2 interface. The excited-state relaxation in melanin-TiO2 increases markedly from 5 ps to 400 ps. The results are remarkable for the future intriguing application of melanin-based constructs for bioelectronics and energy conversion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Max DeMarco
- Chemistry Department, Wake Forest University, USA.
- Center for Functional Materials, Wake Forest University, USA
| | - Matthew Ballard
- Chemistry Department, Wake Forest University, USA.
- Center for Functional Materials, Wake Forest University, USA
| | - Elinor Grage
- Chemistry Department, Wake Forest University, USA.
- Center for Functional Materials, Wake Forest University, USA
| | - Farnoush Nourigheimasi
- Chemistry Department, Wake Forest University, USA.
- Center for Functional Materials, Wake Forest University, USA
| | - Lillian Getter
- Chemistry Department, Wake Forest University, USA.
- Center for Functional Materials, Wake Forest University, USA
| | - Ashkan Shafiee
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, USA
- Center for Functional Materials, Wake Forest University, USA
| | - Elham Ghadiri
- Chemistry Department, Wake Forest University, USA.
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, USA
- Center for Functional Materials, Wake Forest University, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wakamatsu K, Ito S. Recent Advances in Characterization of Melanin Pigments in Biological Samples. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098305. [PMID: 37176019 PMCID: PMC10179066 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The melanin pigments eumelanin (EM) and pheomelanin (PM), which are dark brown to black and yellow to reddish-brown, respectively, are widely found among vertebrates. They are produced in melanocytes in the epidermis, hair follicles, the choroid, the iris, the inner ear, and other tissues. The diversity of colors in animals is mainly caused by the quantity and quality of their melanin, such as by the ratios of EM versus PM. We have developed micro-analytical methods to simultaneously measure EM and PM and used these to study the biochemical and genetic fundamentals of pigmentation. The photoreactivity of melanin has become a major focus of research because of the postulated relevance of EM and PM for the risk of UVA-induced melanoma. Our biochemical methods have found application in many clinical studies on genetic conditions associated with alterations in pigmentation. Recently, besides chemical degradative methods, other methods have been developed for the characterization of melanin, and these are also discussed here.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazumasa Wakamatsu
- Institute for Melanin Chemistry, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-192, Aichi, Japan
| | - Shosuke Ito
- Institute for Melanin Chemistry, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-192, Aichi, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bayram S, Aygün B, Karadayi M, Alaylar B, Güllüce M, Karabulut A. Determination of toxicity and radioprotective properties of bacterial and fungal eumelanin pigments. Int J Radiat Biol 2023; 99:1785-1793. [PMID: 37071465 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2023.2204957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Determination of the protective property of melanin, an organic polymer class consisting of phenolic and/or indolic compounds isolated from bacteria and fungi, against fast neutron radiation. To show that these melanin samples, which also have antioxidant and metal chelating properties, can be used as an active ingredient for a drug to be developed against neutrons used in nuclear research and medicine. MATERIALS AND METHODS Bacterial and fungal media were prepared, and melanin pigments were produced and isolated. For molecular characterization of pigments, bacterial genomic DNA extraction, 16S rDNA gene amplification processes, and fungal genomic DNA extraction, ITS1, and ITS4 Gene Regions amplification were performed. The DEL assay was implemented to determine the genotoxicity properties of bacterial and fungal melanin pigments. Samples were prepared in a pad measuring 10 ml volume (60 × 15 mm) at a concentration of 0.2-1 microgram in 1% agarose gel for radiation-absorbed dose measurements. Absorption measurements were made using 241Am-Be fast neutron source and Canberra brand NP series BF3 gaseous detector to determine the neutron radiation absorption capacity of all samples. The results obtained to determine the absorption degrees of melanin samples were compared with paraffin and normal concrete, which are widely used in neutron radiation shielding studies. RESULTS Melanin pigments were obtained using different bacteria and fungi strains. Afterwards, the fast neutron radiation absorption capacity of these purified pigments were determined. Compared to reference samples, these pigments were found to have slightly lower radiation absorbing ability. In addition to these experiments, cytotoxicity tests were carried out using the Yeast DEL assay technique to evaluate the potential for use of these organic pigments in fields such as medicine and pharmacology. According to the results obtained from the tests, it was determined that these melanin samples did not have any toxic effects. CONCLUSION It was determined that these melanin samples have the potential to be used as a radioprotective drug active substance to protect the tissues and cells of people exposed to neutron radiation after a nuclear accident or nuclear war.Giving a drug that will be developed by using these active ingredients before or after people are exposed to a radiation environment can provide great benefits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sinan Bayram
- Department of Medical Services and Techniques, Vocational School of Health Services, Bayburt University, Bayburt, Turkey
| | - Bünyamin Aygün
- Department of Electronics and Automation, Vocational School, Agri Ibrahim Cecen University, Agri, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Karadayi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Burak Alaylar
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science and Arts, Agri Ibrahim Cecen University, Agri, Turkey
| | - Medine Güllüce
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Terranova ML. Prominent Roles and Conflicted Attitudes of Eumelanin in the Living World. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097783. [PMID: 37175490 PMCID: PMC10178024 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Eumelanin, a macromolecule widespread in all the living world and long appreciated for its protective action against harmful UV radiation, is considered the beneficial component of the melanin family (ευ means good in ancient Greek). This initially limited picture has been rather recently extended and now includes a variety of key functions performed by eumelanin in order to support life also under extreme conditions. A lot of still unexplained aspects characterize this molecule that, in an evolutionary context, survived natural selection. This paper aims to emphasize the unique characteristics and the consequent unusual behaviors of a molecule that still holds the main chemical/physical features detected in fossils dating to the late Carboniferous. In this context, attention is drawn to the duality of roles played by eumelanin, which occasionally reverses its functional processes, switching from an anti-oxidant to a pro-oxidant behavior and implementing therefore harmful effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Letizia Terranova
- Dipartimento Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche, Università degli Studi di Roma "Tor Vergata", Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Roma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
De La Garza RG, Madsen H, Sjövall P, Osbӕck F, Zheng W, Jarenmark M, Schweitzer MH, Engdahl A, Uvdal P, Eriksson ME, Lindgren J. An ancestral hard-shelled sea turtle with a mosaic of soft skin and scutes. Sci Rep 2022; 12:22655. [PMID: 36587051 PMCID: PMC9805447 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-26941-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The transition from terrestrial to marine environments by secondarily aquatic tetrapods necessitates a suite of adaptive changes associated with life in the sea, e.g., the scaleless skin in adult individuals of the extant leatherback turtle. A partial, yet exceptionally preserved hard-shelled (Pan-Cheloniidae) sea turtle with extensive soft-tissue remains, including epidermal scutes and a virtually complete flipper outline, was recently recovered from the Eocene Fur Formation of Denmark. Examination of the fossilized limb tissue revealed an originally soft, wrinkly skin devoid of scales, together with organic residues that contain remnant eumelanin pigment and inferred epidermal transformation products. Notably, this stem cheloniid-unlike its scaly living descendants-combined scaleless limbs with a bony carapace covered in scutes. Our findings show that the adaptive transition to neritic waters by the ancestral pan-chelonioids was more complex than hitherto appreciated, and included at least one evolutionary lineage with a mosaic of integumental features not seen in any living turtle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peter Sjövall
- grid.450998.90000 0004 0438 1242Materials and Production, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Borås, Sweden
| | - Frank Osbӕck
- grid.502431.10000 0004 4914 0813Museum Salling, Fur Museum, Skive, Denmark
| | - Wenxia Zheng
- grid.40803.3f0000 0001 2173 6074Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC USA
| | - Martin Jarenmark
- grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Department of Geology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mary H. Schweitzer
- grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Department of Geology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden ,grid.40803.3f0000 0001 2173 6074Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC USA ,grid.421582.80000 0001 2226 059XNorth Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh, NC USA
| | - Anders Engdahl
- grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Medical Microspectroscopy, Biomedical Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Per Uvdal
- grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Department of Chemistry, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mats E. Eriksson
- grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Department of Geology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Johan Lindgren
- grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Department of Geology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pizarro-Galleguillos BM, Kunert L, Brüggemann N, Prasuhn J. Iron- and Neuromelanin-Weighted Neuroimaging to Study Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Patients with Parkinson's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232213678. [PMID: 36430157 PMCID: PMC9696602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The underlying causes of Parkinson's disease are complex, and besides recent advances in elucidating relevant disease mechanisms, no disease-modifying treatments are currently available. One proposed pathophysiological hallmark is mitochondrial dysfunction, and a plethora of evidence points toward the interconnected nature of mitochondria in neuronal homeostasis. This also extends to iron and neuromelanin metabolism, two biochemical processes highly relevant to individual disease manifestation and progression. Modern neuroimaging methods help to gain in vivo insights into these intertwined pathways and may pave the road to individualized medicine in this debilitating disorder. In this narrative review, we will highlight the biological rationale for studying these pathways, how distinct neuroimaging methods can be applied in patients, their respective limitations, and which challenges need to be overcome for successful implementation in clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Matis Pizarro-Galleguillos
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, 23588 Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Center for Brain, Behavior, and Metabolism, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Liesa Kunert
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, 23588 Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Center for Brain, Behavior, and Metabolism, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Norbert Brüggemann
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, 23588 Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Center for Brain, Behavior, and Metabolism, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-451-500-43420; Fax: +49-451-500-43424
| | - Jannik Prasuhn
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, 23588 Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Center for Brain, Behavior, and Metabolism, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kalaj BN, Ni QZ, La Clair JJ, Deheyn DD, Burkart MD. Chemoenzymatic Isolation and Characterization of High Purity Mammalian Melanin. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200021. [PMID: 35318787 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Although melanin is one of the most ubiquitous polymers in living systems, our understanding of its molecular structure, biosynthesis and biophysical properties has been limited to only a small number of organisms other than humans. This is in part due to the difficulty associated with isolating pure melanin. While purification methods exist, they typically involve harsh treatments with strong acid/base conditions combined with elevated temperatures that can lead to the polymer backbone degradation. To be successful, a viable isolation method must deliver a selective, yet complete degradation of non-melanin biopolymers as well as remove small molecule metabolites that are not integrative to the melanin backbone. Here, we demonstrate the use of chemoenzymatic processing guided by fluorescent probes for the purification and isolation of native mammalian melanin without significant induction of chemical degradation. This multi-step purification-tracking methodology enables quantitative isolation of pure melanin from mammalian tissue for spectroscopic characterization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brianna N Kalaj
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0358, USA
| | - Qing Zhe Ni
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0358, USA
| | - James J La Clair
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0358, USA
| | - Dimitri D Deheyn
- Marine Biology Research Division, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive La Jolla, California, 92093-0202, USA
| | - Michael D Burkart
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0358, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Tahoun M, Engeser M, Namasivayam V, Sander PM, Müller CE. Chemistry and Analysis of Organic Compounds in Dinosaurs. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:670. [PMID: 35625398 PMCID: PMC9138232 DOI: 10.3390/biology11050670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This review provides an overview of organic compounds detected in non-avian dinosaur fossils to date. This was enabled by the development of sensitive analytical techniques. Non-destructive methods and procedures restricted to the sample surface, e.g., light and electron microscopy, infrared (IR) and Raman spectroscopy, as well as more invasive approaches including liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, and immunological methods were employed. Organic compounds detected in samples of dinosaur fossils include pigments (heme, biliverdin, protoporphyrin IX, melanin), and proteins, such as collagens and keratins. The origin and nature of the observed protein signals is, however, in some cases, controversially discussed. Molecular taphonomy approaches can support the development of suitable analytical methods to confirm reported findings and to identify further organic compounds in dinosaur and other fossils in the future. The chemical properties of the various organic compounds detected in dinosaurs, and the techniques utilized for the identification and analysis of each of the compounds will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Tahoun
- PharmaCenter Bonn, Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, D-53121 Bonn, Germany; (M.T.); (V.N.)
| | - Marianne Engeser
- Kekulé Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bonn, D-53121 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Vigneshwaran Namasivayam
- PharmaCenter Bonn, Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, D-53121 Bonn, Germany; (M.T.); (V.N.)
| | - Paul Martin Sander
- Institute of Geosciences, Section Paleontology, University of Bonn, D-53113 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Christa E. Müller
- PharmaCenter Bonn, Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, D-53121 Bonn, Germany; (M.T.); (V.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Makarova K, Zawada K, Wiweger M. Benchtop X-band electron paramagnetic resonance detection of melanin and Nitroxyl spin probe in zebrafish. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 183:69-74. [PMID: 35314357 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
EPR spectroscopy is a technique that provides direct information about free radicals in biological systems. So far, X-band EPR was seldomly used for in vivo studies as the small resonator size and high power used to detect EPR signals were unsuitable for living organisms. Here, we report new solutions which lift some limitations and make X-band EPR suitable for an in vivo detection of free radicals in zebrafish - a small laboratory animal that is often used as a model for various studies related to free radicals. We designed specially-shaped glass and quartz capillaries to ensure the zebrafish's safety during the experiments. The optimal EPR spectrometer parameters, safe for zebrafish embryos and sufficient to obtain EPR spectrum, were 4 scans by 20s, 100G sweep, and 0.8 mW power. Combining the specially-shaped capillary with a multi-harmonic analyzer for the EPR spectrometer allowed increasing the time up to 16 scans by 11s and lowering the power to 0.25 mW. As a proof of principle, we demonstrate the detection of melanin radicals and the 5-DSA spin probe in zebrafish larvae. As fish survive the EPR scans, the possibility of performing multiple measurements of free radicals in living zebrafish offers new tools for studies aiming to understand redox biology and membrane-dependent functions in both health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Makarova
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Chair of Physical Pharmacy and Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmacy with Laboratory Medicine Division, Medical University of Warsaw, 1 Banacha Str, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Zawada
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Chair of Physical Pharmacy and Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmacy with Laboratory Medicine Division, Medical University of Warsaw, 1 Banacha Str, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Wiweger
- Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, 4 Ks. Trojdena Str, 02-109, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Preservation and Taphonomy of Fossil Insects from the Earliest Eocene of Denmark. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11030395. [PMID: 35336769 PMCID: PMC8945194 DOI: 10.3390/biology11030395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Insect fossils dating 55 million-years-old from the Stolleklint Clay and Fur Formation of Denmark are known to preserve both fine morphological details and color patterns. To enhance our understanding on how such fragile animals are retained in the fossil record, we examined a pair of beetle elytra, a wasp and a damselfly using sensitive analytical techniques. In our paper, we demonstrate that all three insect fossils are composed of cuticular remains (that is, traces of the exoskeleton) that, in turn, are dominated by the natural pigment eumelanin. In addition, the beetle elytra show evidence of a delicate lamellar structure comparable to multilayered reflectors that produce metallic hues in modern insects. Our results contribute to improved knowledge on the process of fossilization of insect body fossils in marine environments. Abstract Marine sediments of the lowermost Eocene Stolleklint Clay and Fur Formation of north-western Denmark have yielded abundant well-preserved insects. However, despite a long history of research, in-depth information pertaining to preservational modes and taphonomic pathways of these exceptional animal fossils remains scarce. In this paper, we use a combination of scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) to assess the ultrastructural and molecular composition of three insect fossils: a wasp (Hymenoptera), a damselfly (Odonata) and a pair of beetle elytra (Coleoptera). Our analyses show that all specimens are preserved as organic remnants that originate from the exoskeleton, with the elytra displaying a greater level of morphological fidelity than the other fossils. TEM analysis of the elytra revealed minute features, including a multilayered epicuticle comparable to those nanostructures that generate metallic colors in modern insects. Additionally, ToF-SIMS analyses provided spectral evidence for chemical residues of the pigment eumelanin as part of the cuticular remains. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first occasion where both structural colors and chemical traces of an endogenous pigment have been documented in a single fossil specimen. Overall, our results provide novel insights into the nature of insect body fossils and additionally shed light on exceptionally preserved terrestrial insect faunas found in marine paleoenvironments.
Collapse
|
18
|
Xin C, Zhang Y, Bao M, Yu C, Hou K, Wang Z. Novel carrier-free, charge-reversal and DNA-affinity nanodrugs for synergistic cascade cancer chemo-chemodynamic therapy. J Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 606:1488-1508. [PMID: 34500153 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2021.08.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The combination of chemotherapy (CT) and chemodynamic therapy (CDT) is an emerging therapeutic strategy for tumors; however, its therapeutic efficacy is usually impaired by the shortage of high-efficiency intracellular catalysts for CDT and the poor tumor selectivity of CT. To address this concern, novel carrier-free nanodrugs (CMC-DD2) self-assembled from the natural melanin complex (CMC) with a superior CDT performance, and dehydroabietic acid hexamer (DD2) displaying a potent antitumor activity were proposed for the synergistic combination of CT and CDT. CMC-DD2 preferred to enter tumor cells and localize in the nucleus after lysosome escape due to its pH-dependent charge-reversal properties. Nanodrugs internalized by the nucleus directly bound the DNA and altered its conformation. Then, the dissociation of CMC-DD2 was efficiently triggered by intracellular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) with the release of DNA damaging agents, including nitrate anions, hydroxyl radicals (●OH) and DD2. Finally, severe DNA damage induced mitochondrial apoptosis in HepG2 cells. An in vivo assessment further demonstrated the superior tumor selectivity and suppressor capacity and no/low toxicity of the nanodrugs. Overall, novel carrier-free, charge-reversal, nucleus-targeting, biodegradable, and DNA-affinity nanodrugs represent safe and effective platforms for the combination of CT and CDT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Xin
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Yandong Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Meili Bao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Chong Yu
- School of pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Kexin Hou
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Zhenyu Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Slominski RM, Sarna T, Płonka PM, Raman C, Brożyna AA, Slominski AT. Melanoma, Melanin, and Melanogenesis: The Yin and Yang Relationship. Front Oncol 2022; 12:842496. [PMID: 35359389 PMCID: PMC8963986 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.842496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanin pigment plays a critical role in the protection against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation and other environmental stressors. It is produced by the enzymatic transformation of L-tyrosine to dopaquinone and subsequent chemical and biochemical reactions resulting in the formation of various 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid (DHICA) and 5,6-dihydroxyindole (DHI) oligomers-main constituents of eumelanin, and benzothiazine and benzothiazole units of pheomelanin. The biosynthesis of melanin is regulated by sun exposure and by many hormonal factors at the tissue, cellular, and subcellular levels. While the presence of melanin protects against the development of skin cancers including cutaneous melanoma, its presence may be necessary for the malignant transformation of melanocytes. This shows a complex role of melanogenesis in melanoma development defined by chemical properties of melanin and the nature of generating pathways such as eu- and pheomelanogenesis. While eumelanin is believed to provide radioprotection and photoprotection by acting as an efficient antioxidant and sunscreen, pheomelanin, being less photostable, can generate mutagenic environment after exposure to the short-wavelength UVR. Melanogenesis by itself and its highly reactive intermediates show cytotoxic, genotoxic, and mutagenic activities, and it can stimulate glycolysis and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) activation, which, combined with their immunosuppressive effects, can lead to melanoma progression and resistance to immunotherapy. On the other hand, melanogenesis-related proteins can be a target for immunotherapy. Interestingly, clinicopathological analyses on advanced melanomas have shown a negative correlation between tumor pigmentation and diseases outcome as defined by overall survival and disease-free time. This indicates a "Yin and Yang" role for melanin and active melanogenesis in melanoma development, progression, and therapy. Furthermore, based on the clinical, experimental data and diverse effects of melanogenesis, we propose that inhibition of melanogenesis in advanced melanotic melanoma represents a realistic adjuvant strategy to enhance immuno-, radio-, and chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radomir M Slominski
- Graduate Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Tadeusz Sarna
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Przemysław M Płonka
- Department of Biophysics and Cancer Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Chander Raman
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Anna A Brożyna
- Department of Human Biology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland
| | - Andrzej T Slominski
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States.,Pathology Laboratory Service, Veteran Administration Medical Center at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sinha S, Muscente AD, Schiffbauer JD, Williams M, Schweigert G, Martindale RC. Global controls on phosphatization of fossils during the toarcian oceanic anoxic event. Sci Rep 2021; 11:24087. [PMID: 34916533 PMCID: PMC8677819 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03482-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Konservat-Lagerstätten-deposits with exceptionally preserved fossils-vary in abundance across geographic and stratigraphic space due to paleoenvironmental heterogeneity. While oceanic anoxic events (OAEs) may have promoted preservation of marine lagerstätten, the environmental controls on their taphonomy remain unclear. Here, we provide new data on the mineralization of fossils in three Lower Jurassic Lagerstätten-Strawberry Bank (UK), Ya Ha Tinda (Canada), and Posidonia Shale (Germany) -and test the hypothesis that they were preserved under similar conditions. Biostratigraphy indicates that all three Lagerstätten were deposited during the Toarcian OAE (TOAE), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) show that each deposit contains a variety of taxa preserved as phosphatized skeletons and tissues. Thus, despite their geographic and paleoenvironmental differences, all of these Lagerstätten were deposited in settings conducive to phosphatization, indicating that the TOAE fostered exceptional preservation in marine settings around the world. Phosphatization may have been fueled by phosphate delivery from climatically-driven sea level change and continental weathering, with anoxic basins acting as phosphorus traps.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sinjini Sinha
- Department of Geological Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, 2275 Speedway, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
| | - A D Muscente
- Department of Geological Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, 2275 Speedway, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.,Department of Geology, Cornell College, 600 First Street SW, Mount Vernon, Iowa, 52314, USA
| | - James D Schiffbauer
- Department of Geological Sciences, University of Missouri, 101 Geological Sciences Building, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.,X-Ray Microanalysis Core Facility, University of Missouri, 1 Geological Sciences Building, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Matt Williams
- Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HN, UK
| | - Günter Schweigert
- Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde, Rosenstein 1, 70191, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Rowan C Martindale
- Department of Geological Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, 2275 Speedway, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Francl M. Molecular backstories. Nat Chem 2021; 13:923-924. [PMID: 34584253 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-021-00806-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Francl
- Department of Chemistry, Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr, PA, USA. .,Vatican Observatory, Vatican City, Vatican City State.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Freitas DF, da Rocha IM, Vieira-da-Motta O, de Paula Santos C. The Role of Melanin in the Biology and Ecology of Nematophagous Fungi. J Chem Ecol 2021; 47:597-613. [PMID: 34232439 DOI: 10.1007/s10886-021-01282-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Melanin is a heteropolymer formed by the polymerization of phenolic and indolic compounds. It occurs in organisms across all biological kingdoms and has a range different of functions, thus indicating its important evolutionary role. The presence of melanin offers several protective advantages, including against ultraviolet radiation, traumatic damage, oxidative stress, extreme temperatures, and pressure. For many species of fungi, melanin also participates directly in the process of virulence and pathogenicity. These organisms can synthesize melanin in two main ways: using a substrate of endogenous origin, involving 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN); alternatively, in an exogenous manner with the addition of L-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA or levodopa). As melanin is an amorphous and complex substance, its study requires expensive and inaccessible technologies and analyses are often difficult to perform with conventional biochemical techniques. As such, details about its chemical structure are not yet fully understood, particularly for nematophagous fungi that remain poorly studied. Thus, this review presents an overview of the different types of melanin, with an emphasis on fungi, and discusses the role of melanin in the biology and ecology of nematophagous fungi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deivid França Freitas
- Laboratory of Cellular and Tissue Biology-LBCT, State University of the North Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro-UENF, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque Califórnia, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Cep. 28013‑600, Brazil
| | - Izabelli Martins da Rocha
- Laboratory of Cellular and Tissue Biology-LBCT, State University of the North Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro-UENF, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque Califórnia, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Cep. 28013‑600, Brazil
| | - Olney Vieira-da-Motta
- Animal Health Laboratory - Infectious Contagious Diseases Sector, State University of North Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro-UENF, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque Califórnia, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Cep. 28013‑600, Brazil
| | - Clóvis de Paula Santos
- Laboratory of Cellular and Tissue Biology-LBCT, State University of the North Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro-UENF, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque Califórnia, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Cep. 28013‑600, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Chen Q, Zhou D, Abdel-Malek Z, Zhang F, Goff PS, Sviderskaya EV, Wakamatsu K, Ito S, Gross SS, Zippin JH. Measurement of Melanin Metabolism in Live Cells by [U-13C]-L-Tyrosine Fate Tracing Using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 141:1810-1818.e6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
|
24
|
Mostert AB. Melanin, the What, the Why and the How: An Introductory Review for Materials Scientists Interested in Flexible and Versatile Polymers. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:1670. [PMID: 34065580 PMCID: PMC8161012 DOI: 10.3390/polym13101670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Today, western society is facing challenges to create new medical technologies to service an aging population as well as the ever-increasing e-waste of electronic devices and sensors. A key solution to these challenges will be the use of biomaterials and biomimetic systems. One material that has been receiving serious attention for its biomedical and device applications is eumelanin. Eumelanin, or commonly known as melanin, is nature's brown-black pigment and is a poly-indolequinone biopolymer, which possess unique physical and chemical properties for material applications. Presented here is a review, aimed at polymer and other materials scientists, to introduce eumelanin as a potential material for research. Covered here are the chemical and physical structures of melanin, an overview of its unique physical and chemical properties, as well as a wide array of applications, but with an emphasis on device and sensing applications. The review is then finished by introducing interested readers to novel synthetic protocols and post synthesis fabrication techniques to enable a starting point for polymer research in this intriguing and complex material.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Bernardus Mostert
- Department of Chemistry, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Wales SA2 8PP, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
A novel melanin complex displayed the affinity to HepG2 cell membrane and nucleus. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2021; 122:111923. [PMID: 33641916 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2021.111923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Chitosan-melanin complex from Catharsius molossus L. has proven to possess superior pharmaceutical excipient performance and may be the new source of water-soluble protein-free natural melanin. Herein, it was enzymatically hydrolyzed into the chitooligosaccharide-melanin complex (CMC) whose main chemical units were composed of eumelanin and chitooligosaccharides and showed three-layer structures. Additionally, this biomacromolecule could self-assemble into 40 nm nanoparticles (CMC Nps) in a weakly acidic aqueous solution. Interestingly, CMC displayed strong affinity for cell membrane by binding the phosphatidylserine, glycoprotein, glycolipids and glycosaminoglycans accumulated on the surface of tumor cells, notably, CMC Nps could enter cells and mainly target the nucleus by interacting with DNA and/or RNA substrates located around the nucleus to disrupt the proliferation and apoptosis processes. The findings suggest CMC may be the novel material for subcellular organelle targeting of cancer cells.
Collapse
|
26
|
Galeb HA, Wilkinson EL, Stowell AF, Lin H, Murphy ST, Martin‐Hirsch PL, Mort RL, Taylor AM, Hardy JG. Melanins as Sustainable Resources for Advanced Biotechnological Applications. GLOBAL CHALLENGES (HOBOKEN, NJ) 2021; 5:2000102. [PMID: 33552556 PMCID: PMC7857133 DOI: 10.1002/gch2.202000102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Melanins are a class of biopolymers that are widespread in nature and have diverse origins, chemical compositions, and functions. Their chemical, electrical, optical, and paramagnetic properties offer opportunities for applications in materials science, particularly for medical and technical uses. This review focuses on the application of analytical techniques to study melanins in multidisciplinary contexts with a view to their use as sustainable resources for advanced biotechnological applications, and how these may facilitate the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanaa A. Galeb
- Department of ChemistryLancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YBUK
- Department of ChemistryScience and Arts CollegeRabigh CampusKing Abdulaziz UniversityJeddah21577Saudi Arabia
| | - Emma L. Wilkinson
- Department of Biomedical and Life SciencesLancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YGUK
| | - Alison F. Stowell
- Department of Organisation, Work and TechnologyLancaster University Management SchoolLancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YXUK
| | - Hungyen Lin
- Department of EngineeringLancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YWUK
| | - Samuel T. Murphy
- Department of EngineeringLancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YWUK
- Materials Science InstituteLancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YBUK
| | - Pierre L. Martin‐Hirsch
- Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS TrustRoyal Preston HospitalSharoe Green LanePrestonPR2 9HTUK
| | - Richard L. Mort
- Department of Biomedical and Life SciencesLancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YGUK
| | - Adam M. Taylor
- Lancaster Medical SchoolLancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YWUK
| | - John G. Hardy
- Department of ChemistryLancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YBUK
- Materials Science InstituteLancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YBUK
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Klug C, Di Silvestro G, Hoffmann R, Schweigert G, Fuchs D, Clements T, Gueriau P. Taphonomic patterns mimic biologic structures: diagenetic Liesegang rings in Mesozoic coleoids and coprolites. PeerJ 2021; 9:e10703. [PMID: 33520466 PMCID: PMC7811783 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Because of physiology of coleoids, their fossils preserve soft-tissue-remains more often than other cephalopods. Sometimes, the phosphatized soft-tissues, particularly parts of the muscular mantle, display dark circular patterns. Here, we showcase that these patterns, here documented for fossil coleoids from the Jurassic of Germany and the Cretaceous of Lebanon, superficially resemble chromatophores (which enable living coleoids to alter their coloration). We examined and chemically analyzed the circular structures in these specimens, describe them, and discuss their genesis. Based on their structure and color, we visually differentiate between three types of circles. By comparison with similar structures, we suggest that these structures are not biogenic but Liesegang rings, which formed due to reaction-diffusion processes very soon after death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Klug
- Paläontologisches Institut und Museum, Universität Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Rene Hoffmann
- Institute of Geology, Mineralogy & Geophysics, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | | | - Dirk Fuchs
- Bayerische Staatssammlung für Paläontologie und Geologie, München, Germany
| | - Thomas Clements
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Pierre Gueriau
- Institute of Earth Sciences (ISTE), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Kawasaki T, Zen H, Ozaki K, Yamada H, Wakamatsu K, Ito S. Application of mid-infrared free-electron laser for structural analysis of biological materials. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2021; 28:28-35. [PMID: 33399549 DOI: 10.1107/s160057752001406x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A mid-infrared free-electron laser (MIR-FEL) is a synchrotron-radiation-based femto- to pico-second pulse laser. It has unique characteristics such as variable wavelengths in the infrared region and an intense pulse energy. So far, MIR-FELs have been utilized to perform multi-photon absorption reactions against various gas molecules and protein aggregates in physical chemistry and biomedical fields. However, the applicability of MIR-FELs for the structural analysis of solid materials is not well recognized in the analytical field. In the current study, an MIR-FEL is applied for the first time to analyse the internal structure of biological materials by using fossilized inks from cephalopods as the model sample. Two kinds of fossilized inks that were collected from different strata were irradiated at the dry state by tuning the oscillation wavelengths of the MIR-FEL to the phosphoryl stretching mode of hydroxyapatite (9.6 µm) and to the carbonyl stretching mode of melanin (5.8 µm), and the subsequent structural changes in those materials were observed by using infrared microscopy and far-infrared spectroscopy. The structural variation of these biological fossils is discussed based on the infrared-absorption spectral changes that were enhanced by the MIR-FEL irradiation, and the potential use of MIR-FELs for the structural evaluation of biomaterials is suggested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takayasu Kawasaki
- IR Free Electron Laser Research Center, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba 278-8510, Japan
| | - Heishun Zen
- Institute of Advanced Energy, Kyoto University, Gokasho, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Kento Ozaki
- Photon Production Laboratory Ltd, 576-1 Anamura-cho, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-0012, Japan
| | - Hironari Yamada
- Photon Production Laboratory Ltd, 576-1 Anamura-cho, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-0012, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Wakamatsu
- Department of Chemistry, Fujita Health University School of Medical Sciences, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan
| | - Shosuke Ito
- Department of Chemistry, Fujita Health University School of Medical Sciences, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Jarenmark M, Sjövall P, Ito S, Wakamatsu K, Lindgren J. Chemical Evaluation of Eumelanin Maturation by ToF-SIMS and Alkaline Peroxide Oxidation HPLC Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010161. [PMID: 33375233 PMCID: PMC7796430 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Residual melanins have been detected in multimillion-year-old animal body fossils; however, confident identification and characterization of these natural pigments remain challenging due to loss of chemical signatures during diagenesis. Here, we simulate this post-burial process through artificial maturation experiments using three synthetic and one natural eumelanin exposed to mild (100 °C/100 bar) and harsh (250 °C/200 bar) environmental conditions, followed by chemical analysis employing alkaline hydrogen peroxide oxidation (AHPO) and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). Our results show that AHPO is sensitive to changes in the melanin molecular structure already during mild heat and pressure treatment (resulting, e.g., in increased C-C cross-linking), whereas harsh maturation leads to extensive loss of eumelanin-specific chemical markers. In contrast, negative-ion ToF-SIMS spectra are considerably less affected by mild maturation conditions, and eumelanin-specific features remain even after harsh treatment. Detailed analysis of ToF-SIMS spectra acquired prior to experimental treatment revealed significant differences between the investigated eumelanins. However, systematic spectral changes upon maturation reduced these dissimilarities, indicating that intense heat and pressure treatment leads to the formation of a common, partially degraded, eumelanin molecular structure. Our findings elucidate the complementary nature of AHPO and ToF-SIMS during chemical characterization of eumelanin traces in fossilized organismal remains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Jarenmark
- Department of Geology, Lund University, 223 62 Lund, Sweden;
- Correspondence: (M.J.); (P.S.)
| | - Peter Sjövall
- The Materials and Production Division, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, 501 15 Borås, Sweden
- Correspondence: (M.J.); (P.S.)
| | - Shosuke Ito
- Institute for Melanin Chemistry, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan; (S.I.); (K.W.)
| | - Kazumasa Wakamatsu
- Institute for Melanin Chemistry, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan; (S.I.); (K.W.)
| | - Johan Lindgren
- Department of Geology, Lund University, 223 62 Lund, Sweden;
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Malo ME, Schultzhaus Z, Frank C, Romsdahl J, Wang Z, Dadachova E. Transcriptomic and genomic changes associated with radioadaptation in Exophiala dermatitidis. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2020; 19:196-205. [PMID: 33425251 PMCID: PMC7772362 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2020.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanized fungi have been isolated from some of the harshest radioactive environments, and their ability to thrive in these locations is in part due to the pigment melanin. Melanin imparts a selective advantage to fungi by providing a physical shield, a chemical shield, and possibly a signaling mechanism. In previous work we demonstrated that protracted exposure of the melanized yeast Exophiala dermatitidis to mixed alpha-, beta-, and gamma-emitting radiation resulted in an adapted strain able to mount a unique response to ionizing radiation in the environment in a melanin-dependent fashion. By exploring the genome and transcriptome of this adapted melanized strain relative to a non-irradiated control we determined the altered response was transcriptomic in nature, as whole genome sequencing revealed limited variation. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that of the adapted isolates analyzed, two lineages existed: one like the naïve, non-adapted strain, and one with a unique transcriptomic signature that exhibited downregulation of metabolic processes, and upregulation of translation-associated genes. Analysis of differential gene expression in the adapted strain showed an overlap in response between the control conditions and reactive oxygen species conditions, whereas exposure to an alpha particle source resulted in a robust downregulation of metabolic processes and upregulation of DNA replication and repair genes, and RNA metabolic processes. This suggest previous exposure to radiation primes the fungus to respond to subsequent exposures in a unique way. By exploring this unique response, we have expanded our knowledge of how melanized fungi interact with and respond to ionizing radiation in their environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie E. Malo
- University of Saskatchewan, College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Zachary Schultzhaus
- Center for Biomolecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Connor Frank
- University of Saskatchewan, College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Jillian Romsdahl
- National Research Council Postdoctoral Research Associate, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Zheng Wang
- Center for Biomolecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ekaterina Dadachova
- University of Saskatchewan, College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, Saskatoon, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Tran-Ly AN, Reyes C, Schwarze FWMR, Ribera J. Microbial production of melanin and its various applications. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 36:170. [PMID: 33043393 PMCID: PMC7548279 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-020-02941-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Melanins are natural biopolymers that are known to contribute to different biological processes and to protect organisms from adverse environmental conditions. During the past decade, melanins have attracted increasing attention for their use in organic semiconductors and bioelectronics, drug delivery, photoprotection and environmental bioremediation. Although considerable advances in these fields have been achieved, real-world applications of melanins are still scarce, probably due to the limited and expensive source of natural melanin. Nevertheless, recent biotechnological advances have allowed for relatively large-scale production of microbial melanins, which could replace current commercial melanin. In this review, we first describe different melanin sources and highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each production method. Our focus is on the microbial synthesis of melanins, including the methodology and mechanism of melanin formation. Applications of microbial melanins are also discussed, and an outlook on how to push the field forward is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anh N Tran-Ly
- Laboratory for Cellulose & Wood Materials, Empa, 9014, St. Gallen, Switzerland.
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering, ETH Zürich, 8093, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Carolina Reyes
- Laboratory for Cellulose & Wood Materials, Empa, 9014, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | | | - Javier Ribera
- Laboratory for Cellulose & Wood Materials, Empa, 9014, St. Gallen, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Ito S, Del Bino S, Hirobe T, Wakamatsu K. Improved HPLC Conditions to Determine Eumelanin and Pheomelanin Contents in Biological Samples Using an Ion Pair Reagent. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21145134. [PMID: 32698502 PMCID: PMC7404343 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Alkaline hydrogen peroxide oxidation (AHPO) of eumelanin and pheomelanin, two major classes of melanin pigments, affords pyrrole-2,3,5-tricarboxylic acid (PTCA), pyrrole-2,3-dicarboxylic acid (PDCA) and pyrrole-2,3,4,5-tetracarboxylic acid (PTeCA) from eumelanin and thiazole-2,4,5-tricarboxylic acid (TTCA) and thiazole-4,5-dicarboxylic acid (TDCA) from pheomelanin. Quantification of these five markers by HPLC provides useful information on the quantity and structural diversity of melanins in various biological samples. HPLC analysis of these markers using the original method of 0.1 M potassium phosphate buffer (pH 2.1):methanol = 99:1 (85:15 for PTeCA) on a reversed-phase column had some problems, including the short lifetime of the column and, except for the major eumelanin marker PTCA, other markers were occasionally overlapped by interfering peaks in samples containing only trace levels of these markers. These problems can be overcome by the addition of an ion pair reagent for anions, such as tetra-n-butylammonium bromide (1 mM), to retard the elution of di-, tri- and tetra-carboxylic acids. The methanol concentration was increased to 17% (30% for PTeCA) and the linearity, reproducibility, and recovery of the markers with this improved method is good to excellent. This improved HPLC method was compared to the original method using synthetic melanins, mouse hair, human hair, and human epidermal samples. In addition to PTCA, TTCA, a major marker for pheomelanin, showed excellent correlations between both HPLC methods. The other markers showed an attenuation of the interfering peaks with the improved method. We recommend this improved HPLC method for the quantitative analysis of melanin markers following AHPO because of its simplicity, accuracy, and reproducibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shosuke Ito
- Department of Chemistry, Fujita Health University School of Medical Sciences, Toyoake 470-1192, Japan
- Correspondence: (S.I.); (K.W.); Tel.: +81-562-93-9849 (S.I. & K.W.); Fax: +81-562-93-4595 (S.I. & K.W.)
| | - Sandra Del Bino
- L’Oreal Research and Innovation, 93600 Aulnay-sous-Bois, France;
| | - Tomohisa Hirobe
- Shinjuku Skin Clinic, 10F Shinjuku M-SQUARE, 3-24-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan;
| | - Kazumasa Wakamatsu
- Department of Chemistry, Fujita Health University School of Medical Sciences, Toyoake 470-1192, Japan
- Correspondence: (S.I.); (K.W.); Tel.: +81-562-93-9849 (S.I. & K.W.); Fax: +81-562-93-4595 (S.I. & K.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Cao W, McCallum NC, Ni QZ, Li W, Boyce H, Mao H, Zhou X, Sun H, Thompson MP, Battistella C, Wasielewski MR, Dhinojwala A, Shawkey MD, Burkart MD, Wang Z, Gianneschi NC. Selenomelanin: An Abiotic Selenium Analogue of Pheomelanin. J Am Chem Soc 2020; 142:12802-12810. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.0c05573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Cao
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Pharmacology, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson-Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Lurie Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
| | - Naneki C. McCallum
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
| | - Qing Zhe Ni
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States of America
| | - Weiyao Li
- Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States of America
| | - Hannah Boyce
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
| | - Haochuan Mao
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
- Institute for Sustainability and Energy, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
| | - Xuhao Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
| | - Hao Sun
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Pharmacology, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson-Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Lurie Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
| | - Matthew P. Thompson
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Pharmacology, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson-Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Lurie Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
| | - Claudia Battistella
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Pharmacology, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson-Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Lurie Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
| | - Michael R. Wasielewski
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
- Institute for Sustainability and Energy, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
| | - Ali Dhinojwala
- Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States of America
| | - Matthew D. Shawkey
- Evolution and Optics of Nanostructures Group, Department of Biology, The University of Ghent, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Michael D. Burkart
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States of America
| | - Zheng Wang
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, US Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, D.C. 20375, United States of America
| | - Nathan C. Gianneschi
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Pharmacology, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson-Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Lurie Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Hierarchical biota-level and taxonomic controls on the chemistry of fossil melanosomes revealed using synchrotron X-ray fluorescence. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8970. [PMID: 32488139 PMCID: PMC7265528 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65868-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Fossil melanosomes, micron-sized granules rich in melanin in vivo, provide key information for investigations of the original coloration, taxonomy and internal anatomy of fossil vertebrates. Such studies rely, in part, on analysis of the inorganic chemistry of preserved melanosomes and an understanding of melanosome chemical taphonomy. The extent to which the preserved chemistry of fossil melanosomes is biased by biotic and abiotic factors is, however, unknown. Here we report the discovery of hierarchical controls on the inorganic chemistry of melanosomes from fossil vertebrates from nine biotas. The chemical data are dominated by a strong biota-level signal, indicating that the primary taphonomic control is the diagenetic history of the host sediment. This extrinsic control is superimposed by a biological, tissue-level control; tissue-specific chemical variation is most likely to survive in fossils where the inorganic chemistry of preserved melanosomes is distinct from that of the host sediment. Comparative analysis of our data for fossil and modern amphibians reveals that most fossil specimens show tissue-specific melanosome chemistries that differ from those of extant analogues, strongly suggesting alteration of original melanosome chemistry. Collectively, these findings form a predictive tool for the identification of fossil deposits with well-preserved melanosomes amenable to studies of fossil colour and anatomy.
Collapse
|
35
|
Ahmad S, Mohammed M, Mekala LP, Chintalapati S, Chintalapati VR. Tryptophan, a non-canonical melanin precursor: New L-tryptophan based melanin production by Rubrivivax benzoatilyticus JA2. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8925. [PMID: 32488041 PMCID: PMC7265499 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65803-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanins are chemically diverse ubiquitous pigments found across the life forms synthesized via different biochemical pathways mainly from L-tyrosine or acetyl CoA. Though few reports suggest the possibility of tryptophan-based melanin synthesis, however, such tryptophan-based melanin and its biosynthesis remained a biochemical riddle. Here we report tryptophan-based melanin production by bacterium, Rubrivivax benzoatilyticus JA2. Aerobic cultures of strain JA2 produced brown pigment when grown on L-tryptophan-containing media. Purified pigment showed typical physico-chemical properties of melanin. Further, extensive spectroscopic studies revealed that pigment is an amorphous, indole-type polymer with stable free radical centers. Further, hydrolysis of the brown pigment revealed the presence of indole moiety, confirming the indolic nature of the pigment. Demonstration of in vitro and in vivo pigment synthesis directly from L-tryptophan or hydroxytryptophan confirms tryptophan-based melanin synthesis in strain JA2. Interestingly, canonical melanin biosynthetic inhibitors did not affect the pigment synthesis indicating possible non-canonical tryptophan-based melanin biosynthesis in strain JA2. Further, the exometabolite profiling and precursor feeding studies suggests that L-tryptophan converted to hydroxytryptophan/hydroxyindoles and their subsequent polymerization lead to the formation of melanin. The current study sheds light on biosynthetic diversity of melanins and L-tryptophan can be a potential precursor for melanin synthesis in life forms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shabbir Ahmad
- Department of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, 500046, India
| | - Mujahid Mohammed
- Department of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, 500046, India.,Department of Botany, Bharathidasan Government College for Women, Puducherry, U.T. - 605003, India
| | - Lakshmi Prasuna Mekala
- Department of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, 500046, India.,Department of Plant Sciences, Avvaiyar Government College for Women, Karaikal, Puducherry, U.T 609602, India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Oh JJ, Kim JY, Kwon SL, Hwang DH, Choi YE, Kim GH. Production and characterization of melanin pigments derived from Amorphotheca resinae. J Microbiol 2020; 58:648-656. [PMID: 32424578 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-020-0054-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
As melanin has emerged as functional pigment with cosmetic, health and food applications, the demand for the pigments is expected to increase. However, the conventional sources (e.g. mushroom, hair, and wool) of melanin production entail pigments inside the substrates which requires the costly extraction procedures, leading to inappropriate scalable production. In this study, we screened 102 of fungal isolates for their ability to produce melanin in the supernatant and selected the only Amorphotheca resinae as a promising candidate. In the peptone yeast extract glucose broth, A. resinae produced the melanin rapidly during the autolysis phase of growth, reaching up 4.5 g/L within 14 days. Structural characterization of the purified melanin from A. resinae was carried out by using elemental analysis, electron paramagnetic resonance, 13C solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in comparison with the standard melanins. The results indicate that the structural properties of A. resinae melanin is similar to the eumelanin which has a wide range of industrial uses. For example, the purified melanin from A. resinae has the potent antioxidant activities as a result of free radical scavenging assays. Consequently, A. resinae KUC3009 can be a promising candidate for scalable production of industrially applicable melanin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Joo Oh
- Division of Environmental Science & Ecological Engineering, College of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jee Young Kim
- Division of Environmental Science & Ecological Engineering, College of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Lul Kwon
- Division of Environmental Science & Ecological Engineering, College of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Hyeok Hwang
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon-E Choi
- Division of Environmental Science & Ecological Engineering, College of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyu-Hyeok Kim
- Division of Environmental Science & Ecological Engineering, College of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Roy A, Pittman M, Saitta ET, Kaye TG, Xu X. Recent advances in amniote palaeocolour reconstruction and a framework for future research. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2020; 95:22-50. [PMID: 31538399 PMCID: PMC7004074 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Preserved melanin pigments have been discovered in fossilised integumentary appendages of several amniote lineages (fishes, frogs, snakes, marine reptiles, non-avialan dinosaurs, birds, and mammals) excavated from lagerstätten across the globe. Melanisation is a leading factor in organic integument preservation in these fossils. Melanin in extant vertebrates is typically stored in rod- to sphere-shaped, lysosome-derived, membrane-bound vesicles called melanosomes. Black, dark brown, and grey colours are produced by eumelanin, and reddish-brown colours are produced by phaeomelanin. Specific morphotypes and nanostructural arrangements of melanosomes and their relation to the keratin matrix in integumentary appendages create the so-called 'structural colours'. Reconstruction of colour patterns in ancient animals has opened an exciting new avenue for studying their life, behaviour and ecology. Modern relationships between the shape, arrangement, and size of avian melanosomes, melanin chemistry, and feather colour have been applied to reconstruct the hues and colour patterns of isolated feathers and plumages of the dinosaurs Anchiornis, Sinosauropteryx, and Microraptor in seminal papers that initiated the field of palaeocolour reconstruction. Since then, further research has identified countershading camouflage patterns, and informed subsequent predictions on the ecology and behaviour of these extinct animals. However, palaeocolour reconstruction remains a nascent field, and current approaches have considerable potential for further refinement, standardisation, and expansion. This includes detailed study of non-melanic pigments that might be preserved in fossilised integuments. A common issue among existing palaeocolour studies is the lack of contextualisation of different lines of evidence and the wide variety of techniques currently employed. To that end, this review focused on fossil amniotes: (i) produces an overarching framework that appropriately reconstructs palaeocolour by accounting for the chemical signatures of various pigments, morphology and local arrangement of pigment-bearing vesicles, pigment concentration, macroscopic colour patterns, and taphonomy; (ii) provides background context for the evolution of colour-producing mechanisms; and (iii) encourages future efforts in palaeocolour reconstructions particularly of less-studied groups such as non-dinosaur archosaurs and non-archosaur amniotes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arindam Roy
- Vertebrate Palaeontology Laboratory, Department of Earth SciencesThe University of Hong KongPokfulamHong Kong SARChina
| | - Michael Pittman
- Vertebrate Palaeontology Laboratory, Department of Earth SciencesThe University of Hong KongPokfulamHong Kong SARChina
| | - Evan T. Saitta
- Integrative Research Center, Section of Earth SciencesField Museum of Natural History1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, ChicagoIL60605U.S.A.
| | - Thomas G. Kaye
- Foundation for Scientific Advancement7023 Alhambra Drive, Sierra VistaAZ85650U.S.A.
| | - Xing Xu
- Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and PaleoanthropologyChinese Academy of Sciences142 Xizhimenwai Street.Beijing100044China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Slater TS, McNamara ME, Orr PJ, Foley TB, Ito S, Wakamatsu K. Taphonomic experiments resolve controls on the preservation of melanosomes and keratinous tissues in feathers. PALAEONTOLOGY 2020; 63:103-115. [PMID: 32025055 PMCID: PMC6988486 DOI: 10.1111/pala.12445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Fossils are a key source of data on the evolution of feather structure and function through deep time, but their ability to resolve macroevolutionary questions is compromised by an incomplete understanding of their taphonomy. Critically, the relative preservation potential of two key feather components, melanosomes and keratinous tissue, is not fully resolved. Recent studies suggesting that melanosomes are preferentially preserved conflict with observations that melanosomes preserve in fossil feathers as external moulds in an organic matrix. To date, there is no model to explain the latter mode of melanosome preservation. We addressed these issues by degrading feathers in systematic taphonomic experiments incorporating decay, maturation and oxidation in isolation and combination. Our results reveal that the production of mouldic melanosomes requires interactions with an oxidant and is most likely to occur prior to substantial maturation. This constrains the taphonomic conditions under which melanosomes are likely to be fossilized. Critically, our experiments also confirm that keratinous feather structures have a higher preservation potential than melanosomes under a range of diagenetic conditions, supporting hitherto controversial hypotheses that fossil feathers can retain degraded keratinous structures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany S. Slater
- School of Biological, Earth & Environmental SciencesUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| | - Maria E. McNamara
- School of Biological, Earth & Environmental SciencesUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| | - Patrick J. Orr
- UCDSchool of Earth SciencesUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Tara B. Foley
- Department of Anatomy & NeuroscienceUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| | - Shosuke Ito
- Department of ChemistryFujita Health University School of Health SciencesToyoakeAichiJapan
| | - Kazumasa Wakamatsu
- Department of ChemistryFujita Health University School of Health SciencesToyoakeAichiJapan
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Affenzeller S, Wolkenstein K, Frauendorf H, Jackson DJ. Eumelanin and pheomelanin pigmentation in mollusc shells may be less common than expected: insights from mass spectrometry. Front Zool 2019; 16:47. [PMID: 31889966 PMCID: PMC6929474 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-019-0346-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The geometric patterns that adorn the shells of many phylogenetically disparate molluscan species are comprised of pigments that span the visible spectrum. Although early chemical studies implicated melanin as a commonly employed pigment, surprisingly little evidence generated with more recent and sensitive techniques exists to support these observations. RESULTS Here we present the first mass spectrometric investigations for the presence of eumelanin and pheomelanin in 13 different molluscan species from three conchiferan classes: Bivalvia, Cephalopoda and Gastropoda. In the bivalve Mytilus edulis we demonstrate that eumelanin mainly occurs in the outermost, non-mineralised and highly pigmented layer of the shell (often referred to as the periostracum). We also identified eumelanin in the shells of the cephalopod Nautilus pompilius and the marine gastropods Clanculus pharaonius and Steromphala adriatica. In the terrestrial gastropod Cepaea nemoralis we verify the presence of pheomelanin in a mollusc shell for the first time. Surprisingly, in a large number of brown/black coloured shells we did not find any evidence for either type of melanin. CONCLUSIONS We recommend methods such as high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometric detection for the analysis of complex biological samples to avoid potential false-positive identification of melanin. Our results imply that many molluscan species employ as yet unidentified pigments to pattern their shells. This has implications for our understanding of how molluscs evolved the ability to pigment and pattern their shells, and for the identification of the molecular mechanisms that regulate these processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Affenzeller
- Department of Geobiology, Georg-August University of Göttingen, Goldschmidtstr. 3, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Klaus Wolkenstein
- Department of Geobiology, Georg-August University of Göttingen, Goldschmidtstr. 3, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Holm Frauendorf
- Institute of Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry, Georg-August University of Göttingen, Tammannstr. 2, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Daniel J. Jackson
- Department of Geobiology, Georg-August University of Göttingen, Goldschmidtstr. 3, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
Introduction: Despite an extensive published literature, skepticism over the claim of original biochemicals including proteins preserved in the fossil record persists and the issue remains controversial. Workers using many different techniques including mass spectrometry, X-ray, electron microscopy and optical spectroscopic techniques, have attempted to verify proteinaceous or other biochemicals that appear endogenous to fossils found throughout the geologic column.Areas covered: This paper presents a review of the relevant literature published over the last 50 years. A comparative survey of the reported techniques used is also given.Expert opinion: Morphological and molecular investigations show that original biochemistry is geologically extensive, geographically global, and taxonomically wide-ranging. The survival of endogenous organics in fossils remains the subject of widespread and increasing research investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Thomas
- Mass Spectrometry Group, Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Stephen Taylor
- Mass Spectrometry Group, Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Pinheiro FL, Prado G, Ito S, Simon JD, Wakamatsu K, Anelli LE, Andrade JAF, Glass K. Chemical characterization of pterosaur melanin challenges color inferences in extinct animals. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15947. [PMID: 31685890 PMCID: PMC6828676 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52318-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanosomes (melanin-bearing organelles) are common in the fossil record occurring as dense packs of globular microbodies. The organic component comprising the melanosome, melanin, is often preserved in fossils, allowing identification of the chemical nature of the constituent pigment. In present-day vertebrates, melanosome morphology correlates with their pigment content in selected melanin-containing structures, and this interdependency is employed in the color reconstruction of extinct animals. The lack of analyses integrating the morphology of fossil melanosomes with the chemical identification of pigments, however, makes these inferences tentative. Here, we chemically characterize the melanin content of the soft tissue headcrest of the pterosaur Tupandactylus imperator by alkaline hydrogen peroxide oxidation followed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Our results demonstrate the unequivocal presence of eumelanin in T. imperator headcrest. Scanning electron microscopy followed by statistical analyses, however, reveal that preserved melanosomes containing eumelanin are undistinguishable to pheomelanin-bearing organelles of extant vertebrates. Based on these new findings, straightforward color inferences based on melanosome morphology may not be valid for all fossil vertebrates, and color reconstructions based on ultrastructure alone should be regarded with caution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felipe L Pinheiro
- Laboratório de Paleobiologia, Universidade Federal do Pampa, São Gabriel, 97300-162, Brazil.
| | - Gustavo Prado
- Instituto de Geociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Shosuke Ito
- Department of Chemistry, Fujita Health University School of Medical Sciences, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
| | | | - Kazumasa Wakamatsu
- Department of Chemistry, Fujita Health University School of Medical Sciences, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
| | - Luiz E Anelli
- Instituto de Geociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José A F Andrade
- Centro de Pesquisas Paleontológicas da Chapada do Araripe, Departamento Nacional de Produção Mineral, 63100-440, Crato, Brazil
| | - Keely Glass
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Martínez LM, Martinez A, Gosset G. Production of Melanins With Recombinant Microorganisms. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2019; 7:285. [PMID: 31709247 PMCID: PMC6821874 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2019.00285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The melanins constitute a diverse group of natural products found in most organisms, having functions related to protection against chemical and physical stresses. These products originate from the enzyme-catalyzed oxidation of phenolic and indolic substrates that polymerize to yield melanins, which include eumelanin, pheomelanin, pyomelanin, and the allomelanins. The enzymes involved in melanin formation belong mainly to the tyrosinase and laccase protein families. The melanins are polymeric materials having applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, optical, and electronic industries. The biotechnological production of these polymers is an attractive alternative to obtaining them by extraction from plant or animal material, where they are present at low concentrations. Several species of microorganisms have been identified as having a natural melanogenic capacity. The development and optimization of culture conditions with these organisms has resulted in processes for generating melanins. These processes are based on the conversion of melanin precursors present in the culture medium to the corresponding polymers. With the application of genetic engineering techniques, it has become possible to overexpress genes encoding enzymes involved in melanin formation, mostly tyrosinases, leading to an improvement in the productivity of melanogenic organisms, as well as allowing the generation of novel recombinant microbial strains that can produce diverse types of melanins. Furthermore, the metabolic engineering of microbial hosts by modifying pathways related to the supply of melanogenic precursors has resulted in strains with the capacity of performing the total synthesis of melanins from simple carbon sources in the scale of grams. In this review, the latest advances toward the generation of recombinant melanin production strains and production processes are summarized and discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luz María Martínez
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Alfredo Martinez
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Guillermo Gosset
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Quantitation of eumelanin and pheomelanin markers in diverse biological samples by HPLC-UV-MS following solid-phase extraction. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0223552. [PMID: 31622353 PMCID: PMC6797180 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0223552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Eumelanin and pheomelanin are well known and common pigments found in nature. However, their complex polymer structure and high thermostability complicate their direct chemical identification. A widely used analytical method is indirect determination using HPLC with UV detection of both types of melanin by their most abundant oxidation products: pyrrole-2,3-dicarboxylic acid (PDCA), pyrrole-2,3,5-tricarboxylic acid (PTCA), thiazole-4,5-dicarboxylic acid (TDCA), and thiazole-2,4,5-tricarboxylic acid (TTCA). An increasing interest in pigmentation in biological research led us to develop a highly sensitive and selective method to identify and quantify these melanin markers in diverse biological samples with complex matrices. By introducing solid-phase extraction (SPE, reversed-phase) following alkaline oxidation we could significantly decrease background signals while maintaining recoveries greater than 70%. Our HPLC-UV-MS method allows for confident peak identification via exact mass information in corresponding UV signals used for quantitation. In addition to synthetic melanin and Sepia officinalis ink as reference compounds eumelanin markers were detected in brown human hair and a brown bivalve shell (Mytilus edulis). Brown feathers from the common chicken (Gallus g. domesticus) yielded all four eumelanin and pheomelanin markers. The present method can be easily adapted for a wide range of future studies on biological samples with unknown melanin content.
Collapse
|
44
|
Pan Y, Hu L, Zhao T. Applications of chemical imaging techniques in paleontology. Natl Sci Rev 2019; 6:1040-1053. [PMID: 34691967 PMCID: PMC8291642 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwy107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemical imaging techniques, based on a combination of microscopy and spectroscopy, are designed to analyse the composition and spatial distribution of heterogeneous chemical complexes within a sample. Over the last few decades, it has become an increasingly popular tool for characterizing trace elements, isotopic information and organic biomarkers (molecular biosignatures) found in fossils. Here, we introduce the analytical principle of each technique and the interpretation of the chemical signals, followed by a review of the main applications of these techniques in paleontology. We also demonstrate that each technique is associated with pros and cons, and the current limitations and obstacles associated with the use of each specific technique should be taken into account before being applied to fossil samples. Finally, we propose that, due to the rapid advances in the available technology and overall trends towards more multi-disciplinary studies in paleontology, chemical imaging techniques can be expected to have broader applications in paleontology in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Pan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Economic Stratigraphy and Palaeogeography, Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology and Center for Excellence in Life and Paleoenvironment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Liang Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Economic Stratigraphy and Palaeogeography, Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology and Center for Excellence in Life and Paleoenvironment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Palaeobiology and Stratigraphy, Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology and Center for Excellence in Life and Paleoenvironment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Tian Z, Hwang W, Kim YJ. Mechanistic understanding of monovalent cation transport in eumelanin pigments. J Mater Chem B 2019; 7:6355-6361. [PMID: 31465076 DOI: 10.1039/c9tb01211g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Recent research advances in charge-conducting materials have enabled the transformation of the naturally-occurring materials into crucial components in many technologies, including renewable energy storage devices or bioelectronics. Among various candidates, eumelanins are promising charge storage materials, exhibiting hybrid electronic ionic conductivity in a hydrated environment. The chemical and electrochemical properties of eumelanins are relatively well studied; however, the structure-property relationship is still elusive up to date. Herein, we reported the mesoscale structure of eumelanins and its impact on the charge transport. X-ray scattering suggests that eumelanin pigments exhibit the semi-crystalline structure with ordered d-spacings. These unique mesoscale structures further influence the charge transport mechanism with the cations of various sizes. Understanding the structures with consequent electrochemical properties suggest that eumelanins can further be tuned to serve as high-performance naturally-occurring charge storage materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Tian
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA.
| | - Wonseok Hwang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD 20740, USA
| | - Young Jo Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Tissue-specific geometry and chemistry of modern and fossilized melanosomes reveal internal anatomy of extinct vertebrates. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:17880-17889. [PMID: 31427524 PMCID: PMC6731645 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1820285116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent reports of nonintegumentary melanosomes in fossils hint at functions for melanin beyond color production, but the biology and evolution of internal melanins are poorly understood. Our results show that internal melanosomes are widespread in diverse fossil and modern vertebrates and have tissue-specific geometries and metal chemistries. Tissue-specific chemical signatures can persist in fossils despite some diagenetic overprint, allowing the reconstruction of internal soft-tissue anatomy in fossil vertebrates, and suggest that links between melanin and metal regulation have deep evolutionary origins in vertebrates. Recent discoveries of nonintegumentary melanosomes in extant and fossil amphibians offer potential insights into the physiological functions of melanin not directly related to color production, but the phylogenetic distribution and evolutionary history of these internal melanosomes has not been characterized systematically. Here, we present a holistic method to discriminate among melanized tissues by analyzing the anatomical distribution, morphology, and chemistry of melanosomes in various tissues in a phylogenetically broad sample of extant and fossil vertebrates. Our results show that internal melanosomes in all extant vertebrates analyzed have tissue-specific geometries and elemental signatures. Similar distinct populations of preserved melanosomes in phylogenetically diverse vertebrate fossils often map onto specific anatomical features. This approach also reveals the presence of various melanosome-rich internal tissues in fossils, providing a mechanism for the interpretation of the internal anatomy of ancient vertebrates. Collectively, these data indicate that vertebrate melanins share fundamental physiological roles in homeostasis via the scavenging and sequestering of metals and suggest that intimate links between melanin and metal metabolism in vertebrates have deep evolutionary origins.
Collapse
|
47
|
Lindgren J, Nilsson DE, Sjövall P, Jarenmark M, Ito S, Wakamatsu K, Kear BP, Schultz BP, Sylvestersen RL, Madsen H, LaFountain JR, Alwmark C, Eriksson ME, Hall SA, Lindgren P, Rodríguez-Meizoso I, Ahlberg P. Fossil insect eyes shed light on trilobite optics and the arthropod pigment screen. Nature 2019; 573:122-125. [PMID: 31413368 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1473-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Fossilized eyes permit inferences of the visual capacity of extinct arthropods1-3. However, structural and/or chemical modifications as a result of taphonomic and diagenetic processes can alter the original features, thereby necessitating comparisons with modern species. Here we report the detailed molecular composition and microanatomy of the eyes of 54-million-year-old crane-flies, which together provide a proxy for the interpretation of optical systems in some other ancient arthropods. These well-preserved visual organs comprise calcified corneal lenses that are separated by intervening spaces containing eumelanin pigment. We also show that eumelanin is present in the facet walls of living crane-flies, in which it forms the outermost ommatidial pigment shield in compound eyes incorporating a chitinous cornea. To our knowledge, this is the first record of melanic screening pigments in arthropods, and reveals a fossilization mode in insect eyes that involves a decay-resistant biochrome coupled with early diagenetic mineralization of the ommatidial lenses. The demonstrable secondary calcification of lens cuticle that was initially chitinous has implications for the proposed calcitic corneas of trilobites, which we posit are artefacts of preservation rather than a product of in vivo biomineralization4-7. Although trilobite eyes might have been partly mineralized for mechanical strength, a (more likely) organic composition would have enhanced function via gradient-index optics and increased control of lens shape.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peter Sjövall
- Chemistry and Materials, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Borås, Sweden
| | | | - Shosuke Ito
- Department of Chemistry, Fujita Health University School of Health Sciences, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Wakamatsu
- Department of Chemistry, Fujita Health University School of Health Sciences, Toyoake, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | - James R LaFountain
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Carl Alwmark
- Department of Geology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Stephen A Hall
- Department of Construction Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | | | - Per Ahlberg
- Department of Geology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Pralea IE, Moldovan RC, Petrache AM, Ilieș M, Hegheș SC, Ielciu I, Nicoară R, Moldovan M, Ene M, Radu M, Uifălean A, Iuga CA. From Extraction to Advanced Analytical Methods: The Challenges of Melanin Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E3943. [PMID: 31412656 PMCID: PMC6719904 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20163943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The generic term "melanin" describes a black pigment of biological origin, although some melanins can be brown or even yellow. The pigment is characterized as a heterogenic polymer of phenolic or indolic nature, and the classification of eu-, pheo- and allo- melanin is broadly accepted. This classification is based on the chemical composition of the monomer subunit structure of the pigment. Due to the high heterogeneity of melanins, their analytical characterization can be a challenging task. In the present work, we synthesized the current information about the analytical methods which can be applied in melanin analysis workflow, from extraction and purification to high-throughput methods, such as matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass-spectrometry or pyrolysis gas chromatography. Our thorough comparative evaluation of analytical data published so far on melanin analysis has proven to be a difficult task in terms of finding equivalent results, even when the same matrix was used. Moreover, we emphasize the importance of prior knowledge of melanin types and properties in order to select a valid experimental design using analytical methods that are able to deliver reliable results and draw consistent conclusions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioana-Ecaterina Pralea
- MedFuture - Research Center for Advanced Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Louis Pasteur Street 4-6, Gh. Marinescu Street 23, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Radu-Cristian Moldovan
- MedFuture - Research Center for Advanced Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Louis Pasteur Street 4-6, Gh. Marinescu Street 23, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alina-Maria Petrache
- MedFuture - Research Center for Advanced Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Louis Pasteur Street 4-6, Gh. Marinescu Street 23, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Maria Ilieș
- MedFuture - Research Center for Advanced Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Louis Pasteur Street 4-6, Gh. Marinescu Street 23, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Simona-Codruța Hegheș
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Louis Pasteur Street 6, 400349Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Irina Ielciu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Louis Pasteur Street 6, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Raul Nicoară
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Louis Pasteur Street 6, 400349Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mirela Moldovan
- Department of Dermopharmacy and Cosmetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ion Creangă Street 12, 400010 Cluj-Napoca, , Romania
| | - Mihaela Ene
- Horia Hulubei National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering, Reactorului Street 30, 077125 Măgurele, Romania
| | - Mihai Radu
- Horia Hulubei National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering, Reactorului Street 30, 077125 Măgurele, Romania
| | - Alina Uifălean
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Louis Pasteur Street 6, 400349Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Cristina-Adela Iuga
- MedFuture - Research Center for Advanced Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Louis Pasteur Street 4-6, Gh. Marinescu Street 23, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Louis Pasteur Street 6, 400349Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Schweitzer MH, Schroeter ER, Cleland TP, Zheng W. Paleoproteomics of Mesozoic Dinosaurs and Other Mesozoic Fossils. Proteomics 2019; 19:e1800251. [PMID: 31172628 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201800251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Molecular studies have contributed greatly to our understanding of evolutionary processes that act upon virtually every aspect of living organisms. However, these studies are limited with regard to extinct organisms, particularly those from the Mesozoic because fossils pose unique challenges to molecular workflows, and because prevailing wisdom suggests no endogenous molecular components can persist into deep time. Here, the power and potential of a molecular approach to Mesozoic fossils is discussed. Molecular methods that have been applied to Mesozoic fossils-including iconic, non-avian dinosaurs- and the challenges inherent in such analyses, are compared and evaluated. Taphonomic processes resulting in the transition of living organisms from the biosphere into the fossil record are reviewed, and the possible effects of taphonomic alteration on downstream analyses that can be problematic for very old material (e.g., molecular modifications, limitations of on comparative databases) are addressed. Molecular studies applied to ancient remains are placed in historical context, and past and current studies are evaluated with respect to producing phylogenetically and/or evolutionarily significant data. Finally, some criteria for assessing the presence of endogenous biomolecules in very ancient fossil remains are suggested as a starting framework for such studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Higby Schweitzer
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, 27695, NC.,North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh, NC.,Museum of the Rockies, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT.,Department of Geology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 12, SE-223 62, Lund, Sweden
| | - Elena R Schroeter
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, 27695, NC
| | - Timothy P Cleland
- Museum Conservation Institute, Smithsonian Institution, Suitland, 20746, MD
| | - Wenxia Zheng
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, 27695, NC
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Xiao M, Chen W, Li W, Zhao J, Hong YL, Nishiyama Y, Miyoshi T, Shawkey MD, Dhinojwala A. Elucidation of the hierarchical structure of natural eumelanins. J R Soc Interface 2019. [PMID: 29514988 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2018.0045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Eumelanin is one of the most ubiquitous pigments in living organisms and plays an important role in coloration and UV protection. Because eumelanin is highly cross-linked and insoluble in solvents, the chemical structure is still not completely known. In this study, we used atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to compare intact eumelanosomes (pigment granules mostly made of eumelanin) from four phylogentically distant species: cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) inks, black fish crow (Corvus ossifragus) feathers, iridescent wild turkey (Melleagris gallopavo) feathers and black human hair. We found that eumelanosomes from all four species are composed of subunit nanoparticles with a length of 10-60 nm, consistent with earlier observations in eumelanosomes from the sepia ink and human hair. The solid-state NMR results indicate the presence of quinone methide tautomers in all four eumelanins. We also found clear differences in the UV absorbance, the ratio of 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid/5,6-dihydroxyindole and protonated aryl carbon ratios in sepia eumelanin relative to the other three. This comparison of natural eumelanin across a phylogenetically broad group of organisms provides insights into the change in the eumelanin structure over the evolutionary history and enables the production of synthetic eumelanin with properties that are similar to natural eumelanin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Xiao
- Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
| | - Wei Chen
- State Key Lab of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse Study, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiyao Li
- Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
| | - Jiuzhou Zhao
- Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
| | - You-Lee Hong
- Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA.,RIKEN CLST-JEOL Collaboration Center, RIKEN, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Yusuke Nishiyama
- RIKEN CLST-JEOL Collaboration Center, RIKEN, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan.,JEOL RESONANCE Inc., Tokyo 196-8558, Japan
| | - Toshikazu Miyoshi
- Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
| | - Matthew D Shawkey
- Evolution and Optics of Nanostructures Group, Department of Biology, University of Ghent, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Ali Dhinojwala
- Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
| |
Collapse
|