1
|
Shen M, Huang Y, Cai Z, Cherny VV, DeCoursey TE, Shen J. Interior pH-sensing residue of human voltage-gated proton channel H v1 is histidine 168. Biophys J 2024:S0006-3495(24)00486-7. [PMID: 39054673 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms governing the human voltage-gated proton channel hHv1 remain elusive. Here, we used membrane-enabled hybrid-solvent continuous constant pH molecular dynamics (CpHMD) simulations with pH replica exchange to further evaluate the structural models of hHv1 in the closed (hyperpolarized) and open (depolarized) states recently obtained with MD simulations and explore potential pH-sensing residues. The CpHMD titration at a set of symmetric pH conditions revealed three residues that can gain or lose protons upon channel depolarization. Among them, residue H168 at the intracellular end of the S3 helix switches from the deprotonated to the protonated state and its protonation is correlated with the increased tilting of the S3 helix during the transition from the closed to the open state. Thus, the simulation data suggest H168 as an interior pH sensor, in support of a recent finding based on electrophysiological experiments of Hv1 mutants. We propose that protonation of H168 acts as a key that unlocks the closed channel configuration by increasing the flexibility of the S2-S3 linker, which increases the tilt angle of S3 and enhances the mobility of the S4 helix, thus promoting channel opening. Our work represents an important step toward deciphering the pH-dependent gating mechanism of hHv1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhe Shen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yandong Huang
- College of Computer Engineering, Jimei University, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China.
| | - Zhitao Cai
- College of Computer Engineering, Jimei University, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
| | - Vladimir V Cherny
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Thomas E DeCoursey
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jana Shen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, Maryland.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
DeCoursey TE. Transcendent Aspects of Proton Channels. Annu Rev Physiol 2024; 86:357-377. [PMID: 37931166 PMCID: PMC10938948 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-physiol-042222-023242] [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] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
A handful of biological proton-selective ion channels exist. Some open at positive or negative membrane potentials, others open at low or high pH, and some are light activated. This review focuses on common features that result from the unique properties of protons. Proton conduction through water or proteins differs qualitatively from that of all other ions. Extraordinary proton selectivity is needed to ensure that protons permeate and other ions do not. Proton selectivity arises from a proton pathway comprising a hydrogen-bonded chain that typically includes at least one titratable amino acid side chain. The enormously diverse functions of proton channels in disparate regions of the phylogenetic tree can be summarized by considering the chemical and electrical consequences of proton flux across membranes. This review discusses examples of cells in which proton efflux serves to increase pHi, decrease pHo, control the membrane potential, generate action potentials, or compensate transmembrane movement of electrical charge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E DeCoursey
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kariev AM, Green ME. Water, Protons, and the Gating of Voltage-Gated Potassium Channels. MEMBRANES 2024; 14:37. [PMID: 38392664 PMCID: PMC10890431 DOI: 10.3390/membranes14020037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Ion channels are ubiquitous throughout all forms of life. Potassium channels are even found in viruses. Every cell must communicate with its surroundings, so all cells have them, and excitable cells, in particular, especially nerve cells, depend on the behavior of these channels. Every channel must be open at the appropriate time, and only then, so that each channel opens in response to the stimulus that tells that channel to open. One set of channels, including those in nerve cells, responds to voltage. There is a standard model for the gating of these channels that has a section of the protein moving in response to the voltage. However, there is evidence that protons are moving, rather than protein. Water is critical as part of the gating process, although it is hard to see how this works in the standard model. Here, we review the extensive evidence of the importance of the role of water and protons in gating these channels. Our principal example, but by no means the only example, will be the Kv1.2 channel. Evidence comes from the effects of D2O, from mutations in the voltage sensing domain, as well as in the linker between that domain and the gate, and at the gate itself. There is additional evidence from computations, especially quantum calculations. Structural evidence comes from X-ray studies. The hydration of ions is critical in the transfer of ions in constricted spaces, such as the gate region and the pore of a channel; we will see how the structure of the hydrated ion fits with the structure of the channel. In addition, there is macroscopic evidence from osmotic experiments and streaming current measurements. The combined evidence is discussed in the context of a model that emphasizes the role of protons and water in gating these channels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alisher M Kariev
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The City College of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA
| | - Michael E Green
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The City College of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fernández M, Alvear-Arias JJ, Carmona EM, Carrillo C, Pena-Pichicoi A, Hernandez-Ochoa EO, Neely A, Alvarez O, Latorre R, Garate JA, Gonzalez C. Trapping Charge Mechanism in Hv1 Channels ( CiHv1). Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:426. [PMID: 38203601 PMCID: PMC10779229 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010426] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The majority of voltage-gated ion channels contain a defined voltage-sensing domain and a pore domain composed of highly conserved amino acid residues that confer electrical excitability via electromechanical coupling. In this sense, the voltage-gated proton channel (Hv1) is a unique protein in that voltage-sensing, proton permeation and pH-dependent modulation involve the same structural region. In fact, these processes synergistically work in concert, and it is difficult to separate them. To investigate the process of Hv1 voltage sensor trapping, we follow voltage-sensor movements directly by leveraging mutations that enable the measurement of Hv1 channel gating currents. We uncover that the process of voltage sensor displacement is due to two driving forces. The first reveals that mutations in the selectivity filter (D160) located in the S1 transmembrane interact with the voltage sensor. More hydrophobic amino acids increase the energy barrier for voltage sensor activation. On the other hand, the effect of positive charges near position 264 promotes the formation of salt bridges between the arginines of the voltage sensor domain, achieving a stable conformation over time. Our results suggest that the activation of the Hv1 voltage sensor is governed by electrostatic-hydrophobic interactions, and S4 arginines, N264 and selectivity filter (D160) are essential in the Ciona-Hv1 to understand the trapping of the voltage sensor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Fernández
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
| | - Juan J. Alvear-Arias
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
| | - Emerson M. Carmona
- Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA;
| | - Christian Carrillo
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
| | - Antonio Pena-Pichicoi
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
| | - Erick O. Hernandez-Ochoa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
| | - Alan Neely
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
| | - Osvaldo Alvarez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
| | - Ramon Latorre
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
| | - Jose A. Garate
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Arquitectura y Diseño, Universidad San Sebastian, Santiago 7780272, Chile
| | - Carlos Gonzalez
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lazaridis T. Proton Paths in Models of the Hv1 Proton Channel. J Phys Chem B 2023; 127:7937-7945. [PMID: 37695850 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c03960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
The voltage-gated proton channel (Hv1) plays an essential role in numerous biological processes, but a detailed molecular understanding of its function is lacking. The lack of reliable structures for the open and resting states is a major handicap. Several models have been built based on homologous voltage sensors and the structure of a chimera between the mouse homologue and a phosphatase voltage sensor, but their validity is uncertain. In addition, differing views exist regarding the mode of proton translocation, the role of specific residues, and the mechanism of pH effects on voltage gating. Here we use classical proton hopping simulations under a voltage biasing force to evaluate some of the proposed structural models and explore the mechanism of proton conduction. Paradoxically, some models proposed for the closed state allow for proton permeation more easily than models for the open state. An open state model with a D112-R211 salt bridge (R3D) allows proton transport more easily than models with a D112-R208 salt bridge (R2D). However, its permeation rate seems too high, considering experimental conductances. In all cases, the proton permeates through a water wire, bypassing the salt-bridged D112 rather than being shuttled by D112. Attempts to protonate D112 are rejected due to its strong interaction with an arginine. Consistent with proton selectivity, no Na+ permeation was observed in the R2D models. As a negative control, simulations with the Kv1.2-Kv2.1 paddle-chimera voltage sensor, which is not expected to conduct protons, did not show proton permeation under the same conditions. Hydrogen bond connectivity graphs show a constriction at D112, but cannot discriminate between open and closed states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Themis Lazaridis
- Department of Chemistry, City College of New York/CUNY, 160 Convent Avenue, New York, New York 10031, United States
- Graduate Programs in Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Physics, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10016, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Boytsov D, Brescia S, Chaves G, Koefler S, Hannesschlaeger C, Siligan C, Goessweiner-Mohr N, Musset B, Pohl P. Trapped Pore Waters in the Open Proton Channel H V 1. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2205968. [PMID: 36683221 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202205968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The voltage-gated proton channel, HV 1, is crucial for innate immune responses. According to alternative hypotheses, protons either hop on top of an uninterrupted water wire or bypass titratable amino acids, interrupting the water wire halfway across the membrane. To distinguish between both hypotheses, the water mobility for the putative case of an uninterrupted wire is estimated. The predicted single-channel water permeability 2.3 × 10-12 cm3 s-1 reflects the permeability-governing number of hydrogen bonds between water molecules in single-file configuration and pore residues. However, the measured unitary water permeability does not confirm the predicted value. Osmotic deflation of reconstituted lipid vesicles reveals negligible water permeability of the HV 1 wild-type channel and the D174A mutant open at 0 mV. The conductance of 1400 H+ s-1 per wild-type channel agrees with the calculated diffusion limit for a ≈2 Å capture radius for protons. Removal of a charged amino acid (D174) at the pore mouth decreases H+ conductance by reducing the capture radius. At least one intervening amino acid contributes to H+ conductance while interrupting the water wire across the membrane.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danila Boytsov
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, 40, Gruberstr, Austria
| | - Stefania Brescia
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, 40, Gruberstr, Austria
| | - Gustavo Chaves
- Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, CPPB, Paracelsus Medical University, 90419, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Sabina Koefler
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, 40, Gruberstr, Austria
| | | | - Christine Siligan
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, 40, Gruberstr, Austria
| | | | - Boris Musset
- Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, CPPB, Paracelsus Medical University, 90419, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Peter Pohl
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, 40, Gruberstr, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Alvear-Arias JJ, Pena-Pichicoi A, Carrillo C, Fernandez M, Gonzalez T, Garate JA, Gonzalez C. Role of voltage-gated proton channel (Hv1) in cancer biology. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1175702. [PMID: 37153807 PMCID: PMC10157179 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1175702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The acid-base characteristics of tumor cells and the other elements that compose the tumor microenvironment have been topics of scientific interest in oncological research. There is much evidence confirming that pH conditions are maintained by changes in the patterns of expression of certain proton transporters. In the past decade, the voltage-gated proton channel (Hv1) has been added to this list and is increasingly being recognized as a target with onco-therapeutic potential. The Hv1 channel is key to proton extrusion for maintaining a balanced cytosolic pH. This protein-channel is expressed in a myriad of tissues and cell lineages whose functions vary from producing bioluminescence in dinoflagellates to alkalizing spermatozoa cytoplasm for reproduction, and regulating the respiratory burst for immune system response. It is no wonder that in acidic environments such as the tumor microenvironment, an exacerbated expression and function of this channel has been reported. Indeed, multiple studies have revealed a strong relationship between pH balance, cancer development, and the overexpression of the Hv1 channel, being proposed as a marker for malignancy in cancer. In this review, we present data that supports the idea that the Hv1 channel plays a significant role in cancer by maintaining pH conditions that favor the development of malignancy features in solid tumor models. With the antecedents presented in this bibliographic report, we want to strengthen the idea that the Hv1 proton channel is an excellent therapeutic strategy to counter the development of solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan J. Alvear-Arias
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Antonio Pena-Pichicoi
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Christian Carrillo
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Miguel Fernandez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Tania Gonzalez
- National Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Jose A. Garate
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Tecnología, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
- Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Excelencia Ciencia y Vida, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carlos Gonzalez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
- *Correspondence: Carlos Gonzalez,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Koishi A, Lee SS, Fenter P, Fernandez-Martinez A, Bourg IC. Water Adsorption on Mica Surfaces with Hydrophilicity Tuned by Counterion Types (Na, K, and Cs) and Structural Fluorination. THE JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY. C, NANOMATERIALS AND INTERFACES 2022; 126:16447-16460. [PMID: 37881644 PMCID: PMC10597534 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.2c04751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
The stability of adsorbed water films on mineral surfaces has far-reaching implications in the Earth, environmental, and materials sciences. Here, we use the basal plane of phlogopite mica, an atomically smooth surface of a natural mineral, to investigate water film structure and stability as a function of two features that modulate surface hydrophilicity: the type of adsorbed counterions (Na, K, and Cs) and the substitution of structural OH groups by F atoms. We use molecular dynamics simulations combined with in situ high-resolution X-ray reflectivity to examine surface hydration over a range of water loadings, from the adsorption of isolated water molecules to the formation of clusters and films. We identify four regimes characterized by distinct adsorption energetics and different sensitivities to cation type and mineral fluorination: from 0 to 0.5 monolayer film thickness, the hydration of adsorbed ions; from 0.5 to 1 monolayer, the hydration of uncharged regions of the siloxane surface; from 1 to 1.5 monolayer, the attachment of isolated water molecules on the surface of the first monolayer; and for >1.5 monolayer, the formation of an incipient electrical double layer at the mineral-water interface.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi Koishi
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, United States
| | - Sang Soo Lee
- Chemical
Sciences and Engineering Division, Argonne
National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, Illinois 60439, United
States
| | - Paul Fenter
- Chemical
Sciences and Engineering Division, Argonne
National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Lemont, Illinois 60439, United
States
| | | | - Ian C. Bourg
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, United States
- High
Meadows Environmental Institute, Princeton
University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Llanos MA, Ventura C, Martín P, Enrique N, Felice JI, Gavernet L, Milesi V. Novel Dimeric hHv1 Model and Structural Bioinformatic Analysis Reveal an ATP-Binding Site Resulting in a Channel Activating Effect. J Chem Inf Model 2022; 62:3200-3212. [PMID: 35758884 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.1c01396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The human voltage-gated proton channel (hHv1) is a highly selective ion channel codified by the HVCN1 gene. It plays a fundamental role in several physiological processes such as innate and adaptive immunity, insulin secretion, and sperm capacitation. Moreover, in humans, a higher hHv1 expression/function has been reported in several types of cancer cells. Here we report a multitemplate homology model of the hHv1 channel, built and refined as a dimer in Rosetta. The model was then subjected to extensive Gaussian accelerated molecular dynamics (GaMD) for enhanced conformational sampling, and representative snapshots were extracted by clustering analysis. Combining different structure- and sequence-based methodologies, we predicted a putative ATP-binding site located on the intracellular portion of the channel. Furthermore, GaMD simulations of the ATP-bound dimeric hHv1 model showed that ATP interacts with a cluster of positively charged residues from the cytoplasmic N and C terminal segments. According to the in silico predictions, we found that 3 mM intracellular ATP significantly increases the H+ current mediated by the hHv1 channel expressed in HEK293 cells and measured by the patch-clamp technique in an inside-out configuration (2.86 ± 0.63 fold over control at +40 mV). When ATP was added on the extracellular side, it was not able to activate the channel supporting the idea that the ATP-binding site resides in the intracellular face of the hHV1 channel. In a physiological and pathophysiological context, this ATP-mediated modulation could integrate the cell metabolic state with the H+ efflux, especially in cells where hHv1 channels are relevant for pH regulation, such as pancreatic β-cells, immune cells, and cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel A Llanos
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas and Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Fac. de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. La Plata B1900ADU, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Clara Ventura
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos (IIFP), UNLP, CONICET, asociado CIC PBA, La Plata B1900BJW, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pedro Martín
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos (IIFP), UNLP, CONICET, asociado CIC PBA, La Plata B1900BJW, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nicolás Enrique
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos (IIFP), UNLP, CONICET, asociado CIC PBA, La Plata B1900BJW, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan I Felice
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos (IIFP), UNLP, CONICET, asociado CIC PBA, La Plata B1900BJW, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luciana Gavernet
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas and Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Fac. de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. La Plata B1900ADU, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Verónica Milesi
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos (IIFP), UNLP, CONICET, asociado CIC PBA, La Plata B1900BJW, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jardin C, Ohlwein N, Franzen A, Chaves G, Musset B. The pH-dependent gating of the human voltage-gated proton channel from computational simulations. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2022; 24:9964-9977. [PMID: 35445675 DOI: 10.1039/d1cp05609c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Gating of the voltage-gated proton channel HV1 is strongly controlled by pH. There is evidence that this involves the sidechains of titratable amino acids that change their protonation state with changes of the pH. Despite experimental investigations to identify the amino acids involved in pH sensing only few progress has been made, including one histidine at the cytoplasmic side of the channel that is involved in sensing cellular pH. We have used constant pH molecular dynamics simulations in symmetrical and asymmetrical pH conditions across the membrane to investigate the pH- and ΔpH-dependent gating of the human HV1 channel. Therefore, the pKa of every titratable amino acids has been assessed in single simulations. Our simulations captured initial conformational changes between a deactivated and an activated state of the channel induced solely by changes of the pH. The pH-dependent gating is accompanied by an outward displacement of the three S4 voltage sensing arginines that moves the second arginine past the hydrophobic gasket (HG) which separates the inner and outer pores of the channel. HV1 activation, when outer pH increases, involves amino acids at the extracellular entrance of the channel that extend the network of interactions from the external solution down to the HG. Whereas, amino acids at the cytoplasmic entrance of the channel are involved in activation, when inner pH decreases, and in a network of interactions that extend from the cytoplasm up to the HG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Jardin
- Klinikum Nürnberg Medical School, CPPB, Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Nuremberg, Germany.
| | - Niklas Ohlwein
- Klinikum Nürnberg Medical School, CPPB, Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Nuremberg, Germany. .,Klinik für Anästhesiologie und operative Intensivmedizin, Universitätklinik der Paracelsus Medizinischen Privatuniversität, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Arne Franzen
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Molecular and Cellular Physiology (IBI-1), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Gustavo Chaves
- Klinikum Nürnberg Medical School, CPPB, Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Nuremberg, Germany.
| | - Boris Musset
- Klinikum Nürnberg Medical School, CPPB, Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Nuremberg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gating Mechanism of the Voltage-Gated Proton Channel Studied by Molecular Dynamics Simulations. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27072277. [PMID: 35408673 PMCID: PMC9000549 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27072277] [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: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The voltage-gated proton channel Hv1 has important roles in proton extrusion, pH homeostasis, sperm motility, and cancer progression. The Hv1 channel has also been found to be highly expressed in cell lines and tissue samples from patients with breast cancer. A high-resolution closed-state structure has been reported for the mouse Hv1 chimera channel (mHv1cc), solved by X-ray crystallography, but the open-state structure of Hv1 has not been solved. Since Hv1 is a promising drug target, various groups have proposed open conformations by molecular modeling and simulation studies. However, the gating mechanism and the open-state conformation under the membrane potential are still debate. Here, we present a molecular dynamics study considering membrane potential and pH conditions. The closed-state structure of mHv1cc was used to run molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with respect to electric field and pH conditions in order to investigate the mechanism of proton transfer. We observed a continuous hydrogen bond chain of water molecules called a water-wire to be formed through the channel pore in the channel opening, triggered by downward displacement of the S2 helix and upward movement of the S4 helix relative to other helices. Due to the movement of the S2 and S4 helices, the internal salt bridge network was rearranged, and the hydrophobic gating layers were destroyed. In line with previous experimental and simulation observations, our simulation results led us to propose a new gating mechanism for the Hv1 proton channel, and may provide valuable information for novel drug discovery.
Collapse
|
12
|
Inhibiting Hv1 channel in peripheral sensory neurons attenuates chronic inflammatory pain and opioid side effects. Cell Res 2022; 32:461-476. [PMID: 35115667 PMCID: PMC9061814 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-022-00616-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Both opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) produce deleterious side effects and fail to provide sustained relief in patients with chronic inflammatory pain. Peripheral neuroinflammation (PN) is critical for initiation and development of inflammatory pain. A better understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying PN would facilitate the discovery of new analgesic targets and the development of new therapeutics. Emerging evidence suggests that peripheral sensory neurons are not only responders to painful stimuli, but are also actively engaged in inflammation and immunity, whereas the intrinsic regulatory mechanism is poorly understood. Here we report the expression of proton-selective ion channel Hv1 in peripheral sensory neurons in rodents and humans, which was previously shown as selectively expressed in microglia in mammalian central nervous system. Neuronal Hv1 was up-regulated by PN or depolarizing stimulation, which in turn aggravates inflammation and nociception. Inhibiting neuronal Hv1 genetically or by a newly discovered selective inhibitor YHV98-4 reduced intracellular alkalization and ROS production in inflammatory pain, mitigated the imbalance in downstream SHP-1-pAKT signaling, and also diminished pro-inflammatory chemokine release to alleviate nociception and morphine-induced hyperalgesia and tolerance. Thus, our data reveal neuronal Hv1 as a novel target in analgesia strategy and managing opioids-related side effects.
Collapse
|
13
|
Sokolov VS, Cherny VV, Ayuyan AG, DeCoursey TE. Analysis of an electrostatic mechanism for ΔpH dependent gating of the voltage-gated proton channel, H V1, supports a contribution of protons to gating charge. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOENERGETICS 2021; 1862:148480. [PMID: 34363792 PMCID: PMC8432343 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2021.148480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-gated proton channels (HV1) resemble the voltage-sensing domain of other voltage-gated ion channels, but differ in containing the conduction pathway. Essential to the functions of HV1 channels in many cells and species is a unique feature called ΔpH dependent gating. The pH on both sides of the membrane strictly regulates the voltage range of channel opening, generally resulting in exclusively outward proton current. Two types of mechanisms could produce ΔpH dependent gating. The "countercharge" mechanism proposes that protons destabilize salt bridges between amino acids in the protein that stabilize specific gating configurations (closed or open). An "electrostatic" mechanism proposes that protons bound to the channel alter the electrical field sensed by the protein. Obligatory proton binding within the membrane electrical field would contribute to measured gating charge. Estimations on the basis of the electrostatic model explain ΔpH dependent gating, but quantitative modeling requires calculations of the electric field inside the protein which, in turn, requires knowledge of its structure. We conclude that both mechanisms operate and contribute to ΔpH dependent gating of HV1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valerij S Sokolov
- Frumkin Institute of Physical Chemistry and Electrochemistry of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119071, Russia
| | - Vladimir V Cherny
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Artem G Ayuyan
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Thomas E DeCoursey
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Boonamnaj P, Pandey RB, Sompornpisut P. Interaction fingerprint of transmembrane segments in voltage sensor domains. Biophys Chem 2021; 277:106649. [PMID: 34147849 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2021.106649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Voltage sensor domain (VSD) in channel and non-channel membrane proteins shares a common function in the detection of changes in the transmembrane electric potential. The VSD is made of four helical transmembrane segments (S1-S4) that form a structurally conserved scaffold through inter-transmembrane residue-residue interactions. Details about these interactions are yet to be fully understood in the context of the unique structural and physical characteristics of the voltage sensor unit. In this study, molecular dynamics simulations were carried out to investigate transmembrane helix-helix interactions via residue-based nonbonding energies using the activated and resting state conformations of VSD from Hv1, CiVSP, KvAP and NavAb. Inter-transmembrane interaction energies within the VSD were determined. Analysis of electrostatic and van der Waals components revealed the strengths and weaknesses of the interactions between each pair of transmembrane segments. In all cases the S4 helix had the highest electrostatic contribution to favor the key role as the voltage sensitive segment. Electrostatic interactions for the S1-S2 pair as well as the S1-S3 pair were relatively weak. Van der Waal interaction energies between adjacent segments were on average greater than that between diagonally opposite segments. Salt bridge interactions between S4-arginines and the negatively charged residues in other segments appear to contribute more to stabilizing the energy than the van der Waals interactions between nonpolar residues. The overall behavior of residue-residue contacts is similar among the transmembrane domains, reflecting the common inter- transmembrane interaction pattern in the VSD. In addition, analysis of the residue positions suggested that subtle differences in the orientation of the salt-bridges can be attributed to the difference in the inter-transmembrane interaction strengths inside the VSDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panisak Boonamnaj
- The Center of Excellence in Computational Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - R B Pandey
- School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Pornthep Sompornpisut
- The Center of Excellence in Computational Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cherny VV, Musset B, Morgan D, Thomas S, Smith SME, DeCoursey TE. Engineered high-affinity zinc binding site reveals gating configurations of a human proton channel. J Gen Physiol 2021; 152:152076. [PMID: 32902579 PMCID: PMC7537347 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202012664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The voltage-gated proton channel (HV1) is a voltage sensor that also conducts protons. The singular ability of protons to penetrate proteins complicates distinguishing closed and open channels. When we replaced valine with histidine at position 116 in the external vestibule of hHV1, current was potently inhibited by externally applied Zn2+ in a construct lacking the two His that bind Zn2+ in WT channels. High-affinity binding with profound effects at 10 nM Zn2+ at pHo 7 suggests additional groups contribute. We hypothesized that Asp185, which faces position 116 in our closed-state model, contributes to Zn2+ chelation. Confirming this prediction, V116H/D185N abolished Zn2+ binding. Studied in a C-terminal truncated monomeric construct, V116H channels activated rapidly. Anomalously, Zn2+ slowed activation, producing a time constant independent of both voltage and Zn2+ concentration. We hypothesized that slow turn-on of H+ current in the presence of Zn2+ reflects the rate of Zn2+ unbinding from the channel, analogous to drug-receptor dissociation reactions. This behavior in turn suggests that the affinity for Zn2+ is greater in the closed state of hHV1. Supporting this hypothesis, pulse pairs revealed a rapid component of activation whose amplitude decreased after longer intervals at negative voltages as closed channels bound Zn2+. The lower affinity of Zn2+ in open channels is consistent with the idea that structural rearrangements within the transmembrane region bring Arg205 near position 116, electrostatically expelling Zn2+. This phenomenon provides direct evidence that Asp185 opposes position 116 in closed channels and that Arg205 moves between them when the channel opens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Boris Musset
- Institut für Physiologie und Pathophysiologie, Paracelsus Medizinische Privatuniversität, Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Deri Morgan
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago IL
| | - Sarah Thomas
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA
| | - Susan M E Smith
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhao C, Hong L, Galpin JD, Riahi S, Lim VT, Webster PD, Tobias DJ, Ahern CA, Tombola F. HIFs: New arginine mimic inhibitors of the Hv1 channel with improved VSD-ligand interactions. J Gen Physiol 2021; 153:212451. [PMID: 34228044 PMCID: PMC8263924 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202012832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The human voltage-gated proton channel Hv1 is a drug target for cancer, ischemic stroke, and neuroinflammation. It resides on the plasma membrane and endocytic compartments of a variety of cell types, where it mediates outward proton movement and regulates the activity of NOX enzymes. Its voltage-sensing domain (VSD) contains a gated and proton-selective conduction pathway, which can be blocked by aromatic guanidine derivatives such as 2-guanidinobenzimidazole (2GBI). Mutation of Hv1 residue F150 to alanine (F150A) was previously found to increase 2GBI apparent binding affinity more than two orders of magnitude. Here, we explore the contribution of aromatic interactions between the inhibitor and the channel in the presence and absence of the F150A mutation, using a combination of electrophysiological recordings, classic mutagenesis, and site-specific incorporation of fluorinated phenylalanines via nonsense suppression methodology. Our data suggest that the increase in apparent binding affinity is due to a rearrangement of the binding site allowed by the smaller residue at position 150. We used this information to design new arginine mimics with improved affinity for the nonrearranged binding site of the wild-type channel. The new compounds, named “Hv1 Inhibitor Flexibles” (HIFs), consist of two “prongs,” an aminoimidazole ring, and an aromatic group connected by extended flexible linkers. Some HIF compounds display inhibitory properties that are superior to those of 2GBI, thus providing a promising scaffold for further development of high-affinity Hv1 inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA.,Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Liang Hong
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Jason D Galpin
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Saleh Riahi
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Victoria T Lim
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Parker D Webster
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Douglas J Tobias
- Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA.,Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Christopher A Ahern
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Francesco Tombola
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA.,Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhao C, Hong L, Riahi S, Lim VT, Tobias DJ, Tombola F. A novel Hv1 inhibitor reveals a new mechanism of inhibition of a voltage-sensing domain. J Gen Physiol 2021; 153:212452. [PMID: 34228045 PMCID: PMC8263925 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202012833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium, potassium, and calcium channels consist of four voltage-sensing domains (VSDs) that surround a central pore domain and transition from a down state to an up state in response to membrane depolarization. While many types of drugs bind pore domains, the number of organic molecules known to bind VSDs is limited. The Hv1 voltage-gated proton channel is made of two VSDs and does not contain a pore domain, providing a simplified model for studying how small ligands interact with VSDs. Here, we describe a ligand, named HIF, that interacts with the Hv1 VSD in the up and down states. We find that HIF rapidly inhibits proton conduction in the up state by blocking the open channel, as previously described for 2-guanidinobenzimidazole and its derivatives. HIF, however, interacts with a site slowly accessible in the down state. Functional studies and MD simulations suggest that this interaction traps the compound in a narrow pocket lined with charged residues within the VSD intracellular vestibule, which results in slow recovery from inhibition. Our findings point to a “wrench in gears” mechanism whereby side chains within the binding pocket trap the compound as the teeth of interlocking gears. We propose that the use of screening strategies designed to target binding sites with slow accessibility, similar to the one identified here, could lead to the discovery of new ligands capable of interacting with VSDs of other voltage-gated ion channels in the down state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA.,Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Liang Hong
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Saleh Riahi
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Victoria T Lim
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Douglas J Tobias
- Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA.,Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Francesco Tombola
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA.,Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lynch C, Rao S, Sansom MSP. Water in Nanopores and Biological Channels: A Molecular Simulation Perspective. Chem Rev 2020; 120:10298-10335. [PMID: 32841020 PMCID: PMC7517714 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.9b00830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
This Review explores the dynamic behavior of water within nanopores and biological channels in lipid bilayer membranes. We focus on molecular simulation studies, alongside selected structural and other experimental investigations. Structures of biological nanopores and channels are reviewed, emphasizing those high-resolution crystal structures, which reveal water molecules within the transmembrane pores, which can be used to aid the interpretation of simulation studies. Different levels of molecular simulations of water within nanopores are described, with a focus on molecular dynamics (MD). In particular, models of water for MD simulations are discussed in detail to provide an evaluation of their use in simulations of water in nanopores. Simulation studies of the behavior of water in idealized models of nanopores have revealed aspects of the organization and dynamics of nanoconfined water, including wetting/dewetting in narrow hydrophobic nanopores. A survey of simulation studies in a range of nonbiological nanopores is presented, including carbon nanotubes, synthetic nanopores, model peptide nanopores, track-etched nanopores in polymer membranes, and hydroxylated and functionalized nanoporous silica. These reveal a complex relationship between pore size/geometry, the nature of the pore lining, and rates of water transport. Wider nanopores with hydrophobic linings favor water flow whereas narrower hydrophobic pores may show dewetting. Simulation studies over the past decade of the behavior of water in a range of biological nanopores are described, including porins and β-barrel protein nanopores, aquaporins and related polar solute pores, and a number of different classes of ion channels. Water is shown to play a key role in proton transport in biological channels and in hydrophobic gating of ion channels. An overall picture emerges, whereby the behavior of water in a nanopore may be predicted as a function of its hydrophobicity and radius. This informs our understanding of the functions of diverse channel structures and will aid the design of novel nanopores. Thus, our current level of understanding allows for the design of a nanopore which promotes wetting over dewetting or vice versa. However, to design a novel nanopore, which enables fast, selective, and gated flow of water de novo would remain challenging, suggesting a need for further detailed simulations alongside experimental evaluation of more complex nanopore systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte
I. Lynch
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, U.K.
| | - Shanlin Rao
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, U.K.
| | - Mark S. P. Sansom
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, U.K.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lim VT, Geragotelis AD, Lim NM, Freites JA, Tombola F, Mobley DL, Tobias DJ. Insights on small molecule binding to the Hv1 proton channel from free energy calculations with molecular dynamics simulations. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13587. [PMID: 32788614 PMCID: PMC7423955 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70369-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hv1 is a voltage-gated proton channel whose main function is to facilitate extrusion of protons from the cell. The development of effective channel blockers for Hv1 can lead to new therapeutics for the treatment of maladies related to Hv1 dysfunction. Although the mechanism of proton permeation in Hv1 remains to be elucidated, a series of small molecules have been discovered to inhibit Hv1. Here, we computed relative binding free energies of a prototypical Hv1 blocker on a model of human Hv1 in an open state. We used alchemical free energy perturbation techniques based on atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. The results support our proposed open state model and shed light on the preferred tautomeric state of the channel blocker. This work lays the groundwork for future studies on adapting the blocker molecule for more effective inhibition of Hv1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria T Lim
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | | | - Nathan M Lim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - J Alfredo Freites
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Francesco Tombola
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - David L Mobley
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| | - Douglas J Tobias
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Voltage-dependent structural models of the human Hv1 proton channel from long-timescale molecular dynamics simulations. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:13490-13498. [PMID: 32461356 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1920943117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The voltage-gated Hv1 proton channel is a ubiquitous membrane protein that has roles in a variety of cellular processes, including proton extrusion, pH regulation, production of reactive oxygen species, proliferation of cancer cells, and increased brain damage during ischemic stroke. A crystal structure of an Hv1 construct in a putative closed state has been reported, and structural models for the channel open state have been proposed, but a complete characterization of the Hv1 conformational dynamics under an applied membrane potential has been elusive. We report structural models of the Hv1 voltage-sensing domain (VSD), both in a hyperpolarized state and a depolarized state resulting from voltage-dependent conformational changes during a 10-μs-timescale atomistic molecular dynamics simulation in an explicit membrane environment. In response to a depolarizing membrane potential, the S4 helix undergoes an outward displacement, leading to changes in the VSD internal salt-bridge network, resulting in a reshaping of the permeation pathway and a significant increase in hydrogen bond connectivity throughout the channel. The total gating charge displacement associated with this transition is consistent with experimental estimates. Molecular docking calculations confirm the proposed mechanism for the inhibitory action of 2-guanidinobenzimidazole (2GBI) derived from electrophysiological measurements and mutagenesis. The depolarized structural model is also consistent with the formation of a metal bridge between residues located in the core of the VSD. Taken together, our results suggest that these structural models are representative of the closed and open states of the Hv1 channel.
Collapse
|
21
|
Tang D, Yang Y, Xiao Z, Xu J, Yang Q, Dai H, Liang S, Tang C, Dong H, Liu Z. Scorpion toxin inhibits the voltage-gated proton channel using a Zn 2+ -like long-range conformational coupling mechanism. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:2351-2364. [PMID: 31975366 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Blocking the voltage-gated proton channel HV 1 is a promising strategy for the treatment of diseases like ischaemia stroke and cancer. However, few HV 1 channel antagonists have been reported. Here, we have identified a novel HV 1 channel antagonist from scorpion venom and have elucidated its action mechanism. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH HV 1 and NaV channels were heterologously expressed in mammalian cell lines and their currents recorded using whole-cell patch clamp. Site-directed mutagenesis was used to generate mutants. Toxins were recombinantly produced in Escherichia coli. AGAP/W38F-HV 1 interaction was modelled by molecular dynamics simulations. KEY RESULTS The scorpion toxin AGAP (anti-tumour analgesic peptide) potently inhibited HV 1 currents. One AGAP mutant has reduced NaV channel activity but intact HV 1 activity (AGAP/W38F). AGAP/W38F inhibited HV 1 channel activation by trapping its S4 voltage sensor in a deactivated state and inhibited HV 1 currents with less pH dependence than Zn2+ . Mutation analysis showed that the binding pockets of AGAP/W38F and Zn2+ in HV 1 channel partly overlapped (common sites are His140 and His193). The E153A mutation at the intracellular Coulombic network (ICN) in HV 1 channel markedly reduced AGAP/W38F inhibition, as observed for Zn2+ . Experimental data and MD simulations suggested that AGAP/W38F inhibited HV 1 channel using a Zn2+ -like long-range conformational coupling mechanism. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our results suggest that the Zn2+ binding pocket in HV 1 channel might be a hotspot for modulators and valuable for designing HV 1 channel ligands. Moreover, AGAP/W38F is a useful molecular probe to study HV 1 channel and a lead compound for drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongfang Tang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuqin Yang
- Kuang Yaming Honors School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Institute for Brain Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhen Xiao
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiahui Xu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiuchu Yang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Han Dai
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Songping Liang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Cheng Tang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Hao Dong
- Kuang Yaming Honors School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Institute for Brain Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhonghua Liu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Groome JR, Bayless-Edwards L. Roles for Countercharge in the Voltage Sensor Domain of Ion Channels. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:160. [PMID: 32180723 PMCID: PMC7059764 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated ion channels share a common structure typified by peripheral, voltage sensor domains. Their S4 segments respond to alteration in membrane potential with translocation coupled to ion permeation through a central pore domain. The mechanisms of gating in these channels have been intensely studied using pioneering methods such as measurement of charge displacement across a membrane, sequencing of genes coding for voltage-gated ion channels, and the development of all-atom molecular dynamics simulations using structural information from prokaryotic and eukaryotic channel proteins. One aspect of this work has been the description of the role of conserved negative countercharges in S1, S2, and S3 transmembrane segments to promote sequential salt-bridge formation with positively charged residues in S4 segments. These interactions facilitate S4 translocation through the lipid bilayer. In this review, we describe functional and computational work investigating the role of these countercharges in S4 translocation, voltage sensor domain hydration, and in diseases resulting from countercharge mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James R. Groome
- Department of Biological Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID, United States
| | - Landon Bayless-Edwards
- Department of Biological Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID, United States
- Oregon Health and Sciences University School of Medicine, Portland, OR, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hydrophobic gasket mutation produces gating pore currents in closed human voltage-gated proton channels. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:18951-18961. [PMID: 31462498 PMCID: PMC6754559 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1905462116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A large family of membrane proteins, voltage-gated ion channels, regulate a vast array of physiological functions in essentially all life forms. How these molecules sense membrane potential and respond by creating ionic conduction is incompletely understood. The voltage sensors of these channels contain a “hydrophobic gasket,” a ring of hydrophobic amino acids near the center of the membrane, separating internal and external aqueous solutions. Although voltage-gated proton channels, HV1, resemble voltage-sensing domains of other channels, they differ fundamentally. On depolarization, HV1 conducts protons, whereas other voltage sensors open a physically distinct pore. We identify Val109, Phe150, Val177, and Val178 as the hHV1 hydrophobic gasket. Replacement with less hydrophobic amino acids accelerated channel opening and caused proton-selective leak through closed channels. The hydrophobic gasket (HG), a ring of hydrophobic amino acids in the voltage-sensing domain of most voltage-gated ion channels, forms a constriction between internal and external aqueous vestibules. Cationic Arg or Lys side chains lining the S4 helix move through this “gating pore” when the channel opens. S4 movement may occur during gating of the human voltage-gated proton channel, hHV1, but proton current flows through the same pore in open channels. Here, we replaced putative HG residues with less hydrophobic residues or acidic Asp. Substitution of individuals, pairs, or all 3 HG positions did not impair proton selectivity. Evidently, the HG does not act as a secondary selectivity filter. However, 2 unexpected functions of the HG in HV1 were discovered. Mutating HG residues independently accelerated channel opening and compromised the closed state. Mutants exhibited open–closed gating, but strikingly, at negative voltages where “normal” gating produces a nonconducting closed state, the channel leaked protons. Closed-channel proton current was smaller than open-channel current and was inhibited by 10 μM Zn2+. Extreme hyperpolarization produced a deeper closed state through a weakly voltage-dependent transition. We functionally identify the HG as Val109, Phe150, Val177, and Val178, which play a critical and exclusive role in preventing H+ influx through closed channels. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed enhanced mobility of Arg208 in mutants exhibiting H+ leak. Mutation of HG residues produces gating pore currents reminiscent of several channelopathies.
Collapse
|
24
|
Boonamnaj P, Sompornpisut P. Effect of Ionization State on Voltage-Sensor Structure in Resting State of the Hv1 Channel. J Phys Chem B 2019; 123:2864-2873. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.9b00634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Panisak Boonamnaj
- Center of Excellence in Computational Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Pornthep Sompornpisut
- Center of Excellence in Computational Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Haridasan N, Kannam SK, Mogurampelly S, Sathian SP. Translational mobilities of proteins in nanochannels: A coarse-grained molecular dynamics study. Phys Rev E 2018; 97:062415. [PMID: 30011556 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.97.062415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the translation of a protein through model nanopores using coarse-grained (CG) nonequilibrium molecular dynamics (NEMD) simulations and compared the mobilities with those obtained from previous coarse-grained equilibrium molecular dynamics model. We considered the effects of nanopore confinement and external force on the translation of streptavidin through nanopores of dimensions representative of experiments. As the nanopore radius approaches the protein hydrodynamic radius, r_{h}/r_{p}→1 (where r_{h} is the hydrodynamic radius of protein and r_{p} is the pore radius), the translation times are observed to increase by two orders of magnitude. The translation times are found to be in good agreement with the one-dimensional biased diffusion model. The results presented in this paper provide useful insights on nanopore designs intended to control the motion of biomolecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Navaneeth Haridasan
- Department of Applied Mechanics, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, India
| | - Sridhar Kumar Kannam
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia
- School of Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Santosh Mogurampelly
- Institute for Computational Molecular Science, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122, USA
| | - Sarith P Sathian
- Department of Applied Mechanics, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, India
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
DeCoursey TE. Voltage and pH sensing by the voltage-gated proton channel, H V1. J R Soc Interface 2018; 15:20180108. [PMID: 29643227 PMCID: PMC5938591 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2018.0108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated proton channels are unique ion channels, membrane proteins that allow protons but no other ions to cross cell membranes. They are found in diverse species, from unicellular marine life to humans. In all cells, their function requires that they open and conduct current only under certain conditions, typically when the electrochemical gradient for protons is outwards. Consequently, these proteins behave like rectifiers, conducting protons out of cells. Their activity has electrical consequences and also changes the pH on both sides of the membrane. Here we summarize what is known about the way these proteins sense the membrane potential and the pH inside and outside the cell. Currently, it is hypothesized that membrane potential is sensed by permanently charged arginines (with very high pKa) within the protein, which results in parts of the protein moving to produce a conduction pathway. The mechanism of pH sensing appears to involve titratable side chains of particular amino acids. For this purpose their pKa needs to be within the operational pH range. We propose a 'counter-charge' model for pH sensing in which electrostatic interactions within the protein are selectively disrupted by protonation of internally or externally accessible groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E DeCoursey
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, 1750 West Harrison, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gianti E, Carnevale V. Computational Approaches to Studying Voltage-Gated Ion Channel Modulation by General Anesthetics. Methods Enzymol 2018; 602:25-59. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2018.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
28
|
Weiß RG, Setny P, Dzubiella J. Principles for Tuning Hydrophobic Ligand–Receptor Binding Kinetics. J Chem Theory Comput 2017; 13:3012-3019. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.7b00216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Gregor Weiß
- Institut
für Physik, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Newtonstr. 15, D-12489 Berlin, Germany
- Institut
für Weiche Materie and Funktionale Materialen, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, Hahn-Meitner Platz 1, D-14109 Berlin, Germany
| | - Piotr Setny
- Centre
of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joachim Dzubiella
- Institut
für Physik, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Newtonstr. 15, D-12489 Berlin, Germany
- Institut
für Weiche Materie and Funktionale Materialen, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, Hahn-Meitner Platz 1, D-14109 Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
van Keulen SC, Gianti E, Carnevale V, Klein ML, Rothlisberger U, Delemotte L. Does Proton Conduction in the Voltage-Gated H + Channel hHv1 Involve Grotthuss-Like Hopping via Acidic Residues? J Phys Chem B 2017; 121:3340-3351. [PMID: 27801578 PMCID: PMC6310143 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.6b08339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Hv1s are ubiquitous highly selective voltage-gated proton channels involved in male fertility, immunology, and the invasiveness of certain forms of breast cancer. The mechanism of proton extrusion in Hv1 is not yet understood, while it constitutes the first step toward the design of high-affinity drugs aimed at this important pharmacological target. In this contribution, we explore the details of the mechanism via an integrative approach, using classical and QM/MM molecular dynamics simulations of a monomeric hHv1 model. We propose that protons localize in three binding sites along the channel lumen, formed by three pairs of conserved negatively charged residues lining the pore: D174/E153, D112/D185, and E119/D123. Local rearrangements, involving notably a dihedral transition of F150, a conserved phenylalanine lining the permeation pathway, appear to allow protons to hop from one acidic residue to the next through a bridging water molecule. These results constitute a first attempt at rationalizing hHv1 selectivity for H+ and the role played by D112 in this process. They pave the way for further quantitative characterization of H+ transport in hHv1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siri C. van Keulen
- Laboratory of Computational Chemistry and Biochemistry, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eleonora Gianti
- Institute for Computational Molecular Science, Department of Chemistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122
| | - Vincenzo Carnevale
- Institute for Computational Molecular Science, Department of Chemistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122
| | - Michael L. Klein
- Institute for Computational Molecular Science, Department of Chemistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122
| | - Ursula Rothlisberger
- Laboratory of Computational Chemistry and Biochemistry, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lucie Delemotte
- Laboratory of Computational Chemistry and Biochemistry, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Present address: Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Theoretical Physics, KTH, Box 1031, SE-171 21 Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|