1
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Chandrasekaran A, Graham K, Stachowiak JC, Rangamani P. Kinetic trapping organizes actin filaments within liquid-like protein droplets. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3139. [PMID: 38605007 PMCID: PMC11009352 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46726-6] [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: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Several actin-binding proteins (ABPs) phase separate to form condensates capable of curating the actin network shapes. Here, we use computational modeling to understand the principles of actin network organization within VASP condensate droplets. Our simulations reveal that the different actin shapes, namely shells, rings, and mixture states are highly dependent on the kinetics of VASP-actin interactions, suggesting that they arise from kinetic trapping. Specifically, we show that reducing the residence time of VASP on actin filaments reduces degree of bundling, thereby promoting assembly of shells rather than rings. We validate the model predictions experimentally using a VASP-mutant with decreased bundling capability. Finally, we investigate the ring opening within deformed droplets and found that the sphere-to-ellipsoid transition is favored under a wide range of filament lengths while the ellipsoid-to-rod transition is only permitted when filaments have a specific range of lengths. Our findings highlight key mechanisms of actin organization within phase-separated ABPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aravind Chandrasekaran
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0411, USA
| | - Kristin Graham
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Jeanne C Stachowiak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
| | - Padmini Rangamani
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0411, USA.
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2
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Gui J, Zhou H, Wan H, Yang D, Liu Q, Zhu L, Mi Y. The Role of Vasodilator-stimulated Phosphoproteins in the Development of Malignant Tumors. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2024; 24:477-489. [PMID: 37962042 PMCID: PMC11092557 DOI: 10.2174/0115680096262439231023110106] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) is an actin-binding protein that includes three structural domains: Enabled/VASP homolog1 (EVH1), EVH2, and proline-rich (PRR). VASP plays an important role in various cellular behaviors related to cytoskeletal regulation. More importantly, VASP plays a key role in the progression of several malignant tumors and is associated with malignant cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Here, we have summarized current studies on the impact of VASP on the development of several malignant tumors and their mechanisms. This study provides a new theoretical basis for clinical molecular diagnosis and molecular targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiandong Gui
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihudadao, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hangsheng Zhou
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihudadao, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hongyuan Wan
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihudadao, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Dongjie Yang
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
- Huadong Sanatorium, 67 Dajishan, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Lijie Zhu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yuanyuan Mi
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
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3
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Pan W, Tian Y, Zheng Q, Yang Z, Qiang Y, Zhang Z, Zhang N, Xiong J, Zhu X, Wei L, Li F. Oncogenic BRAF noncanonically promotes tumor metastasis by mediating VASP phosphorylation and filopodia formation. Oncogene 2023; 42:3194-3205. [PMID: 37689827 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02829-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
BRAF is frequently mutated in various cancer types and contributes to tumorigenesis and metastasis. As an important switch in RAS signaling pathway, BRAF typically enables the activation of MEK and ERK, and its mutation significantly promotes metastasis. However, whether BRAF could stimulate metastasis via a distinct manner is still unknown. Herein, we found that a portion of the BRAF protein localized at the plasma membrane and that the BRAFV600E mutation led to abundant formation of filopodia, which is a hallmark of invasive cancer cells. Mechanistically, BRAF physically interacts with the pseudopod formation-related protein Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP), and BRAF specifically catalyzes VASP phosphorylation at Ser157. VASP depletion or disruption of Ser157 phosphorylation preferentially reduced the motility, invasion and metastasis of tumor cells harboring oncogenic BRAF or KRAS. Moreover, in clinical cancer tissues, BRAFV600E was positively correlated with the extent of invasion, and tissues with BRAFV600E expression exhibited elevated levels of VASP Ser157 phosphorylation. Our study therefor reveals a noncanonical mechanism by which oncogenic BRAF or KRAS promotes metastasis, suggests that VASP Ser157 phosphorylation might serve as a valuable therapeutic target in BRAF or KRAS mutant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Pan
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yihao Tian
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qian Zheng
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zelin Yang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yulong Qiang
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zun Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery & Department of Gastric and Colorectal Surgical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Xiong
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Xin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Head & Neck Cancer Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Lei Wei
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, China.
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Wuhan, China.
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4
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Benz PM, Frömel T, Laban H, Zink J, Ulrich L, Groneberg D, Boon RA, Poley P, Renne T, de Wit C, Fleming I. Cardiovascular Functions of Ena/VASP Proteins: Past, Present and Beyond. Cells 2023; 12:1740. [PMID: 37443774 PMCID: PMC10340426 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131740] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Actin binding proteins are of crucial importance for the spatiotemporal regulation of actin cytoskeletal dynamics, thereby mediating a tremendous range of cellular processes. Since their initial discovery more than 30 years ago, the enabled/vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (Ena/VASP) family has evolved as one of the most fascinating and versatile family of actin regulating proteins. The proteins directly enhance actin filament assembly, but they also organize higher order actin networks and link kinase signaling pathways to actin filament assembly. Thereby, Ena/VASP proteins regulate dynamic cellular processes ranging from membrane protrusions and trafficking, and cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesions, to the generation of mechanical tension and contractile force. Important insights have been gained into the physiological functions of Ena/VASP proteins in platelets, leukocytes, endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells and cardiomyocytes. In this review, we summarize the unique and redundant functions of Ena/VASP proteins in cardiovascular cells and discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M. Benz
- Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhein-Main, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Timo Frömel
- Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Hebatullah Laban
- Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Joana Zink
- Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Lea Ulrich
- Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Dieter Groneberg
- Institute of Physiology I, University of Würzburg, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Reinier A. Boon
- German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhein-Main, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Centre of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe-University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, VU University Medical Centre, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Philip Poley
- Institut für Physiologie, Universität zu Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Thomas Renne
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis (CTH), Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, D02 VN51 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Cor de Wit
- Institut für Physiologie, Universität zu Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Ingrid Fleming
- Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhein-Main, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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5
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Alromema N, Syed AH, Khan T. A Hybrid Machine Learning Approach to Screen Optimal Predictors for the Classification of Primary Breast Tumors from Gene Expression Microarray Data. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13040708. [PMID: 36832196 PMCID: PMC9955903 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13040708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The high dimensionality and sparsity of the microarray gene expression data make it challenging to analyze and screen the optimal subset of genes as predictors of breast cancer (BC). The authors in the present study propose a novel hybrid Feature Selection (FS) sequential framework involving minimum Redundancy-Maximum Relevance (mRMR), a two-tailed unpaired t-test, and meta-heuristics to screen the most optimal set of gene biomarkers as predictors for BC. The proposed framework identified a set of three most optimal gene biomarkers, namely, MAPK 1, APOBEC3B, and ENAH. In addition, the state-of-the-art supervised Machine Learning (ML) algorithms, namely Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Neural Net (NN), Naïve Bayes (NB), Decision Tree (DT), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and Logistic Regression (LR) were used to test the predictive capability of the selected gene biomarkers and select the most effective breast cancer diagnostic model with higher values of performance matrices. Our study found that the XGBoost-based model was the superior performer with an accuracy of 0.976 ± 0.027, an F1-Score of 0.974 ± 0.030, and an AUC value of 0.961 ± 0.035 when tested on an independent test dataset. The screened gene biomarkers-based classification system efficiently detects primary breast tumors from normal breast samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nashwan Alromema
- Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Computing and Information Technology Rabigh (FCITR), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22254, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence:
| | - Asif Hassan Syed
- Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Computing and Information Technology Rabigh (FCITR), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22254, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tabrej Khan
- Department of Information Systems, Faculty of Computing and Information Technology Rabigh (FCITR), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22254, Saudi Arabia
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6
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Fäßler F, Javoor MG, Datler J, Döring H, Hofer FW, Dimchev G, Hodirnau VV, Faix J, Rottner K, Schur FK. ArpC5 isoforms regulate Arp2/3 complex-dependent protrusion through differential Ena/VASP positioning. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadd6495. [PMID: 36662867 PMCID: PMC9858492 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.add6495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Regulation of the Arp2/3 complex is required for productive nucleation of branched actin networks. An emerging aspect of regulation is the incorporation of subunit isoforms into the Arp2/3 complex. Specifically, both ArpC5 subunit isoforms, ArpC5 and ArpC5L, have been reported to fine-tune nucleation activity and branch junction stability. We have combined reverse genetics and cellular structural biology to describe how ArpC5 and ArpC5L differentially affect cell migration. Both define the structural stability of ArpC1 in branch junctions and, in turn, by determining protrusion characteristics, affect protein dynamics and actin network ultrastructure. ArpC5 isoforms also affect the positioning of members of the Ena/Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) family of actin filament elongators, which mediate ArpC5 isoform-specific effects on the actin assembly level. Our results suggest that ArpC5 and Ena/VASP proteins are part of a signaling pathway enhancing cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Fäßler
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | | | - Julia Datler
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Hermann Döring
- Zoological Institute, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
- Department of Cell Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Florian W. Hofer
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Georgi Dimchev
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | | | - Jan Faix
- Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Klemens Rottner
- Zoological Institute, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
- Department of Cell Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Florian K.M. Schur
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Klosterneuburg, Austria
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7
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Klein MT, Krause BM, Neudörfl JM, Kühne R, Schmalz HG. Design and synthesis of a tetracyclic tripeptide mimetic frozen in a polyproline type II (PP2) helix conformation. Org Biomol Chem 2022; 20:9368-9377. [PMID: 36385673 DOI: 10.1039/d2ob01857h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A synthesis of the new tetracyclic scaffold ProM-19, which represents a XPP tripeptide unit frozen in a PPII helix conformation, was developed. As a key building block, N-Boc-protected ethyl (1S,3S,4R)-2-azabicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-ene-2-carboxylate was prepared through a diastereoselective aza-Diels-Alder reaction and subsequent hydrogenolytic removal of the chiral N-1-phenylethyl substituent under temporary protection of the double bond through dihydroxylation and reconstitution by Corey-Winter olefination. The target compound Boc-[ProM-19]-OMe was then prepared via subsequent peptide coupling and Ru-catalyzed ring-closing metathesis steps employing (S)-N-Boc-allylgylcine and cis-5-vinyl-proline methyl ester as additional building blocks. In addition, Ac-[2-Cl-Phe]-[Pro]-[ProM-19]-OMe was prepared by solution phase peptide synthesis as a potential ligand for the ena-VASP EVH1 domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco T Klein
- University of Cologne, Department of Chemistry, Greinstrasse 4, 50939 Köln, Germany.
| | - Bernhard M Krause
- University of Cologne, Department of Chemistry, Greinstrasse 4, 50939 Köln, Germany.
| | - Jörg-Martin Neudörfl
- University of Cologne, Department of Chemistry, Greinstrasse 4, 50939 Köln, Germany.
| | - Ronald Kühne
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP), Robert-Rössle-Strasse 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Hans-Günther Schmalz
- University of Cologne, Department of Chemistry, Greinstrasse 4, 50939 Köln, Germany.
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8
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Kotschenreuther K, Yan S, Kofler DM. Migration and homeostasis of regulatory T cells in rheumatoid arthritis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:947636. [PMID: 36016949 PMCID: PMC9398455 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.947636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells are garnering increased attention in research related to autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). They play an essential role in the maintenance of immune homeostasis by restricting effector T cell activity. Reduced functions and frequencies of Treg cells contribute to the pathogenesis of RA, a common autoimmune disease which leads to systemic inflammation and erosive joint destruction. Treg cells from patients with RA are characterized by impaired functions and by an altered phenotype. They show increased plasticity towards Th17 cells and a reduced suppressive capacity. Besides the suppressive function of Treg cells, their effectiveness is determined by their ability to migrate into inflamed tissues. In the past years, new mechanisms involved in Treg cell migration have been identified. One example of such a mechanism is the phosphorylation of vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP). Efficient migration of Treg cells requires the presence of VASP. IL-6, a cytokine which is abundantly present in the peripheral blood and in the synovial tissue of RA patients, induces posttranslational modifications of VASP. Recently, it has been shown in mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) that this IL-6 mediated posttranslational modification leads to reduced Treg cell trafficking. Another protein which facilitates Treg cell migration is G-protein-signaling modulator 2 (GPSM2). It modulates G-protein coupled receptor functioning, thereby altering the cellular activity initiated by cell surface receptors in response to extracellular signals. The almost complete lack of GPSM2 in Treg cells from RA patients contributes to their reduced ability to migrate towards inflammatory sites. In this review article, we highlight the newly identified mechanisms of Treg cell migration and review the current knowledge about impaired Treg cell homeostasis in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Kotschenreuther
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Shuaifeng Yan
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - David M. Kofler
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf, Cologne, Germany
- *Correspondence: David M. Kofler,
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9
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Engelhardt PM, Rueda SF, Drexelius M, Neudörfl JM, Lauster D, Hackenberger CPR, Kühne R, Neundorf I, Schmalz HG. Synthetic α-Helical Peptides as Potential Inhibitors of the ACE2 SARS-CoV-2 Interaction. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200372. [PMID: 35785462 PMCID: PMC9350387 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
During viral cell entry, the spike protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 binds to the α1‐helix motif of human angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Thus, alpha‐helical peptides mimicking this motif may serve as inhibitors of viral cell entry. For this purpose, we employed the rigidified diproline‐derived module ProM‐5 to induce α‐helicity in short peptide sequences inspired by the ACE2 α1‐helix. Starting with Ac‐QAKTFLDKFNHEAEDLFYQ‐NH2 as a relevant section of α1, a series of peptides, N‐capped with either Ac‐βHAsp‐[ProM‐5] or Ac‐βHAsp‐PP, were prepared and their α‐helicities were investigated. While ProM‐5 clearly showed a pronounced effect, an even increased degree of helicity (up to 63 %) was observed in sequences in which non‐binding amino acids were replaced by alanine. The binding affinities of the peptides towards the spike protein, as determined by means of microscale thermophoresis (MST), revealed only a subtle influence of the α‐helical content and, noteworthy, led to the identification of an Ac‐βHAsp‐PP‐capped peptide displaying a very strong binding affinity (KD=62 nM).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sebastián Florez Rueda
- FMP: Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut fur Molekulare Pharmakologie im Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, chemical biology, GERMANY
| | - Marco Drexelius
- University of Cologne: Universitat zu Koln, Chemistry, GERMANY
| | | | - Daniel Lauster
- Freie Universitat Berlin Fachbereich Biologie Chemie Pharmazie, biochemistry and chemistry, GERMANY
| | - Christian P R Hackenberger
- FMP: Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut fur Molekulare Pharmakologie im Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, chemical biology, GERMANY
| | - Ronald Kühne
- FMP: Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut fur Molekulare Pharmakologie im Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, drug discovery, GERMANY
| | - Ines Neundorf
- University of Cologne: Universitat zu Koln, chemistry and biochemistry, GERMANY
| | - Hans-Günther Schmalz
- Universitat zu Koln, Department für Chemie, Greinstrasse 4, 50939, Köln, GERMANY
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10
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Waldman MM, Rahkola JT, Sigler AL, Chung JW, Willett BAS, Kedl RM, Friedman RS, Jacobelli J. Ena/VASP Protein-Mediated Actin Polymerization Contributes to Naïve CD8 + T Cell Activation and Expansion by Promoting T Cell-APC Interactions In Vivo. Front Immunol 2022; 13:856977. [PMID: 35757762 PMCID: PMC9222560 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.856977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Naïve T cell activation in secondary lymphoid organs such as lymph nodes (LNs) occurs upon recognition of cognate antigen presented by antigen presenting cells (APCs). T cell activation requires cytoskeleton rearrangement and sustained interactions with APCs. Enabled/vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (Ena/VASP) proteins are a family of cytoskeletal effector proteins responsible for actin polymerization and are frequently found at the leading edge of motile cells. Ena/VASP proteins have been implicated in motility and adhesion in various cell types, but their role in primary T cell interstitial motility and activation has not been explored. Our goal was to determine the contribution of Ena/VASP proteins to T cell–APC interactions, T cell activation, and T cell expansion in vivo. Our results showed that naïve T cells from Ena/VASP-deficient mice have a significant reduction in antigen-specific T cell accumulation following Listeria monocytogenes infection. The kinetics of T cell expansion impairment were further confirmed in Ena/VASP-deficient T cells stimulated via dendritic cell immunization. To investigate the cause of this T cell expansion defect, we analyzed T cell–APC interactions in vivo by two-photon microscopy and observed fewer Ena/VASP-deficient naïve T cells interacting with APCs in LNs during priming. We also determined that Ena/VASP-deficient T cells formed conjugates with significantly less actin polymerization at the T cell–APC synapse, and that these conjugates were less stable than their WT counterparts. Finally, we found that Ena/VASP-deficient T cells have less LFA-1 polarized to the T cell–APC synapse. Thus, we conclude that Ena/VASP proteins contribute to T cell actin remodeling during T cell–APC interactions, which promotes the initiation of stable T cell conjugates during APC scanning. Therefore, Ena/VASP proteins are required for efficient activation and expansion of T cells in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique M Waldman
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Barbara Davis Research Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Jeremy T Rahkola
- Rocky Mountain Regional Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Ashton L Sigler
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Barbara Davis Research Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Jeffrey W Chung
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Barbara Davis Research Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Benjamin A S Willett
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Ross M Kedl
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Rachel S Friedman
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Barbara Davis Research Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Jordan Jacobelli
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Barbara Davis Research Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Department of Immunology and Genomic Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO, United States
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11
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Albat D, Köcher A, Witt J, Schmalz HG. On the Asymmetric Ir‐catalyzed N‐Allylation of Amino Acid Esters: Improved Selectivities through Structural Variation of the Chiral Phosphoramidite Ligand. European J Org Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ejoc.202200188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Albat
- University of Cologne: Universitat zu Koln Department of Chemistry Koeln GERMANY
| | - Alicia Köcher
- University of Cologne: Universitat zu Koln Department of Chemistry Koel GERMANY
| | - Julia Witt
- University of Cologne: Universitat zu Koln Department of Chemistry Koeln GERMANY
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12
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Hwang T, Parker SS, Hill SM, Grant RA, Ilunga MW, Sivaraman V, Mouneimne G, Keating AE. Native proline-rich motifs exploit sequence context to target actin-remodeling Ena/VASP protein ENAH. eLife 2022; 11:70680. [PMID: 35076015 PMCID: PMC8789275 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The human proteome is replete with short linear motifs (SLiMs) of four to six residues that are critical for protein-protein interactions, yet the importance of the sequence surrounding such motifs is underexplored. We devised a proteomic screen to examine the influence of SLiM sequence context on protein-protein interactions. Focusing on the EVH1 domain of human ENAH, an actin regulator that is highly expressed in invasive cancers, we screened 36-residue proteome-derived peptides and discovered new interaction partners of ENAH and diverse mechanisms by which context influences binding. A pocket on the ENAH EVH1 domain that has diverged from other Ena/VASP paralogs recognizes extended SLiMs and favors motif-flanking proline residues. Many high-affinity ENAH binders that contain two proline-rich SLiMs use a noncanonical site on the EVH1 domain for binding and display a thermodynamic signature consistent with the two-motif chain engaging a single domain. We also found that photoreceptor cilium actin regulator (PCARE) uses an extended 23-residue region to obtain a higher affinity than any known ENAH EVH1-binding motif. Our screen provides a way to uncover the effects of proteomic context on motif-mediated binding, revealing diverse mechanisms of control over EVH1 interactions and establishing that SLiMs can’t be fully understood outside of their native context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Hwang
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
| | - Sara S Parker
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona
| | - Samantha M Hill
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona
| | - Robert A Grant
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
| | - Meucci W Ilunga
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
| | | | | | - Amy E Keating
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Department of Biological Engineering and Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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13
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Martinez JC, Castillo F, Ruiz-Sanz J, Murciano-Calles J, Camara-Artigas A, Luque I. Understanding binding affinity and specificity of modular protein domains: A focus in ligand design for the polyproline-binding families. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2022; 130:161-188. [PMID: 35534107 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Within the modular protein domains there are five families that recognize proline-rich sequences: SH3, WW, EVH1, GYF and UEV domains. This chapter reviews the main strategies developed for the design of ligands for these families, including peptides, peptidomimetics and drugs. We also describe some studies aimed to understand the molecular reasons responsible for the intrinsic affinity and specificity of these domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose C Martinez
- Departamento de Química Física e Instituto de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.
| | - Francisco Castillo
- Fundación MEDINA, Centro de Excelencia en Investigación de Medicamentos Innovadores en Andalucía, Parque Tecnológico Ciencias de la Salud, Granada, Spain
| | - Javier Ruiz-Sanz
- Departamento de Química Física e Instituto de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Javier Murciano-Calles
- Departamento de Química Física e Instituto de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Ana Camara-Artigas
- Departamento de Química Física, Universidad de Almería, Campus de Excelencia Internacional Agroalimentario ceiA3 y CIAMBITAL, Almeria, Spain
| | - Irene Luque
- Departamento de Química Física e Instituto de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
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14
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Hwang T, Parker SS, Hill SM, Ilunga MW, Grant RA, Mouneimne G, Keating AE. A distributed residue network permits conformational binding specificity in a conserved family of actin remodelers. eLife 2021; 10:e70601. [PMID: 34854809 PMCID: PMC8639148 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Metazoan proteomes contain many paralogous proteins that have evolved distinct functions. The Ena/VASP family of actin regulators consists of three members that share an EVH1 interaction domain with a 100 % conserved binding site. A proteome-wide screen revealed photoreceptor cilium actin regulator (PCARE) as a high-affinity ligand for ENAH EVH1. Here, we report the surprising observation that PCARE is ~100-fold specific for ENAH over paralogs VASP and EVL and can selectively bind ENAH and inhibit ENAH-dependent adhesion in cells. Specificity arises from a mechanism whereby PCARE stabilizes a conformation of the ENAH EVH1 domain that is inaccessible to family members VASP and EVL. Structure-based modeling rapidly identified seven residues distributed throughout EVL that are sufficient to differentiate binding by ENAH vs. EVL. By exploiting the ENAH-specific conformation, we rationally designed the tightest and most selective ENAH binder to date. Our work uncovers a conformational mechanism of interaction specificity that distinguishes highly similar paralogs and establishes tools for dissecting specific Ena/VASP functions in processes including cancer cell invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Hwang
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Sara S Parker
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of ArizonaTucsonUnited States
| | - Samantha M Hill
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of ArizonaTucsonUnited States
| | - Meucci W Ilunga
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Robert A Grant
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Ghassan Mouneimne
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of ArizonaTucsonUnited States
| | - Amy E Keating
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
- Department of Biological Engineering and Koch Institue for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
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15
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Actin Cytoskeleton Dynamics and Type I IFN-Mediated Immune Response: A Dangerous Liaison in Cancer? BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10090913. [PMID: 34571790 PMCID: PMC8469949 DOI: 10.3390/biology10090913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Actin cytoskeleton is a dynamic subcellular component critical for maintaining cell shape and for elaborating response to any stimulus converging on the cell. Cytoskeleton constantly interfaces with diverse cellular components and affects a wide range of processes important in homeostasis and disease. What has been clearly demonstrated to date is that pathogens modify and use host cytoskeleton to their advantage. What is now emerging is that in sterile conditions, when a chronic inflammation occurs as in cancer, the subversion of tissue homeostasis induces an alarm status which mimics infection. This activates cellular players similar to those that solve an infection, but their persistence may pave the way for tumor progression. Understanding molecular mechanisms engaged by cytoskeleton to induce this viral mimicry could improve our knowledge of processes governing tumor progression and resistance to therapy. Abstract Chronic viral infection and cancer are closely inter-related and are both characterized by profound alteration of tissue homeostasis. The actin cytoskeleton dynamics highly participate in tissue homeostasis and act as a sensor leading to an immune-mediated anti-cancer and anti-viral response. Herein we highlight the crucial role of actin cytoskeleton dynamics in participating in a viral mimicry activation with profound effect in anti-tumor immune response. This still poorly explored field understands the cytoskeleton dynamics as a platform of complex signaling pathways which may regulate Type I IFN response in cancer. This emerging network needs to be elucidated to identify more effective anti-cancer strategies and to further advance the immuno-oncology field which has revolutionized the cancer treatment. For a progress to occur in this exciting arena we have to shed light on actin cytoskeleton related pathways and immune response. Herein we summarize the major findings, considering the double sword of the immune response and in particular the role of Type I IFN pathways in resistance to anti-cancer treatment.
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Albat D, Reiher M, Neudörfl J, Schmalz H. Improved Synthesis of MediPhos Ligands and Their Use in the Pd‐Catalyzed Enantioselective N‐Allylation of Glycine Esters. European J Org Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ejoc.202100748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Albat
- Department of Chemistry University of Cologne Greinstrasse 4 50939 Koeln Germany
| | - Martin Reiher
- Department of Chemistry University of Cologne Greinstrasse 4 50939 Koeln Germany
| | - Jörg‐Martin Neudörfl
- Department of Chemistry University of Cologne Greinstrasse 4 50939 Koeln Germany
| | - Hans‐Günther Schmalz
- Department of Chemistry University of Cologne Greinstrasse 4 50939 Koeln Germany
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Augustin V, Kins S. Fe65: A Scaffolding Protein of Actin Regulators. Cells 2021; 10:cells10071599. [PMID: 34202290 PMCID: PMC8304848 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The scaffolding protein family Fe65, composed of Fe65, Fe65L1, and Fe65L2, was identified as an interaction partner of the amyloid precursor protein (APP), which plays a key function in Alzheimer’s disease. All three Fe65 family members possess three highly conserved interaction domains, forming complexes with diverse binding partners that can be assigned to different cellular functions, such as transactivation of genes in the nucleus, modulation of calcium homeostasis and lipid metabolism, and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. In this article, we rule out putative new intracellular signaling mechanisms of the APP-interacting protein Fe65 in the regulation of actin cytoskeleton dynamics in the context of various neuronal functions, such as cell migration, neurite outgrowth, and synaptic plasticity.
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