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Pillai A, Idris A, Philomin A, Weidle C, Skotheim R, Leung PJY, Broerman A, Demakis C, Borst AJ, Praetorius F, Baker D. De novo design of allosterically switchable protein assemblies. Nature 2024; 632:911-920. [PMID: 39143214 PMCID: PMC11338832 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07813-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Allosteric modulation of protein function, wherein the binding of an effector to a protein triggers conformational changes at distant functional sites, plays a central part in the control of metabolism and cell signalling1-3. There has been considerable interest in designing allosteric systems, both to gain insight into the mechanisms underlying such 'action at a distance' modulation and to create synthetic proteins whose functions can be regulated by effectors4-7. However, emulating the subtle conformational changes distributed across many residues, characteristic of natural allosteric proteins, is a significant challenge8,9. Here, inspired by the classic Monod-Wyman-Changeux model of cooperativity10, we investigate the de novo design of allostery through rigid-body coupling of peptide-switchable hinge modules11 to protein interfaces12 that direct the formation of alternative oligomeric states. We find that this approach can be used to generate a wide variety of allosterically switchable systems, including cyclic rings that incorporate or eject subunits in response to peptide binding and dihedral cages that undergo effector-induced disassembly. Size-exclusion chromatography, mass photometry13 and electron microscopy reveal that these designed allosteric protein assemblies closely resemble the design models in both the presence and absence of peptide effectors and can have ligand-binding cooperativity comparable to classic natural systems such as haemoglobin14. Our results indicate that allostery can arise from global coupling of the energetics of protein substructures without optimized side-chain-side-chain allosteric communication pathways and provide a roadmap for generating allosterically triggerable delivery systems, protein nanomachines and cellular feedback control circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Pillai
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Abbas Idris
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Annika Philomin
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Connor Weidle
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Rebecca Skotheim
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Philip J Y Leung
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Program in Molecular Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Adam Broerman
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Cullen Demakis
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Graduate Program in Biological Physics, Structure, and Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Andrew J Borst
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Florian Praetorius
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Klosterneuburg, Austria.
| | - David Baker
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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2
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Ye T, Zhang N, Zhang A, Sun X, Pang B, Wu X. The influence of ferroptosis on the in vitro OGD/R model in rat microglia. Neurol Res 2024:1-9. [PMID: 39011891 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2024.2370205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to explore the influence of ferroptosis on an oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) model in primary rat microglia. METHODS Primary microglia were extracted from rats and cultured in vitro. The cells were subjected to a hypoxic environment for 6 h in a glucose-free medium, and then re-oxygenated for 24 h in DMEM/F12. Rat microglia were pretreated with the ferroptosis activator erastin and the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin 1 for 24 h, followed by detection of cell cycle progression and apoptosis by flow cytometry. Intracellular total iron levels were measured. In addition, the relative levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The protein levels of 15-lox2, GPX4, SLC7A11, ACSL4, and TFR1 were examined by western blotting. RESULTS Compared with rat microglia subjected to OGD/R, pretreatment with erastin did not influence cell apoptosis but significantly enhanced total iron levels, MDA, and ROS levels, whereas it reduced SOD levels. Moreover, it upregulated ACSL4, TFR1, and 15-lox2 and downregulated GPX4 and SLC7A11. Pretreatment with ferrostatin 1 significantly inhibited cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase. It significantly reduced total iron levels, MDA, and ROS levels and enhanced SOD levels, which also downregulated ACSL4, TFR1, and 15-lox2, and upregulated GPX4 and SLC7A11. CONCLUSION Our study showed that inhibition of ferroptosis is favorable against potential OGD/R-induced damage in rat microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Ye
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Anbang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Xiuqi Sun
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Bo Pang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Xuemei Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
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3
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Cross JA, Dawson WM, Shukla SR, Weijman JF, Mantell J, Dodding MP, Woolfson DN. A de novo designed coiled coil-based switch regulates the microtubule motor kinesin-1. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:916-923. [PMID: 38849529 PMCID: PMC11213707 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-024-01640-2] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Many enzymes are allosterically regulated via conformational change; however, our ability to manipulate these structural changes and control function is limited. Here we install a conformational switch for allosteric activation into the kinesin-1 microtubule motor in vitro and in cells. Kinesin-1 is a heterotetramer that accesses open active and closed autoinhibited states. The equilibrium between these states centers on a flexible elbow within a complex coiled-coil architecture. We target the elbow to engineer a closed state that can be opened with a de novo designed peptide. The alternative states are modeled computationally and confirmed by biophysical measurements and electron microscopy. In cells, peptide-driven activation increases kinesin transport, demonstrating a primary role for conformational switching in regulating motor activity. The designs are enabled by our understanding of ubiquitous coiled-coil structures, opening possibilities for controlling other protein activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Cross
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | | | - Shivam R Shukla
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Judith Mantell
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Mark P Dodding
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
- Bristol BioDesign Institute, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Derek N Woolfson
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
- Bristol BioDesign Institute, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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4
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Ennist NM, Wang S, Kennedy MA, Curti M, Sutherland GA, Vasilev C, Redler RL, Maffeis V, Shareef S, Sica AV, Hua AS, Deshmukh AP, Moyer AP, Hicks DR, Swartz AZ, Cacho RA, Novy N, Bera AK, Kang A, Sankaran B, Johnson MP, Phadkule A, Reppert M, Ekiert D, Bhabha G, Stewart L, Caram JR, Stoddard BL, Romero E, Hunter CN, Baker D. De novo design of proteins housing excitonically coupled chlorophyll special pairs. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:906-915. [PMID: 38831036 PMCID: PMC11213709 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-024-01626-0] [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: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Natural photosystems couple light harvesting to charge separation using a 'special pair' of chlorophyll molecules that accepts excitation energy from the antenna and initiates an electron-transfer cascade. To investigate the photophysics of special pairs independently of the complexities of native photosynthetic proteins, and as a first step toward creating synthetic photosystems for new energy conversion technologies, we designed C2-symmetric proteins that hold two chlorophyll molecules in closely juxtaposed arrangements. X-ray crystallography confirmed that one designed protein binds two chlorophylls in the same orientation as native special pairs, whereas a second designed protein positions them in a previously unseen geometry. Spectroscopy revealed that the chlorophylls are excitonically coupled, and fluorescence lifetime imaging demonstrated energy transfer. The cryo-electron microscopy structure of a designed 24-chlorophyll octahedral nanocage with a special pair on each edge closely matched the design model. The results suggest that the de novo design of artificial photosynthetic systems is within reach of current computational methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan M Ennist
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Shunzhi Wang
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Madison A Kennedy
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Mariano Curti
- Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ-CERCA), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Tarragona, Spain
| | | | | | - Rachel L Redler
- Department of Cell Biology and Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Valentin Maffeis
- Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ-CERCA), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Tarragona, Spain
| | - Saeed Shareef
- Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ-CERCA), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Tarragona, Spain
- Departament de Química Física i Inorgànica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Anthony V Sica
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ash Sueh Hua
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Arundhati P Deshmukh
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Adam P Moyer
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Derrick R Hicks
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Avi Z Swartz
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ralph A Cacho
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nathan Novy
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Asim K Bera
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alex Kang
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Banumathi Sankaran
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging, Berkeley Center for Structural Biology, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Amala Phadkule
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Mike Reppert
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Damian Ekiert
- Department of Cell Biology and Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gira Bhabha
- Department of Cell Biology and Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lance Stewart
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Justin R Caram
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Barry L Stoddard
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Elisabet Romero
- Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ-CERCA), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Tarragona, Spain
| | - C Neil Hunter
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - David Baker
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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5
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Lauzon D, Vallée-Bélisle A. Design and Thermodynamics Principles to Program the Cooperativity of Molecular Assemblies. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202313944. [PMID: 37975629 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202313944] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Most functional nanosystems in living organisms are constructed using multimeric assemblies that provide multiple advantages over their monomeric counterparts such as cooperative or anti-cooperative responses, integration of multiple signals and self-regulation. Inspired by these natural nanosystems, chemists have been synthesizing self-assembled supramolecular systems over the last 50 years with increasing complexity with applications ranging from biosensing, drug delivery, synthetic biology, and system chemistry. Although many advances have been made concerning the design principles of novel molecular architectures and chemistries, little is still known, however, about how to program their dynamic of assembly so that they can assemble at the required concentration and with the right sensitivity. Here, we used synthetic DNA assemblies and double-mutant cycle analysis to explore the thermodynamic basis to program the cooperativity of molecular assemblies. The results presented here exemplify how programmable molecular assemblies can be efficiently built by fusing interacting domains and optimizing their compaction. They may also provide the rational basis for understanding the thermodynamic and mechanistic principles driving the evolution of multimeric biological complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Lauzon
- Laboratory of Biosensors & Nanomachines, Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, H2V 0B3, QC, Canada
| | - Alexis Vallée-Bélisle
- Laboratory of Biosensors & Nanomachines, Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, H2V 0B3, QC, Canada
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6
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Hutchins GH, Noble CEM, Bunzel HA, Williams C, Dubiel P, Yadav SKN, Molinaro PM, Barringer R, Blackburn H, Hardy BJ, Parnell AE, Landau C, Race PR, Oliver TAA, Koder RL, Crump MP, Schaffitzel C, Oliveira ASF, Mulholland AJ, Anderson JLR. An expandable, modular de novo protein platform for precision redox engineering. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2306046120. [PMID: 37487099 PMCID: PMC10400981 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2306046120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The electron-conducting circuitry of life represents an as-yet untapped resource of exquisite, nanoscale biomolecular engineering. Here, we report the characterization and structure of a de novo diheme "maquette" protein, 4D2, which we subsequently use to create an expanded, modular platform for heme protein design. A well-folded monoheme variant was created by computational redesign, which was then utilized for the experimental validation of continuum electrostatic redox potential calculations. This demonstrates how fundamental biophysical properties can be predicted and fine-tuned. 4D2 was then extended into a tetraheme helical bundle, representing a 7 nm molecular wire. Despite a molecular weight of only 24 kDa, electron cryomicroscopy illustrated a remarkable level of detail, indicating the positioning of the secondary structure and the heme cofactors. This robust, expressible, highly thermostable and readily designable modular platform presents a valuable resource for redox protein design and the future construction of artificial electron-conducting circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- George H. Hutchins
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
| | - Claire E. M. Noble
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
- BrisSynBio Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Life Sciences Building, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TQ, United Kingdom
| | - H. Adrian Bunzel
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
| | | | - Paulina Dubiel
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
| | - Sathish K. N. Yadav
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
| | - Paul M. Molinaro
- Department of Physics, The City College of New York, New York, NY10031
- Graduate Programs of Physics, Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of The City University of New York, New York, NY10016
| | - Rob Barringer
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
| | - Hector Blackburn
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin J. Hardy
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
| | - Alice E. Parnell
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
- BrisSynBio Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Life Sciences Building, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TQ, United Kingdom
| | - Charles Landau
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
| | - Paul R. Race
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
- BrisSynBio Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Life Sciences Building, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TQ, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ronald L. Koder
- Department of Physics, The City College of New York, New York, NY10031
- Graduate Programs of Physics, Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of The City University of New York, New York, NY10016
| | - Matthew P. Crump
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TS, United Kingdom
| | - Christiane Schaffitzel
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
| | - A. Sofia F. Oliveira
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TS, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian J. Mulholland
- BrisSynBio Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Life Sciences Building, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TQ, United Kingdom
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TS, United Kingdom
| | - J. L. Ross Anderson
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, BristolBS8 1TD, United Kingdom
- BrisSynBio Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Life Sciences Building, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TQ, United Kingdom
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7
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D'Alonzo D, De Fenza M, Pavone V, Lombardi A, Nastri F. Selective Oxidation of Halophenols Catalyzed by an Artificial Miniaturized Peroxidase. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098058. [PMID: 37175773 PMCID: PMC10178546 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of artificial enzymes for application in sustainable technologies, such as the transformation of environmental pollutants or biomass, is one of the most challenging goals in metalloenzyme design. In this work, we describe the oxidation of mono-, di-, tri- and penta-halogenated phenols catalyzed by the artificial metalloenzyme Fe-MC6*a. It promoted the dehalogenation of 4-fluorophenol into the corresponding 1,4-benzoquinone, while under the same experimental conditions, 4-chloro, 4-bromo and 4-iodophenol were selectively converted into higher molecular weight compounds. Analysis of the 4-chlorophenol oxidation products clarified that oligomers based on C-O bonds were exclusively formed in this case. All results show that Fe-MC6*a holds intriguing enzymatic properties, as it catalyzes halophenol oxidation with substrate-dependent chemoselectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele D'Alonzo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria De Fenza
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Flavia Nastri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126 Napoli, Italy
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8
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Chino M, Di Costanzo LF, Leone L, La Gatta S, Famulari A, Chiesa M, Lombardi A, Pavone V. Designed Rubredoxin miniature in a fully artificial electron chain triggered by visible light. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2368. [PMID: 37185349 PMCID: PMC10130062 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37941-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Designing metal sites into de novo proteins has significantly improved, recently. However, identifying the minimal coordination spheres, able to encompass the necessary information for metal binding and activity, still represents a great challenge, today. Here, we test our understanding with a benchmark, nevertheless difficult, case. We assemble into a miniature 28-residue protein, the quintessential elements required to fold properly around a FeCys4 redox center, and to function efficiently in electron-transfer. This study addresses a challenge in de novo protein design, as it reports the crystal structure of a designed tetra-thiolate metal-binding protein in sub-Å agreement with the intended design. This allows us to well correlate structure to spectroscopic and electrochemical properties. Given its high reduction potential compared to natural and designed FeCys4-containing proteins, we exploit it as terminal electron acceptor of a fully artificial chain triggered by visible light.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Chino
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126, Napoli, Italy
| | - Luigi Franklin Di Costanzo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy
| | - Linda Leone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126, Napoli, Italy
| | - Salvatore La Gatta
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126, Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonino Famulari
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Giuria 9, 10125, Torino, Italy
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, University of Zaragoza, Calle Pedro Cerbuna 12, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mario Chiesa
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Giuria 9, 10125, Torino, Italy
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126, Napoli, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126, Napoli, Italy.
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9
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Menke FS, Wicher B, Maurizot V, Huc I. Homochiral versus Heterochiral Dimeric Helical Foldamer Bundles: Chlorinated-Solvent-Dependent Self-Sorting. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202217325. [PMID: 36625790 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202217325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Aromatic oligoamide sequences programmed to fold into stable helical conformations were designed to display a linear array of hydrogen-bond donors and acceptors at their surface. Sequences were prepared by solid-phase synthesis. Solution 1 H NMR spectroscopic studies and solid-state crystallographic structures demonstrated the formation of stable hydrogen-bond-mediated dimeric helix bundles that could be either heterochiral (with a P and an M helix) or homochiral (with two P or two M helices). Formation of the hetero- or homochiral dimers could be driven quantitatively using different chlorinated solvents-exemplifying a remarkable case of either social or narcissistic chiral self-sorting or upon imposing absolute handedness to the helices to forbid PM species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friedericke S Menke
- Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377, München, Germany
| | - Barbara Wicher
- Department of Chemical Technology of Drugs, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Grunwaldzka St., 60-780, Poznan, Poland
| | - Victor Maurizot
- CBMN (UMR 5248), Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, 2, Rue Robert Escarpit, 33600, Pessac, France
| | - Ivan Huc
- Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377, München, Germany
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10
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Abstract
Biological pigment-protein complexes (PPCs) exhibit a remarkable ability to tune the optical properties of biological excitons (bioexcitons) through specific pigment-protein interactions. While such fine-tuning allows natural systems (e.g., photosynthetic proteins) to carry out their native functions with near-optimal performance, native function itself is often suboptimal for applications such as biofuel production or quantum technology development. This perspective offers a look at near-term prospects for the rational reoptimization of PPC bioexcitons for new functions using site-directed mutagenesis. The primary focus is on the "structure-spectrum" challenge of understanding the relationships between structural features and spectroscopic properties. While recent examples demonstrate that site-directed mutagenesis can be used to tune nearly all key bioexciton parameters (e.g., site energies, interpigment couplings, and electronic-vibrational interactions), critical challenges remain before we achieve truly rational design of bioexciton properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Reppert
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
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11
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Pirro F, La Gatta S, Arrigoni F, Famulari A, Maglio O, Del Vecchio P, Chiesa M, De Gioia L, Bertini L, Chino M, Nastri F, Lombardi A. A De Novo-Designed Type 3 Copper Protein Tunes Catechol Substrate Recognition and Reactivity. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202211552. [PMID: 36334012 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202211552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
De novo metalloprotein design is a remarkable approach to shape protein scaffolds toward specific functions. Here, we report the design and characterization of Due Rame 1 (DR1), a de novo designed protein housing a di-copper site and mimicking the Type 3 (T3) copper-containing polyphenol oxidases (PPOs). To achieve this goal, we hierarchically designed the first and the second di-metal coordination spheres to engineer the di-copper site into a simple four-helix bundle scaffold. Spectroscopic, thermodynamic, and functional characterization revealed that DR1 recapitulates the T3 copper site, supporting different copper redox states, and being active in the O2 -dependent oxidation of catechols to o-quinones. Careful design of the residues lining the substrate access site endows DR1 with substrate recognition, as revealed by Hammet analysis and computational studies on substituted catechols. This study represents a premier example in the construction of a functional T3 copper site into a designed four-helix bundle protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Pirro
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore La Gatta
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Arrigoni
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milan-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 2, 20126, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonino Famulari
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Giuria 9, 10125, Torino, Italy.,Department of Condensed Matter Physics, University of of Zaragoza, Calle Pedro Cerbuna 12, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ornella Maglio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy.,Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Pompea Del Vecchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Chiesa
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Giuria 9, 10125, Torino, Italy
| | - Luca De Gioia
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milan-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 2, 20126, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Bertini
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milan-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 2, 20126, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Chino
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Flavia Nastri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy
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12
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Shisaka Y, Shoji O. Bridging the gap: Unveiling novel functions of a bacterial haem-acquisition protein capturing diverse synthetic porphyrinoids. Coord Chem Rev 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2022.214793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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13
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Ennist NM, Stayrook SE, Dutton PL, Moser CC. Rational design of photosynthetic reaction center protein maquettes. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:997295. [PMID: 36213121 PMCID: PMC9532970 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.997295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
New technologies for efficient solar-to-fuel energy conversion will help facilitate a global shift from dependence on fossil fuels to renewable energy. Nature uses photosynthetic reaction centers to convert photon energy into a cascade of electron-transfer reactions that eventually produce chemical fuel. The design of new reaction centers de novo deepens our understanding of photosynthetic charge separation and may one day allow production of biofuels with higher thermodynamic efficiency than natural photosystems. Recently, we described the multi-step electron-transfer activity of a designed reaction center maquette protein (the RC maquette), which can assemble metal ions, tyrosine, a Zn tetrapyrrole, and heme into an electron-transport chain. Here, we detail our modular strategy for rational protein design and show that the intended RC maquette design agrees with crystal structures in various states of assembly. A flexible, dynamic apo-state collapses by design into a more ordered holo-state upon cofactor binding. Crystal structures illustrate the structural transitions upon binding of different cofactors. Spectroscopic assays demonstrate that the RC maquette binds various electron donors, pigments, and electron acceptors with high affinity. We close with a critique of the present RC maquette design and use electron-tunneling theory to envision a path toward a designed RC with a substantially higher thermodynamic efficiency than natural photosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan M. Ennist
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- *Correspondence: Nathan M. Ennist,
| | - Steven E. Stayrook
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- Yale Cancer Biology Institute, Yale University West Campus, West Haven, CT, United States
| | - P. Leslie Dutton
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Christopher C. Moser
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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14
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Ennist NM, Zhao Z, Stayrook SE, Discher BM, Dutton PL, Moser CC. De novo protein design of photochemical reaction centers. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4937. [PMID: 35999239 PMCID: PMC9399245 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32710-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural photosynthetic protein complexes capture sunlight to power the energetic catalysis that supports life on Earth. Yet these natural protein structures carry an evolutionary legacy of complexity and fragility that encumbers protein reengineering efforts and obfuscates the underlying design rules for light-driven charge separation. De novo development of a simplified photosynthetic reaction center protein can clarify practical engineering principles needed to build new enzymes for efficient solar-to-fuel energy conversion. Here, we report the rational design, X-ray crystal structure, and electron transfer activity of a multi-cofactor protein that incorporates essential elements of photosynthetic reaction centers. This highly stable, modular artificial protein framework can be reconstituted in vitro with interchangeable redox centers for nanometer-scale photochemical charge separation. Transient absorption spectroscopy demonstrates Photosystem II-like tyrosine and metal cluster oxidation, and we measure charge separation lifetimes exceeding 100 ms, ideal for light-activated catalysis. This de novo-designed reaction center builds upon engineering guidelines established for charge separation in earlier synthetic photochemical triads and modified natural proteins, and it shows how synthetic biology may lead to a new generation of genetically encoded, light-powered catalysts for solar fuel production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan M Ennist
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6058, USA. .,Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA. .,Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
| | - Zhenyu Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6058, USA
| | - Steven E Stayrook
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6058, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.,Yale Cancer Biology Institute, Yale University West Campus, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
| | - Bohdana M Discher
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6058, USA
| | - P Leslie Dutton
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6058, USA
| | - Christopher C Moser
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6058, USA
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15
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Koebke KJ, Pinter TBJ, Pitts WC, Pecoraro VL. Catalysis and Electron Transfer in De Novo Designed Metalloproteins. Chem Rev 2022; 122:12046-12109. [PMID: 35763791 PMCID: PMC10735231 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c01025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
One of the hallmark advances in our understanding of metalloprotein function is showcased in our ability to design new, non-native, catalytically active protein scaffolds. This review highlights progress and milestone achievements in the field of de novo metalloprotein design focused on reports from the past decade with special emphasis on de novo designs couched within common subfields of bioinorganic study: heme binding proteins, monometal- and dimetal-containing catalytic sites, and metal-containing electron transfer sites. Within each subfield, we highlight several of what we have identified as significant and important contributions to either our understanding of that subfield or de novo metalloprotein design as a discipline. These reports are placed in context both historically and scientifically. General suggestions for future directions that we feel will be important to advance our understanding or accelerate discovery are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl J. Koebke
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | | | - Winston C. Pitts
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
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16
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Synthesis of metalloporphyrin complexes based on chlorophyllin. J Mol Struct 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2022.132841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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17
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Barnsley KK, Ondrechen MJ. Enzyme active sites: Identification and prediction of function using computational chemistry. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2022; 74:102384. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2022.102384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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18
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Engineered Allosteric Regulation of Protein Function. J Mol Biol 2022; 434:167620. [PMID: 35513109 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Allosteric regulation of proteins has been utilized to study various aspects of cell signaling, from unicellular events to organism-wide phenotypes. However, traditional methods of allosteric regulation, such as constitutively active mutants and inhibitors, lack tight spatiotemporal control. This often leads to unintended signaling consequences that interfere with data interpretation. To overcome these obstacles, researchers employed protein engineering approaches that enable tight control of protein function through allosteric mechanisms. These methods provide high specificity as well as spatial and temporal precision in regulation of protein activity in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we focus on the recent advancements in engineered allosteric regulation and discuss the various bioengineered allosteric techniques available now, from chimeric GPCRs to chemogenetic and optogenetic switches. We highlight the benefits and pitfalls of each of these techniques as well as areas in which future improvements can be made. Additionally, we provide a brief discussion on implementation of engineered allosteric regulation approaches, demonstrating that these tools can shed light on elusive biological events and have the potential to be utilized in precision medicine.
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19
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Shisaka Y, Sakakibara E, Suzuki K, Stanfield JK, Onoda H, Ueda G, Hatano M, Sugimoto H, Shoji O. Tetraphenylporphyrin Enters the Ring: First Example of a Complex Between Highly Bulky Porphyrins and a Protein. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200095. [PMID: 35352458 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP) is a symmetrically substituted synthetic porphyrin whose properties can be readily modified, providing it with significant advantages over naturally occurring porphyrins. Herein, we report the first example of a stable complex between a native biomolecule, the haemoprotein HasA, and TPP as well as its derivatives. The X-ray crystal structures of nine different HasA-TPP complexes were solved at high resolutions. HasA capturing TPP derivatives was also demonstrated to inhibit growth of the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa . Mutant variants of HasA binding FeTPP were shown to possess a different mode of coordination, permitting the cyclopropanation of styrene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuma Shisaka
- Nagoya University, Chemistry, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, 464-8602, Nagoya, JAPAN
| | - Erika Sakakibara
- Nagoya University, Chemistry, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, 464-8602, Nagoya, JAPAN
| | - Kazuto Suzuki
- Nagoya University, Chemistry, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, 464-8602, Nagoya, JAPAN
| | | | - Hiroki Onoda
- Nagoya University, Chemistry, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, 464-8602, Nagoya, JAPAN
| | - Garyo Ueda
- Nagoya University, Chemistry, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, 464-8602, Nagoya, JAPAN
| | - Miu Hatano
- Nagoya University, Chemistry, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, 464-8602, Nagoya, JAPAN
| | - Hiroshi Sugimoto
- RIKEN: Rikagaku Kenkyujo, SPring-8 Centre, 1-1-1 Kouto, 679-5148, Sayo, JAPAN
| | - Osami Shoji
- Nagoya University, Graduate School of Science, Furo, Chikusa,, 464-8602, Nagoya, JAPAN
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20
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Yao XQ, Hamelberg D. Residue–Residue Contact Changes during Functional Processes Define Allosteric Communication Pathways. J Chem Theory Comput 2022; 18:1173-1187. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.1c00669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Qiu Yao
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-3965, United States
| | - Donald Hamelberg
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-3965, United States
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21
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Naudin EA, Albanese KI, Smith AJ, Mylemans B, Baker EG, Weiner OD, Andrews DM, Tigue N, Savery NJ, Woolfson DN. From peptides to proteins: coiled-coil tetramers to single-chain 4-helix bundles. Chem Sci 2022; 13:11330-11340. [PMID: 36320580 PMCID: PMC9533478 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc04479j] [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: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The design of completely synthetic proteins from first principles—de novo protein design—is challenging. This is because, despite recent advances in computational protein–structure prediction and design, we do not understand fully the sequence-to-structure relationships for protein folding, assembly, and stabilization. Antiparallel 4-helix bundles are amongst the most studied scaffolds for de novo protein design. We set out to re-examine this target, and to determine clear sequence-to-structure relationships, or design rules, for the structure. Our aim was to determine a common and robust sequence background for designing multiple de novo 4-helix bundles. In turn, this could be used in chemical and synthetic biology to direct protein–protein interactions and as scaffolds for functional protein design. Our approach starts by analyzing known antiparallel 4-helix coiled-coil structures to deduce design rules. In terms of the heptad repeat, abcdefg—i.e., the sequence signature of many helical bundles—the key features that we identify are: a = Leu, d = Ile, e = Ala, g = Gln, and the use of complementary charged residues at b and c. Next, we implement these rules in the rational design of synthetic peptides to form antiparallel homo- and heterotetramers. Finally, we use the sequence of the homotetramer to derive in one step a single-chain 4-helix-bundle protein for recombinant production in E. coli. All of the assembled designs are confirmed in aqueous solution using biophysical methods, and ultimately by determining high-resolution X-ray crystal structures. Our route from peptides to proteins provides an understanding of the role of each residue in each design. Rules for designing 4-helix bundles are defined, tested, and used to generate de novo peptide assemblies and a single-chain protein.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise A. Naudin
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK
| | - Katherine I. Albanese
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK
- Max Planck-Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK
| | - Abigail J. Smith
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Medical Sciences Building, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Bram Mylemans
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK
- Max Planck-Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK
| | - Emily G. Baker
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Medical Sciences Building, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Orion D. Weiner
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, 555 Mission Bay Blvd. South, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - David M. Andrews
- Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge Science Park, Darwin Building, Cambridge CB4 0WG, UK
| | - Natalie Tigue
- BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Granta Park, Cambridge CB21 6GH, UK
| | - Nigel J. Savery
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Medical Sciences Building, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
- BrisEngBio, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK
| | - Derek N. Woolfson
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK
- Max Planck-Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Medical Sciences Building, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
- BrisEngBio, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK
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22
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Shimizu K, Mijiddorj B, Usami M, Mizoguchi I, Yoshida S, Akayama S, Hamada Y, Ohyama A, Usui K, Kawamura I, Kawano R. De novo design of a nanopore for single-molecule detection that incorporates a β-hairpin peptide. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 17:67-75. [PMID: 34811552 PMCID: PMC8770118 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-021-01008-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The amino-acid sequence of a protein encodes information on its three-dimensional structure and specific functionality. De novo design has emerged as a method to manipulate the primary structure for the development of artificial proteins and peptides with desired functionality. This paper describes the de novo design of a pore-forming peptide, named SV28, that has a β-hairpin structure and assembles to form a stable nanopore in a bilayer lipid membrane. This large synthetic nanopore is an entirely artificial device for practical applications. The peptide forms multidispersely sized nanopore structures ranging from 1.7 to 6.3 nm in diameter and can detect DNAs. To form a monodispersely sized nanopore, we redesigned the SV28 by introducing a glycine-kink mutation. The resulting redesigned peptide forms a monodisperse pore with a diameter of 1.7 nm leading to detection of a single polypeptide chain. Such de novo design of a β-hairpin peptide has the potential to create artificial nanopores, which can be size adjusted to a target molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Shimizu
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (TUAT), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Batsaikhan Mijiddorj
- Graduate School of Engineering, Yokohama National University, Yokohama, Japan
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, National University of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Masataka Usami
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (TUAT), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ikuro Mizoguchi
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (TUAT), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuhei Yoshida
- Faculty of Frontiers of Innovative Research in Science and Technology (FIRST), Konan University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Shiori Akayama
- Faculty of Frontiers of Innovative Research in Science and Technology (FIRST), Konan University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yoshio Hamada
- Faculty of Frontiers of Innovative Research in Science and Technology (FIRST), Konan University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Akifumi Ohyama
- Graduate School of Engineering Science, Yokohama National University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kenji Usui
- Faculty of Frontiers of Innovative Research in Science and Technology (FIRST), Konan University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Izuru Kawamura
- Graduate School of Engineering, Yokohama National University, Yokohama, Japan
- Graduate School of Engineering Science, Yokohama National University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Ryuji Kawano
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (TUAT), Tokyo, Japan.
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23
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Abstract
Natural metalloproteins perform many functions - ranging from sensing to electron transfer and catalysis - in which the position and property of each ligand and metal, is dictated by protein structure. De novo protein design aims to define an amino acid sequence that encodes a specific structure and function, providing a critical test of the hypothetical inner workings of (metallo)proteins. To date, de novo metalloproteins have used simple, symmetric tertiary structures - uncomplicated by the large size and evolutionary marks of natural proteins - to interrogate structure-function hypotheses. In this Review, we discuss de novo design applications, such as proteins that induce complex, increasingly asymmetric ligand geometries to achieve function, as well as the use of more canonical ligand geometries to achieve stability. De novo design has been used to explore how proteins fine-tune redox potentials and catalyse both oxidative and hydrolytic reactions. With an increased understanding of structure-function relationships, functional proteins including O2-dependent oxidases, fast hydrolases, and multi-proton/multi-electron reductases, have been created. In addition, proteins can now be designed using xeno-biological metals or cofactors and principles from inorganic chemistry to derive new-to-nature functions. These results and the advances in computational protein design suggest a bright future for the de novo design of diverse, functional metalloproteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Chalkley
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and the Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, (CA), USA
| | - Samuel I. Mann
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and the Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, (CA), USA
| | - William F. DeGrado
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and the Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, (CA), USA
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24
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Sapienza PJ, Currie MM, Lancaster NM, Li K, Aubé J, Goldfarb D, Cloer EW, Major MB, Lee AL. Visualizing an Allosteric Intermediate Using CuAAC Stabilization of an NMR Mixed Labeled Dimer. ACS Chem Biol 2021; 16:2766-2775. [PMID: 34784173 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.1c00617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Homodimers are the most abundant type of enzyme in cells, and as such, they represent the most elemental system for studying the phenomenon of allostery. In these systems, in which the allosteric features are manifest by the effect of the first binding event on a similar event at the second site, the most informative state is the asymmetric singly bound (lig1) form, yet it tends to be thermodynamically elusive. Here we obtain milligram quantities of lig1 of the allosteric homodimer, chorismate mutase, in the form of a mixed isotopically labeled dimer stabilized by Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) between the subunits. Below, we outline several critical steps required to generate high yields of both types of unnatural amino acid-containing proteins and overcome multiple pitfalls intrinsic to CuAAC to obtain high yields of a highly purified, fully intact, active mixed labeled dimer, which provides the first glimpse of the lig1 intermediate. These data not only will make possible NMR-based investigations of allostery envisioned by us but also should facilitate other structural applications in which specific linkage of proteins is helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J. Sapienza
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Michelle M. Currie
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Noah M. Lancaster
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Kelin Li
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Jeffrey Aubé
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Dennis Goldfarb
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Erica W. Cloer
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Michael B. Major
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Andrew L. Lee
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
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25
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Woloschuk RM, Reed PMM, Jaikaran ASI, Demmans KZ, Youn J, Kanelis V, Uppalapati M, Woolley GA. Structure-based design of a photoswitchable affibody scaffold. Protein Sci 2021; 30:2359-2372. [PMID: 34590762 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Photo-control of affinity reagents offers a general approach for high-resolution spatiotemporal control of diverse molecular processes. In an effort to develop general design principles for a photo-controlled affinity reagent, we took a structure-based approach to the design of a photoswitchable Z-domain, among the simplest of affinity reagent scaffolds. A chimera, designated Z-PYP, of photoactive yellow protein (PYP) and the Z-domain, was designed based on the concept of mutually exclusive folding. NMR analysis indicated that, in the dark, the PYP domain of the chimera was folded, and the Z-domain was unfolded. Blue light caused loss of structure in PYP and a two- to sixfold change in the apparent affinity of Z-PYP for its target as determined using size exclusion chromatography, UV-Vis based assays, and enyzme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A thermodynamic model indicated that mutations to decrease Z-domain folding energy would alter target affinity without loss of switching. This prediction was confirmed experimentally with a double alanine mutant in helix 3 of the Z-domain of the chimera (Z-PYP-AA) showing >30-fold lower dark-state binding and no loss in switching. The effect of decreased dark-state binding affinity was tested in a two-hybrid transcriptional control format and enabled pronounced light/dark differences in yeast growth in vivo. Finally, the design was transferable to the αZ-Taq affibody enabling tunable light-dependent binding both in vitro and in vivo to the Z-Taq target. This system thus provides a framework for the focused development of light switchable affibodies for a range of targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Woloschuk
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Anna S I Jaikaran
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karl Z Demmans
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jeffrey Youn
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Voula Kanelis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maruti Uppalapati
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - G Andrew Woolley
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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26
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Ferrando J, Solomon LA. Recent Progress Using De Novo Design to Study Protein Structure, Design and Binding Interactions. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11030225. [PMID: 33802210 PMCID: PMC7999464 DOI: 10.3390/life11030225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
De novo protein design is a powerful methodology used to study natural functions in an artificial-protein context. Since its inception, it has been used to reproduce a plethora of reactions and uncover biophysical principles that are often difficult to extract from direct studies of natural proteins. Natural proteins are capable of assuming a variety of different structures and subsequently binding ligands at impressively high levels of both specificity and affinity. Here, we will review recent examples of de novo design studies on binding reactions for small molecules, nucleic acids, and the formation of protein-protein interactions. We will then discuss some new structural advances in the field. Finally, we will discuss some advancements in computational modeling and design approaches and provide an overview of some modern algorithmic tools being used to design these proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Ferrando
- Department of Biology, George Mason University, 4400 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA;
| | - Lee A. Solomon
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, George Mason University, 10920 George Mason Circle, Manassas, VA 20110, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +703-993-6418
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27
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Stam MJ, Wood CW. DE-STRESS: a user-friendly web application for the evaluation of protein designs. Protein Eng Des Sel 2021; 34:gzab029. [PMID: 34908138 PMCID: PMC8672653 DOI: 10.1093/protein/gzab029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
De novo protein design is a rapidly growing field, and there are now many interesting and useful examples of designed proteins in the literature. However, most designs could be classed as failures when characterised in the lab, usually as a result of low expression, misfolding, aggregation or lack of function. This high attrition rate makes protein design unreliable and costly. It is possible that some of these failures could be caught earlier in the design process if it were quick and easy to generate information and a set of high-quality metrics regarding designs, which could be used to make reproducible and data-driven decisions about which designs to characterise experimentally. We present DE-STRESS (DEsigned STRucture Evaluation ServiceS), a web application for evaluating structural models of designed and engineered proteins. DE-STRESS has been designed to be simple, intuitive to use and responsive. It provides a wealth of information regarding designs, as well as tools to help contextualise the results and formally describe the properties that a design requires to be fit for purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Stam
- School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AB, UK
| | - Christopher W Wood
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FF, UK
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28
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Abstract
The field of de novo protein design has met with considerable success over the past few decades. Heme, a cofactor, has often been introduced to impart a diverse array of functions to a protein, ranging from electron transport to respiration. In nature, heme is found to occur predominantly in α-helical structures over β-sheets, which has resulted in significant designs of heme proteins utilizing coiled-coil helices. By contrast, there are only a few known β-sheet proteins that bind heme and designs of β-sheets frequently result in amyloid-like aggregates. This review reflects on our success in designing a series of multistranded β-sheet heme binding peptides that are well folded in both aqueous and membrane-like environments. Initially, we designed a β-hairpin peptide that self-assembles to bind heme and performs peroxidase activity in membrane. The β-hairpin was optimized further to accommodate a heme binding pocket within multistranded β-sheets for catalysis and electron transfer in membranes. Furthermore, we de novo designed and characterized β-sheet peptides and miniproteins that are soluble in an aqueous environment capable of binding single and multiple hemes with high affinity and stability. Collectively, these studies highlight the substantial progress made toward the design of functional β-sheets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areetha D'Souza
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637551
| | - Surajit Bhattacharjya
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637551
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29
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Xie C, Shimoyama H, Yamanaka M, Nagao S, Komori H, Shibata N, Higuchi Y, Shigeta Y, Hirota S. Experimental and theoretical study on converting myoglobin into a stable domain-swapped dimer by utilizing a tight hydrogen bond network at the hinge region. RSC Adv 2021; 11:37604-37611. [PMID: 35496441 PMCID: PMC9043842 DOI: 10.1039/d1ra06888a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Various factors, such as helical propensity and hydrogen bonds, control protein structures. A frequently used model protein, myoglobin (Mb), can perform 3D domain swapping, in which the loop at the hinge region is converted to a helical structure in the dimer. We have previously succeeded in obtaining monomer–dimer equilibrium in the native state by introducing a high α-helical propensity residue, Ala, to the hinge region. In this study, we focused on another factor that governs the protein structure, hydrogen bonding. X-ray crystal structures and thermodynamic studies showed that the myoglobin dimer was stabilized over the monomer when keeping His82 to interact with Lys79 and Asp141 through water moleclues and mutating Leu137, which was located close to the H-bond network at the dimer hinge region, to a hydrophilic amino acid (Glu or Asp). Molecular dynamics simulation studies confirmed that the number of H-bonds increased and the α-helices at the hinge region became more rigid for mutants with a tighter H-bond network, supporting the hypothesis that the myoglobin dimer is stabilized when the H-bond network at the hinge region is enhanced. This demonstrates the importance and utility of hydrogen bonds for designing a protein dimer from its monomer with 3D domain swapping. The tight H-bond network enhanced the helices at the hinge region and stabilized the myoglobin dimer, providing a unique example of using H-bonds in the design of a dimeric protein through 3D domain swapping.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Xie
- Division of Materials Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Hiromitsu Shimoyama
- Division of Life Science, Center for Computational Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1, Tennodai, Ibaraki, 305-8577, Japan
| | - Masaru Yamanaka
- Division of Materials Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nagao
- Division of Materials Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Komori
- Faculty of Education, Kagawa University, 1-1 Saiwai-cho, Takamatsu, Kagawa 760-8522, Japan
| | - Naoki Shibata
- Graduate School of Science, University of Hyogo, 3-2-1 Koto, Kamigori-cho, Ako-gun, Hyogo 678-1297, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Higuchi
- Graduate School of Science, University of Hyogo, 3-2-1 Koto, Kamigori-cho, Ako-gun, Hyogo 678-1297, Japan
| | - Yasuteru Shigeta
- Division of Life Science, Center for Computational Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1, Tennodai, Ibaraki, 305-8577, Japan
| | - Shun Hirota
- Division of Materials Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
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