Three-dimensional reconstruction of human cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator chloride channel revealed an ellipsoidal structure with orifices beneath the putative transmembrane domain

Characterization of Δ(G970-T1122)-CFTR, the most frequent CFTR mutant identified in Japanese cystic fibrosis patients

A massive deletion over three exons 16-17b in the CFTR gene was identified in Japanese CF patients with the highest frequency (about 70% of Japanese CF patients definitely diagnosed). This pathogenic mutation results in a deletion of 153 amino acids from glycine at position 970 (G970) to threonine at 1122 (T1122) in the CFTR protein without a frameshift. We name it Δ(G970-T1122)-CFTR. In the present study, we characterized the Δ(G970-T1122)-CFTR expressed in CHO cells using immunoblots and a super resolution microscopy. Δ(G970-T1122)-CFTR proteins were synthesized and core-glycosylated but not complex-glycosylated. This observation suggests that the Δ(G970-T1122) mutation can be categorized into the class II mutation like ΔF508. However, VX-809 a CFTR corrector that can help maturation of ΔF508, had no effect on Δ(G970-T1122). Interestingly C-terminal FLAG tag seems to partially rescue the trafficking defect of Δ(G970-T1122)-CFTR; however the rescued Δ(G970-T1122)-CFTR proteins do not assume channel function. Japanese, and perhaps people in other Asian nations, carry a class II mutation Δ(G970-T1122) with a higher frequency than previously appreciated. Further study of the Δ(G970-T1122)-CFTR is essential for understanding CF and CFTR-related diseases particularly in Asian countries.

Structural mechanisms of CFTR function and dysfunction

Hwang et al. integrate new structural insights with prior functional studies to reveal the functional anatomy of CFTR chloride channels.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) chloride channel plays a critical role in regulating transepithelial movement of water and electrolyte in exocrine tissues. Malfunction of the channel because of mutations of the cftr gene results in CF, the most prevalent lethal genetic disease among Caucasians. Recently, the publication of atomic structures of CFTR in two distinct conformations provides, for the first time, a clear overview of the protein. However, given the highly dynamic nature of the interactions among CFTR’s various domains, better understanding of the functional significance of these structures requires an integration of these new structural insights with previously established biochemical/biophysical studies, which is the goal of this review.

Molecular modelling and molecular dynamics of CFTR

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein is a member of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter superfamily that functions as an ATP-gated channel. Considerable progress has been made over the last years in the understanding of the molecular basis of the CFTR functions, as well as dysfunctions causing the common genetic disease cystic fibrosis (CF). This review provides a global overview of the theoretical studies that have been performed so far, especially molecular modelling and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. A special emphasis is placed on the CFTR-specific evolution of an ABC transporter framework towards a channel function, as well as on the understanding of the effects of disease-causing mutations and their specific modulation. This in silico work should help structure-based drug discovery and design, with a view to develop CFTR-specific pharmacotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of CF in the context of precision medicine.

On the mechanism of gating defects caused by the R117H mutation in cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator

KEY POINTS

Two functional abnormalities of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), a 25% reduction of the single-channel conductance (g) and a ∼13-fold lower open probability (Po ), were found with the R117H mutation that is associated with mild forms of cystic fibrosis. Characterizations of the gating defects of R117H-CFTR led to the conclusion that the mutation decreases Po by perturbing the gating conformational changes in CFTR's transmembrane domains (TMDs) without altering the function of the nucleotide binding domains (NBDs). Nonetheless, gating of the R117H-CFTR can be improved by a variety of pharmacological reagents supposedly acting on NBDs such as ATP analogues, or TMDs (e.g. VX-770 or nitrate). These reagents potentiate synergistically R117H-CFTR gating to a level that allows accurate assessments of its gating deficits. Our studies not only elucidate the mechanism underpinning gating dysfunction of R117H-CFTR, but also provide a mechanistic understanding of how VX-770 ameliorates the gating defects in the R117H mutant.

ABSTRACT

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by loss-of-function mutations of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene encoding a phosphorylation-activated, but ATP-gated chloride channel. In the current study, we investigated the mechanism responsible for the gating defects manifested in R117H-CFTR, an arginine-to-histidine substitution at position 117 of CFTR that is associated with mild forms of CF. We confirmed previous findings of a 25% decrease of the single-channel conductance (g) in R117H-CFTR, but found a ∼13-fold lower open probability (Po ). This dramatic gating deficit is not due to dysfunctional nucleotide binding domains (NBDs) as the mutation does not alter the apparent affinity for ATP, and the mutant channels respond to ATP analogues in a similar manner as wild-type CFTR. Furthermore, once ATP hydrolysis is abolished, the R117H mutant can be trapped in a prolonged 'burst opening' conformation that is proposed to be equipped with a stable NBD dimer. On the other hand, our results support the conclusion that the R117H mutation decreases Po by perturbing the gating conformational changes in CFTR's transmembrane domains as even when NBDs are kept at a dimerized configuration, Po is reduced by ∼10-fold. Moreover, our data demonstrate that a synergistic improvement of R117H-CFTR function can be accomplished with a combined regiment of VX-770 (Ivacaftor), nitrate ion (NO3 (-) ) and N(6) -(2-phenylethyl)-2'-deoxy-ATP (d-PATP), which almost completely rectifies the gating defect of R117H-CFTR. Clinical implications of our results are discussed.

Involvement of the heterodimeric interface region of the nucleotide binding domain-2 (NBD2) in the CFTR quaternary structure and membrane stability

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is the only member of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) superfamily that functions as a chloride channel. The predicted structure of CFTR protein contains two membrane-spanning domains (MSDs), each followed by a nucleotide binding domain (NBD1 and NBD2). The opening of the Cl- channel is directly linked to ATP-driven tight dimerization of CFTR's NBD1 and NBD2 domains. The presence of a heterodimeric interfaces (HI) region in NBD1 and NBD2 generated a head to tail orientation necessary for channel activity. This process was also suggested to promote important conformational changes in the associated transmembrane domains of CFTR, which may impact the CFTR plasma membrane stability. To better understand the role of the individual HI region in this process, we generated recombinant CFTR protein with suppressed HI-NBD1 and HI-NBD2. Our results indicate that HI-NBD2 deletion leads to the loss of the dimerization profile of CFTR that affect its plasma membrane stability. We conclude that, in addition to its role in Cl- transport, HI-NBD2 domain confers membrane stability of CFTR by consolidating its quaternary structure through interactions with HI-NBD1 region.

CFTR structure and cystic fibrosis

CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) is a member of the ATP-binding cassette family of membrane proteins. Although almost all members of this family are transporters, CFTR functions as a channel with specificity for anions, in particular chloride and bicarbonate. In this review we look at what is known about CFTR structure and function within the context of the ATP-binding cassette family. We also review current strategies aimed at obtaining the high resolution structure of the protein.

On the structural organization of the intracellular domains of CFTR

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is a multidomain membrane protein forming an anion selective channel. Mutations in the gene encoding CFTR cause cystic fibrosis (CF). The intracellular side of CFTR constitutes about 80% of the total mass of the protein. This region includes domains involved in ATP-dependent gating and regulatory protein kinase-A phosphorylation sites. The high-resolution molecular structure of CFTR has not yet been solved. However, a range of lower resolution structural data, as well as functional biochemical and electrophysiological data, are now available. This information has enabled the proposition of a working model for the structural architecture of the intracellular domains of the CFTR protein.

Constitutive activation of nuclear factor κB contributes to cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator expression and promotes human cervical cancer progression and poor prognosis

OBJECTIVE

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) have been known to play important roles in the development and progression of many types of cancer including cervical cancer. The study aimed to verify the relevance and significance of CFTR and NF-κB expressions in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines.

METHODS

The expressions of CFTR and NF-κB p65 were analyzed respectively by immunohistochemistry in total of 135 cervical tissue samples. The correlation to clinicopathologic characteristics and prognostic value was evaluated. The coexpression of CFTR and NF-κB was detected in cervical cancer cell lines. Nuclear factor κB signaling was inhibited by siRNA for NF-κB p65 and activated by stimulation of cells with interleukin β or tumor necrosis factor α.

RESULTS

We found both the membrane expression of CFTR and nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 were progressively increased from normal cervical tissue, cervical intraepithelial neoplasm, to cervical cancer (overall R² = 0.74, P < 0.001). Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator expression and NF-κB activation were also positively associated with stage, histological grade, lymph node metastasis, and invasive interstitial depth. Multivariate analysis showed that coexpression of CFTR and NF-κB was an independent prognostic factor for survival (relative risk, 5.16; P = 0.003). Dual-immunofluorescence analysis showed CFTR and NF-κB were coexpressed in cervical cancer. Studies in vitro revealed that the expression levels of CFTR mRNA and protein were positively related to NF-κB activation.

CONCLUSIONS

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator and NF-κB were coexpressed in cervical cancer, and the activation of NF-κB mediated the expression of CFTR. Multivariate analysis revealed that coexpression of CFTR and NF-κB was associated with poor prognosis in patients with cervical cancer.

Functional architecture of the CFTR chloride channel

Cystic fibrosis is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), a member of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) family of membrane transport proteins. CFTR is unique among ABC proteins in that it functions not as an active transporter but as an ATP-gated Cl(-) channel. As an ion channel, the function of the CFTR transmembrane channel pore that mediates Cl(-) movement has been studied in great detail. On the other hand, only low resolution structural data is available on the transmembrane parts of the protein. The structure of the channel pore has, however, been modeled on the known structure of active transporter ABC proteins. Currently, significant barriers exist to building a unified view of CFTR pore structure and function. Reconciling functional data on the channel with indirect structural data based on other proteins with very different transport functions and substrates has proven problematic. This review summarizes current structural and functional models of the CFTR Cl(-) channel pore, including a comprehensive review of previous electrophysiological investigations of channel structure and function. In addition, functional data on the three-dimensional arrangement of pore-lining helices, as well as contemporary hypotheses concerning conformational changes in the pore that occur during channel opening and closing, are discussed. Important similarities and differences between different models of the pore highlight current gaps in our knowledge of CFTR structure and function. In order to fill these gaps, structural and functional models of the membrane-spanning pore need to become better integrated.

Regulatory R region of the CFTR chloride channel is a dynamic integrator of phospho-dependent intra- and intermolecular interactions

Intrinsically disordered proteins play crucial roles in regulatory processes and often function as protein interaction hubs. Here, we present a detailed characterization of a full-length disordered hub protein region involved in multiple dynamic complexes. We performed NMR, CD, and fluorescence binding studies on the nonphosphorylated and highly PKA-phosphorylated human cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) regulatory region, a ∼200-residue disordered segment involved in phosphorylation-dependent regulation of channel trafficking and gating. Our data provide evidence for dynamic, phosphorylation-dependent, multisite interactions of various segments of the regulatory region for its intra- and intermolecular partners, including the CFTR nucleotide binding domains 1 and 2, a 42-residue peptide from the C terminus of CFTR, the SLC26A3 sulphate transporter and antisigma factor antagonist (STAS) domain, and 14-3-3β. Because of its large number of binding partners, multivalent binding of individually weak sites facilitates rapid exchange between free and bound states to allow the regulatory region to engage with different partners and generate a graded or rheostat-like response to phosphorylation. Our results enrich the understanding of how disordered binding segments interact with multiple targets. We present structural models consistent with our data that illustrate this dynamic aspect of phospho-regulation of CFTR by the disordered regulatory region.

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (ABCC7) structure

Structural studies of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) are reviewed. Like many membrane proteins, full-length CFTR has proven to be difficult to express and purify, hence much of the structural data available is for the more tractable, independently expressed soluble domains. Therefore, this chapter covers structural data for individual CFTR domains in addition to the sparser data available for the full-length protein. To set the context for these studies, we will start by reviewing structural information on model proteins from the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter superfamily, to which CFTR belongs.

Alternating access to the transmembrane domain of the ATP-binding cassette protein cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (ABCC7)

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) chloride channel is a member of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) protein family, most members of which act as active transporters. Actively transporting ABC proteins are thought to alternate between "outwardly facing" and "inwardly facing" conformations of the transmembrane substrate pathway. In CFTR, it is assumed that the outwardly facing conformation corresponds to the channel open state, based on homology with other ABC proteins. We have used patch clamp recording to quantify the rate of access of cysteine-reactive probes to cysteines introduced into two different transmembrane regions of CFTR from both the intracellular and extracellular solutions. Two probes, the large [2-sulfonatoethyl]methanethiosulfonate (MTSES) molecule and permeant Au(CN)(2)(-) ions, were applied to either side of the membrane to modify cysteines substituted for Leu-102 (first transmembrane region) and Thr-338 (sixth transmembrane region). Channel opening and closing were altered by mutations in the nucleotide binding domains of the channel. We find that, for both MTSES and Au(CN)(2)(-), access to these two cysteines from the cytoplasmic side is faster in open channels, whereas access to these same sites from the extracellular side is faster in closed channels. These results are consistent with alternating access to the transmembrane regions, however with the open state facing inwardly and the closed state facing outwardly. Our findings therefore prompt revision of current CFTR structural and mechanistic models, as well as having broader implications for transport mechanisms in all ABC proteins. Our results also suggest possible locations of both functional and dysfunctional ("vestigial") gates within the CFTR permeation pathway.

Functional arrangement of the 12th transmembrane region in the CFTR chloride channel pore based on functional investigation of a cysteine-less CFTR variant

The membrane-spanning part of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) Cl(-) channel comprises 12 transmembrane (TM) α-helices, arranged into two pseudo-symmetrical groups of six. While TM6 in the N-terminal TMs is known to line the pore and to make an important contribution to channel properties, much less is known about its C-terminal counterpart, TM12. We have used patch clamp recording to investigate the accessibility of cytoplasmically applied cysteine-reactive reagents to cysteines introduced along the length of TM12 in a cysteine-less variant of CFTR. We find that methanethiosulfonate (MTS) reagents irreversibly modify cysteines substituted for TM12 residues N1138, M1140, S1141, T1142, Q1144, W1145, V1147, N1148, and S1149 when applied to the cytoplasmic side of open channels. Cysteines sensitive to internal MTS reagents were not modified by extracellular [2-(trimethylammonium)ethyl] MTS, consistent with MTS reagent impermeability. Both S1141C and T1142C could be modified by intracellular [2-sulfonatoethyl] MTS prior to channel activation; however, N1138C and M1140C, located deeper into the pore from its cytoplasmic end, were modified only after channel activation. Comparison of these results with previous work on CFTR-TM6 allows us to develop a model of the relative positions, functional contributions, and alignment of these two important TMs lining the CFTR pore. We also propose a mechanism by which these seemingly structurally symmetrical TMs make asymmetric contributions to the functional properties of the channel pore.

Functional differences in pore properties between wild-type and cysteine-less forms of the CFTR chloride channel

Studies of the structure and function of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) Cl(-) channel have been advanced by the development of functional channel variants in which all 18 endogenous cysteine residues have been mutated ("cys-less" CFTR). However, cys-less CFTR has a slightly higher single-channel conductance than wild-type CFTR, raising questions as to the suitability of cys-less as a model of the wild-type CFTR pore. We used site-directed mutagenesis and patch-clamp recording to investigate the origin of this conductance difference and to determine the extent of functional differences between wild-type and cys-less CFTR channel permeation properties. Our results suggest that the conductance difference is the result of a single substitution, of C343: the point mutant C343S has a conductance similar to cys-less, whereas the reverse mutation, S343C in a cys-less background, restores wild-type conductance levels. Other cysteine substitutions (C128S, C225S, C376S, C866S) were without effect. Substitution of other residues for C343 suggested that conductance is dependent on amino acid side chain volume at this position. A range of other functional pore properties, including interactions with channel blockers (Au[CN] (2) (-) , 5-nitro-2-[3-phenylpropylamino]benzoic acid, suramin) and anion permeability, were not significantly different between wild-type and cys-less CFTR. Our results suggest that functional differences between these two CFTR constructs are of limited scale and scope and result from a small change in side chain volume at position 343. These results therefore support the use of cys-less as a model of the CFTR pore region.

Alignment of transmembrane regions in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator chloride channel pore

Different transmembrane (TM) α helices are known to line the pore of the cystic fibrosis TM conductance regulator (CFTR) Cl⁻ channel. However, the relative alignment of these TMs in the three-dimensional structure of the pore is not known. We have used patch-clamp recording to investigate the accessibility of cytoplasmically applied cysteine-reactive reagents to cysteines introduced along the length of the pore-lining first TM (TM1) of a cysteine-less variant of CFTR. We find that methanethiosulfonate (MTS) reagents irreversibly modify cysteines substituted for TM1 residues K95, Q98, P99, and L102 when applied to the cytoplasmic side of open channels. Residues closer to the intracellular end of TM1 (Y84–T94) were not apparently modified by MTS reagents, suggesting that this part of TM1 does not line the pore. None of the internal MTS reagent-reactive cysteines was modified by extracellular [2-(trimethylammonium)ethyl] MTS. Only K95C, closest to the putative intracellular end of TM1, was apparently modified by intracellular [2-sulfonatoethyl] MTS before channel activation. Comparison of these results with recent work on CFTR-TM6 suggests a relative alignment of these two important TMs along the axis of the pore. This alignment was tested experimentally by formation of disulfide bridges between pairs of cysteines introduced into these two TMs. Currents carried by the double mutants K95C/I344C and Q98C/I344C, but not by the corresponding single-site mutants, were inhibited by the oxidizing agent copper(II)-o-phenanthroline. This inhibition was irreversible on washing but could be reversed by the reducing agent dithiothreitol, suggesting disulfide bond formation between the introduced cysteine side chains. These results allow us to develop a model of the relative positions, functional contributions, and alignment of two important TMs lining the CFTR pore. Such functional information is necessary to understand and interpret the three-dimensional structure of the pore.

ATP hydrolysis-dependent asymmetry of the conformation of CFTR channel pore

Despite substantial efforts, the entire cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein proved to be difficult for structural analysis at high resolution, and little is still known about the actual dimensions of the anion-transporting pathway of CFTR channel. In the present study, we therefore gauged geometrical features of the CFTR Cl(-) channel pore by a nonelectrolyte exclusion technique. Polyethylene glycols with a hydrodynamic radius (R (h)) smaller than 0.95 nm (PEG 300-1,000) added from the intracellular side greatly suppressed the inward unitary anionic conductance, whereas only molecules with R (h) ≤ 0.62 nm (PEG 200-400) applied extracellularly were able to affect the outward unitary anionic currents. Larger molecules with R (h) = 1.16-1.84 nm (PEG 1,540-3,400) added from either side were completely excluded from the pore and had no significant effect on the single-channel conductance. The cut-off radius of the inner entrance of CFTR channel pore was assessed to be 1.19 ± 0.02 nm. The outer entrance was narrower with its cut-off radius of 0.70 ± 0.16 nm and was dilated to 0.93 ± 0.23 nm when a non-hydrolyzable ATP analog, 5'-adenylylimidodiphosphate (AMP-PNP), was added to the intracellular solution. Thus, it is concluded that the structure of CFTR channel pore is highly asymmetric with a narrower extracellular entrance and that a dilating conformational change of the extracellular entrance is associated with the channel transition to a non-hydrolytic, locked-open state.

Optimized purification of a heterodimeric ABC transporter in a highly stable form amenable to 2-D crystallization

Optimized protocols for achieving high-yield expression, purification and reconstitution of membrane proteins are required to study their structure and function. We previously reported high-level expression in Escherichia coli of active BmrC and BmrD proteins from Bacillus subtilis, previously named YheI and YheH. These proteins are half-transporters which belong to the ABC (ATP-Binding Cassette) superfamily and associate in vivo to form a functional transporter able to efflux drugs. In this report, high-yield purification and functional reconstitution were achieved for the heterodimer BmrC/BmrD. In contrast to other detergents more efficient for solubilizing the transporter, dodecyl-ß-D-maltoside (DDM) maintained it in a drug-sensitive and vanadate-sensitive ATPase-competent state after purification by affinity chromatography. High amounts of pure proteins were obtained which were shown either by analytical ultracentrifugation or gel filtration to form a monodisperse heterodimer in solution, which was notably stable for more than one month at 4°C. Functional reconstitution using different lipid compositions induced an 8-fold increase of the ATPase activity (k_cat∼5 s⁻¹). We further validated that the quality of the purified BmrC/BmrD heterodimer is suitable for structural analyses, as its reconstitution at high protein densities led to the formation of 2-D crystals. Electron microscopy of negatively stained crystals allowed the calculation of a projection map at 20 Å resolution revealing that BmrC/BmrD might assemble into oligomers in a lipidic environment.

Structural models of CFTR-AMPK and CFTR-PKA interactions: R-domain flexibility is a key factor in CFTR regulation

Cystic fibrosis (CF), the most common lethal genetic disease among Caucasians, is caused by mutations in cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). CFTR’s main role is to transport chloride ions across epithelial cell membranes. It also regulates many cell functions. However, the exact role of CFTR in cellular processes is not yet fully understood. It is recognized that a key factor in CFTR-related regulation is its phosphorylation state. The important kinases regulating CFTR are cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) and 5′-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). PKA and AMPK have opposite effects on CFTR activity despite their highly similar structures and recognition motifs. Utilizing homology modeling, in silico mutagenesis and literature mining, we supplement available information regarding the atomic-resolution structures of PKA, AMPK and CFTR, and the complexes CFTR–PKA and CFTR–AMPK. The atomic-resolution structural predictions reveal an unexpected availability of CFTR Ser813 for phosphorylation by both PKA and AMPK. These results indicate the key role of the structural flexibility of the serine-rich R-domain in CFTR regulation by phosphorylation.

Small-angle X-ray scattering study of the ATP modulation of the structural features of the nucleotide binding domains of the CFTR in solution

Nucleotide binding domains (NBD1 and NBD2) of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance (CFTR), the defective protein in cystic fibrosis, are responsible for controlling the gating of the chloride channel and are the putative binding site for several candidate drugs in the disease treatment. We studied the structural properties of recombinant NBD1, NBD2, and an equimolar NBD1/NBD2 mixture in solution by small-angle X-ray scattering. We demonstrated that NBD1 or NBD2 alone have an overall structure similar to that observed for crystals. Application of 2 mM ATP induces a dimerization of NBD1 but does not modify the NBD2 monomeric conformation. An equimolar mixture of NBD1/NBD2 in solution shows a dimeric conformation, and the application of ATP to the solution causes a conformational change in the NBD1/NBD2 complex into a tight heterodimer. We hypothesize that a similar conformation change occurs in situ and that transition is part of the gating mechanism. To our knowledge, this is the first direct observation of a conformational change of the NBD1/NBD2 interaction by ATP. This information may be useful to understand the physiopathology of cystic fibrosis.

Applications of proteomic technologies for understanding the premature proteolysis of CFTR

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which encodes an ATP-dependent anion channel. Disease-causing mutations can affect channel biogenesis, trafficking or function, and result in reduced ion transport at the apical surface of many tissues. The most common CFTR mutation is a deletion of phenylalanine at position 508 (DeltaF508), which results in a misfolded protein that is prematurely targeted for degradation. This article focuses on how proteomic approaches have been utilized to explore the mechanisms of premature proteolysis in CF. Additionally, we emphasize the potential for proteomic-based technologies in expanding our understanding of CF pathophysiology and therapeutic approaches.

Domain location within the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator protein investigated by electron microscopy and gold labelling

The domain organisation of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein was studied using electron microscopy of detergent-solubilised dimeric complexes. Ni-NTA nanogold labelling data suggest that in the nonphosphorylated, nucleotide-free state, the C-terminus is intimately associated with the cytoplasmic ATP-binding regions, whilst part of the regulatory domain occupies a position close to the cytoplasmic surface of the lipid membrane. Removal of the entire second nucleotide binding domain (NBD2) results in a deficit in the CFTR structure that is consistent with the size and shape of a single NBD. The data suggest that NBD2 lies closer to the C2 symmetry axis than the first nucleotide binding domain (NBD1) and that NBD2 from one CFTR monomer also contacts NBD1 from the opposing one. These data suggest that current homology models for CFTR based on other ATP-binding cassette proteins appear to be reasonable, at least to low resolution. We also find that Ni-NTA nanogold labelling of an internal hexa-Histidine sequence is a valuable approach to locate individual protein domains.

Therapeutic potential of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) inhibitors in polycystic kidney disease

In the common genetic disorder autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), kidney function is disrupted by multiple fluid-filled epithelial cysts. Cyst growth in ADPKD involves fluid accumulation within the cyst lumen driven by cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-mediated transepithelial Cl- secretion. This suggests that inhibitors of the CFTR Cl- channel might retard cyst growth. This review considers how knowledge of CFTR structure and function and its role in transepithelial salt and water movements provides insight into the mechanism of action of CFTR inhibitors. Some small molecules, termed open-channel blockers, inhibit directly the CFTR Cl- channel by physically obstructing the CFTR pore and preventing Cl- flow. By contrast, other small molecules, termed allosteric inhibitors, bind to CFTR at a site remote from the channel pore and interfere with conformational changes that open the pore. The application of high-throughput screening to CFTR drug discovery has led to the identification of new inhibitors of the CFTR Cl- channel including the thiazolidinone CFTR(inh)-172 and the glycine hydrazide GlyH-101. The demonstration that CFTR inhibitors retard cyst expansion and kidney enlargement in mouse models of ADPKD provides proof of concept for the use of small-molecule CFTR inhibitors in the treatment of ADPKD.

Regulation of conductance by the number of fixed positive charges in the intracellular vestibule of the CFTR chloride channel pore

Rapid chloride permeation through the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) Cl(-) channel is dependent on the presence of fixed positive charges in the permeation pathway. Here, we use site-directed mutagenesis and patch clamp recording to show that the functional role played by one such positive charge (K95) in the inner vestibule of the pore can be "transplanted" to a residue in a different transmembrane (TM) region (S1141). Thus, the mutant channel K95S/S1141K showed Cl(-) conductance and open-channel blocker interactions similar to those of wild-type CFTR, thereby "rescuing" the effects of the charge-neutralizing K95S mutation. Furthermore, the function of K95C/S1141C, but not K95C or S1141C, was inhibited by the oxidizing agent copper(II)-o-phenanthroline, and this inhibition was reversed by the reducing agent dithiothreitol, suggesting disulfide bond formation between these two introduced cysteine side chains. These results suggest that the amino acid side chains of K95 (in TM1) and S1141 (in TM12) are functionally interchangeable and located closely together in the inner vestibule of the pore. This allowed us to investigate the functional effects of increasing the number of fixed positive charges in this vestibule from one (in wild type) to two (in the S1141K mutant). The S1141K mutant had similar Cl(-) conductance as wild type, but increased susceptibility to channel block by cytoplasmic anions including adenosine triphosphate, pyrophosphate, 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)benzoic acid, and Pt(NO(2))(4)(2-) in inside-out membrane patches. Furthermore, in cell-attached patch recordings, apparent voltage-dependent channel block by cytosolic anions was strengthened by the S1141K mutation. Thus, the Cl(-) channel function of CFTR is maximal with a single fixed positive charge in this part of the inner vestibule of the pore, and increasing the number of such charges to two causes a net decrease in overall Cl(-) transport through a combination of failure to increase Cl(-) conductance and increased susceptibility to channel block by cytosolic substances.

Molecular models of the open and closed states of the whole human CFTR protein

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), involved in cystic fibrosis (CF), is a chloride channel belonging to the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) superfamily. Using the experimental structure of Sav1866 as template, we previously modeled the human CFTR structure, including membrane-spanning domains (MSD) and nucleotide-binding domains (NBD), in an outward-facing conformation (open channel state). Here, we constructed a model of the CFTR inward-facing conformation (closed channel) on the basis of the recent corrected structures of MsbA and compared the structural features of those two states of the channel. Interestingly, the MSD:NBD coupling interfaces including F508 (DeltaF508 being the most common CF mutation) are mainly left unchanged. This prediction, completed by the modeling of the regulatory R domain, is supported by experimental data and provides a molecular basis for a better understanding of the functioning of CFTR, especially of the structural features that make CFTR the unique channel among the ABC transporters.

Architecture of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator protein and structural changes associated with phosphorylation and nucleotide binding

We describe biochemical and structural studies of the isolated cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. Using electron cryomicroscopy, low resolution three-dimensional structures have been obtained for the non-phosphorylated protein in the absence of nucleotide and for the phosphorylated protein with ATP. In the latter state, the cytosolic nucleotide-binding domains move closer together, forming a more compact packing arrangement. Associated with this is a reorganization within the cylindrical transmembrane domains, consistent with a shift from an inward-facing to outward-facing configuration. A region of density in the non-phosphorylated protein that extends from the bottom of the cytosolic regions up to the transmembrane domains is hypothesised to represent the unique regulatory region of CFTR. These data offer insights into the architecture of this ATP-binding cassette protein, and shed light on the global motions associated with nucleotide binding and priming of the chloride channel via phosphorylation of the regulatory region.

Gating of the CFTR Cl- channel by ATP-driven nucleotide-binding domain dimerisation

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) plays a fundamental role in fluid and electrolyte transport across epithelial tissues. Based on its structure, function and regulation, CFTR is an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter. These transporters are assembled from two membrane-spanning domains (MSDs) and two nucleotide-binding domains (NBDs). In the vast majority of ABC transporters, the NBDs form a common engine that utilises the energy of ATP hydrolysis to pump a wide spectrum of substrates through diverse transmembrane pathways formed by the MSDs. By contrast, in CFTR the MSDs form a pathway for passive anion flow that is gated by cycles of ATP binding and hydrolysis by the NBDs. Here, we consider how the interaction of ATP with two ATP-binding sites, formed by the NBDs, powers conformational changes in CFTR structure to gate the channel pore. We explore how conserved sequences from both NBDs form ATP-binding sites at the interface of an NBD dimer and highlight the distinct roles that each binding site plays during the gating cycle. Knowledge of how ATP gates the CFTR Cl- channel is critical for understanding CFTR's physiological role, its malfunction in disease and the mechanism of action of small molecules that modulate CFTR channel gating.

Tetrameric Orai1 is a teardrop-shaped molecule with a long, tapered cytoplasmic domain

The Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) channel is a principal regulator of intracellular Ca(2+) rise, which conducts various biological functions, including immune responses. This channel, involved in store-operated Ca(2+) influx, is believed to be composed of at least two major components. Orai1 has a putative channel pore and locates in the plasma membrane, and STIM1 is a sensor for luminal Ca(2+) store depletion in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. Here we have purified the FLAG-fused Orai1 protein, determined its tetrameric stoichiometry, and reconstructed its three-dimensional structure at 21-A resolution from 3681 automatically selected particle images, taken with an electron microscope. This first structural depiction of a member of the Orai family shows an elongated teardrop-shape 150A in height and 95A in width. Antibody decoration and volume estimation from the amino acid sequence indicate that the widest transmembrane domain is located between the round extracellular domain and the tapered cytoplasmic domain. The cytoplasmic length of 100A is sufficient for direct association with STIM1. Orifices close to the extracellular and intracellular membrane surfaces of Orai1 seem to connect outside the molecule to large internal cavities.