1
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Jamerson LE, Bradshaw PC. The Roles of White Adipose Tissue and Liver NADPH in Dietary Restriction-Induced Longevity. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:820. [PMID: 39061889 PMCID: PMC11273496 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13070820] [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: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Dietary restriction (DR) protocols frequently employ intermittent fasting. Following a period of fasting, meal consumption increases lipogenic gene expression, including that of NADPH-generating enzymes that fuel lipogenesis in white adipose tissue (WAT) through the induction of transcriptional regulators SREBP-1c and CHREBP. SREBP-1c knockout mice, unlike controls, did not show an extended lifespan on the DR diet. WAT cytoplasmic NADPH is generated by both malic enzyme 1 (ME1) and the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), while liver cytoplasmic NADPH is primarily synthesized by folate cycle enzymes provided one-carbon units through serine catabolism. During the daily fasting period of the DR diet, fatty acids are released from WAT and are transported to peripheral tissues, where they are used for beta-oxidation and for phospholipid and lipid droplet synthesis, where monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) may activate Nrf1 and inhibit ferroptosis to promote longevity. Decreased WAT NADPH from PPP gene knockout stimulated the browning of WAT and protected from a high-fat diet, while high levels of NADPH-generating enzymes in WAT and macrophages are linked to obesity. But oscillations in WAT [NADPH]/[NADP+] from feeding and fasting cycles may play an important role in maintaining metabolic plasticity to drive longevity. Studies measuring the WAT malate/pyruvate as a proxy for the cytoplasmic [NADPH]/[NADP+], as well as studies using fluorescent biosensors expressed in the WAT of animal models to monitor the changes in cytoplasmic [NADPH]/[NADP+], are needed during ad libitum and DR diets to determine the changes that are associated with longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick C. Bradshaw
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
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2
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Caracausi M, Ramacieri G, Catapano F, Cicilloni M, Lajin B, Pelleri MC, Piovesan A, Vitale L, Locatelli C, Pirazzoli GL, Strippoli P, Antonaros F, Vione B. The functional roles of S-adenosyl-methionine and S-adenosyl-homocysteine and their involvement in trisomy 21. Biofactors 2024; 50:709-724. [PMID: 38353465 DOI: 10.1002/biof.2044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
The one-carbon metabolism pathway is involved in critical human cellular functions such as cell proliferation, mitochondrial respiration, and epigenetic regulation. In the homocysteine-methionine cycle S-adenosyl-methionine (SAM) and S-adenosyl-homocysteine (SAH) are synthetized, and their levels are finely regulated to ensure proper functioning of key enzymes which control cellular growth and differentiation. Here we review the main biological mechanisms involving SAM and SAH and the known related human diseases. It was recently demonstrated that SAM and SAH levels are altered in plasma of subjects with trisomy 21 (T21) but how this metabolic dysregulation influences the clinical manifestation of T21 phenotype has not been previously described. This review aims at providing an overview of the biological mechanisms which are altered in response to changes in the levels of SAM and SAH observed in DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Caracausi
- Unit of Histology, Embryology and Applied Biology, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ramacieri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Speciality School of Child Neuropsychiatry-Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Catapano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michela Cicilloni
- Unit of Histology, Embryology and Applied Biology, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Bassam Lajin
- Institute of Chemistry, ChromICP, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Maria Chiara Pelleri
- Unit of Histology, Embryology and Applied Biology, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Allison Piovesan
- Unit of Histology, Embryology and Applied Biology, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenza Vitale
- Unit of Histology, Embryology and Applied Biology, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Locatelli
- Neonatology Unit, St. Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Pierluigi Strippoli
- Unit of Histology, Embryology and Applied Biology, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Antonaros
- Unit of Histology, Embryology and Applied Biology, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Beatrice Vione
- Unit of Histology, Embryology and Applied Biology, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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3
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Yamada K, Mendoza J, Koutmos M. Structural basis of S-adenosylmethionine-dependent allosteric transition from active to inactive states in methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5167. [PMID: 38886362 PMCID: PMC11183114 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49327-5] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is a pivotal flavoprotein connecting the folate and methionine methyl cycles, catalyzing the conversion of methylenetetrahydrofolate to methyltetrahydrofolate. Human MTHFR (hMTHFR) undergoes elaborate allosteric regulation involving protein phosphorylation and S-adenosylmethionine (AdoMet)-dependent inhibition, though other factors such as subunit orientation and FAD status remain understudied due to the lack of a functional structural model. Here, we report crystal structures of Chaetomium thermophilum MTHFR (cMTHFR) in both active (R) and inhibited (T) states. We reveal FAD occlusion by Tyr361 in the T-state, which prevents substrate interaction. Remarkably, the inhibited form of cMTHFR accommodates two AdoMet molecules per subunit. In addition, we conducted a detailed investigation of the phosphorylation sites in hMTHFR, three of which were previously unidentified. Based on the structural framework provided by our cMTHFR model, we propose a possible mechanism to explain the allosteric structural transition of MTHFR, including the impact of phosphorylation on AdoMet-dependent inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Yamada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
- Program in Biophysics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Johnny Mendoza
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Markos Koutmos
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
- Program in Biophysics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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4
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Sfakianoudis K, Zikopoulos A, Grigoriadis S, Seretis N, Maziotis E, Anifandis G, Xystra P, Kostoulas C, Giougli U, Pantos K, Simopoulou M, Georgiou I. The Role of One-Carbon Metabolism and Methyl Donors in Medically Assisted Reproduction: A Narrative Review of the Literature. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4977. [PMID: 38732193 PMCID: PMC11084717 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094977] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
One-carbon (1-C) metabolic deficiency impairs homeostasis, driving disease development, including infertility. It is of importance to summarize the current evidence regarding the clinical utility of 1-C metabolism-related biomolecules and methyl donors, namely, folate, betaine, choline, vitamin B12, homocysteine (Hcy), and zinc, as potential biomarkers, dietary supplements, and culture media supplements in the context of medically assisted reproduction (MAR). A narrative review of the literature was conducted in the PubMed/Medline database. Diet, ageing, and the endocrine milieu of individuals affect both 1-C metabolism and fertility status. In vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques, and culture conditions in particular, have a direct impact on 1-C metabolic activity in gametes and embryos. Critical analysis indicated that zinc supplementation in cryopreservation media may be a promising approach to reducing oxidative damage, while female serum homocysteine levels may be employed as a possible biomarker for predicting IVF outcomes. Nonetheless, the level of evidence is low, and future studies are needed to verify these data. One-carbon metabolism-related processes, including redox defense and epigenetic regulation, may be compromised in IVF-derived embryos. The study of 1-C metabolism may lead the way towards improving MAR efficiency and safety and ensuring the lifelong health of MAR infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (K.P.)
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Treliske, Truro TR1 3LJ, UK
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Nikolaos Seretis
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece;
| | - Paraskevi Xystra
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Urania Giougli
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (K.P.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
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5
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Blomgren LKM, Huber M, Mackinnon SR, Bürer C, Baslé A, Yue WW, Froese DS, McCorvie TJ. Dynamic inter-domain transformations mediate the allosteric regulation of human 5, 10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3248. [PMID: 38622112 PMCID: PMC11018872 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47174-y] [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: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) commits folate-derived one-carbon units to generate the methyl-donor S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM). Eukaryotic MTHFR appends to the well-conserved catalytic domain (CD) a unique regulatory domain (RD) that confers feedback inhibition by SAM. Here we determine the cryo-electron microscopy structures of human MTHFR bound to SAM and its demethylated product S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine (SAH). In the active state, with the RD bound to a single SAH, the CD is flexible and exposes its active site for catalysis. However, in the inhibited state the RD pocket is remodelled, exposing a second SAM-binding site that was previously occluded. Dual-SAM bound MTHFR demonstrates a substantially rearranged inter-domain linker that reorients the CD, inserts a loop into the active site, positions Tyr404 to bind the cofactor FAD, and blocks substrate access. Our data therefore explain the long-distance regulatory mechanism of MTHFR inhibition, underpinned by the transition between dual-SAM and single-SAH binding in response to cellular methylation status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linnea K M Blomgren
- Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zürich, University of Zürich, Zürich, CH-8032, Switzerland
| | - Melanie Huber
- Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zürich, University of Zürich, Zürich, CH-8032, Switzerland
| | - Sabrina R Mackinnon
- Biosciences Institute, The Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Céline Bürer
- Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zürich, University of Zürich, Zürich, CH-8032, Switzerland
| | - Arnaud Baslé
- Biosciences Institute, The Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Wyatt W Yue
- Biosciences Institute, The Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK.
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK.
| | - D Sean Froese
- Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zürich, University of Zürich, Zürich, CH-8032, Switzerland.
| | - Thomas J McCorvie
- Biosciences Institute, The Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK.
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6
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Petrova B, Maynard AG, Wang P, Kanarek N. Regulatory mechanisms of one-carbon metabolism enzymes. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105457. [PMID: 37949226 PMCID: PMC10758965 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
One-carbon metabolism is a central metabolic pathway critical for the biosynthesis of several amino acids, methyl group donors, and nucleotides. The pathway mostly relies on the transfer of a carbon unit from the amino acid serine, through the cofactor folate (in its several forms), and to the ultimate carbon acceptors that include nucleotides and methyl groups used for methylation of proteins, RNA, and DNA. Nucleotides are required for DNA replication, DNA repair, gene expression, and protein translation, through ribosomal RNA. Therefore, the one-carbon metabolism pathway is essential for cell growth and function in all cells, but is specifically important for rapidly proliferating cells. The regulation of one-carbon metabolism is a critical aspect of the normal and pathological function of the pathway, such as in cancer, where hijacking these regulatory mechanisms feeds an increased need for nucleotides. One-carbon metabolism is regulated at several levels: via gene expression, posttranslational modification, subcellular compartmentalization, allosteric inhibition, and feedback regulation. In this review, we aim to inform the readers of relevant one-carbon metabolism regulation mechanisms and to bring forward the need to further study this aspect of one-carbon metabolism. The review aims to integrate two major aspects of cancer metabolism-signaling downstream of nutrient sensing and one-carbon metabolism, because while each of these is critical for the proliferation of cancerous cells, their integration is critical for comprehensive understating of cellular metabolism in transformed cells and can lead to clinically relevant insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boryana Petrova
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Adam G Maynard
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Graduate Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Naama Kanarek
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; The Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
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7
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François JM. Progress advances in the production of bio-sourced methionine and its hydroxyl analogues. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 69:108259. [PMID: 37734648 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
The essential sulphur-containing amino acid, methionine, is becoming a mass-commodity product with an annual production that exceeded 1,500,000 tons in 2018. This amino acid is today almost exclusively produced by chemical process from fossil resources. The environmental problems caused by this industrial process, and the expected scarcity of oil resources in the coming years, have recently accelerated the development of bioprocesses for producing methionine from renewable carbon feedstock. After a brief description of the chemical process and the techno-economic context that still justify the production of methionine by petrochemical processes, this review will present the current state of the art of biobased alternatives aiming at a sustainable production of this amino acid and its hydroxyl analogues from renewable carbon feedstock. In particular, this review will focus on three bio-based processes, namely a purely fermentative process based on the metabolic engineering of the natural methionine pathway, a mixed process combining the production of the O-acetyl/O-succinyl homoserine intermediate of this pathway by fermentation followed by an enzyme-based conversion of this intermediate into L-methionine and lately, a hybrid process in which the non-natural chemical synthon, 2,4-dihydroxybutyric acid, obtained by fermentation of sugars is converted by chemo-catalysis into hydroxyl methionine analogues. The industrial potential of these three bioprocesses, as well as the major technical and economic obstacles that remain to be overcome to reach industrial maturity are discussed. This review concludes by bringing up the assets of these bioprocesses to meet the challenge of the "green transition", with the accomplishment of the objective "zero carbon" by 2050 and how they can be part of a model of Bioeconomy enhancing local resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Marie François
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, UMR INSA -CNRS5504 and UMR INSA-INRAE 792, 135 avenue de Rangueil, 31077 Toulouse, France; Toulouse White Biotechnology, UMS INRAE-INSA-CNRS, 135 Avenue de Rangueil, 31077 Toulouse, France.
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8
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Corvigno S, Badal S, Spradlin ML, Keating M, Pereira I, Stur E, Bayraktar E, Foster KI, Bateman NW, Barakat W, Darcy KM, Conrads TP, Maxwell GL, Lorenzi PL, Lutgendorf SK, Wen Y, Zhao L, Thaker PH, Goodheart MJ, Liu J, Fleming N, Lee S, Eberlin LS, Sood AK. In situ profiling reveals metabolic alterations in the tumor microenvironment of ovarian cancer after chemotherapy. NPJ Precis Oncol 2023; 7:115. [PMID: 37923835 PMCID: PMC10624842 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-023-00454-0] [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: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the metabolic alterations associated with clinical response to chemotherapy in patients with ovarian cancer. Pre- and post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) tissues from patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC) who had poor response (PR) or excellent response (ER) to NACT were examined. Desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) was performed on sections of HGSC tissues collected according to a rigorous laparoscopic triage algorithm. Quantitative MS-based proteomics and phosphoproteomics were performed on a subgroup of pre-NACT samples. Highly abundant metabolites in the pre-NACT PR tumors were related to pyrimidine metabolism in the epithelial regions and oxygen-dependent proline hydroxylation of hypoxia-inducible factor alpha in the stromal regions. Metabolites more abundant in the epithelial regions of post-NACT PR tumors were involved in the metabolism of nucleotides, and metabolites more abundant in the stromal regions of post-NACT PR tumors were related to aspartate and asparagine metabolism, phenylalanine and tyrosine metabolism, nucleotide biosynthesis, and the urea cycle. A predictive model built on ions with differential abundances allowed the classification of patients' tumor responses as ER or PR with 75% accuracy (10-fold cross-validation ridge regression model). These findings offer new insights related to differential responses to chemotherapy and could lead to novel actionable targets.
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Grants
- P50 CA217685 NCI NIH HHS
- R01 CA193249 NCI NIH HHS
- R35 CA209904 NCI NIH HHS
- This work was supported, in part, by the MD Anderson Ovarian Cancer Moon Shot, CPRIT (RP180381), SPORE in ovarian cancer (CA217685), CA193249, CA209904, and CA193249-S1 from the National Institutes of Health, the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance, the American Cancer Society, the Dunwoody Fund, and the Frank McGraw Memorial Chair in Cancer Research, the Foundation for Women’s cancer, Amy Krouse Rosenthal Foundation and Judy’s Mission to End Ovarian Cancer Foundation Research Grant for Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer. We acknowledge the Research Medical Library at MD Anderson Cancer Center for editing the text. For the GYN-COE collection, the collection and banking of these specimens and data were funded by awards HU0001-16-2-0006, HU0001-19-2-0031, HU0001-20-2-0033, and HU0001-21-2-0027 from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences from the Defense Health Program to the Henry M Jackson Foundation (HJF) for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc. Gynecologic Cancer Center of Excellence Program (PI: Yovanni Casablanca, Co-PI: G. Larry Maxwell
- the Foundation for Women’s cancer, Amy Krouse Rosenthal Foundation and Judy’s Mission to End Ovarian Cancer Foundation Research Grant for Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Corvigno
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sunil Badal
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | | | - Michael Keating
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Igor Pereira
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Elaine Stur
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Emine Bayraktar
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Katherine I Foster
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nicholas W Bateman
- Gynecologic Cancer Center of Excellence, Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Waleed Barakat
- Gynecologic Cancer Center of Excellence, Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kathleen M Darcy
- Gynecologic Cancer Center of Excellence, Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Thomas P Conrads
- Gynecologic Cancer Center of Excellence, Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Women's Health Integrated Research Center, Women's Service Line, Inova Health System, Falls Church, VA, USA
| | - G Larry Maxwell
- Gynecologic Cancer Center of Excellence, Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Women's Health Integrated Research Center, Women's Service Line, Inova Health System, Falls Church, VA, USA
| | - Philip L Lorenzi
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Susan K Lutgendorf
- Departments of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Urology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Yunfei Wen
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Li Zhao
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Premal H Thaker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michael J Goodheart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Jinsong Liu
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nicole Fleming
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Livia S Eberlin
- Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Anil K Sood
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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9
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Zhang Y, Zhang X, Chen J, Jiang S, Han Y, Du H. Maternal Folic Acid Supplementation Improves the Intestinal Health of Offspring Porcine by Promoting the Proliferation and Differentiation of Intestinal Stem Cells. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3092. [PMID: 37835698 PMCID: PMC10571947 DOI: 10.3390/ani13193092] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal folic acid intake has important effects on offspring growth and development. The mechanism involved in the renewal of intestinal epithelial cells remains unclear. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the potential effect of maternal folic acid supplementation during gestation and lactation on the structural and functional development of the small intestine in piglet offspring. Twenty-four Duroc sows were assigned to a control group (CON) and a folic-acid-supplemented group (CON + FA, supplemented with 15 mg/kg of folic acid). The results showed that maternal folic acid supplementation throughout gestation and lactation significantly increased the body weight, serum folate level, and intestinal folate metabolism in piglets. It also improved the villus length, villus height-to-crypt depth ratio, and transcript levels of nutrient transporters (GLUT4, SNAT2, FABP2, and SLC7A5) in piglets' duodenum and jejunum. In addition, maternal folic acid supplementation increased Ki67-positive cells and the expression of proliferation-related marker genes (C-Myc, CyclinD1, and PCNA) in piglets' intestinal stem cells. It also boosted the expression of genes associated with mature secreted cells (ChrA, Muc2, Lyz, Vil1), indicating enhanced proliferation and differentiation of intestinal stem cells. These findings demonstrate that maternal folic acid supplementation enhances growth performance and gut health in piglet offspring by promoting epithelial cell renewal equilibrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science (Eastern of China), College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310004, China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science (Eastern of China), College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Shouchuan Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science (Eastern of China), College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yu Han
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science (Eastern of China), College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Huahua Du
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science (Eastern of China), College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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10
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Scott J, Amich J. The role of methionine synthases in fungal metabolism and virulence. Essays Biochem 2023; 67:853-863. [PMID: 37449444 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20230007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Methionine synthases (MetH) catalyse the methylation of homocysteine (Hcy) with 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate (5, methyl-THF) acting as methyl donor, to form methionine (Met) and tetrahydrofolate (THF). This function is performed by two unrelated classes of enzymes that differ significantly in both their structures and mechanisms of action. The genomes of plants and many fungi exclusively encode cobalamin-independent enzymes (EC.2.1.1.14), while some fungi also possess proteins from the cobalamin-dependent (EC.2.1.1.13) family utilised by humans. Methionine synthase's function connects the methionine and folate cycles, making it a crucial node in primary metabolism, with impacts on important cellular processes such as anabolism, growth and synthesis of proteins, polyamines, nucleotides and lipids. As a result, MetHs are vital for the viability or virulence of numerous prominent human and plant pathogenic fungi and have been proposed as promising broad-spectrum antifungal drug targets. This review provides a summary of the relevance of methionine synthases to fungal metabolism, their potential as antifungal drug targets and insights into the structures of both classes of MetH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Scott
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection, and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jorge Amich
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection, and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Mycology Reference Laboratory (Laboratorio de Referencia e Investigación en Micología [LRIM]), National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
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11
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Remines M, Schoonover M, Knox Z, Kenwright K, Hoffert KM, Coric A, Mead J, Ampfer J, Seye S, Strome ED. Profiling The Compendium Of Changes In Saccharomyces cerevisiae Due To Mutations That Alter Availability Of The Main Methyl Donor S-Adenosylmethionine. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.09.544294. [PMID: 37333147 PMCID: PMC10274911 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.09.544294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
The SAM1 and SAM2 genes encode for S-AdenosylMethionine (AdoMet) synthetase enzymes, with AdoMet serving as the main methyl donor. We have previously shown that independent deletion of these genes alters chromosome stability and AdoMet concentrations in opposite ways in S. cerevisiae. To characterize other changes occurring in these mutants, we grew wildtype, sam1∆/sam1∆, and sam2∆/sam2∆ strains in 15 different Phenotypic Microarray plates with different components, equal to 1440 wells, and measured for growth variations. RNA-Sequencing was also carried out on these strains and differential gene expression determined for each mutant. In this study, we explore how the phenotypic growth differences are linked to the altered gene expression, and thereby predict the mechanisms by which loss of the SAM genes and subsequent AdoMet level changes, impact S. cerevisiae pathways and processes. We present six stories, discussing changes in sensitivity or resistance to azoles, cisplatin, oxidative stress, arginine biosynthesis perturbations, DNA synthesis inhibitors, and tamoxifen, to demonstrate the power of this novel methodology to broadly profile changes due to gene mutations. The large number of conditions that result in altered growth, as well as the large number of differentially expressed genes with wide-ranging functionality, speaks to the broad array of impacts that altering methyl donor abundance can impart, even when the conditions tested were not specifically selected as targeting known methyl involving pathways. Our findings demonstrate that some cellular changes are directly related to AdoMet-dependent methyltransferases and AdoMet availability, some are directly linked to the methyl cycle and its role is production of several important cellular components, and others reveal impacts of SAM gene mutations on previously unconnected pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- McKayla Remines
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099
| | - Makailyn Schoonover
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099
| | - Zoey Knox
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099
| | - Kailee Kenwright
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099
| | - Kellyn M. Hoffert
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099
| | - Amila Coric
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099
| | - James Mead
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099
| | - Joseph Ampfer
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099
| | - Serigne Seye
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099
| | - Erin D. Strome
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099
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12
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Keske N, Özay B, Tükel EY, Menteş M, Yandım C. In silico drug screen reveals potential competitive MTHFR inhibitors for clinical repurposing. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:11818-11831. [PMID: 36597898 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2163697] [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: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
MTHFR (Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) is a pivotal enzyme involved in one-carbon metabolism, which is critical for the proliferation of cancer cells. In line with this, published literature showed that MTHFR knockdown caused impaired growth of multiple types of cancer cells. Moreover, higher MTHFR expression levels were linked to shorter overall survival in hepatocellular carcinoma, adrenocortical carcinoma, and low-grade glioma, bringing the need to design MTHFR inhibitors as a possible treatment option. No competitive inhibitors of MTHFR have been reported as of today. This study aimed to identify potential competitive MTHFR inhibitor candidates using an in silico drug screen. A total of 30470 molecules containing biogenic compounds, FDA-approved drugs, and those in clinical trials were screened against the catalytic pocket of MTHFR in the presence and absence of cofactors. Binding energy and ADMET analysis revealed that Vilanterol (β2-adrenergic agonist), Selexipag (prostacyclin receptor agonist), and Ramipril Diketopiperazine (ACE inhibitor) are potential competitive inhibitors of MTHFR. Molecular dynamics analyses and MM-PBSA calculations with these compounds particularly revealed the amino acids between 285-290 for ligand binding and highlighted Vilanterol as the strongest candidate for MTHFR inhibition. Our results could guide the development of novel MTHFR inhibitor compounds, which could be inspired by the drugs brought into the spotlight here. More importantly, these potential candidates could be quhickly tested as a repurposing strategy in pre-clinical and clinical studies of the cancers mentioned above.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazlıgül Keske
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, İzmir University of Economics, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Başak Özay
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, İzmir University of Economics, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Ezgi Yağmur Tükel
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, İzmir University of Economics, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Muratcan Menteş
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, İzmir University of Economics, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Cihangir Yandım
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, İzmir University of Economics, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
- İzmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG), Dokuz Eylül University Health Campus, İnciraltı, İzmir, Turkey
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13
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Shoveller AK, Pezzali JG, House JD, Bertolo RF, Pencharz PB, Ball RO. Methionine and cysteine oxidation are regulated in a dose dependent manner by dietary Cys intake in neonatal piglets receiving enteral nutrition. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275760. [PMID: 36301815 PMCID: PMC9612549 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Methionine (Met) is an indispensable amino acid (AA) in piglets. Met can synthesize cysteine (Cys), and Cys has the ability to reduce the Met requirement by 40% in piglets. However, whether this sparing effect on Met is facilitated by downregulation of Cys synthesis has not been shown. This study investigated the effects of graded levels of Cys on Met and Cys oxidation, and on plasma AA concentrations. Piglets (n = 32) received a complete elemental diet via gastric catheters prior to being randomly assigned to one of the eight dietary Cys levels (0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25, 0.40, 0.50 g kg-1d-1) with an adequate Met concentration (0.25g kg-1d-1). Constant infusion of L-[1-14C]-Met and L-[1-14C]-Cys were performed for 6 h on d 6 and d 8 to determine Met and Cys oxidation, respectively. Met oxidation decreased as Cys intake increased (P<0.05). At higher Cys intakes (0.15 to 0.5g kg-1d-1), Met oxidation decreased (P<0.05) at a slower rate. Cys oxidation was similar (P>0.05) among dietary Cys intakes; however, a significant polynomial relationship was observed between Cys oxidation and intake (P<0.05, R2 = 0.12). Plasma Met concentrations increased (P<0.05) linearly with increasing levels of dietary Cys, while plasma Cys concentrations changed (P<0.05) in a cubic manner and the highest concentrations occurred at the highest intake levels. Increasing dietary levels of Cys resulted in a reduction in Met oxidation until the requirement for the total sulfur AA was met, indicating the sparing capacity by Cys of Met occurs through inhibition of the transsulfuration pathway in neonatal piglets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K. Shoveller
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Julia G. Pezzali
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - James D. House
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Robert F. Bertolo
- Department of Biochemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Paul B. Pencharz
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- The Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ronald O. Ball
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- The Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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14
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Naseem A, Pal A, Gowan S, Asad Y, Donovan A, Temesszentandrási-Ambrus C, Kis E, Gaborik Z, Bhalay G, Raynaud F. Intracellular Metabolomics Identifies Efflux Transporter Inhibitors in a Routine Caco-2 Cell Permeability Assay-Biological Implications. Cells 2022; 11:3286. [PMID: 36291153 PMCID: PMC9601193 DOI: 10.3390/cells11203286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Caco-2 screens are routinely used in laboratories to measure the permeability of compounds and can identify substrates of efflux transporters. In this study, we hypothesized that efflux transporter inhibition of a compound can be predicted by an intracellular metabolic signature in Caco-2 cells in the assay used to test intestinal permeability. Using selective inhibitors and transporter knock-out (KO) cells and a targeted Liquid Chromatography tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) method, we identified 11 metabolites increased in cells with depleted P-glycoprotein (Pgp) activity. Four metabolites were altered with Breast Cancer Resistance (BCRP) inhibition and nine metabolites were identified in the Multidrug Drug Resistance Protein 2 (MRP2) signature. A scoring system was created that could discriminate among the three transporters and validated with additional inhibitors. Pgp and MRP2 substrates did not score as inhibitors. In contrast, BCRP substrates and inhibitors showed a similar intracellular metabolomic signature. Network analysis of signature metabolites led us to investigate changes of enzymes in one-carbon metabolism (folate and methionine cycles). Our data shows that methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) protein levels increased with Pgp inhibition and Thymidylate synthase (TS) protein levels were reduced with Pgp and MRP2 inhibition. In addition, the methionine cycle is also affected by both Pgp and MRP2 inhibition. In summary, we demonstrated that the routine Caco-2 assay has the potential to identify efflux transporter inhibitors in parallel with substrates in the assays currently used in many DMPK laboratories and that inhibition of efflux transporters has biological consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afia Naseem
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Rd., Sutton SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Akos Pal
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Rd., Sutton SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Sharon Gowan
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Rd., Sutton SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Yasmin Asad
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Rd., Sutton SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Adam Donovan
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Rd., Sutton SM2 5NG, UK
| | | | - Emese Kis
- SOLVO Biotechnology, Charles River Company, Irinyi József u. 4-20, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsanna Gaborik
- SOLVO Biotechnology, Charles River Company, Irinyi József u. 4-20, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gurdip Bhalay
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Rd., Sutton SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Florence Raynaud
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Rd., Sutton SM2 5NG, UK
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15
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Ji D, Luo C, Liu J, Cao Y, Wu J, Yan W, Xue K, Chai J, Zhu X, Wu Y, Liu H, Wang W. Insufficient S-Sulfhydration of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Contributes to the Progress of Hyperhomocysteinemia. Antioxid Redox Signal 2022; 36:1-14. [PMID: 34409847 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2021.0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Aims: Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) has been considered as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver, and many other pathological conditions. Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, and folate have been used to treat HHcy in clinics. However, at present, clinical therapies of HHcy display unsatisfactory effects. Here, we would like to explore a new mechanism involved in homocysteine (Hcy) metabolic disorders and a novel target for HHcy treatment. The key enzymes involved in Hcy metabolism deserve more insightful investigation. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is a key enzyme regulating the intracellular Hcy metabolism. Until now, the effect of post-translational modification on the bioactivity of MTHFR still remains unclear. This study aimed at exploring the relationship between MTHFR S-sulfhydration and its bioactivity, and at identifying the contribution of an elevated Hcy level on MTHFR bioactivity. Results: By both in vivo and in vitro studies, we observed the following results: (i) The bioactivity of MTHFR was positively associated with its S-sulfhydration level; (ii) MTHFR was modified at Cys32, Cys130, Cys131, Cys193, and Cys306 by S-sulfhydration under physiological conditions; (iii) Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) deficiency caused the decrease of MTHFR S-sulfhydration level and bioactivity in HHcy, which resulted in further aggravation of HHcy; and (iv) H2S donors reversed the decreased bioactivity of MTHFR in HHcy, thus reducing the excessive Hcy level. Innovation and Conclusion: Our study suggested that H2S could improve MTHFR bioactivity by S-sulfhydration, which might provide a candidate therapeutic strategy for HHcy. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 36, 1-14.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dengyu Ji
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Chenghua Luo
- Department of Pathology and Key Laboratory for Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Cao
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangxu Wu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjing Yan
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Xue
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Jiayin Chai
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyu Zhu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Huirong Liu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, China
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16
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Savojardo C, Babbi G, Baldazzi D, Martelli PL, Casadio R. A Glance into MTHFR Deficiency at a Molecular Level. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:167. [PMID: 35008593 PMCID: PMC8745156 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
MTHFR deficiency still deserves an investigation to associate the phenotype to protein structure variations. To this aim, considering the MTHFR wild type protein structure, with a catalytic and a regulatory domain and taking advantage of state-of-the-art computational tools, we explore the properties of 72 missense variations known to be disease associated. By computing the thermodynamic ΔΔG change according to a consensus method that we recently introduced, we find that 61% of the disease-related variations destabilize the protein, are present both in the catalytic and regulatory domain and correspond to known biochemical deficiencies. The propensity of solvent accessible residues to be involved in protein-protein interaction sites indicates that most of the interacting residues are located in the regulatory domain, and that only three of them, located at the interface of the functional protein homodimer, are both disease-related and destabilizing. Finally, we compute the protein architecture with Hidden Markov Models, one from Pfam for the catalytic domain and the second computed in house for the regulatory domain. We show that patterns of disease-associated, physicochemical variation types, both in the catalytic and regulatory domains, are unique for the MTHFR deficiency when mapped into the protein architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Castrense Savojardo
- Biocomputing Group, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (C.S.); (G.B.); (D.B.); (R.C.)
| | - Giulia Babbi
- Biocomputing Group, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (C.S.); (G.B.); (D.B.); (R.C.)
| | - Davide Baldazzi
- Biocomputing Group, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (C.S.); (G.B.); (D.B.); (R.C.)
| | - Pier Luigi Martelli
- Biocomputing Group, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (C.S.); (G.B.); (D.B.); (R.C.)
| | - Rita Casadio
- Biocomputing Group, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (C.S.); (G.B.); (D.B.); (R.C.)
- Institute of Biomembranes, Bioenergetics and Molecular Biotechnologies (IBIOM), Italian National Research Council (CNR), 70126 Bari, Italy
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17
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Cuthbertson CR, Arabzada Z, Bankhead A, Kyani A, Neamati N. A Review of Small-Molecule Inhibitors of One-Carbon Enzymes: SHMT2 and MTHFD2 in the Spotlight. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2021; 4:624-646. [PMID: 33860190 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.0c00223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is a key hallmark of cancer and shifts cellular metabolism to meet the demands of biomass production necessary for abnormal cell reproduction. One-carbon metabolism (1CM) contributes to many biosynthetic pathways that fuel growth and is comprised of a complex network of enzymes. Methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil were pioneering drugs in this field and are still widely used today as anticancer agents as well as for other diseases such as arthritis. Besides dihydrofolate reductase and thymidylate synthase, two other enzymes of the folate cycle arm of 1CM have not been targeted clinically: serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) and methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase (MTHFD). An increasing body of literature suggests that the mitochondrial isoforms of these enzymes (SHMT2 and MTHFD2) are clinically relevant in the context of cancer. In this review, we focused on the 1CM pathway as a target for cancer therapy and, in particular, SHMT2 and MTHFD2. The function, regulation, and clinical relevance of SHMT2 and MTHFD2 are all discussed. We expand on previous clinical studies and evaluate the prognostic significance of these critical enzymes by performing a pan-cancer analysis of patient data from the The Cancer Genome Atlas and a transcriptional coexpression network enrichment analysis. We also provide an overview of preclinical and clinical inhibitors targeting the folate pathway, the methionine cycle, and folate-dependent purine biosynthesis enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine R Cuthbertson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy and the Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Zahra Arabzada
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy and the Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Armand Bankhead
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Armita Kyani
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy and the Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Nouri Neamati
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy and the Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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18
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Targeting Methionine Synthase in a Fungal Pathogen Causes a Metabolic Imbalance That Impacts Cell Energetics, Growth, and Virulence. mBio 2020; 11:mBio.01985-20. [PMID: 33051366 PMCID: PMC7554668 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01985-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal pathogens are responsible for millions of life-threatening infections on an annual basis worldwide. The current repertoire of antifungal drugs is very limited and, worryingly, resistance has emerged and already become a serious threat to our capacity to treat fungal diseases. The first step to develop new drugs is often to identify molecular targets in the pathogen whose inhibition during infection can prevent its growth. However, the current models are not suitable to validate targets in established infections. Here, we have characterized the promising antifungal target methionine synthase in great detail, using the prominent fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus as a model. We have uncovered the underlying reason for its essentiality and confirmed its druggability. Furthermore, we have optimized the use of a genetic system to show a beneficial effect of targeting methionine synthase in established infections. Therefore, we believe that antifungal drugs to target methionine synthase should be pursued and additionally, we provide a model that permits gaining information about the validity of antifungal targets in established infections. There is an urgent need to develop novel antifungals to tackle the threat fungal pathogens pose to human health. Here, we have performed a comprehensive characterization and validation of the promising target methionine synthase (MetH). We show that in Aspergillus fumigatus the absence of this enzymatic activity triggers a metabolic imbalance that causes a reduction in intracellular ATP, which prevents fungal growth even in the presence of methionine. Interestingly, growth can be recovered in the presence of certain metabolites, which shows that metH is a conditionally essential gene and consequently should be targeted in established infections for a more comprehensive validation. Accordingly, we have validated the use of the tetOFF genetic model in fungal research and improved its performance in vivo to achieve initial validation of targets in models of established infection. We show that repression of metH in growing hyphae halts growth in vitro, which translates into a beneficial effect when targeting established infections using this model in vivo. Finally, a structure-based virtual screening of methionine synthases reveals key differences between the human and fungal structures and unravels features in the fungal enzyme that can guide the design of novel specific inhibitors. Therefore, methionine synthase is a valuable target for the development of new antifungals.
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