1
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Juliano CE. Metabolites play an underappreciated role in development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2410810121. [PMID: 38976745 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2410810121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Celina E Juliano
- Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616
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2
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Koper K, Han SW, Kothadia R, Salamon H, Yoshikuni Y, Maeda HA. Multisubstrate specificity shaped the complex evolution of the aminotransferase family across the tree of life. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2405524121. [PMID: 38885378 PMCID: PMC11214133 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2405524121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Aminotransferases (ATs) are an ancient enzyme family that play central roles in core nitrogen metabolism, essential to all organisms. However, many of the AT enzyme functions remain poorly defined, limiting our fundamental understanding of the nitrogen metabolic networks that exist in different organisms. Here, we traced the deep evolutionary history of the AT family by analyzing AT enzymes from 90 species spanning the tree of life (ToL). We found that each organism has maintained a relatively small and constant number of ATs. Mapping the distribution of ATs across the ToL uncovered that many essential AT reactions are carried out by taxon-specific AT enzymes due to wide-spread nonorthologous gene displacements. This complex evolutionary history explains the difficulty of homology-based AT functional prediction. Biochemical characterization of diverse aromatic ATs further revealed their broad substrate specificity, unlike other core metabolic enzymes that evolved to catalyze specific reactions today. Interestingly, however, we found that these AT enzymes that diverged over billion years share common signatures of multisubstrate specificity by employing different nonconserved active site residues. These findings illustrate that AT family enzymes had leveraged their inherent substrate promiscuity to maintain a small yet distinct set of multifunctional AT enzymes in different taxa. This evolutionary history of versatile ATs likely contributed to the establishment of robust and diverse nitrogen metabolic networks that exist throughout the ToL. The study provides a critical foundation to systematically determine diverse AT functions and underlying nitrogen metabolic networks across the ToL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaan Koper
- Department of Botany, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53706
| | - Sang-Woo Han
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Department of Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Chungju27478, South Korea
| | - Ramani Kothadia
- The US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA94720
| | - Hugh Salamon
- The US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA94720
| | - Yasuo Yoshikuni
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
- The US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA94720
- Biological Systems and Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA94720
- Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA94720
- Global Center for Food, Land, and Water Resources, Research Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan 060-8589
- Institute of Global Innovation Research, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo183-8538, Japan
| | - Hiroshi A. Maeda
- Department of Botany, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53706
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3
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Issigonis M, Browder KL, Chen R, Collins JJ, Newmark PA. A niche-derived nonribosomal peptide triggers planarian sexual development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2321349121. [PMID: 38889152 PMCID: PMC11214079 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2321349121] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Germ cells are regulated by local microenvironments (niches), which secrete instructive cues. Conserved developmental signaling molecules act as niche-derived regulatory factors, yet other types of niche signals remain to be identified. Single-cell RNA-sequencing of sexual planarians revealed niche cells expressing a nonribosomal peptide synthetase (nrps). Inhibiting nrps led to loss of female reproductive organs and testis hyperplasia. Mass spectrometry detected the dipeptide β-alanyl-tryptamine (BATT), which is associated with reproductive system development and requires nrps and a monoamine-transmitter-synthetic enzyme Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) for its production. Exogenous BATT rescued the reproductive defects after nrps or aadc inhibition, restoring fertility. Thus, a nonribosomal, monoamine-derived peptide provided by niche cells acts as a critical signal to trigger planarian reproductive development. These findings reveal an unexpected function for monoamines in niche-germ cell signaling. Furthermore, given the recently reported role for BATT as a male-derived factor required for reproductive maturation of female schistosomes, these results have important implications for the evolution of parasitic flatworms and suggest a potential role for nonribosomal peptides as signaling molecules in other organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Issigonis
- Morgridge Institute for Research, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53715
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53715
| | - Katherine L. Browder
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53715
- HMI, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53715
| | - Rui Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
| | - James J. Collins
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
| | - Phillip A. Newmark
- Morgridge Institute for Research, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53715
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53715
- HMI, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53715
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4
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Sahoo A, Dwivedi K, Almalki WH, Mandal AK, Alhamyani A, Afzal O, Alfawaz Altamimi AS, Alruwaili NK, Yadav PK, Barkat MA, Singh T, Rahman M. Secondary metabolites in topical infectious diseases and nanomedicine applications. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2024. [PMID: 38651634 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2024-0017] [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] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Topical infection affects nearly one-third of the world's population; it may result from poor sanitation, hygienic conditions and crowded living and working conditions that accelerate the spread of topical infectious diseases. The problems associated with the anti-infective agents are drug resistance and long-term therapy. Secondary metabolites are obtained from plants, microorganisms and animals, but they are metabolized inside the human body. The integration of nanotechnology into secondary metabolites is gaining attention due to their interaction at the subatomic and skin-tissue levels. Hydrogel, liposomes, lipidic nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles and metallic nanoparticles are the most suitable carriers for secondary metabolite delivery. Therefore, the present review article extensively discusses the topical applications of nanomedicines for the effective delivery of secondary metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Sahoo
- College of Pharmacy, J.S. University, Shikohabad, Firozabad, Utta Pradesh, 283135, India
| | - Khusbu Dwivedi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Shambhunath Institute of Pharmacy, Jhalwa, Prayagraj, 211015, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Waleed H Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashok Kumar Mandal
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Abdurrahman Alhamyani
- Pharmaceuticals Chemistry Department, Faculty of Clinical Pharmacy, Al-Baha University, Alaqiq, 65779-7738, Saudi Arabia
| | - Obaid Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Nabil K Alruwaili
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakakah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Pradip Kumar Yadav
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh, 786004, Assam, India
| | - Md Abul Barkat
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Hafr Al Batin, Al-Batin, 39524, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tanuja Singh
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi, 10025, India
| | - Mahfoozur Rahman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shalom Institute of Health & Allied Sciences, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, Allahabad, 211007, Uttar Pradesh, India
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5
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Gardon T, Le Luyer J, Le Moullac G, Soyez C, Lagarde F, Dehaut A, Paul-Pont I, Huvet A. Pearl Farming Micro-Nanoplastics Affect Oyster Physiology and Pearl Quality. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:207-218. [PMID: 38116932 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c06684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Pearl farming is crucial for the economy of French Polynesia. However, rearing structures contribute significantly to plastic waste, and the widespread contamination of pearl farming lagoons by microplastics has raised concerns about risks to the pearl industry. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of micro-nanoplastics (MNPs, 0.4-200 μm) on the pearl oyster (Pinctada margaritifera) over a 5-month pearl production cycle by closely mimicking ecological scenarios. MNPs were produced from weathered plastic pearl farming gear and tested at environmentally relevant concentrations (0.025 and 1 μg L-1) to decipher biological and functional responses through integrative approaches. The significant findings highlighted the impacts of MNPs on oyster physiology and pearl quality, even at remarkably low concentrations. Exposure to MNPs induced changes in energy metabolism, predominantly driven by reduced assimilation efficiency of microalgae, leading to an alteration in gene expression patterns. A distinct gene expression module exhibited a strong correlation with physiological parameters affected by MNP conditions, identifying key genes as potential environmental indicators of nutritional-MNP stress in cultured oysters. The alteration in pearl biomineralization, evidenced by thinner aragonite crystals and the presence of abnormal biomineral concretions, known as keshi pearls, raises concerns about the potential long-term impact on the Polynesian pearl industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Gardon
- Ifremer, ILM, IRD, University of French Polynesia, EIO, F-98719 Taravao, Tahiti, French Polynesia, France
| | - Jérémy Le Luyer
- Ifremer, ILM, IRD, University of French Polynesia, EIO, F-98719 Taravao, Tahiti, French Polynesia, France
| | - Gilles Le Moullac
- Ifremer, ILM, IRD, University of French Polynesia, EIO, F-98719 Taravao, Tahiti, French Polynesia, France
| | - Claude Soyez
- Ifremer, ILM, IRD, University of French Polynesia, EIO, F-98719 Taravao, Tahiti, French Polynesia, France
| | - Fabienne Lagarde
- Institute of Molecules and Materials of Le Mans, IMMM-UMR CNRS 6283, University of Le Mans, Avenue Olivier Messiaen, 72085 Le Mans, France
| | - Alexandre Dehaut
- ANSES-LSA, Boulevard du Bassin Napoléon, 62200 Boulogne-sur-Mer, France
| | - Ika Paul-Pont
- University of Brest, Ifremer, CNRS, IRD, LEMAR, F-29280 Plouzané, France
| | - Arnaud Huvet
- University of Brest, Ifremer, CNRS, IRD, LEMAR, F-29280 Plouzané, France
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6
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Platt AJ, Padrick S, Ma AT, Beld J. A dissected non-ribosomal peptide synthetase maintains activity. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2024; 1872:140972. [PMID: 37951518 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2023.140972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Non-ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs) generate chemically complex compounds and their modular architecture suggests that changing their domain organization can predictably alter their products. Ebony, a small three-domain NRPS, catalyzes the formation of β-alanine containing amides from biogenic amines. To examine the necessity of interdomain interactions, we modeled and docked domains of Ebony to reveal potential interfaces between them. Testing the same domain combinations in vitro showed that 8 % of activity was preserved after Ebony was dissected into a di-domain and a detached C-terminal domain, suggesting that sufficient interaction was maintained after dissection. Our work creates a model to identify domain interfaces necessary for catalysis, an important step toward utilizing Ebony as a combinatorial engineering platform for novel amides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Platt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Infectious Disease, Center for Advanced Microbial Processing, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Shae Padrick
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 N 15(th) Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA
| | - Amy T Ma
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Infectious Disease, Center for Advanced Microbial Processing, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joris Beld
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Infectious Disease, Center for Advanced Microbial Processing, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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7
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Issigonis M, Browder KL, Chen R, Collins JJ, Newmark PA. A niche-derived non-ribosomal peptide triggers planarian sexual development. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.06.570471. [PMID: 38106172 PMCID: PMC10723454 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.06.570471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Germ cells are regulated by local microenvironments (niches), which secrete instructive cues. Conserved developmental signaling molecules act as niche-derived regulatory factors, yet other types of niche signals remain to be identified. Single-cell RNA-sequencing of sexual planarians revealed niche cells expressing a non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (nrps). Inhibiting nrps led to loss of female reproductive organs and testis hyperplasia. Mass spectrometry detected the dipeptide β-alanyl-tryptamine (BATT), which is associated with reproductive system development and requires nrps and a monoamine-transmitter-synthetic enzyme (AADC) for its production. Exogenous BATT rescued the reproductive defects after nrps or aadc inhibition, restoring fertility. Thus, a non-ribosomal, monoamine-derived peptide provided by niche cells acts as a critical signal to trigger planarian reproductive development. These findings reveal an unexpected function for monoamines in niche-germ cell signaling. Furthermore, given the recently reported role for BATT as a male-derived factor required for reproductive maturation of female schistosomes, these results have important implications for the evolution of parasitic flatworms and suggest a potential role for non-ribosomal peptides as signaling molecules in other organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Issigonis
- Morgridge Institute for Research, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison, WI 53715
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison, WI 53715
| | - Katherine L. Browder
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison, WI 53715
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison, WI 53715
| | - Rui Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center; Dallas, TX 75390
| | - James J. Collins
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center; Dallas, TX 75390
| | - Phillip A. Newmark
- Morgridge Institute for Research, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison, WI 53715
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison, WI 53715
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison, WI 53715
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8
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Tobin SW, Seneviratne D, Phan L, Seegobin M, Rico AL, Westby B, Kisiala A, Martic S, Brunetti CR, Emery RJN. Profiling of adenine-derived signaling molecules, cytokinins, in myotubes reveals fluctuations in response to lipopolysaccharide-induced cell stress. Physiol Rep 2023; 11:e15870. [PMID: 38040455 PMCID: PMC10691934 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytokinins (CTKs) are a diverse collection of evolutionarily conserved adenine-derived signaling molecules classically studied as phytohormones; however, their roles and production have been less studied in mammalian systems. Skeletal muscles are sensitive to cellular cues such as inflammation and in response, alter their secretome to regulate the muscle stem cell and myofiber niche. Using cultured C2C12 muscle cells, we profiled CTK levels to understand (1) whether CTKs are part of the muscle secretome and (2) whether CTKs are responsive to cellular stress. To induce cellular stress, C2C12 myotubes were treated with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) for 24 h and then media and cell fractions were collected for ultra high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization (UHPLC-(ESI+)-HRMS/MS) for metabolomics and CTK profiling. Across LPS-treated and control cells, 11 CTKs were detected in the extracellular space while 6 were detected intracellularly. We found that muscle cells are enriched in isopentenyladenine (iP) species (from free base, riboside to nucleotide forms), and that extracellular levels are increased after LPS treatment. Our study establishes that muscle cells express various forms of CTKs, and that CTK levels are responsive to LPS-induced cell stress, suggesting a role for CTKs in intra- and extracellular signaling of mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie W. Tobin
- Department of BiologyTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
- Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate ProgramTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
| | - Dev Seneviratne
- Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate ProgramTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
- Department of Forensic ScienceTrent UniversityPeterboroughCanada
| | - Lorna Phan
- Department of BiologyTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
| | - Mark Seegobin
- Department of BiologyTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
- Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate ProgramTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
| | | | - Beth Westby
- Department of BiologyTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
| | - Anna Kisiala
- Department of BiologyTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
| | - Sanela Martic
- Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate ProgramTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
- Department of Forensic ScienceTrent UniversityPeterboroughCanada
| | - Craig R. Brunetti
- Department of BiologyTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
- Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate ProgramTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
| | - R. J. Neil Emery
- Department of BiologyTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
- Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate ProgramTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
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9
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Suring W, Hoogduin D, Le Ngoc G, Brouwer A, van Straalen NM, Roelofs D. Nonribosomal Peptide Synthetases in Animals. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1741. [PMID: 37761881 PMCID: PMC10531068 DOI: 10.3390/genes14091741] [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: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs) are a class of cytosolic enzymes that synthesize a range of bio-active secondary metabolites including antibiotics and siderophores. They are widespread among both prokaryotes and eukaryotes but are considered rare among animals. Recently, several novel NRPS genes have been described in nematodes, schistosomes, and arthropods, which led us to investigate how prevalent NRPS genes are in the animal kingdom. We screened 1059 sequenced animal genomes and showed that NRPSs were present in 7 out of the 19 phyla analyzed. A phylogenetic analysis showed that the identified NRPSs form clades distinct from other adenylate-forming enzymes that contain similar domains such as fatty acid synthases. NRPSs show a remarkably scattered distribution over the animal kingdom. They are especially abundant in rotifers and nematodes. In rotifers, we found a large variety of domain architectures and predicted substrates. In the nematode Plectus sambesii, we identified the beta-lactam biosynthesis genes L-δ-(α-aminoadipoyl)-L-cysteinyl-D-valine synthetase, isopenicillin N synthase, and deacetoxycephalosporin C synthase that catalyze the formation of beta-lactam antibiotics in fungi and bacteria. These genes are also present in several species of Collembola, but not in other hexapods analyzed so far. In conclusion, our survey showed that NRPS genes are more abundant and widespread in animals than previously known.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter Suring
- A-LIFE Ecology and Evolution, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Academy Technology & Innovation, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, Rengerslaan 8-10, 8917 DD Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - Dylan Hoogduin
- A-LIFE Ecology and Evolution, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Giang Le Ngoc
- A-LIFE Ecology and Evolution, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Lange Kleiweg 161, 2282 GJ Rijswijk, The Netherlands
| | - Abraham Brouwer
- BioDetection Systems, Science Park 406, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nico M. van Straalen
- A-LIFE Ecology and Evolution, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dick Roelofs
- A-LIFE Ecology and Evolution, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Keygene N.V., Agro Business Park 90, 6708 PW Wageningen, The Netherlands
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10
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The mud-dwelling clam Meretrix petechialis secretes endogenously synthesized erythromycin. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2214150119. [PMID: 36442100 PMCID: PMC9894158 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2214150119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Although lacking an adaptive immune system and often living in habitats with dense and diverse bacterial populations, marine invertebrates thrive in the presence of potentially challenging microbial pathogens. However, the mechanisms underlying this resistance remain largely unexplored and promise to reveal novel strategies of microbial resistance. Here, we provide evidence that a mud-dwelling clam, Meretrix petechialis, synthesizes, stores, and secretes the antibiotic erythromycin. Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, immunocytochemistry, fluorescence in situ hybridization, RNA interference, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay revealed that this potent macrolide antimicrobial, thought to be synthesized only by microorganisms, is produced by specific mucus-rich cells beneath the clam's mantle epithelium, which interfaces directly with the bacteria-rich environment. The antibacterial activity was confirmed by bacteriostatic assay. Genetic, ontogenetic, phylogenetic and genomic evidence, including genotypic segregation ratios in a family of full siblings, gene expression in clam larvae, phylogenetic tree, and synteny conservation in the related genome region further revealed that the genes responsible for erythromycin production are of animal origin. The detection of this antibiotic in another clam species showed that the production of this macrolide is not exclusive to M. petechialis and may be a common strategy among marine invertebrates. The finding of erythromycin production by a marine invertebrate offers a striking example of convergent evolution in secondary metabolite synthesis between the animal and bacterial domains. These findings open the possibility of engineering-animal tissues for the localized production of an antibacterial secondary metabolite.
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11
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Nguyen TD, Dang TTT. Old path, new frontier. Nat Chem Biol 2022; 18:582-583. [PMID: 35606557 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-022-01045-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Trinh-Don Nguyen
- Department of Chemistry, Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Thu-Thuy T Dang
- Department of Chemistry, Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada.
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12
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Ancient plant-like terpene biosynthesis in corals. Nat Chem Biol 2022; 18:664-669. [PMID: 35606558 PMCID: PMC9179088 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-022-01026-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Octocorals are major contributors of terpenoid chemical diversity in the ocean. Natural products from other sessile marine animals are primarily biosynthesized by symbiotic microbes rather than by the host. Here, we challenge this long-standing paradigm by describing a monophyletic lineage of animal-encoded terpene cyclases (TCs) ubiquitous in octocorals. We characterized 15 TC enzymes from nine genera, several of which produce precursors of iconic coral-specific terpenoids, such as pseudopterosin, lophotoxin and eleutherobin. X-ray crystallography revealed that coral TCs share conserved active site residues and structural features with bacterial TCs. The identification of coral TCs enabled the targeted identification of the enzyme that constructs the coral-exclusive capnellane scaffold. Several TC genes are colocalized with genes that encode enzymes known to modify terpenes. This work presents an example of biosynthetic capacity in the kingdom Animalia that rivals the chemical complexity generated by plants, unlocking the biotechnological potential of octocorals for biomedical applications.
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13
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Molfini M, Stefanuto L, Gisondi S, Gasperi T, Di Giulio A, Mancini E, Bologna MA. New Evidence of Canthariphily: Tilloidea transversalis (Coleoptera: Cleridae) Sequestering Cantharidin From Lydus trimaculatus (Coleoptera: Meloidae). JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2022; 22:6618873. [PMID: 35762395 PMCID: PMC9237715 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieac035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Cantharidin (CTD) is a defensive compound autogenously and exclusively produced by two phylogenetically related beetle families: Meloidae and Oedemeridae. Although this molecule usually acts as a strong deterrent against potential predators and parasites, some arthropod species, collectively named 'canthariphilous species', are attracted to CTD. Some species can sequester CTD from the CTD-producing species, using it as a chemical defense against enemies. The present paper focuses on the first-ever description of canthariphilous interactions between a checkered beetle species (Coleoptera: Cleridae) and a CTD -producing species. Field observations revealed individuals of the phytophagous beetle Tilloidea transversalis (Charpentier, 1825) (Coleoptera: Cleridae) biting individuals of the blister beetle Lydus trimaculatus (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleoptera: Meloidae). Laboratory behavioral experiments followed to verify if this peculiar behavior of T. transversalis also occurs on other co-occurring species. Moreover, chemical analyses were performed to assess whether T. transversalis can sequester CTD. Our results show that T. transversalis only attacks CTD-producing species. However, while chemical analyses prove that T. transversalis can sequester CTD from the hemolymph of L. trimaculatus, some clues (based on a CTD-baited traps sampling) suggest that this beetle, contrarily to other canthariphilous species, does not appear to show a high attraction to pure synthetic CTD. Thus, other unknown signals, alone or in combination with CTD, could be implicated in triggering the canthariphilous behaviors of T. transversalis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luca Stefanuto
- Department of Science, University of Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Gisondi
- Consiglio per la Ricerca in Agricoltura e l’Analisi dell’Economia Agraria, Centro di Ricerca Difesa e Certificazione, Via di Lanciola 12/a, 50125 Firenze, Italy
| | - Tecla Gasperi
- Department of Science, University of Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Di Giulio
- Department of Science, University of Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Emiliano Mancini
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies ‘Charles Darwin’, Sapienza University, Viale dell’Università 32, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco A Bologna
- Department of Science, University of Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
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14
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Chen R, Wang J, Gradinaru I, Vu HS, Geboers S, Naidoo J, Ready JM, Williams NS, DeBerardinis RJ, Ross EM, Collins JJ. A male-derived nonribosomal peptide pheromone controls female schistosome development. Cell 2022; 185:1506-1520.e17. [PMID: 35385687 PMCID: PMC9058237 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomes cause morbidity and death throughout the developing world due to the massive numbers of eggs female worms deposit into the blood of their host. Studies dating back to the 1920s show that female schistosomes rely on constant physical contact with a male worm both to become and remain sexually mature; however, the molecular details governing this process remain elusive. Here, we uncover a nonribosomal peptide synthetase that is induced in male worms upon pairing with a female and find that it is essential for the ability of male worms to stimulate female development. We demonstrate that this enzyme generates β-alanyl-tryptamine that is released by paired male worms. Furthermore, synthetic β-alanyl-tryptamine can replace male worms to stimulate female sexual development and egg laying. These data reveal that peptide-based pheromone signaling controls female schistosome sexual maturation, suggesting avenues for therapeutic intervention and uncovering a role for nonribosomal peptides as metazoan signaling molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Jipeng Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, People's Republic of China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - Irina Gradinaru
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Hieu S Vu
- Children's Medical Center Research Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Sophie Geboers
- Department of Biochemistry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Jacinth Naidoo
- Department of Biochemistry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Joseph M Ready
- Department of Biochemistry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Noelle S Williams
- Department of Biochemistry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Ralph J DeBerardinis
- Children's Medical Center Research Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Elliott M Ross
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - James J Collins
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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15
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Evolutionary assembly of cooperating cell types in an animal chemical defense system. Cell 2021; 184:6138-6156.e28. [PMID: 34890552 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
How the functions of multicellular organs emerge from the underlying evolution of cell types is poorly understood. We deconstructed evolution of an organ novelty: a rove beetle gland that secretes a defensive cocktail. We show how gland function arose via assembly of two cell types that manufacture distinct compounds. One cell type, comprising a chemical reservoir within the abdomen, produces alkane and ester compounds. We demonstrate that this cell type is a hybrid of cuticle cells and ancient pheromone and adipocyte-like cells, executing its function via a mosaic of enzymes from each parental cell type. The second cell type synthesizes benzoquinones using a chimera of conserved cellular energy and cuticle formation pathways. We show that evolution of each cell type was shaped by coevolution between the two cell types, yielding a potent secretion that confers adaptive value. Our findings illustrate how cooperation between cell types arises, generating new, organ-level behaviors.
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16
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Mapping the biosynthetic pathway of a hybrid polyketide-nonribosomal peptide in a metazoan. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4912. [PMID: 34389721 PMCID: PMC8363725 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24682-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyketide synthase (PKS) and nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) hybrid systems typically use complex protein-protein interactions to facilitate direct transfer of intermediates between these multimodular megaenzymes. In the canal-associated neurons (CANs) of Caenorhabditis elegans, PKS-1 and NRPS-1 produce the nemamides, the only known hybrid polyketide-nonribosomal peptides biosynthesized by animals, through a poorly understood mechanism. Here, we use genome editing and mass spectrometry to map the roles of individual PKS-1 and NRPS-1 enzymatic domains in nemamide biosynthesis. Furthermore, we show that nemamide biosynthesis requires at least five additional enzymes expressed in the CANs that are encoded by genes distributed across the worm genome. We identify the roles of these enzymes and discover a mechanism for trafficking intermediates between a PKS and an NRPS. Specifically, the enzyme PKAL-1 activates an advanced polyketide intermediate as an adenylate and directly loads it onto a carrier protein in NRPS-1. This trafficking mechanism provides a means by which a PKS-NRPS system can expand its biosynthetic potential and is likely important for the regulation of nemamide biosynthesis. The only known animal polyketide-nonribosomal peptides, the nemamides, are biosynthesized by two megasynthetases in the canal-associated neurons (CANs) of C. elegans. Here, the authors map the biosynthetic roles of individual megasynthetase domains and identify additional enzymes in the CANs required for nemamide biosynthesis.
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17
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Kishi Y, Parker J. Cell type innovation at the tips of the animal tree. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2021; 69:112-121. [PMID: 33784538 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2021.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Understanding how organs originate is challenging due to the twin problems of explaining how new cell types evolve and how collective interactions between cell types arise and become selectively advantageous. Animals are assemblages of organs and cell types of different antiquities, and among the most rapidly and convergently evolving are exocrine glands and their constituent secretory cell types. Such structures have arisen independently thousands of times across the Metazoa, impacting how animals chemically interact with their environments. The recurrent evolution of exocrine systems provides a paradigm for examining how qualitative phenotypic novelties arise from variation at the cellular level. Here, we take a hierarchical perspective, focusing on the evolutionary assembly of novel biosynthetic pathways and secretory cell types, and how both selection and non-adaptive molecular processes may combine to build the complex, modular architectures of many animal glands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuriko Kishi
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, 91125, United States
| | - Joseph Parker
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, 91125, United States.
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18
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Mazorra-Alonso M, Tomás G, Soler JJ. Microbially Mediated Chemical Ecology of Animals: A Review of Its Role in Conspecific Communication, Parasitism and Predation. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:274. [PMID: 33801728 PMCID: PMC8065758 DOI: 10.3390/biology10040274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Microbial symbionts are nowadays considered of pivotal importance for animal life. Among the many processes where microorganisms are involved, an emerging research avenue focuses on their major role in driving the evolution of chemical communication in their hosts. Volatiles of bacterial origin may underlie chemical communication and the transfer of social information through signals, as well as inadvertent social information. We reviewed the role of microorganisms in animal communication between conspecifics, and, because the microbiome may cause beneficial as well as deleterious effects on their animal hosts, we also reviewed its role in determining the outcome of the interactions with parasites and predators. Finally, we paid special attention to the hypothetical role of predation and parasitism in driving the evolution of the animal microbiome. We highlighted the novelty of the theoretical framework derived from considering the microbiota of animals in scenarios of communication, parasitism, and predation. We aimed to encourage research in these areas, suggesting key predictions that need to be tested to better understand what is one of the main roles of bacteria in animal biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Mazorra-Alonso
- Departamento de Ecología Funcional y Evolutiva, Estación Experimental de Zonas Áridas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 04120 Almería, Spain
| | - Gustavo Tomás
- Departamento de Ecología Funcional y Evolutiva, Estación Experimental de Zonas Áridas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 04120 Almería, Spain
- Unidad Asociada (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas): Coevolución: Cucos, Hospedadores y Bacterias Simbiontes, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Juan José Soler
- Departamento de Ecología Funcional y Evolutiva, Estación Experimental de Zonas Áridas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 04120 Almería, Spain
- Unidad Asociada (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas): Coevolución: Cucos, Hospedadores y Bacterias Simbiontes, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
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19
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Hubrich F, Müller M, Andexer JN. Chorismate- and isochorismate converting enzymes: versatile catalysts acting on an important metabolic node. Chem Commun (Camb) 2021; 57:2441-2463. [PMID: 33605953 DOI: 10.1039/d0cc08078k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Chorismate and isochorismate represent an important branching point connecting primary and secondary metabolism in bacteria, fungi, archaea and plants. Chorismate- and isochorismate-converting enzymes are potential targets for new bioactive compounds, as well as valuable biocatalysts for the in vivo and in vitro synthesis of fine chemicals. The diversity of the products of chorismate- and isochorismate-converting enzymes is reflected in the enzymatic three-dimensional structures and molecular mechanisms. Due to the high reactivity of chorismate and its derivatives, these enzymes have evolved to be accurately tailored to their respective reaction; at the same time, many of them exhibit a fascinating flexibility regarding side reactions and acceptance of alternative substrates. Here, we give an overview of the different (sub)families of chorismate- and isochorismate-converting enzymes, their molecular mechanisms, and three-dimensional structures. In addition, we highlight important results of mutagenetic approaches that generate a broader understanding of the influence of distinct active site residues for product formation and the conversion of one subfamily into another. Based on this, we discuss to what extent the recent advances in the field might influence the general mechanistic understanding of chorismate- and isochorismate-converting enzymes. Recent discoveries of new chorismate-derived products and pathways, as well as biocatalytic conversions of non-physiological substrates, highlight how this vast field is expected to continue developing in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Hubrich
- ETH Zurich, Institute of Microbiology, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland.
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20
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Mohanty I, Moore SG, Yi D, Biggs JS, Gaul DA, Garg N, Agarwal V. Precursor-Guided Mining of Marine Sponge Metabolomes Lends Insight into Biosynthesis of Pyrrole-Imidazole Alkaloids. ACS Chem Biol 2020; 15:2185-2194. [PMID: 32662980 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.0c00375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Pyrrole-imidazole alkaloids are natural products isolated from marine sponges, holobiont metazoans that are associated with symbiotic microbiomes. Pyrrole-imidazole alkaloids have attracted attention due to their chemical complexity and their favorable pharmacological properties. However, insights into how these molecules are biosynthesized within the sponge holobionts are scarce. Here, we provide a multiomic profiling of the microbiome and metabolomic architectures of three sponge genera that are prolific producers of pyrrole-imidazole alkaloids. Using a retrobiosynthetic scheme as a guide, we mine the metabolomes of these sponges to detect intermediates in pyrrole-imidazole alkaloid biosynthesis. Our findings reveal that the nonproteinogenic amino acid homoarginine is a critical branch point that connects primary metabolite lysine to the production of pyrrole-imidazole alkaloids. These insights are derived from the polar metabolomes of these sponges which additionally reveal the presence of zwitterionic betaines that may serve important ecological roles in marine habitats. We also establish that metabolomic richness does not correlate with microbial diversity of the sponge holobiont for neither the polar nor the nonpolar metabolomes. Our findings now provide the biochemical foundation for genomic interrogation of the sponge holobiont to establish biogenetic routes for pyrrole-imidazole alkaloid production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ipsita Mohanty
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Samuel G. Moore
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Dongqi Yi
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Jason S. Biggs
- Marine Laboratory, University of Guam, UOG Station, Mangilao 96923, Guam
| | - David A. Gaul
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Neha Garg
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Vinayak Agarwal
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
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21
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Youssef DTA, Almagthali H, Shaala LA, Schmidt EW. Secondary Metabolites of the Genus Didemnum: A Comprehensive Review of Chemical Diversity and Pharmacological Properties. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:E307. [PMID: 32545321 PMCID: PMC7344992 DOI: 10.3390/md18060307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tunicates (ascidians) are common marine invertebrates that are an exceptionally important source of natural products with biomedical and pharmaceutical applications, including compounds that are used clinically in cancers. Among tunicates, the genus Didemnum is important because it includes the most species, and it belongs to the most speciose family (Didemnidae). The genus Didemnum includes the species D. molle, D. chartaceum, D. albopunctatum, and D. obscurum, as well as others, which are well known for their chemically diverse secondary metabolites. To date, investigators have reported secondary metabolites, usually including bioactivity data, for at least 69 members of the genus Didemnum, leading to isolation of 212 compounds. Many of these compounds exhibit valuable biological activities in assays targeting cancers, bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoans, and the central nervous system. This review highlights compounds isolated from genus Didemnum through December 2019. Chemical diversity, pharmacological activities, geographical locations, and applied chemical methods are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diaa T. A. Youssef
- Department of Natural Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Hadeel Almagthali
- Department of Natural Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Al-Haweiah 21974, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lamiaa A. Shaala
- Natural Products Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Suez Canal University Hospital, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Eric W. Schmidt
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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22
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Torres JP, Lin Z, Winter JM, Krug PJ, Schmidt EW. Animal biosynthesis of complex polyketides in a photosynthetic partnership. Nat Commun 2020; 11:2882. [PMID: 32513940 PMCID: PMC7280274 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16376-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Complex polyketides are typically associated with microbial metabolism. Here, we report that animals also make complex, microbe-like polyketides. We show there is a widespread branch of fatty acid synthase- (FAS)-like polyketide synthase (PKS) proteins, which sacoglossan animals use to synthesize complex products. The purified sacogolassan protein EcPKS1 uses only methylmalonyl-CoA as a substrate, otherwise unknown in animal lipid metabolism. Sacoglossans are sea slugs, some of which eat algae, digesting the cells but maintaining functional chloroplasts. Here, we provide evidence that polyketides support this unusual photosynthetic partnership. The FAS-like PKS family represents an uncharacterized branch of polyketide and fatty acid metabolism, encoding a large diversity of biomedically relevant animal enzymes and chemicals awaiting discovery. The biochemical characterization of an intact animal polyketide biosynthetic enzyme opens the door to understanding the immense untapped metabolic potential of metazoans. Complex polyketides are usually produced by microbes, whereas the origin of polyketides found in animals remained unknown. This study shows that sacoglossan animals, such as sea slugs, employ fatty acid synthase-like proteins to produce microbe-like polyketides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua P Torres
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Zhenjian Lin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Jaclyn M Winter
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Patrick J Krug
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University, Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA
| | - Eric W Schmidt
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA.
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23
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Ganley JG, Derbyshire ER. Linking Genes to Molecules in Eukaryotic Sources: An Endeavor to Expand Our Biosynthetic Repertoire. Molecules 2020; 25:E625. [PMID: 32023950 PMCID: PMC7036892 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25030625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The discovery of natural products continues to interest chemists and biologists for their utility in medicine as well as facilitating our understanding of signaling, pathogenesis, and evolution. Despite an attenuation in the discovery rate of new molecules, the current genomics and transcriptomics revolution has illuminated the untapped biosynthetic potential of many diverse organisms. Today, natural product discovery can be driven by biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) analysis, which is capable of predicting enzymes that catalyze novel reactions and organisms that synthesize new chemical structures. This approach has been particularly effective in mining bacterial and fungal genomes where it has facilitated the discovery of new molecules, increased the understanding of metabolite assembly, and in some instances uncovered enzymes with intriguing synthetic utility. While relatively less is known about the biosynthetic potential of non-fungal eukaryotes, there is compelling evidence to suggest many encode biosynthetic enzymes that produce molecules with unique bioactivities. In this review, we highlight how the advances in genomics and transcriptomics have aided natural product discovery in sources from eukaryotic lineages. We summarize work that has successfully connected genes to previously identified molecules and how advancing these techniques can lead to genetics-guided discovery of novel chemical structures and reactions distributed throughout the tree of life. Ultimately, we discuss the advantage of increasing the known biosynthetic space to ease access to complex natural and non-natural small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack G Ganley
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708-0346, USA
| | - Emily R Derbyshire
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708-0346, USA
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, 213 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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24
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Nair SK, Jez JM. Natural product biosynthesis: What's next? An introduction to the JBC Reviews Thematic Series. J Biol Chem 2019; 295:335-336. [PMID: 31806701 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.rev119.011586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The diversity of natural products not only fascinates us intellectually, but also provides an armamentarium against the microbes that threaten our health. The increased prevalence of pathogens that are resistant to one or more classes of available medicines continues to be a growing global threat. As drug-resistant pathogens erode the effectiveness of the current reserve of antibiotics and antifungals, methodological advances open additional avenues for discovery of new classes of drugs, as well as novel derivatives of existing (and proven) classes of compounds. In this Thematic Review Series, we aim to provide a snapshot of the current state of the art in natural product discovery. The reviews in this series encapsulate convergent approaches toward the identification of different classes of primary and specialized metabolites, including nonribosomal peptides, polyketides, and ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides, from all kingdoms of life. Traction in unraveling new and diverse classes of molecules has come largely from the academic sector, which ensures availability of methods and data sets. Such knowledge is needed to thwart serious threats to human health and calls to mind the proverb praemonitus praemunitus (forewarned is forearmed).
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Affiliation(s)
- Satish K Nair
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801; Center for Biophysics and Computational Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801.
| | - Joseph M Jez
- Department of Biology, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri 63130.
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