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Sadowska-Bartosz I, Bartosz G. Antioxidant Defense in the Toughest Animals on the Earth: Its Contribution to the Extreme Resistance of Tardigrades. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8393. [PMID: 39125965 PMCID: PMC11313143 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158393] [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: 06/22/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades are unique among animals in their resistance to dehydration, mainly due to anhydrobiosis and tun formation. They are also very resistant to high-energy radiation, low and high temperatures, low and high pressure, and various chemical agents, Interestingly, they are resistant to ionizing radiation both in the hydrated and dehydrated states to a similar extent. They are able to survive in the cosmic space. Apparently, many mechanisms contribute to the resistance of tardigrades to harmful factors, including the presence of trehalose (though not common to all tardigrades), heat shock proteins, late embryogenesis-abundant proteins, tardigrade-unique proteins, DNA repair proteins, proteins directly protecting DNA (Dsup and TDR1), and efficient antioxidant system. Antioxidant enzymes and small-molecular-weight antioxidants are an important element in the tardigrade resistance. The levels and activities of many antioxidant proteins is elevated by anhydrobiosis and UV radiation; one explanation for their induction during dehydration is provided by the theory of "preparation for oxidative stress", which occurs during rehydration. Genes coding for some antioxidant proteins are expanded in tardigrades; some genes (especially those coding for catalases) were hypothesized to be of bacterial origin, acquired by horizontal gene transfer. An interesting antioxidant protein found in tardigrades is the new Mn-dependent peroxidase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Sadowska-Bartosz
- Laboratory of Analytical Biochemistry, Institute of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Natural Sciences, University of Rzeszów, 4 Zelwerowicza Street, 35-601 Rzeszow, Poland;
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Yoshida Y, Hirayama A, Arakawa K. Transcriptome analysis of the tardigrade Hypsibius exemplaris exposed to the DNA-damaging agent bleomycin. PROCEEDINGS OF THE JAPAN ACADEMY. SERIES B, PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2024; 100:414-428. [PMID: 38839369 DOI: 10.2183/pjab.pjab.100.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Tardigrades are microscopic animals that are renowned for their capabilities of tolerating near-complete desiccation by entering an ametabolic state called anhydrobiosis. However, many species also show high tolerance against radiation in the active state as well, suggesting cross-tolerance via the anhydrobiosis mechanism. Previous studies utilized indirect DNA damaging agents to identify core components of the cross-tolerance machinery in species with high anhydrobiosis capacities. However, it was difficult to distinguish whether transcriptomic changes were specific to DNA damage or mutual with anhydrobiosis. To this end, we performed transcriptome analysis on bleomycin-exposed Hypsibius exemplaris. We observed induction of several tardigrade-specific gene families, including a previously identified novel anti-oxidative stress family, which may be a core component of the cross-tolerance mechanism. We also identified enrichment of the tryptophan metabolism pathway, for which metabolomic analysis suggested engagement of this pathway in stress tolerance. These results provide several candidates for the core component of cross-tolerance, as well as possible anhydrobiosis machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Yoshida
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Hirayama
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, Japan
- Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
- Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, Keio University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kazuharu Arakawa
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, Japan
- Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
- Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, Keio University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
- Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems (ExCELLS), National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
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3
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Galas S, Le Goff E, Cazevieille C, Tanaka A, Cuq P, Baghdiguian S, Kunieda T, Godefroy N, Richaud M. A comparative ultrastructure study of the tardigrade Ramazzottius varieornatus in the hydrated state, after desiccation and during the process of rehydration. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302552. [PMID: 38843161 PMCID: PMC11156355 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades can survive hostile environments such as desiccation by adopting a state of anhydrobiosis. Numerous tardigrade species have been described thus far, and recent genome and transcriptome analyses revealed that several distinct strategies were employed to cope with harsh environments depending on the evolutionary lineages. Detailed analyses at the cellular and subcellular levels are essential to complete these data. In this work, we analyzed a tardigrade species that can withstand rapid dehydration, Ramazzottius varieornatus. Surprisingly, we noted an absence of the anhydrobiotic-specific extracellular structure previously described for the Hypsibius exemplaris species. Both Ramazzottius varieornatus and Hypsibius exemplaris belong to the same evolutionary class of Eutardigrada. Nevertheless, our observations reveal discrepancies in the anhydrobiotic structures correlated with the variation in the anhydrobiotic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Galas
- IBMM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
| | - Emilie Le Goff
- ISEM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Akihiro Tanaka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Pierre Cuq
- IBMM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Takekazu Kunieda
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nelly Godefroy
- ISEM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Myriam Richaud
- IBMM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
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Kondo K, Tanaka A, Kunieda T. Single-step generation of homozygous knockout/knock-in individuals in an extremotolerant parthenogenetic tardigrade using DIPA-CRISPR. PLoS Genet 2024; 20:e1011298. [PMID: 38870088 PMCID: PMC11175437 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades are small aquatic invertebrates known for their remarkable tolerance to diverse extreme stresses. To elucidate the in vivo mechanisms underlying this extraordinary resilience, methods for genetically manipulating tardigrades have long been desired. Despite our prior success in somatic cell gene editing by microinjecting Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) into the body cavity of tardigrades, the generation of gene-edited individuals remained elusive. In this study, employing an extremotolerant parthenogenetic tardigrade species, Ramazzottius varieornatus, we established conditions that led to the generation of gene-edited tardigrade individuals. Drawing inspiration from the direct parental CRISPR (DIPA-CRISPR) technique employed in several insects, we simply injected a concentrated Cas9 RNP solution into the body cavity of parental females shortly before their initial oviposition. This approach yielded gene-edited G0 progeny. Notably, only a single allele was predominantly detected at the target locus for each G0 individual, indicative of homozygous mutations. By co-injecting single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotides (ssODNs) with Cas9 RNPs, we achieved the generation of homozygously knocked-in G0 progeny, and these edited alleles were inherited by G1/G2 progeny. This is the first example of heritable gene editing in the entire phylum of Tardigrada. This establishment of a straightforward method for generating homozygous knockout/knock-in individuals not only facilitates in vivo analyses of the molecular mechanisms underpinning extreme tolerance, but also opens up avenues for exploring various topics, including Evo-Devo, in tardigrades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koyuki Kondo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Life Science, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Chiba Institute of Technology, Tsudanuma, Narashino, Chiba, Japan
| | - Akihiro Tanaka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takekazu Kunieda
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Wilanowska PA, Rzymski P, Kaczmarek Ł. Long-Term Survivability of Tardigrade Paramacrobiotus experimentalis (Eutardigrada) at Increased Magnesium Perchlorate Levels: Implications for Astrobiological Research. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:335. [PMID: 38541660 PMCID: PMC10971682 DOI: 10.3390/life14030335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Perchlorate salts, including magnesium perchlorate, are highly toxic compounds that occur on Mars at levels far surpassing those on Earth and pose a significant challenge to the survival of life on this planet. Tardigrades are commonly known for their extraordinary resistance to extreme environmental conditions and are considered model organisms for space and astrobiological research. However, their long-term tolerance to perchlorate salts has not been the subject of any previous studies. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess whether the tardigrade species Paramacrobiotus experimentalis can survive and grow in an environment contaminated with high levels of magnesium perchlorates (0.25-1.0%, 1.5-6.0 mM ClO4- ions). The survival rate of tardigrades decreased with an increase in the concentration of the perchlorate solutions and varied from 83.3% (0.10% concentration) to 20.8% (0.25% concentration) over the course of 56 days of exposure. Tardigrades exposed to 0.15-0.25% magnesium perchlorate revealed significantly decreased body length. Our study indicates that tardigrades can survive and grow in relatively high concentrations of magnesium perchlorates, largely exceeding perchlorate levels observed naturally on Earth, indicating their potential use in Martian experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Anna Wilanowska
- Department of Animal Taxonomy and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, 61-614 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Piotr Rzymski
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Łukasz Kaczmarek
- Department of Animal Taxonomy and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, 61-614 Poznań, Poland;
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Lacerda AL, Frias J, Pedrotti ML. Tardigrades in the marine plastisphere: New hitchhikers surfing plastics. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 200:116071. [PMID: 38290365 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Tardigrades are remarkable microorganisms known for their extraordinary resilience in diverse environments, including extreme conditions such as outer space. They are known for their interactions with natural substrates in terrestrial and aquatic systems, but have remained largely unexplored in relation to marine plastics. This study aims to investigate the colonization of plastics, ranging from fossil fuel-based to bioplastics, in the coastal zones of four countries (Brazil, Ireland, France and Italy). Here, we report the first documented occurrence of tardigrades colonizing plastic substrates. We identified five amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) belonging to the Tardigrada phylum, specifically in a post-consumer polypropylene, in the coastal zone of Galway, Ireland. This discovery raises questions about the characteristics of different plastics influencing on tardigrades' adhesion. Tardigrades hitchhiking on plastics in the oceans could expand their habitat range, possibly displacing native species and altering trophic interactions, with potential consequences for the overall biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luzia Lacerda
- Laboratoire d'Océanographie de Villefranche sur mer (LOV), UPMC Université Paris 06, CNRS UMR 7093, Sorbonne Université, Villefranche sur Mer, France.
| | - João Frias
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Atlantic Technological University, Dublin Road, Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland
| | - Maria Luiza Pedrotti
- Laboratoire d'Océanographie de Villefranche sur mer (LOV), UPMC Université Paris 06, CNRS UMR 7093, Sorbonne Université, Villefranche sur Mer, France
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Hvidepil LKB, Møbjerg N. New insights into osmobiosis and chemobiosis in tardigrades. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1274522. [PMID: 37929212 PMCID: PMC10620314 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1274522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades are renowned for their ability to enter the extremotolerant state of latent life known as cryptobiosis. While it is widely accepted that cryptobiosis can be induced by freezing (cryobiosis) and by desiccation (anhydrobiosis), the latter involving formation of a so-called tun, the exact mechanisms underlying the state-as well as the significance of other cryptobiosis inducing factors-remain ambiguous. Here, we focus on osmotic and chemical stress tolerance in the marine tidal tardigrade Echiniscoides sigismundi. We show that E. sigismundi enters the tun state following exposure to saturated seawater and upon exposure to locality seawater containing the mitochondrial uncoupler DNP. The latter experiments provide evidence of osmobiosis and chemobiosis, i.e., cryptobiosis induced by high levels of osmolytes and toxicants, respectively. A small decrease in survival was observed following simultaneous exposure to DNP and saturated seawater indicating that the tardigrades may not be entirely ametabolic while in the osmobiotic tun. The tardigrades easily handle exposure to ultrapure water, but hypo-osmotic shock impairs tun formation and when exposed to ultrapure water the tardigrades do not tolerate DNP, indicating that tolerance towards dilute solutions involves energy-consuming processes. We discuss our data in relation to earlier and more contemporary studies on cryptobiosis and we argue that osmobiosis should be defined as a state of cryptobiosis induced by high external osmotic pressure. Our investigation supports the hypothesis that the mechanisms underlying osmobiosis and anhydrobiosis are overlapping and that osmobiosis likely represents the evolutionary forerunner of cryptobiosis forms that involve body water deprivation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadja Møbjerg
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Arakawa K, Hirose T, Inada T, Ito T, Kai T, Oyama M, Tomari Y, Yoda T, Nakagawa S. Nondomain biopolymers: Flexible molecular strategies to acquire biological functions. Genes Cells 2023; 28:539-552. [PMID: 37249032 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.13050] [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: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
A long-standing assumption in molecular biology posits that the conservation of protein and nucleic acid sequences emphasizes the functional significance of biomolecules. These conserved sequences fold into distinct secondary and tertiary structures, enable highly specific molecular interactions, and regulate complex yet organized molecular processes within living cells. However, recent evidence suggests that biomolecules can also function through primary sequence regions that lack conservation across species or gene families. These regions typically do not form rigid structures, and their inherent flexibility is critical for their functional roles. This review examines the emerging roles and molecular mechanisms of "nondomain biomolecules," whose functions are not easily predicted due to the absence of conserved functional domains. We propose the hypothesis that both domain- and nondomain-type molecules work together to enable flexible and efficient molecular processes within the highly crowded intracellular environment.
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Grants
- 21H05273 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05274 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05275 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05276 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05277 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05278 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05279 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05280 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05281 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05282 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuharu Arakawa
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Hirose
- RNA Biofunction Laboratory, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Inada
- Division of RNA and Gene Regulation, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuhiro Ito
- Laboratory for Translation Structural Biology, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Toshie Kai
- Germline Biology Laboratory, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masaaki Oyama
- Medical Proteomics Laboratory, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukihide Tomari
- Laboratory of RNA Function, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takao Yoda
- Nagahama Institute of Bio-Science and Technology, Nagahama, Japan
| | - Shinichi Nakagawa
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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Zarubin M, Azorskaya T, Kuldoshina O, Alekseev S, Mitrofanov S, Kravchenko E. The tardigrade Dsup protein enhances radioresistance in Drosophila melanogaster and acts as an unspecific repressor of transcription. iScience 2023; 26:106998. [PMID: 37534176 PMCID: PMC10391675 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The tardigrade-unique damage suppressor protein (Dsup) can protect DNA from ionizing radiation and reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this study, we generated Dsup-expressing lines of Drosophila melanogaster and demonstrated that Dsup increased the survival rate after γ-ray irradiation and hydrogen peroxide treatment in flies too, but reduced the level of their locomotor activity. The transcriptome analyses of Dsup-expressing lines revealed a significant number of DEGs, >99% of which were down-regulated. Moreover, Dsup could bind RNA. These findings suggest that Dsup can act not only as a DNA protector but also as a non-specific transcriptional repressor and RNA-binding protein, that may lead to disturbance of a number of biological processes in D. melanogaster. The obtained data demonstrate features of the Dsup protein action in non-tardigrade organisms and can be used to understand the impact of other unspecific DNA/RNA-binding proteins on ROS and radiation resistance, gene expression, and epigenetic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail Zarubin
- Dzhelepov Laboratory of Nuclear Problems, International Intergovernmental Organization Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna 141980, Russia
| | - Talyana Azorskaya
- Dzhelepov Laboratory of Nuclear Problems, International Intergovernmental Organization Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna 141980, Russia
| | - Olga Kuldoshina
- Dzhelepov Laboratory of Nuclear Problems, International Intergovernmental Organization Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna 141980, Russia
| | - Sergey Alekseev
- Flerov Laboratory of Nuclear Reactions, International Intergovernmental Organization Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna 141980, Russia
| | - Semen Mitrofanov
- Flerov Laboratory of Nuclear Reactions, International Intergovernmental Organization Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna 141980, Russia
| | - Elena Kravchenko
- Dzhelepov Laboratory of Nuclear Problems, International Intergovernmental Organization Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna 141980, Russia
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Sim KS, Inoue T. Structure of a superoxide dismutase from a tardigrade: Ramazzottius varieornatus strain YOKOZUNA-1. Acta Crystallogr F Struct Biol Commun 2023; 79:169-179. [PMID: 37358501 PMCID: PMC10327573 DOI: 10.1107/s2053230x2300523x] [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: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an essential and ubiquitous antioxidant protein that is widely present in biological systems. The anhydrobiotic tardigrades are some of the toughest micro-animals. They have an expanded set of genes for antioxidant proteins such as SODs. These proteins are thought to play an essential role in oxidative stress resistance in critical situations such as desiccation, although their functions at the molecular level have yet to be explored. Here, crystal structures of a copper/zinc-containing SOD (RvSOD15) from an anhydrobiotic tardigrade, Ramazzottius varieornatus strain YOKOZUNA-1, are reported. In RvSOD15, one of the histidine ligands of the catalytic copper center is replaced by a valine (Val87). The crystal structures of the wild type and the V87H mutant show that even though a histidine is placed at position 87, a nearby flexible loop can destabilize the coordination of His87 to the Cu atom. Model structures of other RvSODs were investigated and it was found that some of them are also unusual SODs, with features such as deletion of the electrostatic loop or β3 sheet and unusual metal-binding residues. These studies show that RvSOD15 and some other RvSODs may have evolved to lose the SOD function, suggesting that gene duplications of antioxidant proteins do not solely explain the high stress tolerance of anhydrobiotic tardigrades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kee-Shin Sim
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Suita City, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Suita City, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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Escarcega RD, Patil AA, Meyer MD, Moruno-Manchon JF, Silvagnoli AD, McCullough LD, Tsvetkov AS. The Tardigrade damage suppressor protein Dsup promotes DNA damage in neurons. Mol Cell Neurosci 2023; 125:103826. [PMID: 36858083 PMCID: PMC10247392 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2023.103826] [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: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades are microscopic invertebrates, which are capable of withstanding extreme environmental conditions, including high levels of radiation. A Tardigrade protein, Dsup (Damage Suppressor), protects the Tardigrade's DNA during harsh environmental stress and X-rays. When expressed in cancer cells, Dsup protects DNA from single- and double-strand breaks (DSBs) induced by radiation, increases survival of irradiated cells, and protects DNA from reactive oxygen species. These unusual properties of Dsup suggested that understanding how the protein functions may help in the design of small molecules that could protect humans during radiotherapy or space travel. Here, we investigated if Dsup is protective in cortical neurons cultured from rat embryos. We discovered that, in cortical neurons, the codon-optimized Dsup localizes to the nucleus and, surprisingly, promotes neurotoxicity, leading to neurodegeneration. Unexpectedly, we found that Dsup expression results in the formation of DNA DSBs in cultured neurons. With electron microscopy, we discovered that Dsup promotes chromatin condensation. Unlike Dsup's protective properties in cancerous cells, in neurons, Dsup promotes neurotoxicity, induces DNA damage, and rearranges chromatin. Neurons are sensitive to Dsup, and Dsup is a doubtful surrogate for DNA protection in neuronal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocio Diaz Escarcega
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Abhijeet A Patil
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Matthew D Meyer
- Shared Equipment Authority, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States of America
| | - Jose F Moruno-Manchon
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Alexander D Silvagnoli
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Louise D McCullough
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, TX 77030, United States of America; The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Andrey S Tsvetkov
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, TX 77030, United States of America; The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America; UTHealth Consortium on Aging, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
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12
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Kasianchuk N, Rzymski P, Kaczmarek Ł. The biomedical potential of tardigrade proteins: A review. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114063. [PMID: 36495665 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades are ubiquitous microinvertebrates exhibiting extreme tolerance to various environmental stressors like low and high temperatures, lack of water, or high radiation. Although exact pathways behind the tardigrade extremotolerance are yet to be elucidated, some molecules involved have been identified. Their evidenced properties may lead to novel opportunities in biomedical and pharmacological development. This review aims to present the general characteristics of tardigrade intrinsically disordered proteins (TDPs: Dsup, CAHS, SAHS, MAHS) and late embryogenesis-abundant proteins (LEA) and provide an updated overview of their features and relevance for potential use in biomedicine and pharmacology. The Dsup reveals a promising action in attenuating oxidative stress, DNA damage, and pyrimidine dimerization, as well as increasing radiotolerance in transfected human cells. Whether Dsup can perform these functions when delivered externally is yet to be understood by in vivo preclinical testing. In turn, CAHS and SAHS demonstrate properties that could benefit the preservation of pharmaceuticals (e.g., vaccines) and biomaterials (e.g., cells). Selected CAHS proteins can also serve as inspiration for designing novel anti-apoptotic agents. The LEA proteins also reveal promising properties to preserve desiccated biomaterials and can act as anti-osmotic agents. In summary, tardigrade molecules reveal several potential biomedical applications advocating further research and development. The challenge of extracting larger amounts of these molecules can be solved with genetic engineering and synthetic biology tools. With new species identified each year and ongoing studies on their extremotolerance, progress in the medical use of tardigrade proteins is expected shortly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadiia Kasianchuk
- Department of Animal Taxonomy and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland; Faculty of Pharmacy, Bogomolets Nationals Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine.
| | - Piotr Rzymski
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland; Integrated Science Association (ISA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Poznań, Poland
| | - Łukasz Kaczmarek
- Department of Animal Taxonomy and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
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Kumagai H, Kondo K, Kunieda T. Application of CRISPR/Cas9 system and the preferred no-indel end-joining repair in tardigrades. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 623:196-201. [PMID: 35926276 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.07.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Tardigrades are small aquatic animals known for the tolerant ability against various extreme stresses. Recent studies identified several tardigrade-unique proteins as protective factors of biomolecules from extreme stresses. Due to the limitation of the technique available in tardigrades, the function of these protective molecules has largely been studied utilizing the systems of in vitro and the heterologous expression in other organisms. Although RNAi is feasible in tardigrades, their effects are variable and not always sufficient. To analyze the functions of the tardigrade protective proteins, in vivo genetic manipulations have been desired. In this study, we used a tardigrade Hypsibius exemplaris as a model whose genome is available, and developed the delivery method of Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) to adult tardigrade cells. Cas9 RNPs containing two kinds of crRNAs were injected to the body cavity of adult tardigrades and subjected to the subsequent electroporation to facilitate the incorporation of RNPs to the cells. Using this delivery method, we detected the deletion of the intervening region between two crRNAs from the genome. Intriguingly, all examined joining sites exhibited no incorporation of insertions/deletions (indels), suggesting that no-indel end-joining is dominant repair system in this tardigrade. We also detected similar removal of the intervening region even in the tardigrades injected with Cas9 RNPs without electroporation and in this case the no-indel end-joining is detected in still dominant but not all examined joining sites. This study provides the development of the delivery method of Cas9 RNPs to tardigrade cells and our data also suggested that simultaneous application of more than two crRNAs/gRNAs are recommended to disrupt the target gene by CRISPR/Cas9 system to avoid scarless repair in the tardigrade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitomi Kumagai
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Koyuki Kondo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Takekazu Kunieda
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
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14
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Tanaka A, Nakano T, Watanabe K, Masuda K, Honda G, Kamata S, Yasui R, Kozuka-Hata H, Watanabe C, Chinen T, Kitagawa D, Sawai S, Oyama M, Yanagisawa M, Kunieda T. Stress-dependent cell stiffening by tardigrade tolerance proteins that reversibly form a filamentous network and gel. PLoS Biol 2022; 20:e3001780. [PMID: 36067153 PMCID: PMC9592077 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades are able to tolerate almost complete dehydration by entering a reversible ametabolic state called anhydrobiosis and resume their animation upon rehydration. Dehydrated tardigrades are exceptionally stable and withstand various physical extremes. Although trehalose and late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins have been extensively studied as potent protectants against dehydration in other anhydrobiotic organisms, tardigrades produce high amounts of tardigrade-unique protective proteins. Cytoplasmic-abundant heat-soluble (CAHS) proteins are uniquely invented in the lineage of eutardigrades, a major class of the phylum Tardigrada and are essential for their anhydrobiotic survival. However, the precise mechanisms of their action in this protective role are not fully understood. In the present study, we first postulated the presence of tolerance proteins that form protective condensates via phase separation in a stress-dependent manner and searched for tardigrade proteins that reversibly form condensates upon dehydration-like stress. Through a comprehensive search using a desolvating agent, trifluoroethanol (TFE), we identified 336 proteins, collectively dubbed "TFE-Dependent ReversiblY condensing Proteins (T-DRYPs)." Unexpectedly, we rediscovered CAHS proteins as highly enriched in T-DRYPs, 3 of which were major components of T-DRYPs. We revealed that these CAHS proteins reversibly polymerize into many cytoskeleton-like filaments depending on hyperosmotic stress in cultured cells and undergo reversible gel-transition in vitro. Furthermore, CAHS proteins increased cell stiffness in a hyperosmotic stress-dependent manner and counteract the cell shrinkage caused by osmotic pressure, and even improved the survival against hyperosmotic stress. The conserved putative helical C-terminal region is necessary and sufficient for filament formation by CAHS proteins, and mutations disrupting the secondary structure of this region impaired both the filament formation and the gel transition. On the basis of these results, we propose that CAHS proteins are novel cytoskeleton-like proteins that form filamentous networks and undergo gel-transition in a stress-dependent manner to provide on-demand physical stabilization of cell integrity against deformative forces during dehydration and could contribute to the exceptional physical stability in a dehydrated state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Tanaka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The
University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomomi Nakano
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The
University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kento Watanabe
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The
University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Masuda
- Komaba Institute for Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The
University of Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Basic Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The
University of Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Gen Honda
- Komaba Institute for Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The
University of Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Basic Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The
University of Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuichi Kamata
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The
University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Reitaro Yasui
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The
University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroko Kozuka-Hata
- Medical Proteomics Laboratory, The Institute of Medical Science, The
University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chiho Watanabe
- Komaba Institute for Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The
University of Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Basic Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The
University of Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takumi Chinen
- Department of Physiological Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daiju Kitagawa
- Department of Physiological Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Sawai
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The
University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Basic Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The
University of Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaaki Oyama
- Medical Proteomics Laboratory, The Institute of Medical Science, The
University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miho Yanagisawa
- Komaba Institute for Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The
University of Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Basic Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The
University of Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takekazu Kunieda
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The
University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail:
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15
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Klomchitcharoen S, Tangwattanasirikun T, Gallup S, Smerwong N, Arunwiriyakit P, Tachavises P, Tangkijngamwong J, Phatthanaanukun P, Jirapanyalerd B, Chattanupakorn S, Rungpongvanich V, Nangsue N, Meemon K, Wongtrakoonkate P, Hongeng S, Wongsawat Y. MINERVA: A CubeSat for demonstrating DNA damage mitigation against space radiation in C. elegans by using genetic modification. Heliyon 2022; 8:e10267. [PMID: 36033287 PMCID: PMC9404340 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The ideas of deep-space human exploration, interplanetary travel, and space civilizations are becoming a reality. However, numerous hindrances remain standing in the way of accomplishing these feats, one of which is space ionizing radiation. Space ionizing radiation has become the most hazardous health risk for long-term human space exploration, as it can induce chromosomal damage and epigenetic changes. The Minerva mission aims to demonstrate cutting-edge technology to inhibit DNA damage against deep-space radiation exposure by using genetic modification. The concept of the experiment is to transform a creature with radiation intolerance into a transgenic organism that is radiation-tolerant. In this mission, Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) will be genetically engineered with a protein-coding gene associated with DNA damage protection called damage suppressor (Dsup). Dsup is a nucleosome-binding protein from the tardigrade Ramazzottius varieornatus that has a unique ability to prevent DNA damage. This paper describes the feasibility of Minerva CubeSat, which will venture out to cis-lunar orbit with a biosensor payload capable of sustaining and culturing C. elegans under space environment conditions for 4 months. The mission will set in motion a paradigm shift corresponding to future space medicines and how they will be developed in the future, introducing a platform suitable for future experiments in the fields of space biology. Ultimately, the paramount objective of Minerva will be to test the limits of genetic engineering and incorporate it into the arduous journey of human perseverance to overcome the boundaries of space exploration—a vital step in making Mars colonization safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumeth Klomchitcharoen
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Tanchanok Tangwattanasirikun
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Sean Gallup
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Noparin Smerwong
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Peetimon Arunwiriyakit
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Pisitchai Tachavises
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Jin Tangkijngamwong
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Pichamon Phatthanaanukun
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Benjamard Jirapanyalerd
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Siripak Chattanupakorn
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Visarut Rungpongvanich
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Norawit Nangsue
- Institute of Field Robotics, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Krai Meemon
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Suradej Hongeng
- Section for Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yodchanan Wongsawat
- Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
- Corresponding author.
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16
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Cesari M, Giovannini I, Altiero T, Guidetti R, Cornette R, Kikawada T, Rebecchi L. Resistance to Extreme Stresses by a Newly Discovered Japanese Tardigrade Species, Macrobiotus kyoukenus (Eutardigrada, Macrobiotidae). INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13070634. [PMID: 35886811 PMCID: PMC9315711 DOI: 10.3390/insects13070634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Tardigrades are small micrometazoans able to resist several environmental stresses in any stage of their life cycle. The integrated molecular and morphological analysis of tardigrade specimens collected in Tsukuba (Japan) revealed that this population represents a new species, Macrobiotus kyoukenus sp. nov., belonging to the genus Macrobiotus, one of the most speciose and widespread water bear taxon. The stress resistance capabilities of M. kyoukenus sp. nov. have been tested by submitting animals to extreme desiccation, rapid freezing, and high levels of ultraviolet radiations (UVB and UVC). Animals were able to survive desiccation and freezing, and both hydrated and desiccated animals showed a high tolerance to increasing UV radiations. Overall, our findings contribute to the discovery of a larger tardigrade biodiversity in Japan, and the tolerance capabilities of M. kyoukenus sp. nov. show that this new species could become an emerging model for stress resistance studies. Abstract Tardigrades are small micrometazoans able to resist several environmental stresses in any stage of their life cycle. An integrated analysis of tardigrade specimens collected in Tsukuba (Japan) revealed a peculiar morphology and a new sensory field in the cloaca. Molecular taxonomy and phylogenetic analysis on different genes (COI, ITS2, 18S and 28S) confirmed that this population is a new species, Macrobiotus kyoukenus sp. nov., belonging to the widespread Macrobiotus hufelandi group. The stress resistance capabilities of M. kyoukenus sp. nov. have been tested by submitting animals to extreme desiccation, rapid freezing, and high levels of ultraviolet radiations (UVB and UVC). Animals were able to survive desiccation (survivorship 95.71 ± 7.07%) and freezing up to −80 °C (82.33 ± 17.11%). Both hydrated and desiccated animals showed a high tolerance to increasing UV radiations: hydrated animals survived to doses up to 152.22 kJ m−2 (UVB) and up to 15.00 kJ m−2 (UVC), while desiccated specimens persisted to radiations up to 165.12 kJ m−2 (UVB) and up to 35.00 kJ m−2 (UVC). Present data contribute to the discovery of a larger tardigrade biodiversity in Japan, and the tolerance capabilities of M. kyoukenus sp. nov. show that it could become a new emerging model for stress resistance studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Cesari
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 213/d, 41125 Modena, Italy; (M.C.); (R.G.); (L.R.)
| | - Ilaria Giovannini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 213/d, 41125 Modena, Italy; (M.C.); (R.G.); (L.R.)
- Department of Education and Humanities, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Viale Timavo, 93, 42121 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Tiziana Altiero
- Department of Education and Humanities, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Viale Timavo, 93, 42121 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
| | - Roberto Guidetti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 213/d, 41125 Modena, Italy; (M.C.); (R.G.); (L.R.)
| | - Richard Cornette
- Division of Biomaterial Sciences, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, NARO, 1-2 Owashi, Tsukuba 305-0851, Ibaraki, Japan; (R.C.); (T.K.)
| | - Takahiro Kikawada
- Division of Biomaterial Sciences, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, NARO, 1-2 Owashi, Tsukuba 305-0851, Ibaraki, Japan; (R.C.); (T.K.)
| | - Lorena Rebecchi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 213/d, 41125 Modena, Italy; (M.C.); (R.G.); (L.R.)
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17
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Yoshida Y, Tanaka S. Deciphering the Biological Enigma-Genomic Evolution Underlying Anhydrobiosis in the Phylum Tardigrada and the Chironomid Polypedilum vanderplanki. INSECTS 2022; 13:557. [PMID: 35735894 PMCID: PMC9224920 DOI: 10.3390/insects13060557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Anhydrobiosis, an ametabolic dehydrated state triggered by water loss, is observed in several invertebrate lineages. Anhydrobiotes revive when rehydrated, and seem not to suffer the ultimately lethal cell damage that results from severe loss of water in other organisms. Here, we review the biochemical and genomic evidence that has revealed the protectant molecules, repair systems, and maintenance pathways associated with anhydrobiosis. We then introduce two lineages in which anhydrobiosis has evolved independently: Tardigrada, where anhydrobiosis characterizes many species within the phylum, and the genus Polypedilum, where anhydrobiosis occurs in only two species. Finally, we discuss the complexity of the evolution of anhydrobiosis within invertebrates based on current knowledge, and propose perspectives to enhance the understanding of anhydrobiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Yoshida
- Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8902, Japan
| | - Sae Tanaka
- Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems (ExCELLS), National Institutes of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, 341-1 Mizukami, Tsuruoka 997-0052, Japan
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18
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Yoshida Y, Satoh T, Ota C, Tanaka S, Horikawa DD, Tomita M, Kato K, Arakawa K. Time-series transcriptomic screening of factors contributing to the cross-tolerance to UV radiation and anhydrobiosis in tardigrades. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:405. [PMID: 35643424 PMCID: PMC9145152 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08642-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tardigrades are microscopic animals that are capable of tolerating extreme environments by entering a desiccated state of suspended animation known as anhydrobiosis. While antioxidative stress proteins, antiapoptotic pathways and tardigrade-specific intrinsically disordered proteins have been implicated in the anhydrobiotic machinery, conservation of these mechanisms is not universal within the phylum Tardigrada, suggesting the existence of overlooked components. RESULTS Here, we show that a novel Mn-dependent peroxidase is an important factor in tardigrade anhydrobiosis. Through time-series transcriptome analysis of Ramazzottius varieornatus specimens exposed to ultraviolet light and comparison with anhydrobiosis entry, we first identified several novel gene families without similarity to existing sequences that are induced rapidly after stress exposure. Among these, a single gene family with multiple orthologs that is highly conserved within the phylum Tardigrada and enhances oxidative stress tolerance when expressed in human cells was identified. Crystallographic study of this protein suggested Zn or Mn binding at the active site, and we further confirmed that this protein has Mn-dependent peroxidase activity in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrated novel mechanisms for coping with oxidative stress that may be a fundamental mechanism of anhydrobiosis in tardigrades. Furthermore, localization of these sets of proteins mainly in the Golgi apparatus suggests an indispensable role of the Golgi stress response in desiccation tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Yoshida
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Nihonkoku, 403-1, Daihouji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-0017, Japan
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, 5322 Endo, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0882, Japan
| | - Tadashi Satoh
- Faculty and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho, Nagoya, 467-8603, Japan
| | - Chise Ota
- Faculty and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho, Nagoya, 467-8603, Japan
| | - Sae Tanaka
- Exploratory Research Center On Life and Living Systems (ExCELLS), National Institute of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki, Aichi, 444-8787, Japan
| | - Daiki D Horikawa
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Nihonkoku, 403-1, Daihouji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-0017, Japan
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, 5322 Endo, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0882, Japan
| | - Masaru Tomita
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Nihonkoku, 403-1, Daihouji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-0017, Japan
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, 5322 Endo, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0882, Japan
| | - Koichi Kato
- Faculty and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho, Nagoya, 467-8603, Japan
- Exploratory Research Center On Life and Living Systems (ExCELLS), National Institute of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki, Aichi, 444-8787, Japan
| | - Kazuharu Arakawa
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Nihonkoku, 403-1, Daihouji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-0017, Japan.
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, 5322 Endo, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0882, Japan.
- Exploratory Research Center On Life and Living Systems (ExCELLS), National Institute of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki, Aichi, 444-8787, Japan.
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19
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Abstract
Experimentally tractable organisms like C. elegans, Drosophila, zebrafish, and mouse are popular models for addressing diverse questions in biology. In 1997, two of the most valuable invertebrate model organisms to date-C. elegans and Drosophila-were found to be much more closely related to each other than expected. C. elegans and Drosophila belong to the nematodes and arthropods, respectively, and these two phyla and six other phyla make up a clade of molting animals referred to as the Ecdysozoa. The other ecdysozoan phyla could be valuable models for comparative biology, taking advantage of the rich and continual sources of research findings as well as tools from both C. elegans and Drosophila. But when the Ecdysozoa was first recognized, few tools were available for laboratory studies in any of these six other ecdysozoan phyla. In 1999 I began an effort to develop tools for studying one such phylum, the tardigrades. Here, I describe how the tardigrade species Hypsibius exemplaris and tardigrades more generally have emerged over the past two decades as valuable new models for answering diverse questions. To date, these questions have included how animal body plans evolve and how biological materials can survive some remarkably extreme conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bob Goldstein
- Department of Biology and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States.
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20
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Abstract
Tardigrades are ubiquitous meiofauna that are especially renowned for their exceptional extremotolerance to various adverse environments, including pressure, temperature, and even ionizing radiation. This is achieved through a reversible halt of metabolism triggered by desiccation, a phenomenon called anhydrobiosis. Recent establishment of genome resources for two tardigrades, Hypsibius exemplaris and Ramazzottius varieornatus, accelerated research to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind anhydrobiosis, leading to the discovery of many tardigrade-unique proteins. This review focuses on the history, methods, discoveries, and current state and challenges regarding tardigrade genomics, with an emphasis on molecular anhydrobiology. Remaining questions and future perspectives regarding prospective approaches to fully elucidate the molecular machinery of this complex phenomenon are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuharu Arakawa
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Daishouji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, Japan; .,Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, Keio University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan.,Graduate School of Media and Governance, Systems Biology Program, Keio University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan.,Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems (ExCELLS), National Institute of Natural Sciences, Myodaiji, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
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21
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Giovannini I, Boothby TC, Cesari M, Goldstein B, Guidetti R, Rebecchi L. Production of reactive oxygen species and involvement of bioprotectants during anhydrobiosis in the tardigrade Paramacrobiotus spatialis. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1938. [PMID: 35121798 PMCID: PMC8816950 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05734-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Water unavailability is an abiotic stress causing unfavourable conditions for life. Nevertheless, some animals evolved anhydrobiosis, a strategy allowing for the reversible organism dehydration and suspension of metabolism as a direct response to habitat desiccation. Anhydrobiotic animals undergo biochemical changes synthesizing bioprotectants to help combat desiccation stresses. One stress is the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this study, the eutardigrade Paramacrobiotus spatialis was used to investigate the occurrence of ROS associated with the desiccation process. We observed that the production of ROS significantly increases as a function of time spent in anhydrobiosis and represents a direct demonstration of oxidative stress in tardigrades. The degree of involvement of bioprotectants, including those combating ROS, in the P. spatialis was evaluated by perturbing their gene functions using RNA interference and assessing the successful recovery of animals after desiccation/rehydration. Targeting the glutathione peroxidase gene compromised survival during drying and rehydration, providing evidence for the role of the gene in desiccation tolerance. Targeting genes encoding glutathione reductase and catalase indicated that these molecules play roles during rehydration. Our study also confirms the involvement of aquaporins 3 and 10 during rehydration. Therefore, desiccation tolerance depends on the synergistic action of many different molecules working together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Giovannini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 213/D, 41125, Modena, Italy.
| | - Thomas C Boothby
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA.,Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Michele Cesari
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 213/D, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Bob Goldstein
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Roberto Guidetti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 213/D, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Lorena Rebecchi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 213/D, 41125, Modena, Italy
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22
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Ramsay BP, Marley NJ, Bilton DT, Rundle SD, Ramsay PM. The structure of tardigrade communities at fine spatial scales in an Andean Polylepis forest. NEOTROPICAL BIODIVERSITY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/23766808.2021.1943216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Balbina P.L. Ramsay
- Departamento de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad de las Américas Puebla, Puebla, México
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Nigel J. Marley
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - David T. Bilton
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Simon D. Rundle
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Paul M. Ramsay
- Departamento de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad de las Américas Puebla, Puebla, México
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
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The Tardigrade Damage Suppressor Protein Modulates Transcription Factor and DNA Repair Genes in Human Cells Treated with Hydroxyl Radicals and UV-C. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10100970. [PMID: 34681069 PMCID: PMC8533384 DOI: 10.3390/biology10100970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The Ramazzottius varieornatus is known to be the most resilient invertebrate on Earth. Belonging to the phylum of Tardigrada, it can live in any habitat, from the deep sea to various terrestrial environments, surviving in extreme temperatures, severe dryness or air deprivation. This exceptional tolerance to extreme conditions is attributable to the Dsup protein, which is able to bind and “protect” the DNA of this micro-animal, allowing it to survive where most other forms of life would quickly die. By introducing Dsup in human cell cultures, we investigated how this protein operates in response to two different extreme conditions: oxidative stress and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. We learned that Dsup increases cell survival by triggering significantly different cellular mechanisms. In cells treated with hydrogen peroxide, Dsup “physically” protects DNA and activates several detoxification pathways aimed to remove intracellular free radicals. In contrast to this, a direct protection of DNA is not exerted by Dsup after UV irradiation, but the protein seems to activate mechanisms of DNA damage repair more efficiently, promoting faster cell recovery and survival. Even though further studies are required, understanding the mechanisms associated with Dsup resistance to cell damage may represent an important benefit for humans and plants. Abstract The Ramazzottius varieornatus tardigrade is an extremotolerant terrestrial invertebrate with a length of 0.1–1.0 mm. These small animals show an extraordinary tolerance to extreme conditions such as high pressure, irradiation, chemicals and dehydration. These abilities are linked to a recently discovered damage suppressor protein (Dsup). Dsup is a nucleosome-binding protein that avoids DNA damage after X-ray and oxidative stress exposure without impairing cell life in Dsup-transfected animal and plant cells. The exact “protective” role of this protein is still under study. In human cells, we confirmed that Dsup confers resistance to UV-C and H2O2 exposure compared to untransfected cells. A different transcription factor activation was also observed. In addition, a different expression of endogenous genes involved in apoptosis, cell survival and DNA repair was found in Dsup+ cells after H2O2 and UV-C. In UV-C exposed cells, Dsup efficiently upregulates DNA damage repair genes, while H2O2 treatment only marginally involves the activation of pathways responsible for DNA repair in Dsup+ cells. These data are in agreement with the idea of a direct protective effect of the protein on DNA after oxidative stress. In conclusion, our data may help to outline the different mechanisms by which the Dsup protein works in response to different insults.
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Gu S, Liu J, Xiong L, Dong J, Sun E, Hu H, Yang M, Nie L. Morphological mechanism allowing a parasitic leech, Ozobranchus jantseanus (Rhynchobdellida: Ozobranchidae), to survive in ultra-low temperatures. Biol Open 2021; 10:269137. [PMID: 34125176 PMCID: PMC8278134 DOI: 10.1242/bio.058524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Ozobranchus jantseanus is the largest metazoan known to survive in liquid nitrogen without pretreatment to date; however, the mechanism underlying this tolerance remains unclear. In this study, the first analyses of histological and morphological changes in normal, frozen, and dehydrated states were performed. Adults survived after direct placement in liquid nitrogen for 96 h, with a survival rate of approximately 86.7%. The leech could withstand rapid desiccation and its survival rate after rehydration was 100% when its water loss was below about 84.8%. After freezing, desiccation, and ethanol dehydration, the leech immediately formed a hemispherical shape. Particularly during drying, an obvious transparent glass-like substance was observed on surface. Scanning electron microscopy revealed many pores on the surface of the posterior sucker, creating a sponge-like structure, which may help to rapidly expel water, and a hemispherical shape may protect the internal organs by contraction and folding reconstruction in the anterior–posterior direction. A substantial amount of mucopolysaccharides on the surface and acid cells and collagen fibers in the body, all of which contained substantial polysaccharides, may play a key protective role during freezing. Our results indicate that the resistance of leeches to ultra-low temperatures can be explained by cryoprotective dehydration/vitrification strategies. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper. Summary: The freeze tolerance mechanism of Ozobranchus jantseanus, the largest metazoan animal requiring no pretreatment that can survive in ultra-low temperature, was first studied from the perspective of morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengli Gu
- The Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Life Science College, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China.,Department of Parasitology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- The Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Life Science College, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China
| | - Lei Xiong
- The Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Life Science College, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China.,Department of Parasitology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, China
| | - Jinxiu Dong
- The Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Life Science College, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China
| | - Entao Sun
- The Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Life Science College, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China.,Department of Parasitology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, China
| | - Haoran Hu
- Department of Parasitology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, China
| | - Mengli Yang
- The Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Life Science College, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China
| | - Liuwang Nie
- The Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Life Science College, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui 241000, China
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25
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Stec D, Vecchi M, Dudziak M, Bartels PJ, Calhim S, Michalczyk Ł. Integrative taxonomy resolves species identities within the Macrobiotus pallarii complex (Eutardigrada: Macrobiotidae). ZOOLOGICAL LETTERS 2021; 7:9. [PMID: 34044886 PMCID: PMC8162020 DOI: 10.1186/s40851-021-00176-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The taxonomy of many groups of meiofauna is challenging due to their low number of diagnostic morphological characters and their small body size. Therefore, with the advent of molecular techniques that provide a new source of traits, many cryptic species have started to be discovered. Tardigrades are not an exception, and many once thought to be cosmopolitan taxa are being found to be complexes of phenotypically similar species. Macrobiotus pallarii Maucci, 1954 was originally described in South Italy and has been subsequently recorded in Europe, America, and Asia. This allegedly wide geographic range suggests that multiple species may be hidden under this name. Moreover, recently, genetic evidence to support this was put forward, and the Macrobiotus pallarii complex has been proposed to accommodate putative species related to M. pallarii. Here, we describe three new pseudocryptic species based on populations that would have been all classified as Macrobiotus pallarii if molecular methods were not employed. Using an integrative taxonomy approach, we analyzed animals and eggs from the topotypic population of Macrobiotus pallarii, together with four other populations of the complex. We recovered four distinct phylogenetic lineages that, despite the overlap of morphometric traits, can be separated phenotypically by subtle but discrete morphological characters. One lineage corresponds to Macrobiotus pallarii, whereas the other three are newly described as Macrobiotus margoae Stec, Vecchi & Bartels, sp. nov. from the USA, Macrobiotus ripperi Stec, Vecchi & Michalczyk, sp. nov. from Poland and Finland, and Macrobiotus pseudopallarii Stec, Vecchi & Michalczyk, sp. nov. from Montenegro. To facilitate species identification, we provide a dichotomous key for species of the M. pallarii complex. Delimitation of these pseudocryptic taxa highlights the need for an integrative approach to uncover the phylum's diversity in full.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Stec
- Department of Invertebrate Evolution, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Matteo Vecchi
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, University of Jyväskylä, PO Box 35, FI-40014, Jyväskylä, Finland.
| | - Magdalena Dudziak
- Department of Invertebrate Evolution, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Paul J Bartels
- Department of Biology, Warren Wilson College, Asheville, NC, 28815, USA
| | - Sara Calhim
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, University of Jyväskylä, PO Box 35, FI-40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Łukasz Michalczyk
- Department of Invertebrate Evolution, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
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RNA sequencing data for gamma radiation response in the extremotolerant tardigrade Ramazzottius varieornatus. Data Brief 2021; 36:107111. [PMID: 34095369 PMCID: PMC8166744 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2021.107111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades are microscopic animals of which terrestrial species are capable of tolerating extreme environments by entering a desiccated ametabolic state known as anhydrobiosis. Intriguingly, they survive high dosage gamma rays (>4,000 Gy), possibly through a mechanism known as cross-tolerance. We hypothesized that anhydrobiosis genes are also regulated during cross-tolerance, thus we submitted Ramazzottius varieornatus to 500 Gy 60Co gamma-ray and conducted time-course low-input RNA-Seq. The gene expression was quantified with RSEM and differential expression was determined with DEseq2. Differentially expressed genes were submitted to gene ontology enrichment analysis with GOStat. The transcriptome dynamically shifted nine hours post-exposure.
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27
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Roszkowska M, Wojciechowska D, Kmita H, Cerbin S, Dziuba MK, Fiałkowska E, Sobkowiak R, Szydło W, Kaczmarek Ł. Tips and tricks how to culture water bears: simple protocols for culturing eutardigrades (Tardigrada) under laboratory conditions. THE EUROPEAN ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/24750263.2021.1881631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M. Roszkowska
- Department of Animal Taxonomy and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Bioenergetics, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - D. Wojciechowska
- Department of Bioenergetics, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - H. Kmita
- Department of Bioenergetics, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - S. Cerbin
- Department of Hydrobiology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - M. K. Dziuba
- Department of Hydrobiology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - E. Fiałkowska
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - R. Sobkowiak
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - W. Szydło
- Center for Advanced Technology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
- Population Ecology Lab, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - Ł. Kaczmarek
- Department of Animal Taxonomy and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
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28
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Snow algae blooms are beneficial for microinvertebrates assemblages (Tardigrada and Rotifera) on seasonal snow patches in Japan. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5973. [PMID: 33727649 PMCID: PMC7971028 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85462-5] [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: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Although studies on snow algae and macroinvertebrates have been frequently conducted on snow patches, only few surveys have been focused on microinvertebrates which reach high biomass and play various trophic roles in other cold habitats. The aims of this study were (1) to search for microinvertebrates in seasonal surface snow patches located on the slope of Mt. Gassan, in northern Japan, and (2) to identify factors determining their distribution associated with snow algal blooms of various colorations (orange, green, and golden-brown) collected from the same sampling site over two seasons (2018, 2019). Microscopic observation revealed presence of two major groups of microinvertebrates: Tardigrada and Rotifera. They were concentrated in green snow colored by blooms of Chloromonas sp. in comparison to orange or golden-brown snow and only a few were found in white snow. Mean body length of tardigrades increased throughout the melt season, their intestine content was green and they laid eggs on colored snow. These results suggest that tardigrades preferentially grew and reproduced on green snow patches. Population densities of tardigrades, rotifers and concentration of chlorophyll a were significantly correlated. Our study indicates that green snow patches in temperate mountainous forests constitute important and unique low-temperature ecosystems for microinvertebrates. Snow covered by algae is an unrecognized novel habitats for tardigrades and rotifers.
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Kobayashi K, Kim J, Fukuda Y, Kozawa T, Inoue T. Fields, biochemistry fast autooxidation of a Bis-Histidyl-ligated globin from the anhydrobiotic tardigrade, ramazzottius varieornatus, by molecular oxygen. J Biochem 2021; 169:663-673. [PMID: 33479760 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvab003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades, a phylum of meiofaunal organisms, exhibit extraordinary tolerance to various environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures (-272 to 151 °C) and exposure to ionizing radiation. Proteins from anhydrobiotic tardigrades with homology to known proteins from other organisms are new potential targets for structural genomics. Recently, we reported spectroscopic and structural characterization of a hexacoordinated hemoglobin (Kumaglobin [Kgb]) found in an anhydrobiotic tardigrade. In the absence of its exogenous ligand, Kgb displays hexacoordination with distal and proximal histidines. In this work, we analyzed binding of the molecular oxygen ligand following reduction of heme in Kgb using a pulse radiolysis technique. Radiolytically generated hydrated electrons (eaq-) reduced the heme iron of Kgb within 20 µs. Subsequently, ferrous heme reacted with O2 to form a ferrous-dioxygen intermediate with a second-order rate constant of 3.0 × 106 M-1 s-1. The intermediate was rapidly (within 0.1 s) autooxidized to the ferric form. Redox potential measurements revealed an E'0 of -400 mV (vs. SHE) in the ferric/ferrous couple. Our results suggest that Kgb may serve as a physiological generator of O2·- via redox signaling and/or electron transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuo Kobayashi
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Mihogaoka 8-1, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047, Japan
| | - JeeEun Kim
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Yohta Fukuda
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Takahiro Kozawa
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Mihogaoka 8-1, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
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Fukuda Y, Inoue T. Structural insights into a C2 domain protein specifically found in tardigrades. Protein Sci 2020; 30:513-518. [PMID: 33226149 PMCID: PMC7784755 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Some tardigrades can survive extremely desiccated conditions through transition into a state called anhydrobiosis. Anhydrobiotic tardigrades have proteins unique to them and they are thought to be keys to the understanding of unusual desiccation resistance. In fact, previous transcriptome data show that several tardigrade‐specific proteins are significantly upregulated under desiccated conditions. However, their physiological roles and chemical properties have been ambiguous because they show low or no similarity of amino acid sequences to proteins found in other organisms. Here, we report a crystal structure of one of such proteins. This protein shows a β‐sandwich structure composed of 8 β‐strands, three Ca2+‐binding sites, and hydrophobic residues on Ca2+‐binding (CBD) loops, which resemble characteristics of C2 domain proteins. We therefore conveniently describe this protein as tardigrade C2 domain protein (TC2P). Because the C2 domain functions as a Ca2+‐mediated membrane docking module, which is related to signal transduction or membrane trafficking, TC2Ps may play a role in Ca2+‐triggered phenomenon under desiccated situations. Our finding provides not only structural insights into a newly discovered desiccation‐related protein family but also insights into the evolution and diversity of C2 domain proteins. PDB Code(s): 7DF2;
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohta Fukuda
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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31
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Kirke J, Jin XL, Zhang XH. Expression of a Tardigrade Dsup Gene Enhances Genome Protection in Plants. Mol Biotechnol 2020; 62:563-571. [PMID: 32955680 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-020-00273-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
DNA damage is one of the most impactful events in living organisms, leading to DNA sequence changes (mutation) and disruption of biological processes. A study has identified a protein called Damage Suppressor Protein (Dsup) in the tardigrade Ramazzotius varieornatus that has shown to reduce the effects of radiation damage in human cell cultures (Hashimoto in Nature Communications 7:12808, 2016). We have generated tobacco plants that express the codon-optimized tardigrade Dsup gene and examined their responses when treated with mutagenic chemicals, ultraviolet (UV) and ionizing radiations. Our studies showed that compared to the control plants, the Dsup-expressing plants grew better in the medium containing mutagenic ethylmethane sulfonate (EMS). RT-qPCR detected distinct expression patterns of endogenous genes involved in DNA damage response and repair in the Dsup plants in response to EMS, bleomycin, UV-C and X-ray radiations. Comet assays revealed that the nuclei from the Dsup plants appeared more protected from UV and X-ray damages than the control plants. Overall, our studies demonstrated that Dsup gene expression enhanced tolerance of plants to genomutagenic stress. We suggest the feasibility of exploring genetic resources from extremotolerant species such as tardigrades to impart plants with tolerance to stressful environments for future climate changes and human space endeavors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Kirke
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA
| | - Xiao-Lu Jin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA
| | - Xing-Hai Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA.
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32
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Palazzese L, Anzalone DA, Turri F, Faieta M, Donnadio A, Pizzi F, Pittia P, Matsukawa K, Loi P. Whole genome integrity and enhanced developmental potential in ram freeze-dried spermatozoa at mild sub-zero temperature. Sci Rep 2020; 10:18873. [PMID: 33139842 PMCID: PMC7606492 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76061-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Freeze-dried spermatozoa typically shows a reduction in fertility primarily due to the DNA damage resulting from the sublimation process. In order to minimize the physical/mechanical damage resulting from lyophilization, here we focused on the freezing phase, comparing two cooling protocols: (i) rapid-freezing, where ram sperm sample is directly plunged into liquid nitrogen (LN-group), as currently done; (ii) slow-freezing, where the sample is progressively cooled to − 50 °C (SF-group). The spermatozoa dried in both conditions were analysed to assess residual water content by Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) and DNA integrity using Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay (SCSA). TGA revealed more than 90% of water subtraction in both groups. A minor DNA damage, Double-Strand Break (DSB) in particular, characterized by a lower degree of abnormal chromatin structure (Alpha-T), was detected in the SF-group, comparing to the LN-one. In accordance with the structural and DNA integrity data, spermatozoa from SF-group had the best embryonic development rates, comparing to LN-group: cleaved embryos [42/100 (42%) versus 19/75 (25.3%), P < 0.05, SL and LN respectively] and blastocyst formation [7/100 (7%) versus 2/75 (2.7%), P < 0.05, SF and LN respectively]. This data represents a significant technological advancement for the development of lyophilization as a valuable and cheaper alternative to deep-freezing in LN for ram semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Palazzese
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Street R. Balzarini 1, Campus Coste Sant'Agostino, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Debora Agata Anzalone
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Street R. Balzarini 1, Campus Coste Sant'Agostino, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Federica Turri
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology (IBBA), National Research Council (CNR), 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Marco Faieta
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Anna Donnadio
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06123, Perugia, Italy
| | - Flavia Pizzi
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology (IBBA), National Research Council (CNR), 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Paola Pittia
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Kazutsugu Matsukawa
- Faculty of Agriculture and Marine Science, Kochi University, Kochi, 783-8502, Japan
| | - Pasqualino Loi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Street R. Balzarini 1, Campus Coste Sant'Agostino, 64100, Teramo, Italy.
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Mínguez-Toral M, Cuevas-Zuviría B, Garrido-Arandia M, Pacios LF. A computational structural study on the DNA-protecting role of the tardigrade-unique Dsup protein. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13424. [PMID: 32770133 PMCID: PMC7414916 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70431-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The remarkable ability of tardigrades to withstand a wide range of physical and chemical extremes has attracted a considerable interest in these small invertebrates, with a particular focus on the protective roles of proteins expressed during such conditions. The discovery that a tardigrade-unique protein named Dsup (damage suppressor) protects DNA from damage produced by radiation and radicals, has raised expectations concerning its potential applications in biotechnology and medicine. We present in this paper what might be dubbed a “computational experiment” on the Dsup-DNA system. By means of molecular modelling, calculations of electrostatic potentials and electric fields, and all-atom molecular dynamics simulations, we obtained a dynamic picture of the Dsup-DNA interaction. Our results suggest that the protein is intrinsically disordered, which enables Dsup to adjust its structure to fit DNA shape. Strong electrostatic attractions and high protein flexibility drive the formation of a molecular aggregate in which Dsup shields DNA. While the precise mechanism of DNA protection conferred by Dsup remains to be elucidated, our study provides some molecular clues of their association that could be of interest for further investigation in this line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Mínguez-Toral
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas (CBGP, UPM-INIA), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)-Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus de Montegancedo-UPM, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223, Madrid, Spain
| | - Bruno Cuevas-Zuviría
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas (CBGP, UPM-INIA), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)-Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus de Montegancedo-UPM, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Garrido-Arandia
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas (CBGP, UPM-INIA), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)-Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus de Montegancedo-UPM, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis F Pacios
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas (CBGP, UPM-INIA), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)-Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus de Montegancedo-UPM, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223, Madrid, Spain. .,Departamento de Biotecnología-Biología Vegetal, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Alimentaria y de Biosistemas (ETSIAAB), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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34
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Fukuda Y, Kim J, Inoue T. Structure of cytochrome b 5 unique to tardigrades. Protein Sci 2020; 29:1829-1835. [PMID: 32483879 PMCID: PMC7380671 DOI: 10.1002/pro.3896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cytochrome b5 is an essential electron transfer protein, which is ubiquitously found in living systems and involved in wide variety of biological processes. Tardigrades (also known as water bears), some of which are famous for desiccation resistance, have many proteins unique to them. Here, we report spectroscopic and structural characterization of a cytochrome b5 like protein from one of the desiccation‐tolerant tardigrades, Ramazzottius varieornatus strain YOKOZUNA‐1 (RvCytb5). A 1.4 Å resolution crystal structure revealed that RvCytb5 is a new cytochrome b5 protein specific to tardigrades. PDB Code(s): 7BWH;
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohta Fukuda
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - JeeEun Kim
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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Furukawa S, Nagamatsu A, Nenoi M, Fujimori A, Kakinuma S, Katsube T, Wang B, Tsuruoka C, Shirai T, Nakamura AJ, Sakaue-Sawano A, Miyawaki A, Harada H, Kobayashi M, Kobayashi J, Kunieda T, Funayama T, Suzuki M, Miyamoto T, Hidema J, Yoshida Y, Takahashi A. Space Radiation Biology for "Living in Space". BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:4703286. [PMID: 32337251 PMCID: PMC7168699 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4703286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Space travel has advanced significantly over the last six decades with astronauts spending up to 6 months at the International Space Station. Nonetheless, the living environment while in outer space is extremely challenging to astronauts. In particular, exposure to space radiation represents a serious potential long-term threat to the health of astronauts because the amount of radiation exposure accumulates during their time in space. Therefore, health risks associated with exposure to space radiation are an important topic in space travel, and characterizing space radiation in detail is essential for improving the safety of space missions. In the first part of this review, we provide an overview of the space radiation environment and briefly present current and future endeavors that monitor different space radiation environments. We then present research evaluating adverse biological effects caused by exposure to various space radiation environments and how these can be reduced. We especially consider the deleterious effects on cellular DNA and how cells activate DNA repair mechanisms. The latest technologies being developed, e.g., a fluorescent ubiquitination-based cell cycle indicator, to measure real-time cell cycle progression and DNA damage caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation are presented. Progress in examining the combined effects of microgravity and radiation to animals and plants are summarized, and our current understanding of the relationship between psychological stress and radiation is presented. Finally, we provide details about protective agents and the study of organisms that are highly resistant to radiation and how their biological mechanisms may aid developing novel technologies that alleviate biological damage caused by radiation. Future research that furthers our understanding of the effects of space radiation on human health will facilitate risk-mitigating strategies to enable long-term space and planetary exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Furukawa
- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, 2-1-1 Sengen, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8505, Japan
| | - Aiko Nagamatsu
- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, 2-1-1 Sengen, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8505, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Nenoi
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Akira Fujimori
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Shizuko Kakinuma
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Takanori Katsube
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Bing Wang
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Chizuru Tsuruoka
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Shirai
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Asako J. Nakamura
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Ibaraki University, 2-1-1, Bunkyo, Mito, Ibaraki 310-8512, Japan
| | - Asako Sakaue-Sawano
- Lab for Cell Function and Dynamics, CBS, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Atsushi Miyawaki
- Lab for Cell Function and Dynamics, CBS, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Harada
- Radiation Biology Center, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Minoru Kobayashi
- Radiation Biology Center, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Junya Kobayashi
- Radiation Biology Center, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Takekazu Kunieda
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Tomoo Funayama
- Takasaki Advanced Radiation Research Institute, QST, 1233 Watanuki-machi, Takasaki, Gunma 370-1292, Japan
| | - Michiyo Suzuki
- Takasaki Advanced Radiation Research Institute, QST, 1233 Watanuki-machi, Takasaki, Gunma 370-1292, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Miyamoto
- Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine, Hiroshima University, Kasumi 1-2-3, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
| | - Jun Hidema
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8577, Japan
- Division for the Establishment of Frontier Sciences of the Organization for Advanced Studies, Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8577, Japan
| | - Yukari Yoshida
- Gunma University Heavy Ion Medical Center, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan
| | - Akihisa Takahashi
- Gunma University Heavy Ion Medical Center, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan
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Yoshida Y, Sugiura K, Tomita M, Matsumoto M, Arakawa K. Comparison of the transcriptomes of two tardigrades with different hatching coordination. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2019; 19:24. [PMID: 31864287 PMCID: PMC6925440 DOI: 10.1186/s12861-019-0205-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tardigrades are microscopic organisms, famous for their tolerance against extreme environments. The establishment of rearing systems of multiple species has allowed for comparison of tardigrade physiology, in particular in embryogenesis. Interestingly, in-lab cultures of limnic species showed smaller variation in hatching timing than terrestrial species, suggesting a hatching regulation mechanism acquired by adaptation to their habitat. RESULTS To this end, we screened for coordinated gene expression during the development of two species of tardigrades, Hypsibius exemplaris and Ramazzottius varieornatus, and observed induction of the arthropod molting pathway. Exposure of ecdysteroids and juvenile hormone analog affected egg hatching but not embryonic development in only the limnic H. exemplaris. CONCLUSION These observations suggest a hatching regulation mechanism by the molting pathway in H. exemplaris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Yoshida
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Mizukami 246-2, Kakuganji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-0052, Japan
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kenta Sugiura
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, Fujisawa, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Masaru Tomita
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Mizukami 246-2, Kakuganji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-0052, Japan
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Midori Matsumoto
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, Fujisawa, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuharu Arakawa
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Mizukami 246-2, Kakuganji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-0052, Japan.
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan.
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Kondo K, Mori M, Tomita M, Arakawa K. AMPK activity is required for the induction of anhydrobiosis in a tardigrade Hypsibius exemplaris, and its potential up-regulator is PP2A. Genes Cells 2019; 24:768-780. [PMID: 31608545 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 09/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The anhydrobiotic tardigrade, Hypsibius exemplaris, was previously considered to require de novo gene expression and protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) and protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) activity for successful anhydrobiosis. These indicate that H. exemplaris has signal transduction systems responding to desiccation stress, with the involvement of phosphorylation events. To this end, we carried out time-series phosphoproteomics of H. exemplaris exposed to mild desiccation stress and detected 48 phosphoproteins with significant differential regulations. Among them, immediate and successive reduction of phosphorylation levels of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) was observed. The subsequent chemical genetic approach showed that AMPK was activated during the preconditioning stage for anhydrobiosis, and inhibition of its activity impaired successful anhydrobiosis. As PP2A is known to dephosphorylate AMPK in other organisms, we suggested that decreased phosphorylation levels of AMPK upon mild desiccation stress were caused by dephosphorylation by PP2A. Accordingly, phosphoproteomics of animals pre-treated with the PP1/PP2A inhibitor cantharidic acid (CA) lacked the decrease in phosphorylation levels of AMPK. These observations suggest that AMPK activity is required for successful anhydrobiosis in H. exemplaris, and its phosphorylation state is possibly regulated by PP2A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koyuki Kondo
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Tsuruoka, Japan
| | - Masaru Mori
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Tsuruoka, Japan.,Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Masaru Tomita
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Tsuruoka, Japan.,Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Kazuharu Arakawa
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Tsuruoka, Japan.,Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Fujisawa, Japan
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Afzal M, Park J, Destgeer G, Ahmed H, Iqrar SA, Kim S, Kang S, Alazzam A, Yoon TS, Sung HJ. Acoustomicrofluidic separation of tardigrades from raw cultures for sample preparation. Zool J Linn Soc 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlz079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Tardigrades are microscopic animals widely known for their ability to survive in extreme conditions. They are the focus of current research in the fields of taxonomy, biogeography, genomics, proteomics, development, space biology, evolution and ecology. Tardigrades, such as Hypsibius exemplaris, are being advocated as a next-generation model organism for genomic and developmental studies. The raw culture of H. exemplaris usually contains tardigrades themselves, their eggs, faeces and algal food. Experimentation with tardigrades often requires the demanding and laborious separation of tardigrades from raw samples to prepare pure and contamination-free tardigrade samples. In this paper, we propose a two-step acoustomicrofluidic separation method to isolate tardigrades from raw samples. In the first step, a passive microfluidic filter composed of an array of traps is used to remove large algal clusters in the raw sample. In the second step, a surface acoustic wave-based active microfluidic separation device is used to deflect tardigrades continuously from their original streamlines inside the microchannel and thus isolate them selectively from algae and eggs. The experimental results demonstrated the efficient separation of tardigrades, with a recovery rate of 96% and an impurity of 4% algae on average in a continuous, contactless, automated, rapid and biocompatible manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Afzal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Jinsoo Park
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Ghulam Destgeer
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Husnain Ahmed
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Syed Atif Iqrar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Sanghee Kim
- Division of Polar Life Sciences, KOPRI, Incheon 21990, Korea
| | - Sunghyun Kang
- Department of Proteome Structural Biology, KRIBB, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Anas Alazzam
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tae-Sung Yoon
- Department of Proteome Structural Biology, KRIBB, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Hyung Jin Sung
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
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Chavez C, Cruz-Becerra G, Fei J, Kassavetis GA, Kadonaga JT. The tardigrade damage suppressor protein binds to nucleosomes and protects DNA from hydroxyl radicals. eLife 2019; 8:47682. [PMID: 31571581 PMCID: PMC6773438 DOI: 10.7554/elife.47682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are animals that can survive extreme conditions. The tardigrade Ramazzottius varieornatus contains a unique nuclear protein termed Dsup, for damage suppressor, which can increase the resistance of human cells to DNA damage under conditions, such as ionizing radiation or hydrogen peroxide treatment, that generate hydroxyl radicals. Here we find that R. varieornatus Dsup is a nucleosome-binding protein that protects chromatin from hydroxyl radicals. Moreover, a Dsup ortholog from the tardigrade Hypsibius exemplaris similarly binds to nucleosomes and protects DNA from hydroxyl radicals. Strikingly, a conserved region in Dsup proteins exhibits sequence similarity to the nucleosome-binding domain of vertebrate HMGN proteins and is functionally important for nucleosome binding and hydroxyl radical protection. These findings suggest that Dsup promotes the survival of tardigrades under diverse conditions by a direct mechanism that involves binding to nucleosomes and protecting chromosomal DNA from hydroxyl radicals. Tardigrades, also known as water bears and moss piglets, are small animals found in many different environments on land and sea. These animals have the remarkable ability to survive extremes including very low temperatures, high levels of radiation and exposure to chemicals that are harmful to other forms of life. Tardigrades have even been found to survive the harsh conditions of outer space. X-rays are a type of radiation naturally produced by lightning strikes and are also found in cosmic rays from outer space. High doses of X-rays can cause genetic mutations that may lead to serious illness or death. This is because when X-rays come into contact with water they split the water molecules to make particles known as hydroxyl radicals, which in turn damage the DNA inside cells. The genomes of animals and plants are made of DNA, which is packaged into a structure called chromatin. Previous studies identified a protein named Dsup in a tardigrade called Ramazzottius varieornatus that can protect human cells from damage by X-rays. However, it was not known whether Dsup binds directly to chromatin or plays a more indirect role in protecting DNA. Chavez, Cruz-Becerra, Fei, Kassavetis et al. used biochemical approaches to study Dsup. Their experiments revealed that Dsup from R. varieornatus binds to chromatin to protect the DNA from damage by hydroxyl radicals, and that the Dsup protein in another tardigrade species also works in a similar way. Further analysis showed that a region of Dsup that is needed to bind to chromatin is very similar to a region that had been previously found only in chromatin-binding proteins from humans and other vertebrates (animals with backbones). This connection between Dsup and vertebrate chromatin-binding proteins remains a mystery. The new findings about tardigrade Dsup may help researchers develop animal cells that live longer under normal or extreme environmental conditions. In this manner, Dsup could be used to expand the range of applications of cells in biotechnology. It could also increase the effectiveness of current methods, such as the production of some pharmaceuticals, that depend upon the use of cultured cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Chavez
- Section of Molecular Biology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, United States
| | - Grisel Cruz-Becerra
- Section of Molecular Biology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, United States
| | - Jia Fei
- Section of Molecular Biology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, United States
| | - George A Kassavetis
- Section of Molecular Biology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, United States
| | - James T Kadonaga
- Section of Molecular Biology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, United States
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Jönsson KI. Radiation Tolerance in Tardigrades: Current Knowledge and Potential Applications in Medicine. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:E1333. [PMID: 31505739 PMCID: PMC6770827 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11091333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades represent a phylum of very small aquatic animals in which many species have evolved adaptations to survive under extreme environmental conditions, such as desiccation and freezing. Studies on several species have documented that tardigrades also belong to the most radiation-tolerant animals on Earth. This paper gives an overview of our current knowledge on radiation tolerance of tardigrades, with respect to dose-responses, developmental stages, and different radiation sources. The molecular mechanisms behind radiation tolerance in tardigrades are still largely unknown, but omics studies suggest that both mechanisms related to the avoidance of DNA damage and mechanisms of DNA repair are involved. The potential of tardigrades to provide knowledge of importance for medical sciences has long been recognized, but it is not until recently that more apparent evidence of such potential has appeared. Recent studies show that stress-related tardigrade genes may be transfected to human cells and provide increased tolerance to osmotic stress and ionizing radiation. With the recent sequencing of the tardigrade genome, more studies applying tardigrade omics to relevant aspects of human medicine are expected. In particular, the cancer research field has potential to learn from studies on tardigrades about molecular mechanisms evolved to maintain genome integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Ingemar Jönsson
- Department of Environmental Science and Bioscience, Kristianstad University, 291 88 Kristianstad, Sweden.
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Sugiura K, Minato H, Suzuki AC, Arakawa K, Kunieda T, Matsumoto M. Comparison of Sexual Reproductive Behaviors in Two Species of Macrobiotidae (Tardigrada: Eutardigrada). Zoolog Sci 2019; 36:120-127. [DOI: 10.2108/zs180103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Sugiura
- School of Fundamental Science and Technology, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa 223-8522, Japan
| | - Hiroki Minato
- School of Fundamental Science and Technology, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa 223-8522, Japan
| | - Atsushi C. Suzuki
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, Keio University, 4-1-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa 223-8521, Japan
| | - Kazuharu Arakawa
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, 14-1, Baba-cho, Tsuruoka-shi, Yamagata 997-0035, Japan
| | - Takekazu Kunieda
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Midori Matsumoto
- School of Fundamental Science and Technology, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa 223-8522, Japan
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42
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Exploring dry storage as an alternative biobanking strategy inspired by Nature. Theriogenology 2019; 126:17-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Carbonylation accumulation of the Hypsibius exemplaris anhydrobiote reveals age-associated marks. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0208617. [PMID: 30586374 PMCID: PMC6306161 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0208617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Together with nematodes and rotifers, tardigrade belong to micrometazoans that can cope with environmental extremes such as UV and solar radiations, dehydration, supercooling or overheating. Tardigrade can resist the harshest conditions by turning to cryptobiosis, an anhydrobiotic state that results from almost complete dehydration and is characterized by an ametabolic status. Although reports have challenged the molecular basis of the mechanisms underlying genomic injury resistance, little is yet known regarding the possible involvement of other tardigrade macromolecules in injury during a stress experience. In this report, we show that the tardigrade Hypsibius exemplaris can accumulate molecular damages by means of in situ detection of carbonyls. Furthermore, we demonstrate that living tardigrade can accumulate carbonylation. Finally, we reveal that anhydrobiotic tardigrade can be constitutively affected by carbonylation that marks aging in other metazoans.
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Goldstein B. The Emergence of the Tardigrade Hypsibius exemplaris as a Model System. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2018; 2018:2018/11/pdb.emo102301. [PMID: 30385668 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.emo102301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The success of scientists in revealing biological mechanisms has depended in large part on choosing tractable model systems. In 1997, molecular phylogenetics revealed that two of biology's most tractable models-Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila-are much more closely related to each other than had been thought previously. I began to explore whether any of the little-studied members of this branch of the tree of life might serve as a new model for comparative biology that could make use of the rich and ongoing sources of information flowing from C. elegans and Drosophila research. Tardigrades, also known as water bears, make up a phylum of microscopic animals. The tardigrade Hypsibius exemplaris (recently disambiguated from a closely related species, Hypsibius dujardini) can be maintained in laboratories and has a generation time of <2 wk at room temperature. Stocks of animals can be stored frozen and revived. The animals and their embryos are optically clear, and embryos are laid in groups, with each synchronous clutch of embryos laid in a clear molt. We have developed techniques for laboratory study of this system, including methods for microinjection of animals, immunolocalization, in situ hybridization, RNA interference, transcriptomics, and methods for identifying proteins that mediate tolerance to extreme environments. Here, I review the development of this animal as an emerging model system, as well as recent molecular studies aimed at understanding the evolution of developmental mechanisms that underpin the evolution of animal form and at understanding how biological materials can survive extreme environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bob Goldstein
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
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45
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Guil N, Jørgensen A, Kristensen R. An upgraded comprehensive multilocus phylogeny of the Tardigrada tree of life. ZOOL SCR 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/zsc.12321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Guil
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN‐CSIC) Madrid Spain
| | - Aslak Jørgensen
- Department of Biology University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Reinhardt Kristensen
- Zoological Museum, Natural History Museum of Denmark University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
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Vecchi M, Newton ILG, Cesari M, Rebecchi L, Guidetti R. The Microbial Community of Tardigrades: Environmental Influence and Species Specificity of Microbiome Structure and Composition. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2018; 76:467-481. [PMID: 29333583 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-017-1134-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Symbiotic associations of metazoans with bacteria strongly influence animal biology since bacteria are ubiquitous and virtually no animal is completely free from them. Tardigrades are micrometazoans famous for their ability to undergo ametabolic states (cryptobiosis) but very little information is available on potential microbial associations. We characterized the microbiomes of six limnoterrestrial tardigrade species belonging to several phylogenetic lines in tandem with the microbiomes of their respective substrates. The experimental design enabled us to determine the effects of both the environment and the host genetic background on the tardigrade microbiome; we were able to define the microbial community of the same species sampled from different environments, and the communities of different species from the same environment. Our 16S rRNA gene amplicon approach indicated that the tardigrade microbiome is species-specific and well differentiated from the environment. Tardigrade species showed a much lower microbial diversity compared to their substrates, with only one significant exception. Forty-nine common OTUs (operational taxonomic units) were classified into six bacterial phyla, while four common OTUs were unclassified and probably represent novel bacterial taxa. Specifically, the tardigrade microbiome appears dominated by Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes. Some OTUs were shared between different species from geographically distant samples, suggesting the associated bacteria may be widespread. Putative endosymbionts of tardigrades from the order Rickettsiales were identified. Our results indicated that like all other animals, tardigrades have their own microbiota that is different among species, and its assembly is determined by host genotype and environmental influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Vecchi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 213/D, 41125, Modena, Italy.
| | - Irene L G Newton
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Jordan Hall 221, 1001 E. 3rd St., Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Michele Cesari
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 213/D, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Lorena Rebecchi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 213/D, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Guidetti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 213/D, 41125, Modena, Italy
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Yoshida Y, Konno S, Nishino R, Murai Y, Tomita M, Arakawa K. Ultralow Input Genome Sequencing Library Preparation from a Single Tardigrade Specimen. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 30059025 DOI: 10.3791/57615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tardigrades are microscopic animals that enter an ametabolic state called anhydrobiosis when facing desiccation and can return to their original state when water is supplied. The genomic sequencing of microscopic animals such as tardigrades risks bacterial contamination that sometimes leads to erroneous interpretations, for example, regarding the extent of horizontal gene transfer in these animals. Here, we provide an ultralow input method to sequence the genome of the tardigrade, Hypsibius dujardini, from a single specimen. By employing rigorous washing and contaminant exclusion along with an efficient extraction of the 50 ~ 200 pg genomic DNA from a single individual, we constructed a library sequenced with a DNA sequencing instrument. These libraries were highly reproducible and unbiased, and an informatics analysis of the sequenced reads with other H. dujardini genomes showed a minimal amount of contamination. This method can be applied to unculturable tardigrades that could not be sequenced using previous methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Yoshida
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University; Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University
| | - Sayuri Konno
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University; Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, Keio University
| | - Ryousuke Nishino
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University; Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, Keio University
| | - Yumi Murai
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University; Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, Keio University
| | - Masaru Tomita
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University; Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University; Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, Keio University
| | - Kazuharu Arakawa
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University; Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University; Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, Keio University;
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Fukuda Y, Inoue T. Crystal structure of secretory abundant heat soluble protein 4 from one of the toughest "water bears" micro-animals Ramazzottius Varieornatus. Protein Sci 2018; 27:993-999. [PMID: 29493034 PMCID: PMC5916119 DOI: 10.1002/pro.3393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Though anhydrobiotic tardigrades (micro-animals also known as water bears) possess many genes of secretory abundant heat soluble (SAHS) proteins unique to Tardigrada, their functions are unknown. A previous crystallographic study revealed that a SAHS protein (RvSAHS1) from one of the toughest tardigrades, Ramazzottius varieornatus, has a β-barrel architecture similar to fatty acid binding proteins (FABPs) and two putative ligand binding sites (LBS1 and LBS2) where fatty acids can bind. However, some SAHS proteins such as RvSAHS4 have different sets of amino acid residues at LBS1 and LBS2, implying that they prefer other ligands and have different functions. Here RvSAHS4 was crystallized and analyzed under a condition similar to that for RvSAHS1. There was no electron density corresponding to a fatty acid at LBS1 of RvSAHS4, where a putative fatty acid was observed in RvSAHS1. Instead, LBS2 of RvSAHS4, which was composed of uncharged residues, captured a putative polyethylene glycol molecule. These results suggest that RvSAHS4 mainly uses LBS2 for the binding of uncharged molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohta Fukuda
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Inoue
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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Jönsson KI, Levine EB, Wojcik A, Haghdoost S, Harms-Ringdahl M. Environmental Adaptations: Radiation Tolerance. WATER BEARS: THE BIOLOGY OF TARDIGRADES 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-95702-9_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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