1
|
Liao M, Gong H, Shen K, Wang Z, Li R, Campana M, Hu X, Lu JR. Unlocking roles of cationic and aromatic residues in peptide amphiphiles in treating drug-resistant gram-positive pathogens. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 672:209-223. [PMID: 38838629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.05.188] [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: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a rising threat to global health because the number of essential antibiotics used for treating MDR infections is increasingly compromised. In this work we report a group of new amphiphilic peptides (AMPs) derived from the well-studied G3 (G(IIKK)3I-NH2) to fight infections from Gram-positive bacteria including susceptible Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), focusing on membrane interactions. Time-dependent killing experiments revealed that substitutions of II by WW (GWK), II by FF (GFK) and KK by RR (GIR) resulted in improved bactericidal efficiencies compared to G3 (GIK) on both S. aureus and MRSA, with the order of GWK > GIR > GFK > GIK. Electronic microscopy imaging revealed structural disruptions of AMP binding to bacterial cell walls. Fluorescence assays including AMP binding to anionic lipoteichoic acids (LTA) in cell-free and cell systems indicated concentration and time-dependent membrane destabilization associated with bacterial killing. Furthermore, AMP's binding to anionic plasma membrane via similar fluorescence assays revealed a different extent of membrane depolarization and leakage. These observations were supported by the penetration of AMPs into the LTA barrier and the subsequent structural compromise to the cytoplasmic membrane as revealed from SANS (small angle neutron scattering). Both experiments and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations revealed that GWK and GIR could make the membrane more rigid but less effective in diffusive efficiency than GIK and GFK through forming intramembrane peptide nanoaggregates associated with hydrophobic mismatch and formation of fluidic and rigid patches. The reported peptide-aggregate-induced phase-separation emerged as a crucial factor in accelerated membrane disintegration and fast bacterial killing. This work has demonstrated the importance of membrane interactions to the development of more effective AMPs and the relevance of the approaches as reported in assisting this area of research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingrui Liao
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Haoning Gong
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Kangcheng Shen
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Ziwei Wang
- National Graphene Institute, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Renzhi Li
- Department of Materials, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Mario Campana
- ISIS Pulsed Neutron & Muon Source, STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot OX11 0QX, UK
| | - Xuzhi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, PR China.
| | - Jian R Lu
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Paudel KR, Singh M, De Rubis G, Kumbhar P, Mehndiratta S, Kokkinis S, El-Sherkawi T, Gupta G, Singh SK, Malik MZ, Mohammed Y, Oliver BG, Disouza J, Patravale V, Hansbro PM, Dua K. Computational and biological approaches in repurposing ribavirin for lung cancer treatment: Unveiling antitumorigenic strategies. Life Sci 2024; 352:122859. [PMID: 38925223 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122859] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Lung cancer is among leading causes of death worldwide. The five-year survival rate of this disease is extremely low (17.8 %), mainly due to difficult early diagnosis and to the limited efficacy of currently available chemotherapeutics. This underlines the necessity to develop innovative therapies for lung cancer. In this context, drug repurposing represents a viable approach, as it reduces the turnaround time of drug development removing costs associated to safety testing of new molecular entities. Ribavirin, an antiviral molecule used to treat hepatitis C virus infections, is particularly promising as repurposed drug for cancer treatment, having shown therapeutic activity against glioblastoma, acute myeloid leukemia, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. In the present study, we thoroughly investigated the in vitro anticancer activity of ribavirin against A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells. From a functional standpoint, ribavirin significantly inhibits cancer hallmarks such as cell proliferation, migration, and colony formation. Mechanistically, ribavirin downregulates the expression of numerous proteins and genes regulating cell migration, proliferation, apoptosis, and cancer angiogenesis. The anticancer potential of ribavirin was further investigated in silico through gene ontology pathway enrichment and protein-protein interaction networks, identifying five putative molecular interactors of ribavirin (Erb-B2 Receptor Tyrosine Kinase 4 (Erb-B4); KRAS; Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 (ICAM-1); amphiregulin (AREG); and neuregulin-1 (NRG1)). These interactions were characterized via molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations. The results of this study highlight the potential of ribavirin as a repurposed chemotherapy against lung cancer, warranting further studies to ascertain the in vivo anticancer activity of this molecule.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keshav Raj Paudel
- Centre of Inflammation, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Manisha Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology (JIIT), Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India; Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Gabriele De Rubis
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Popat Kumbhar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Tatyasaheb Kore College of Pharmacy, Warananagar, Tal: Panhala, Dist: Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416113, India
| | - Samir Mehndiratta
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Sofia Kokkinis
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Tammam El-Sherkawi
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- Centre for Research Impact & Outcome, Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, 140401, Punjab, India; Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar-Delhi GT Road, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Md Zubbair Malik
- Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman, Kuwait city 15462, Kuwait
| | - Yousuf Mohammed
- Frazer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Brian G Oliver
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - John Disouza
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Tatyasaheb Kore College of Pharmacy, Warananagar, Tal: Panhala, Dist: Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416113, India
| | - Vandana Patravale
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Matunga, Mumbai 400019, Maharashtra, India
| | - Philip Michael Hansbro
- Centre of Inflammation, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia.
| | - Kamal Dua
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liu L, Liu S, Hu X, Zhou S, Deng Y. Enhancing the activity and succinyl-CoA specificity of 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase Tfu_0875 through rational binding pocket engineering. Synth Syst Biotechnol 2024; 9:558-568. [PMID: 38694995 PMCID: PMC11061225 DOI: 10.1016/j.synbio.2024.04.014] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase is the rate-limiting enzyme for linear dicarboxylic acids production. However, the promiscuous substrate specificity and suboptimal catalytic performance have restricted its application. Here we present both biochemical and structural analyses of a high-efficiency 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase Tfu_0875. Notably, Tfu_0875 displayed heightened activity and substrate specificity for succinyl-CoA, a key precursor in adipic acid production. To enhance its performance, a deep learning approach (DLKcat) was employed to identify effective mutants, and a computational strategy, known as the greedy accumulated strategy for protein engineering (GRAPE), was used to accumulate these effective mutants. Among the mutants, Tfu_0875N249W/L163H/E217L exhibited the highest specific activity (320% of wild-type Tfu_0875), the greatest catalytic efficiency (kcat/KM = 1.00 min-1mM-1), the highest succinyl-CoA specificity (KM = 0.59 mM, 28.1% of Tfu_0875) and dramatically reduced substrate binding energy (-30.25 kcal mol-1v.s. -15.94 kcal mol-1). A structural comparison between Tfu_0875N249W/L163H/E217L and the wild type Tfu_0875 revealed that the increased interaction between the enzyme and succinyl-CoA was the primary reason for the enhanced enzyme activity. This interaction facilitated rapid substrate anchoring and stabilization. Furthermore, a reduced binding pocket volume improved substrate specificity by enhancing the complementarity between the binding pocket and the substrate in stereo conformation. Finally, our rationally designed mutant, Tfu_0875N249W/L163H/E217L, increased the adipic acid titer by 1.35-fold compared to the wild type Tfu_0875 in shake flask. The demonstrated enzymatic methods provide a promising enzyme variant for the adipic acid production. The above effective substrate binding pocket engineering strategy can be beneficial for the production of other industrially competitive biobased chemicals when be applied to other thiolases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Liu
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Xiangyang Hu
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Shenghu Zhou
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Yu Deng
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Xuan Y, Wang L, Zhang L, Lv M, Li F, Gong Q. Structural basis of pri-let-7 recognition by human pseudouridine synthase TruB1. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 721:150122. [PMID: 38776834 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150122] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Let-7 was one of the first microRNAs (miRNAs) to be discovered and its expression promotes differentiation during development and function as tumor suppressors in various cancers. The maturation process of let-7 miRNA is tightly regulated by multiple RNA-binding proteins. For example, LIN28 binds to the terminal loops of the precursors of let-7 family and block their processing into mature miRNAs. Trim25 promotes the uridylation-mediated degradation of pre-let-7 modified by LIN28/TUT4. Recently, human pseudouridine synthase TruB1 has been reported to facilitate let-7 maturation by directly binding to pri-let-7 and recruiting Drosha-DGCR8 microprocessor. Through biochemical assay and structural investigation, we show that human TruB1 binds specifically the terminal loop of pri-let-7a1 at nucleotides 31-41, which folds as a small stem-loop architecture. Although TruB1 recognizes the terminal loop of pri-let-7a1 in a way similar to how E. coli TruB interacts with tRNA, a conserved KRKK motif in human and other higher eukaryotes adds an extra binding interface and strengthens the recognition of TruB1 for pri-let-7a1 through electrostatic interactions. These findings reveal the structural basis of TruB1-pri-let-7 interaction which may assists the elucidation of precise role of TruB1 in biogenesis of let-7.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yumi Xuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China
| | - Mengqi Lv
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China
| | - Fudong Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China
| | - Qingguo Gong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rinaldi S, Colombo G, Morra G. Exploring Mutation-Driven Changes in the ATP-ADP Conformational Cycle of Human Hsp70 by All-Atom MD Adaptive Sampling. J Phys Chem B 2024. [PMID: 39091167 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.4c03603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Hsp70 belongs to a family of molecular chaperones ubiquitous through organisms that assist client protein folding and prevent aggregation. It works through a tightly ATP-regulated allosteric cycle mechanism, which organizes its two NBD and SBD into alternate open and closed arrangements that facilitate loading and unloading of client proteins. The two cytosolic human isoforms Hsc70 and HspA1 are relevant targets for neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Illuminating the molecular details of Hsp70 functional dynamics is essential to rationalize differences among the well-characterized bacterial homologue DnaK and the less explored human forms and develop subtype- or species-selective allosteric drugs. We present here a molecular dynamics-based analysis of the conformational dynamics of HspA1. By using an "allosterically impaired" mutant for comparison, we can reconstruct the impact of the ADP-ATP swap on interdomain contacts and dynamic coordination in full-length HspA1, supporting previous predictions that were, however, limited to the NBD. We model the initial onset of the conformational cycle by proposing a sequence of structural steps, which reveal the role of a specific human sequence insertion at the linker, and a modulation of the angle formed by the two NBD lobes during the progression of docking. Our findings pinpoint functionally relevant conformations and set the basis for a selective structure-based drug discovery approach targeting allosteric sites in human Hsp70.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Rinaldi
- Institute for the Chemistry of Organometallic Compounds (ICCOM)─National Research Council (CNR), Via Madonna del Piano, 10, Sesto Fiorentino, Firenze 50019, Italy
| | - Giorgio Colombo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia Via Taramelli 12, Pavia 27100, Italy
| | - Giulia Morra
- Institute of Chemical Sciences and Technologies (SCITEC)─National Research Council (CNR), Via Mario Bianco 9, Milano 20131, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Krishna NB, Roopa L, Pravin Kumar R, S GT. Computational studies on the catalytic potential of the double active site for enzyme engineering. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17892. [PMID: 39095391 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60824-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteins possessing double active sites have the potential to revolutionise enzyme design strategies. This study extensively explored an enzyme that contains both a natural active site (NAS) and an engineered active site (EAS), focusing on understanding its structural and functional properties. Metadynamics simulations were employed to investigate how substrates interacted with their respective active sites. The results revealed that both the NAS and EAS exhibited similar minimum energy states, indicating comparable binding affinities. However, it became apparent that the EAS had a weaker binding site for the substrate due to its smaller pocket and constrained conformation. Interestingly, the EAS also displayed dynamic behaviour, with the substrate observed to move outside the pocket, suggesting the possibility of substrate translocation. To gain further insights, steered molecular dynamics (SMD) simulations were conducted to study the conformational changes of the substrate and its interactions with catalytic residues. Notably, the substrate adopted distinct conformations, including near-attack conformations, in both the EAS and NAS. Nevertheless, the NAS demonstrated superior binding minima for the substrate compared to the EAS, reinforcing the observation that the engineered active site was less favourable for substrate binding due to its limitations. The QM/MM (Quantum mechanics and molecular mechanics) analyses highlight the energy disparity between NAS and EAS. Specifically, EAS exhibited elevated energy levels due to its engineered active site being located on the surface. This positioning exposes the substrate to solvents and water molecules, adding to the energy challenge. Consequently, the engineered enzyme did not provide a significant advantage in substrate binding over the single active site protein. Further, the investigation of internal channels and tunnels within the protein shed light on the pathways facilitating transport between the two active sites. By unravelling the complex dynamics and functional characteristics of this double-active site protein, this study offers valuable insights into novel strategies of enzyme engineering. These findings establish a solid foundation for future research endeavours aimed at harnessing the potential of double-active site proteins in diverse biotechnological applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naveen Banchallihundi Krishna
- Department of Computational Biology and AI, Kcat Enzymatic Private Limited, #16, Ramakrishnappa Road, Cox Town, Bangalore, 560005, India
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
| | - Lalitha Roopa
- Department of Computational Biology and AI, Kcat Enzymatic Private Limited, #16, Ramakrishnappa Road, Cox Town, Bangalore, 560005, India
| | - R Pravin Kumar
- Department of Computational Biology and AI, Kcat Enzymatic Private Limited, #16, Ramakrishnappa Road, Cox Town, Bangalore, 560005, India.
| | - Gopenath T S
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Karkhane AA, Zargoosh S, Aliakbari M, Fatemi SSA, Aminzadeh S, Karkhaneh B. In Silico and Experimental Studies on the Effect of α3 and α5 Deletion on the Biochemical Properties of Bacillus thermocatenulatus Lipase. Mol Biotechnol 2024; 66:1894-1906. [PMID: 37479905 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00804-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the effect of α3 and α5 helices on the biochemical characterization of Bacillus thermocatenulatus lipase (BTL2), both helices were deleted from native BTL2 lipase. After structural modeling and characterization, the truncated btl2 gene (Δbtl2) was cloned into E. coli BL21 under the control of the T7 promoter. After cultivation and induction of the recombinant bacteria, the Δα3α5 lipase was purified by Ni-NTA column chromatography. Next, the biochemical properties of the Δα3α5 lipase were compared with the previously expressed and purified native lipase. In the presence of the substrate tributyrin (C4), the maximum activity of native and Δα3α5 lipase was 9360 and 5000 U/mg, respectively. The deletion changed the substrate specificity from tributyrin (C4) to tricaprylin (C8) substrate. Native and Δα3α5 lipase showed similar activity patterns at all temperatures and pH values, with the activity of Δα3α5 lipase being approximately 20% lower than native lipase. Triton X100 increased the activity of native and Δα3α5 lipases by 2.1- and 2.5-fold, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Asghar Karkhane
- Department of Systems Biotechnology, Institute of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), P.O. Box 14965/161, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Soha Zargoosh
- Department of Systems Biotechnology, Institute of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
| | - Moein Aliakbari
- Department of Systems Biotechnology, Institute of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Safa-Ali Fatemi
- Department of Systems Biotechnology, Institute of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Aminzadeh
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rovers E, Schapira M. Benchmarking Methods for PROTAC Ternary Complex Structure Prediction. J Chem Inf Model 2024. [PMID: 39087481 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.4c00426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are bifunctional compounds that recruit an E3 ligase to a target protein to induce ubiquitination and degradation of the target. Rational optimization of PROTAC requires a structural model of the ternary complex. In the absence of an experimental structure, computational tools have emerged that attempt to predict PROTAC ternary complexes. Here, we systematically benchmark three commonly used tools: PRosettaC, MOE, and ICM. We find that these PROTAC-focused methods produce an array of ternary complex structures, including some that are observed experimentally, but also many that significantly deviate from the crystal structure. Molecular dynamics simulations show that PROTAC complexes may exist in a multiplicity of configurational states and question the use of experimentally observed structures as a reference for accurate predictions. The pioneering computational tools benchmarked here highlight the promises and challenges in the field and may be more valuable when guided by clear structural and biophysical data. The benchmarking data set that we provide may also be valuable for evaluating other and future computational tools for ternary complex modeling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evianne Rovers
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Toronto M5G 1L7, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Matthieu Schapira
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Toronto M5G 1L7, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto M5G 1L7, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kumar H, Kim P. Artificial intelligence in fusion protein three-dimensional structure prediction: Review and perspective. Clin Transl Med 2024; 14:e1789. [PMID: 39090739 PMCID: PMC11294035 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have accelerated the prediction of unknown protein structures. However, accurately predicting the three-dimensional (3D) structures of fusion proteins remains a difficult task because the current AI-based protein structure predictions are focused on the WT proteins rather than on the newly fused proteins in nature. Following the central dogma of biology, fusion proteins are translated from fusion transcripts, which are made by transcribing the fusion genes between two different loci through the chromosomal rearrangements in cancer. Accurately predicting the 3D structures of fusion proteins is important for understanding the functional roles and mechanisms of action of new chimeric proteins. However, predicting their 3D structure using a template-based model is challenging because known template structures are often unavailable in databases. Deep learning (DL) models that utilize multi-level protein information have revolutionized the prediction of protein 3D structures. In this review paper, we highlighted the latest advancements and ongoing challenges in predicting the 3D structure of fusion proteins using DL models. We aim to explore both the advantages and challenges of employing AlphaFold2, RoseTTAFold, tr-Rosetta and D-I-TASSER for modelling the 3D structures. HIGHLIGHTS: This review provides the overall pipeline and landscape of the prediction of the 3D structure of fusion protein. This review provides the factors that should be considered in predicting the 3D structures of fusion proteins using AI approaches in each step. This review highlights the latest advancements and ongoing challenges in predicting the 3D structure of fusion proteins using deep learning models. This review explores the advantages and challenges of employing AlphaFold2, RoseTTAFold, tr-Rosetta, and D-I-TASSER to model 3D structures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Himansu Kumar
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems MedicineMcWilliams School of Biomedical InformaticsThe University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Pora Kim
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems MedicineMcWilliams School of Biomedical InformaticsThe University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonHoustonTexasUSA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhou S, Li F, Lai Z, Wu X, Yuan J, Wu W, Ding Q, Wang X, Dai J, Xu Q, Lu Y. Met343Val mutation disrupts the shuttling of Trp380 leading to a low-activity conformer of activated protein C and causes thrombosis. J Thromb Haemost 2024; 22:2270-2280. [PMID: 38788977 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtha.2024.05.012] [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: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Protein C (PC) pathway serves as a major defense mechanism against thrombosis by the activation of PC through the thrombin-thrombomodulin complex and subsequent inactivation of the activated factor (F)V (FVa) and FVIII (FVIIIa) with the assistance of protein S, thereby contributing to hemostatic balance. We identified 2 unrelated patients who suffered from recurrent thrombosis and carried the same heterozygous mutation c.1153A>G, p.Met343Val (M343V), in PROC gene. This mutation had not been previously reported. OBJECTIVES To explore the molecular basis underlying the anticoagulant defect in patients carrying the M343V mutation in PROC. METHODS We expressed PC-M343V variant in mammalian cells and characterized its properties through coagulation assays. RESULTS Our findings demonstrated that while activation of mutant zymogen by thrombin-thrombomodulin complex was slightly affected, cleavage of chromogenic substrate by APC-M343V was significantly impaired. However, Ca2+ increased the cleavage efficiency by approximately 50%. Additionally, there was a severe reduction in affinity between APC-M343V and Na+. Furthermore, the inhibitory ability of APC-M343V toward FVa was markedly impaired. Structural and simulation analyses suggested that Val343 might disrupt the potential hydrogen bonds with Trp380 and cause Trp380 to orient closer to His211, potentially interfering with substrate binding and destabilizing the catalytic triad of APC. CONCLUSION The M343V mutation in patients adversely affects the reactivity and/or folding of the active site as well as the binding of the physiological substrate to the protease, resulting in impaired protein C anticoagulant activity and ultimately leading to thrombosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shijie Zhou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism & Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhe Lai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junwei Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; College of Health Science and Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenman Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiulan Ding
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuefeng Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Dai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism & Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yeling Lu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sun JW, Thomas JS, Monkovic JM, Gibson H, Nagapurkar A, Frezzo JA, Katyal P, Punia K, Mahmoudinobar F, Renfrew PD, Montclare JK. Supercharged coiled-coil protein with N-terminal decahistidine tag boosts siRNA complexation and delivery efficiency of a lipoproteoplex. J Pept Sci 2024; 30:e3594. [PMID: 38499991 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3594] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Short interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutics have soared in popularity due to their highly selective and potent targeting of faulty genes, providing a non-palliative approach to address diseases. Despite their potential, effective transfection of siRNA into cells requires the assistance of an accompanying vector. Vectors constructed from non-viral materials, while offering safer and non-cytotoxic profiles, often grapple with lackluster loading and delivery efficiencies, necessitating substantial milligram quantities of expensive siRNA to confer the desired downstream effects. We detail the recombinant synthesis of a diverse series of coiled-coil supercharged protein (CSP) biomaterials systematically designed to investigate the impact of two arginine point mutations (Q39R and N61R) and decahistidine tags on liposomal siRNA delivery. The most efficacious variant, N8, exhibits a twofold increase in its affinity to siRNA and achieves a twofold enhancement in transfection activity with minimal cytotoxicity in vitro. Subsequent analysis unveils the destabilizing effect of the Q39R and N61R supercharging mutations and the incorporation of C-terminal decahistidine tags on α-helical secondary structure. Cross-correlational regression analyses reveal that the amount of helical character in these mutants is key in N8's enhanced siRNA complexation and downstream delivery efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W Sun
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Joseph S Thomas
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Julia M Monkovic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Halle Gibson
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Akash Nagapurkar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Joseph A Frezzo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Priya Katyal
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Kamia Punia
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Farbod Mahmoudinobar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Center for Computational Biology, Flatiron Institute, Simons Foundation, New York, New York, USA
| | - P Douglas Renfrew
- Center for Computational Biology, Flatiron Institute, Simons Foundation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jin Kim Montclare
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Biomaterials, NYU College of Dentistry, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Singh D, Tripathi P, Sharma R, Grover S, Batra JK. Role of a substrate binding pocket in the amino terminal domain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis caseinolytic protease B (ClpB) in its function. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:6189-6199. [PMID: 37418201 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2232032] [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: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the causative agent of tuberculosis when infects the host encounters several stresses within the host, resulting in aggregation of its proteins. To resolve this problem Mtb uses chaperones to either repair the damage or degrade the aggregated proteins. Mtb caseinolytic protein B (ClpB) helps in the prevention of aggregation and also resolubilization of aggregated proteins in bacteria, which is important for the survival of Mtb in the host. To function optimally, ClpB associates with its co-partners DnaK, DnaJ, and GrpE. The role of N-terminal domain (NTD) of Mtb ClpB in its function is not well understood. In this context, we investigated the interaction of three substrate mimicking peptides with the NTD of Mtb ClpB in silico. A substrate binding pocket, within the NTD of ClpB comprising of residues L136, R137, E138, K142, R144, R148, V149, Y158, and Y162 forming an ɑ-helix was thus identified. The residues L136 and R137 of the ɑ-helix were found to be important for the interaction of DnaK to ClpB. Further, nine single alanine recombinant variants of the identified residues were generated. As compared to the wild-type Mtb ClpB all the Mtb ClpB variants generated in this study were found to have reduced ATPase and protein refolding activity indicating the importance of the substrate binding pocket in ClpB function. The study demonstrates that the NTD of Mtb ClpB is important for its substrate interaction activity, and the substrate binding pocket identified in this study plays a crucial role in this interaction.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Digvijay Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Rahul Sharma
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Sonam Grover
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Janendra K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
- ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, Safdarjung Hospital Complex, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Nemchinova M, Schuurman-Wolters GK, Whittaker JJ, Arkhipova V, Marrink SJ, Poolman B, Guskov A. Exploring the Ligand Binding and Conformational Dynamics of the Substrate-Binding Domain 1 of the ABC Transporter GlnPQ. J Phys Chem B 2024. [PMID: 39090964 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.4c02662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
The adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-binding cassette (ABC) importer GlnPQ from Lactococcus lactis has two sequential covalently linked substrate-binding domains (SBDs), which capture the substrates and deliver them to the translocon. The two SBDs differ in their ligand specificities, binding affinities and the distance to the transmembrane domain; interestingly, both SBDs can bind their ligands simultaneously without affecting each other. In this work, we studied the binding of ligands to both SBDs using X-ray crystallography and molecular dynamics simulations. We report three high-resolution structures of SBD1, namely, the wild-type SBD1 with bound asparagine or arginine, and E184D SBD1 with glutamine bound. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations provide a detailed insight into the dynamics associated with open-closed transitions of the SBDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariia Nemchinova
- Groningen Institute for Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Groningen, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gea K Schuurman-Wolters
- Groningen Institute for Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Groningen, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jacob J Whittaker
- Groningen Institute for Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Groningen, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Valentina Arkhipova
- Groningen Institute for Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Groningen, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Siewert J Marrink
- Groningen Institute for Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Groningen, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bert Poolman
- Groningen Institute for Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Groningen, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Albert Guskov
- Groningen Institute for Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Groningen, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cui S, Zhang S, Wang N, Su X, Luo Z, Ma X, Li M. Structural insights into the catalytic selectivity of glycosyltransferase SgUGT94-289-3 towards mogrosides. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6423. [PMID: 39080270 PMCID: PMC11289153 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50662-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Mogrosides constitute a series of natural sweeteners extracted from Siraitia grosvenorii fruits. These mogrosides are glucosylated to different degrees, with mogroside V (M5) and siamenoside I (SIA) being two mogrosides with high intensities of sweetness. SgUGT94-289-3 constitutes a uridine diphosphate (UDP)-dependent glycosyltransferase (UGT) responsible for the biosynthesis of M5 and SIA, by continuously catalyzing glucosylation on mogroside IIe (M2E) and on the subsequent intermediate mogroside products. However, the mechanism of its promiscuous substrate recognition and multiple catalytic modes remains unclear. Here, we report multiple complex structures and the enzymatic characterization of the glycosyltransferase SgUGT94-289-3. We show that SgUGT94-289-3 adopts a dual-pocket organization in its active site, which allows the two structurally distinct reactive ends of mogrosides to be presented from different pockets to the active site for glucosylation reaction, thus enabling both substrate promiscuity and catalytic regioselectivity. We further identified a structural motif that is essential to catalytic activity and regioselectivity, and generated SgUGT94-289-3 mutants with greatly improved M5/SIA production from M2E in an in vitro one-pot setup.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengrong Cui
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100193, Beijing, PR China
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, PR China
| | - Shumeng Zhang
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, PR China
| | - Ning Wang
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xiaodong Su
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, PR China
| | - Zuliang Luo
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100193, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Xiaojun Ma
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100193, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Mei Li
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lascaris E, Marchese F, Gaspar N. Crystallization and the liquid-liquid critical point in nonbonded modified-WAC models. J Chem Phys 2024; 161:044503. [PMID: 39037140 DOI: 10.1063/5.0215601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
For decades, it has been known that Liquid-Liquid Critical Points (LLCPs) can exist in one-component liquids, yet a comprehensive understanding of the conditions under which they arise remains elusive. To better comprehend the possible interplay between the LLCP and the crystalline phase, we conduct molecular dynamics simulations using the nonbonded family of modified-WAC (mWAC) models, which are known to exhibit a LLCP for certain parameter values. By comparing different versions of the mWAC model-those featuring a LLCP and those lacking one-we identify several key differences between the models relating to crystallization. Those models that do have a LLCP are found to have multiple stable crystalline phases, one of them being a solid-state ionic conductor similar to superionic ice. Moreover, we find that for models that do not have a LLCP, the liquid becomes a glass at a larger range of temperatures, possibly preventing the occurrence of a LLCP. Further studies are required to determine if these results are general or model-specific.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erik Lascaris
- Department of Chemistry & Physical Sciences, Pace University, New York, New York 10038, USA
| | - Francesca Marchese
- Department of Chemistry & Physical Sciences, Pace University, New York, New York 10038, USA
| | - Nicole Gaspar
- Department of Chemistry & Physical Sciences, Pace University, New York, New York 10038, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chng CP, Gupta S, Huang C. Protonation State of a Bioactive Compound Regulates Its Release from Lamellar Gel-Phase Bilayers. J Phys Chem B 2024; 128:7180-7187. [PMID: 38993042 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.4c02442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Lamellar gel networks (LGNs) in personal care or pharmaceutical lotions and creams provide an opaque cream appearance and a creamy texture to these products. Within the LGNs, the lamellar gel (Lβ) phase composed of regularly spaced bilayers of surfactants and long-chain fatty alcohols is predominately responsible for the unique rheological properties of the LGNs. To extend the shelf life of LGN-containing products, bioactive compounds with antimicrobial properties are often incorporated into the formulation. However, how the protonation state of the bioactive compounds regulates their release from the Lβ-phase bilayers is currently unknown. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we found that the protonated (neutral) form of cinnamic acid, a common antimicrobial food additive, has a retention ratio higher than that of its deprotonated (charged) counterpart in the Lβ-phase bilayer. From free energy calculations, we determined that not only is the protonated molecule more stable in the hydrophobic interior of the bilayer but also the formation of hydrogen-bonded dimers significantly enhances its stability within the bilayer. Thus, the protonation state has a profound impact on bioavailability of the compounds. Our results also highlight the importance of considering possible oligomeric states of molecules when performing calculations to estimate the permeability of molecules within various bilayers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Choon-Peng Chng
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Republic of Singapore
| | - Shikhar Gupta
- P&G Singapore Innovation Center (SgIC), 70 Biopolis Street, Singapore 138547, Republic of Singapore
| | - Changjin Huang
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Republic of Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kitaoka H, Yokoyama Y, Sakka T, Nishi N. Salting-out and Competitive Adsorption of Ethanol into Lipid Bilayer Membranes: Conflicting Effects of Salts on Ethanol-Membrane Interactions Studied by Molecular Dynamics Simulations. J Phys Chem B 2024. [PMID: 39046846 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.4c03399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Small amphiphilic molecules, such as ethanol, disturb the structure of lipid bilayer membranes to increase the membrane permeability, which is important for applications such as drug delivery, disinfection, and fermentation. To investigate how and the extent to which coexisting salts affect membrane disturbance, we performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulations on lipid bilayer membranes composed of zwitterionic lipids in aqueous ethanol solutions containing 0-631 mM NaCl, KCl, and KI salts. The addition of salts at low concentrations induced cationic adsorption on the lipid membrane, which competes with ethanol adsorption, thereby reducing the hydrogen bonds between ethanol and lipid molecules. This competitive adsorption mitigated the membrane disturbance and decreased the permeation of ethanol molecules into the membrane. In contrast, higher salt concentrations enhanced the membrane disturbance and permeability, which was caused by the salting-out of ethanol from the aqueous phase to the lipid bilayer. These conflicting effects appearing at different concentrations were stronger with the chloride salts than with the iodide salt. Among the two chloride salts, NaCl and KCl, the latter showed a greater enhancement in ethanol permeation at high concentrations. This seeming anti-Hofmeister salting-out behavior resulted from greater Na+ adsorption, preventing the ethanol-lipid interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haru Kitaoka
- Department of Energy and Hydrocarbon Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan
| | - Yuko Yokoyama
- Department of Energy and Hydrocarbon Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan
- iCaNS, Institute of Advanced Energy, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Sakka
- Department of Energy and Hydrocarbon Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan
- iCaNS, Institute of Advanced Energy, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Naoya Nishi
- Department of Energy and Hydrocarbon Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan
- iCaNS, Institute of Advanced Energy, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sharma N, Gupta M, Anand P, Akhter Y, Al-Dayan N, Majed HA, Biswas S, Ali S, Sarwat M. Mechanistic Insight into the Autophagic and Apoptotic Activity of Kaempferol on Liver Cancer Cells. Onco Targets Ther 2024; 17:579-601. [PMID: 39071955 PMCID: PMC11283267 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s460359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The accumulation of poorly folded protein in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) promotes ER stress and contributes to the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Current therapies have various adverse effects, therefore, laying the need for an alternative approach. Kaempferol (KP), a naturally occurring flavonoid, possesses potent anti-proliferative properties against various cancer cells. Nevertheless, its involvement in HCC remains relatively unexplored, particularly regarding its influence on apoptosis and autophagy pathways. Methods The effect of KP on cell viability, and motility of Hep3B cells was evaluated by MTT, and scratch assay, respectively. Hoechst staining and FACS analysis were done to check the effect of KP on apoptosis and cell cycle progression. qRTPCR was used to evaluate the expression of several apoptosis and autophagy-related genes. KP was docked with several ER stress-related proteins involved in HCC to gain further insights into molecular mechanisms. The results of docking studies were validated with MD simulation and in vitro studies. Results Treatment with KP at different time intervals showed dose- and time-dependent growth inhibition of liver cancer cells. KP decreased motility and arrested the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase in Hep3B cells. Additionally, in the context of HCC, the relationship between KP, apoptosis, and autophagy is significant. It induced apoptosis and autophagy in Hep3B cells by downregulating the expression of Bcl-2 and upregulated Bax and Bid, Caspase-3, Beclin-1, and LC3. KP showed a better binding affinity with Nrf2, PERK, and IRE1α among all selected proteins. Further, it reversed the protective effect of 4-PBA (ER Stress inhibitor) by inducing apoptosis and autophagy in Hep3B cells. Conclusion The study suggested KP as a potential chemopreventive agent for managing HCC by effectively inducing apoptosis and autophagy in Hep3B cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Sharma
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201301, India
| | - Meenakshi Gupta
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201301, India
| | - Pragya Anand
- Department of Biotechnology, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, India
| | - Yusuf Akhter
- Department of Biotechnology, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, India
| | - Noura Al-Dayan
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hind Abdul Majed
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Subhrajit Biswas
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201301, India
| | - Sher Ali
- VC Office, Era University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003, India
| | - Maryam Sarwat
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201301, India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Bakker M, Svensson O, So̷rensen HV, Skepö M. Exploring the Functional Landscape of the p53 Regulatory Domain: The Stabilizing Role of Post-Translational Modifications. J Chem Theory Comput 2024; 20:5842-5853. [PMID: 38973087 PMCID: PMC11270737 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.4c00570] [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: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
This study focuses on the intrinsically disordered regulatory domain of p53 and the impact of post-translational modifications. Through fully atomistic explicit water molecular dynamics simulations, we show the wealth of information and detailed understanding that can be obtained by varying the number of phosphorylated amino acids and implementing a restriction in the conformational entropy of the N-termini of that intrinsically disordered region. The take-home message for the reader is to achieve a detailed understanding of the impact of phosphorylation with respect to (1) the conformational dynamics and flexibility, (2) structural effects, (3) protein interactivity, and (4) energy landscapes and conformational ensembles. Although our model system is the regulatory domain p53 of the tumor suppressor protein p53, this study contributes to understanding the general effects of intrinsically disordered phosphorylated proteins and the impact of phosphorylated groups, more specifically, how minor changes in the primary sequence can affect the properties mentioned above.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael
J. Bakker
- Faculty
of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Akademika Heyrovského 1203/8, 500 05 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
- Division
of Computational Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Lund University, P.O. Box 124, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Oskar Svensson
- Division
of Computational Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Lund University, P.O. Box 124, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
- NanoLund, Lund University, Box 118, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Henrik V. So̷rensen
- Division
of Computational Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Lund University, P.O. Box 124, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
- MAX
IV Laboratory, Fotongatan
2, 224 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Marie Skepö
- Division
of Computational Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Lund University, P.O. Box 124, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
- NanoLund, Lund University, Box 118, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hsu WT, Shirts MR. Replica Exchange of Expanded Ensembles: A Generalized Ensemble Approach with Enhanced Flexibility and Parallelizability. J Chem Theory Comput 2024; 20:6062-6081. [PMID: 39007702 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.4c00484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Generalized ensemble methods such as Hamiltonian replica exchange (HREX) and expanded ensemble (EE) have been shown effective in free energy calculations for various contexts, given their ability to circumvent free energy barriers via nonphysical pathways defined by states with different modified Hamiltonians. However, both HREX and EE methods come with drawbacks, such as limited flexibility in parameter specification or the lack of parallelizability for more complicated applications. To address this challenge, we present the method of replica exchange of expanded ensembles (REXEE), which integrates the principles of HREX and EE methods by periodically exchanging coordinates of EE replicas sampling different yet overlapping sets of alchemical states. With the solvation free energy calculation of anthracene and binding free energy calculation of the CB7-10 binding complex, we show that the REXEE method achieves the same level of accuracy in free energy calculations as the HREX and EE methods, while offering enhanced flexibility and parallelizability. Additionally, we examined REXEE simulations with various setups to understand how different exchange frequencies and replica configurations influence the sampling efficiency in the fixed-weight phase and the weight convergence in the weight-updating phase. The REXEE approach can be further extended to support asynchronous parallelization schemes, allowing looser communications between larger numbers of loosely coupled processors such as cloud computing and therefore promising much more scalable and adaptive executions of alchemical free energy calculations. All algorithms for the REXEE method are available in the Python package ensemble_md, which offers an interface for REXEE simulation management without modifying the source code in GROMACS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Tse Hsu
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80305, United States
| | - Michael R Shirts
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80305, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Mathez G, Brancale A, Cagno V. Novel Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 RNA Identified through Virtual Screening. J Chem Inf Model 2024. [PMID: 39037082 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.4c00758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
We currently lack antivirals for most human viruses. In a quest for new molecules, focusing on viral RNA, instead of viral proteins, can represent a promising strategy. In this study, new inhibitors were identified starting from a published crystal structure of the tertiary SARS-CoV-2 RNA involved in the -1 programmed ribosomal frameshift. The pseudoknot structure was refined, and a virtual screening was performed using the repository of binders to the nucleic acid library, taking into consideration RNA flexibility. Hit compounds were validated against the wild-type virus and with a dual-luciferase assay measuring the frameshift efficiency. Several active molecules were identified. Our study reveals new inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 but also highlights the feasibility of targeting RNA starting from virtual screening, a strategy that could be broadly applied to drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Mathez
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital of Lausanne, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, 16628 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Brancale
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, 16628 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Valeria Cagno
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital of Lausanne, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Miles CM, Cullen S, Kenaan H, Gu W, Andrews GP, Sosso GC, Tian Y. Unravelling the interactions between small molecules and liposomal bilayers via molecular dynamics and thermodynamic modelling. Int J Pharm 2024; 660:124367. [PMID: 38901537 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Lipid-based drug delivery systems hold immense promise in addressing critical medical needs, from cancer and neurodegenerative diseases to infectious diseases. By encapsulating active pharmaceutical ingredients - ranging from small molecule drugs to proteins and nucleic acids - these nanocarriers enhance treatment efficacy and safety. However, their commercial success faces hurdles, such as the lack of a systematic design approach and the issues related to scalability and reproducibility. This work aims to provide insights into the drug-phospholipid interaction by combining molecular dynamic simulations and thermodynamic modelling techniques. In particular, we have made a connection between the structural properties of the drug-phospholipid system and the physicochemical performance of the drug-loaded liposomal nanoformulations. We have considered two prototypical drugs, felodipine (FEL) and naproxen (NPX), and one model hydrogenated soy phosphatidylcholine (HSPC) bilayer membrane. Molecular dynamic simulations revealed which regions within the phospholipid bilayers are most and least favoured by the drug molecules. NPX tends to reside at the water-phospholipid interface and is characterized by a lower free energy barrier for bilayer membrane permeation. Meanwhile, FEL prefers to sit within the hydrophobic tails of the phospholipids and is characterized by a higher free energy barrier for membrane permeation. Flory-Huggins thermodynamic modelling, small angle X-ray scattering, dynamic light scattering, TEM, and drug release studies of these liposomal nanoformulations confirmed this drug-phospholipid structural difference. The naproxen-phospholipid system has a lower free energy barrier for permeation, higher drug miscibility with the bilayer, larger liposomal nanoparticle size, and faster drug release in the aqueous medium than felodipine. We suggest that this combination of molecular dynamics and thermodynamics approach may offer a new tool for designing and developing lipid-based nanocarriers for unmet medical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Miles
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Shane Cullen
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Hussein Kenaan
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Wenjie Gu
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin P Andrews
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Gabriele C Sosso
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom.
| | - Yiwei Tian
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
La Manna S, Cugudda A, Mercurio FA, Leone M, Fortuna S, Di Natale C, Lagreca E, Netti PA, Panzetta V, Marasco D. PEGylated SOCS3 Mimetics Encapsulated into PLGA-NPs as Selective Inhibitors of JAK/STAT Pathway in TNBC Cells. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:7237-7251. [PMID: 39050870 PMCID: PMC11268778 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s441205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction SOCS3 (suppressor of cytokine signaling 3) protein is a crucial regulator of cytokine-induced inflammation, and its administration has been shown to have therapeutic effects. Recently, we designed a chimeric proteomimetic of SOCS3, mimicking the interfacing regions of a ternary complex composed of SOCS3, JAK2 (Janus kinase 2) and gp130 (glycoprotein 130) proteins. The derived chimeric peptide, KIRCONG chim, demonstrated limited mimetic function owing to its poor water solubility. Methods We report investigations concerning a PEGylated variant of KIRCONG mimetic, named KIRCONG chim, bearing a PEG (Polyethylene glycol) moiety as a linker of noncontiguous SOCS3 regions. Its ability to bind to the catalytic domain of JAK2 was evaluated through MST (MicroScale Thermophoresis), as well as its stability in biological serum assays. The structural features of the cyclic compounds were investigated by CD (circular dichroism), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and molecular dynamic (MD) studies. To evaluate the cellular effects, we employed a PLGA-nanoparticle as a delivery system after characterization using DLS and SEM techniques. Results KIRCONG chim PEG-revealed selective penetration into triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) MDA-MB-231 cells with respect to the human breast epithelial cell line (MCF10A), acting as a potent inhibitor of STAT3 phosphorylation. Discussion Overall, the data indicated that miniaturization of the SOCS3 protein is a promising therapeutic approach for aberrant dysregulation of JAK/STAT during cancer progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara La Manna
- Department of Pharmacy, CIRPEB: Research Center on Bioactive Peptides- University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Alessia Cugudda
- Department of Pharmacy, CIRPEB: Research Center on Bioactive Peptides- University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | | | - Marilisa Leone
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (CNR), Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Sara Fortuna
- Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), Genova, 16152, Italy
| | - Concetta Di Natale
- Department of Ingegneria Chimica del Materiali e della Produzione Industriale (DICMAPI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80125, Italy
| | - Elena Lagreca
- Department of Ingegneria Chimica del Materiali e della Produzione Industriale (DICMAPI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80125, Italy
| | - Paolo Antonio Netti
- Department of Ingegneria Chimica del Materiali e della Produzione Industriale (DICMAPI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80125, Italy
| | - Valeria Panzetta
- Department of Ingegneria Chimica del Materiali e della Produzione Industriale (DICMAPI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80125, Italy
| | - Daniela Marasco
- Department of Pharmacy, CIRPEB: Research Center on Bioactive Peptides- University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80131, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Jash O, Srivastava A, Balasubramanian S. HP35 Protein in the Mesopore of MIL-101(Cr) MOF: A Model to Study Cotranslocational Unfolding. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:31185-31194. [PMID: 39035967 PMCID: PMC11256354 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c05452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
The immobilization of enzymes in metal-organic framework (MOF) cages is important in biotechnology. In this context, the mechanism of translocation of proteins through the cavities of the MOF and the roles played by confinement and MOF chemistry in giving rise to stable protein intermediates that are otherwise transiently populated in the physiological environment are important questions to be addressed. These unexplored aspects are examined with villin headpiece (HP35) as a model protein confined within a mesopore of MIL-101(Cr) using molecular dynamics simulations. At equilibrium, the protein is located farther from the center of the cavity and closer to the MOF surface. Molecular interactions with the MOF partially unfold helix-1 at its N-terminus. Umbrella sampling simulations inform the range of conformations that HP35 undertakes during translocation from one cavity to another and associated changes in free energy. Relative to its equilibrium state within the cavity, the free energy barrier for the unfolded protein at the cage window is estimated to be 16 kcal/mol. This study of MOF-based protein conformation can also be a general approach to observing intermediates in folding-unfolding pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oishika Jash
- Chemistry
and Physics of Materials Unit, Jawaharlal
Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bangalore 560 064, India
| | - Anand Srivastava
- Molecular
Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560 012, India
| | - Sundaram Balasubramanian
- Chemistry
and Physics of Materials Unit, Jawaharlal
Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bangalore 560 064, India
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Fang YG, Wei L, Francisco JS, Zhu C, Fang WH. Mechanistic Insights into Chloric Acid Production by Hydrolysis of Chlorine Trioxide at an Air-Water Interface. J Am Chem Soc 2024. [PMID: 39013148 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c06269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
Chlorine oxides play crucial roles in ozone depletion, and the final oxidation steps of chlorine oxide potentially result in the formation of chloric acid (HClO3) or perchloric acid (HClO4). Herein, the solvation and reactive uptake of three stable isomers of chlorine trioxide (Cl2O3), namely, ClOCl(O)O, ClClO3, and ClOOOCl, at the air-water interface were investigated using classical and hybrid quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) molecular dynamics (MD) coupled with advanced free energy methods. Two distinct mechanisms were revealed for the hydrolysis of ClOCl(O)O and ClClO3: molecular and ionic mechanisms. A comparison of the computed free-energy profiles for the gaseous and air-water interfacial systems indicated that the air-water interface could markedly lower the free-energy barrier for ClO 3 - or HClO3 formation while stabilizing the product state. In particular, the hydrolysis of ClClO3 at the air-water interface was barrierless. In contrast, our calculations showed that the hydrolysis of ClOOOCl was very slow, indicating that ClOOOCl was inert to water at the air-water interface. This study provides theoretical evidence for the hypothesis that HClO3 is a sink for chlorine oxides and for the widespread distributions of HClO3 recently observed in the Arctic region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Guang Fang
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, PR China
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Nanoscience, CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Centre for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Centre for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, PR China
| | - Laiyang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, PR China
| | - Joseph S Francisco
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Chongqin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, PR China
| | - Wei-Hai Fang
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lei Z, Niu J, Cai H, Kong Z, Ding X, Dong Y, Zhang D, Li X, Shao J, Lin A, Zhou R, Yang S, Yan Q. NF2 regulates IP3R-mediated Ca 2+ signal and apoptosis in meningiomas. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23737. [PMID: 38953724 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400436r] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumors and account for nearly 30% of all nervous system tumors. Approximately half of meningioma patients exhibit neurofibromin 2 (NF2) gene inactivation. Here, NF2 was shown to interact with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium (Ca2+) channel inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor 1 (IP3R1) in IOMM-Lee, a high-grade malignant meningioma cell line, and the F1 subdomain of NF2 plays a critical role in this interaction. Functional assays indicated that NF2 promotes the phosphorylation of IP3R (Ser 1756) and IP3R-mediated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ release by binding to IP3R1, which results in Ca2+-dependent apoptosis. Knockout of NF2 decreased Ca2+ release and promoted resistance to apoptosis, which was rescued by wild-type NF2 overexpression but not by F1 subdomain deletion truncation overexpression. The effects of NF2 defects on the development of tumors were further studied in mouse models. The decreased expression level of NF2 caused by NF2 gene knockout or mutation affects the activity of the IP3R channel, which reduces Ca2+-dependent apoptosis, thereby promoting the development of tumors. We elucidated the interaction patterns of NF2 and IP3R1, revealed the molecular mechanism through which NF2 regulates IP3R1-mediated Ca2+ release, and elucidated the new pathogenic mechanism of meningioma-related NF2 variants. Our study broadens the current understanding of the biological function of NF2 and provides ideas for drug screening of NF2-associated meningioma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoying Lei
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jie Niu
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huajian Cai
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhengyi Kong
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xue Ding
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yufei Dong
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xu Li
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianzhong Shao
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Aifu Lin
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ruhong Zhou
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuxu Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qingfeng Yan
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory for Cell and Gene Engineering of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Takasawa T, Matsui T, Watanabe G, Kodera Y. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal differences in the conformational stability of FtsZs derived from Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16043. [PMID: 38992051 PMCID: PMC11239868 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66763-x] [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: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
FtsZ is highly conserved among bacteria and plays an essential role in bacterial cell division. The tense conformation of FtsZ bound to GTP assembles into a straight filament via head-to-tail associations, and then the upper subunit of FtsZ hydrolyzes GTP bound to the lower FtsZ subunit. The subunit with GDP bound disassembles accompanied by a conformational change in the subunit from the tense to relaxed conformation. Although crystal structures of FtsZ derived from several bacterial species have been determined, the conformational change from the relaxed to tense conformation has only been observed in Staphylococcus aureus FtsZ (SaFtsZ). Recent cryo-electron microscopy analyses revealed the three-dimensional reconstruction of the protofilament, in which tense molecules assemble via head-to-tail associations. However, the lower resolution of the protofilament suggested that the flexibility of the FtsZ protomers between the relaxed and tense conformations caused them to form in less-strict alignments. Furthermore, this flexibility may also prevent FtsZs other than SaFtsZ from crystalizing in the tense conformation, suggesting that the flexibility of bacterial FtsZs differs. In this study, molecular dynamics simulations were performed using SaFtsZ and Bacillus subtilis FtsZ in several situations, which suggested that different features of the FtsZs affect their conformational stability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taichi Takasawa
- Department of Physics, School of Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-Ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan
| | - Takashi Matsui
- Department of Physics, School of Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-Ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan.
- Center for Disease Proteomics, School of Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-Ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan.
| | - Go Watanabe
- Department of Data Science, School of Frontier Engineering, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-Ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan.
- Kanagawa Institute of Industrial Science and Technology (KISTEC), 705-1 Shimoimaizumi, Ebina, Kanagawa, 243-0435, Japan.
| | - Yoshio Kodera
- Department of Physics, School of Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-Ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan
- Center for Disease Proteomics, School of Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-Ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ananya, Panchariya DC, Karthic A, Singh SP, Mani A, Chawade A, Kushwaha S. Vaccine design and development: Exploring the interface with computational biology and AI. Int Rev Immunol 2024:1-20. [PMID: 38982912 DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2024.2374546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Computational biology involves applying computer science and informatics techniques in biology to understand complex biological data. It allows us to collect, connect, and analyze biological data at a large scale and build predictive models. In the twenty first century, computational resources along with Artificial Intelligence (AI) have been widely used in various fields of biological sciences such as biochemistry, structural biology, immunology, microbiology, and genomics to handle massive data for decision-making, including in applications such as drug design and vaccine development, one of the major areas of focus for human and animal welfare. The knowledge of available computational resources and AI-enabled tools in vaccine design and development can improve our ability to conduct cutting-edge research. Therefore, this review article aims to summarize important computational resources and AI-based tools. Further, the article discusses the various applications and limitations of AI tools in vaccine development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ananya
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
| | | | | | | | - Ashutosh Mani
- Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Prayagraj, India
| | - Aakash Chawade
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ulmann N, Hioe J, Touraud D, Horinek D, Kunz W. Self-association as a solubility limiting factor of riboflavin in aqueous media. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:18930-18942. [PMID: 38952212 DOI: 10.1039/d4cp02074j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of needle shaped riboflavin (RF) crystals revealed π-stacking of RF's isoalloxazine units (distance: 3.643-3.313 Å) with syn-orientated ribityl chains. In line with this, classical molecular dynamics (MD) (400 ns) using an isobaric-isothermal (NPT) ensemble of eight RF in a water box (〈V〉 ∼ 508.62 nm3, 〈p〉 = 1.11 bar) revealed anti-aligned aggregation of RF in water (COM-distance: 4 Å). Comparing umbrella sampling for the separation of two RF molecules to the separation of two lumichrome molecules, the similar mean potential force for the separation of RF and lumichrome (22.8 kJ mol-1; 24.4 kJ mol-1) proved dispersive interactions as the origin of RF's aggregation. Though stacking of RF is the major water-solubility limiting factor, the conformation of RF's ribityl chain may alter the solubility in water. Both, MD (in water) and COSMO-RS (in water continuum) predicted that conformations of RF with an extended ribityl chain are thermodynamically preferred over any conformations with internal hydrogen bonds between hydroxyl groups and nitrogen/oxygen atoms of the pyrimidine moiety of the flavin ring. Interestingly, COSMO-RS predicted the solubility of the extended conformation to be significantly lower than the latter leading to the very low average solubility of RF. Nuclear Overhauser effect measurements (NOESY) of the structurally related sodium riboflavin 5'-monophosphate (RF-PO4) in deuterium oxide confirmed π-stacking of the isoalloxazine rings. In conformity with the 350 times higher water-solubility of RF-PO4, NOESY also indicated a contorted conformation of the ribityl phosphate chain, whereas, for RF, indications for a contorted chain were not observed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadja Ulmann
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Johnny Hioe
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Didier Touraud
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Dominik Horinek
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Werner Kunz
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Thomassen AB, Jansen TLC, Weidner T. The secondary structure of diatom silaffin peptide R5 determined by two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:18538-18546. [PMID: 38888161 DOI: 10.1039/d4cp00970c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Diatoms, unicellular marine organisms, harness short peptide repeats of the protein silaffin to transform silicic acid into biosilica nanoparticles. This process has been a white whale for material scientists due to its potential in biomimetic applications, ranging from medical to microelectronic fields. Replicating diatom biosilicification will depend on a thorough understanding of the silaffin peptide structure during the reaction, yet existing models in the literature offer conflicting views on peptide folding during silicification. In our study, we employed two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy (2DIR) within the amide I region to determine the secondary structure of the silaffin repeat unit 5 (R5), both pre- and post-interaction with silica. The 2DIR experiments are complemented by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of pure R5 reacting with silicate. Subsequently, theoretical 2DIR spectra calculated from these MD trajectories allowed us to compare calculated spectra with experimental data, and to determine the diverse structural poses of R5. Our findings indicate that unbound R5 predominantly forms β-strand structures alongside various atypical secondary structures. Post-silicification, there's a noticeable shift: a decrease in β-strands coupled with an increase in turn-type and bend-type configurations. We theorize that this structural transformation stems from silicate embedding within R5's hydrogen-bond network, prompting the peptide backbone to contract and adapt around the biosilica precursors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asger Berg Thomassen
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Langelandsgade 140, Aarhus C 8000, Denmark.
| | - Thomas L C Jansen
- Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands.
| | - Tobias Weidner
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Langelandsgade 140, Aarhus C 8000, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Milenkovic S, Boi S, Scorciapino MA, Bodrenko IV, Ceccarelli M. Machine Learning Prediction of Small Molecule Accumulation in Escherichia Coli Enhanced with Descriptor Statistics. J Chem Theory Comput 2024. [PMID: 38978185 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.4c00406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance, particularly among Gram-negative bacteria, poses a significant healthcare challenge due to their ability to evade antibiotic action through various mechanisms. In this study, we explore the prediction of small molecule accumulation in Gram-negative bacteria by using machine learning techniques enhanced with statistical descriptors derived from molecular dynamics simulations. We begin by identifying a minimal set of molecular descriptors that maximize the model's predictive power while preserving human interpretability. We optimize model accuracy, precision, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve through an iterative process. We demonstrate that the inclusion of statistical descriptors significantly improves model performance across various prediction metrics. Particularly, the addition of statistical descriptors related to dipole moment and minimum projection radius enhances the model's predictive capabilities, shedding light on the physicochemical properties crucial for small molecule accumulation. Our findings highlight the importance of considering statistical moments beyond mean values in predictive modeling and suggest avenues for future research. Overall, our study provides insights into the complex dynamics of antibiotic accumulation in Escherichia coli bacterial cells, generalizable to other Gram-negative species, offering a promising approach for the discovery of effective antibacterial agents, identifying new hits, and improving them to define effective lead agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Milenkovic
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| | - Sara Boi
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| | - Mariano Andrea Scorciapino
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Ceccarelli
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wehrhan L, Keller BG. Prebound State Discovered in the Unbinding Pathway of Fluorinated Variants of the Trypsin-BPTI Complex Using Random Acceleration Molecular Dynamics Simulations. J Chem Inf Model 2024; 64:5194-5206. [PMID: 38870039 PMCID: PMC11234359 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.4c00338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
The serine protease trypsin forms a tightly bound inhibitor complex with the bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor (BPTI). The complex is stabilized by the P1 residue Lys15, which interacts with negatively charged amino acids at the bottom of the S1 pocket. Truncating the P1 residue of wildtype BPTI to α-aminobutyric acid (Abu) leaves a complex with moderate inhibitor strength, which is held in place by additional hydrogen bonds at the protein-protein interface. Fluorination of the Abu residue partially restores the inhibitor strength. The mechanism with which fluorination can restore the inhibitor strength is unknown, and accurate computational investigation requires knowledge of the binding and unbinding pathways. The preferred unbinding pathway is likely to be complex, as encounter states have been described before, and unrestrained umbrella sampling simulations of these complexes suggest additional energetic minima. Here, we use random acceleration molecular dynamics to find a new metastable state in the unbinding pathway of Abu-BPTI variants and wildtype BPTI from trypsin, which we call the prebound state. The prebound state and the fully bound state differ by a substantial shift in the position, a slight shift in the orientation of the BPTI variants, and changes in the interaction pattern. Particularly important is the breaking of three hydrogen bonds around Arg17. Fluorination of the P1 residue lowers the energy barrier of the transition between the fully bound state and prebound state and also lowers the energy minimum of the prebound state. While the effect of fluorination is in general difficult to quantify, here, it is in part caused by favorable stabilization of a hydrogen bond between Gln194 and Cys14. The interaction pattern of the prebound state offers insights into the inhibitory mechanism of BPTI and might add valuable information for the design of serine protease inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leon Wehrhan
- Department of Biology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Arnimallee 22, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Bettina G Keller
- Department of Biology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Arnimallee 22, Berlin 14195, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Fomina AD, Uvarova VI, Kozlovskaya LI, Palyulin VA, Osolodkin DI, Ishmukhametov AA. Ensemble docking based virtual screening of SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitors. Mol Inform 2024:e202300279. [PMID: 38973780 DOI: 10.1002/minf.202300279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
During the first years of COVID-19 pandemic, X-ray structures of the coronavirus drug targets were acquired at an unprecedented rate, giving hundreds of PDB depositions in less than a year. The main protease (Mpro) of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the primary validated target of direct-acting antivirals. The selection of the optimal ensemble of structures of Mpro for the docking-driven virtual screening campaign was thus non-trivial and required a systematic and automated approach. Here we report a semi-automated active site RMSD based procedure of ensemble selection from the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro crystallographic data and virtual screening of its inhibitors. The procedure was compared with other approaches to ensemble selection and validated with the help of hand-picked and peer-reviewed activity-annotated libraries. Prospective virtual screening of non-covalent Mpro inhibitors resulted in a new chemotype of thienopyrimidinone derivatives with experimentally confirmed enzyme inhibition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia D Fomina
- FSASI "Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS" (Institute of Poliomyelitis), 108819, Moscow, Russia
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - Victoria I Uvarova
- FSASI "Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS" (Institute of Poliomyelitis), 108819, Moscow, Russia
| | - Liubov I Kozlovskaya
- FSASI "Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS" (Institute of Poliomyelitis), 108819, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladimir A Palyulin
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry I Osolodkin
- FSASI "Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS" (Institute of Poliomyelitis), 108819, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - Aydar A Ishmukhametov
- FSASI "Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS" (Institute of Poliomyelitis), 108819, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991, Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Xu X, Pan H, Li W, Xu J, Chen X, Zheng C, Peng J, Mao X, Liu M, Yan H, Wang H. Binding of single/double stranded ct-DNA with graphene oxide‑silver nanocomposites in vitro: A multispectroscopic approach. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 275:133715. [PMID: 38977048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The fundamental binding of single-stranded (ssDNA) and double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) with graphene oxide-Ag nanocomposites (GO-AgNCPs) has been systematically investigated by multi spectroscopic methods, i.e. ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) absorption, fluorescence spectroscopy, and circular dichroism (CD). The experimental and theoretical results demonstrate that both ssDNA and dsDNA can be adsorbed onto the GO-AgNCPs surface. All of the evidence indicated that there were relatively strong binding of ssDNA/dsDNA with GO-AgNCPs. The article compares the differences in binding between the two types of DNA and the nanomaterials using spectroscopic and thermodynamic data. UV-vis absorption spectroscopy experiments indicate that the characteristic absorbance intensity of both ss DNA and ds DNA increases, but the rate of change in absorbance is different. The fluorescence results revealed that ss/dsDNA could interact with the GO-AgNCPs surface, in spite of the different binding affinities. The Ka value of ssDNA binding with GO-AgNCPs is greater than that of dsDNA at each constant temperature, indicating that the affinity of dsDNA toward GO-AgNCPs is comparatively weak. Molecular docking studies have corroborated the mentioned experimental results. The calculated thermodynamic parameters showed that the binding process was thermodynamically spontaneous, van der Waals force and hydrogen bonding played predominant roles in the binding process. The mechanism of ss/ds DNA binding with GO-AgNCPs was also investigated, and the results indicated that GO-AgNCPs directly binds to the minor groove of ss/ds DNA by replacing minor groove binders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Xu
- Laboratory of New Antitumor Drug Molecular Design & Synthesis, College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong Province, China.
| | - Hongshuo Pan
- College of Clinical Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wenbo Li
- College of Clinical Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jiayi Xu
- College of Clinical Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xinyun Chen
- College of Clinical Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong Province, China
| | - Chuanqi Zheng
- College of Clinical Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jia Peng
- College of Clinical Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xuyan Mao
- Laboratory of New Antitumor Drug Molecular Design & Synthesis, College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong Province, China
| | - Min Liu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, 252059, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hui Yan
- State Key Laboratory for Macromolecule Drugs and Large-scale Manufacturing, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, 252059, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hao Wang
- College of Medical Engineering, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
de Faria AC, Martins FA, da Cunha EFF, Freitas MP. Fluorinated benzoxazinones designed via MIA-QSAR, docking and molecular dynamics as protoporphyrinogen IX oxidase inhibitors. JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE 2024; 104:5326-5337. [PMID: 38319975 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.13361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fluorine plays a significant role in agrochemical science because approximately 25% of herbicides licensed worldwide contain this element. In a pool of previously synthesized benzoxazinones, some compounds contained fluorine and demonstrated inhibitory activities against protoporphyrinogen IX oxidase (PPO). Therefore, three data sets of benzoxazinone derivatives with known inhibitory activity against PPO were employed to build a multivariate image analysis applied to a quantitative structure-activity relationships (MIA-QSAR) model to identify improved analogs with at least one fluorine substituent. RESULTS The QSAR model was vigorously validated and demonstrated to be highly predictive (r2 = 0.85, q2 = 0.71, and r2 pred = 0.88); thus, the model can provide reliable estimations for the PPO inhibitory activity of unknown derivatives. From these compounds, a couple of N-substituted benzoxazinones that contained the -CH2CHF2 group were found with predicted pKi values larger than 8 (Ki in mol L-1) and higher lipophilicity than the most active data set compounds. In addition, we carried out a systematic investigation of the binding mode of PPO by performing computational docking followed by molecular dynamics simulations. The proposed binding mode was consistent with experimental studies, and several potential key residues were identified. CONCLUSION Two new proposed benzoxazinones exhibited better performance than compounds of the data set, and fluorine substituents played pivotal roles in describing the biological activities. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana C de Faria
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Natural Sciences, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, Brazil
| | | | - Elaine F F da Cunha
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Natural Sciences, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, Brazil
| | - Matheus P Freitas
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Natural Sciences, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Usama, Khan Z, Ali A, Shah M, Imran M. Differential glycosylation in mutant vitamin D-binding protein decimates the binding stability of vitamin D. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:5365-5375. [PMID: 37357441 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2226742] [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: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Vitamin D (VD) is produced by the skin upon exposure to sunlight or is obtained from dietary sources. Several risk factors are associated with VD deficiency including mutations and post-translational modifications in its transport protein known as vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) or GC-globulin. The two common single nucleotide polymorphisms rs7041 and rs4588 create three major isoforms of VDBP, including GC-1F also called wild type, GC1S, and GC-2. The 3D models for both GC-1F and GC-2 were constructed in their glycosylated states to decipher the effect of these mutations on the overall conformational changes and VD-binding affinity. The binding affinities were estimated using the Molecular Mechanics Poison-Boltzmann surface area (MM-PBSA) method and conformational changes were investigated after free energy landscapes estimations. Total free energies suggest that GC-1F exhibits stronger affinity (ΔE = -116.09 kJ/mol) than GC-2 (ΔE = -95 kJ/mol) variant with VD. The GC-1F isoforms had more streamlined motion compared to GC-2 isoforms, predicting a trade-off between cross-talk residues that significantly impacts protein structural stability. The data suggest that glycation at Thr418 plays a vital role in the overall VDBP-VD affinity by stabilizing the N-T loop that holds the domain I (VD-pocket) and domain III intact. The loss of glycation in GC-2 has a pivotal role in the inter-domain conformational stability of VDBP, which may ultimately affect VD transportation and maturation. These findings describe a novel mechanism in how mutations distant from the VD-active site change the overall conformational of the VDBP and abrogate the VDBP-VD interaction.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Usama
- Biochemistry Section, Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Zahid Khan
- Biochemistry Section, Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Aktar Ali
- Biological Screening Core, Warren Family Center for Drug Discovery, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Masaud Shah
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Biochemistry Section, Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Barua SA, Choudhary RK, Gawde J, Mishra N, Varma AK. Structural dynamics of clinically-reported VUS in the BARD1 ARD-BRCT region to predict the molecular basis of alterations. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:5475-5484. [PMID: 37418175 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2233028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
The functional domains of BARD1, comprise the Ankyrin Repeat Domain (ARD), C-Terminal domains (BRCTs), and a linker between ARD and the BRCTs, which are known to bind to Cleavage stimulation Factor complex-subunit of 50 kDa (CstF-50). The pathogenic mutation Q564H in the BARD1 ARD-linker-BRCT region has been reported to abrogate the binding between BARD1 and CstF-50. Intermediate penetrance variants of BARD1 are associated with the occurrence of breast cancer. Therefore, seven missense variants of unknown significance (VUS), L447V, P454L, N470S, V507M, I509T, C557S, and Q564H of BARD1, reported in the ARD domain and the linker region were evaluated via molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The mutants revealed statistically significantly different distributions of RMSD (root mean square deviation), residuewise RMSF (root mean square fluctuation), Rg (radius of gyration), SASA (solvent accessible surface area), and COM (centre of mass)-to-COM distance between the ARD and the BRCT repeat, between the wild type and each mutant. The secondary structural composition of the mutants was slightly altered relative to that of the wild type. However, the reported in-silico based prediction require further validation using in-vitro, biophysical and structure-based approachCommunicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siddhartha A Barua
- Varma Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, India
| | - Rajan K Choudhary
- Varma Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Jitendra Gawde
- Varma Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Neha Mishra
- Varma Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, India
| | - Ashok K Varma
- Varma Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Betts PC, Blakely SJ, Rutkowski BN, Bender B, Klingler C, Froese JT. Engineering of Rieske dioxygenase variants with improved cis-dihydroxylation activity for benzoates. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024. [PMID: 38951963 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Rieske dioxygenases have a long history of being utilized as green chemical tools in the organic synthesis of high-value compounds, due to their capacity to perform the cis-dihydroxylation of a wide variety of aromatic substrates. The practical utility of these enzymes has been hampered however by steric and electronic constraints on their substrate scopes, resulting in limited reactivity with certain substrate classes. Herein, we report the engineering of a widely used member of the Rieske dioxygenase class of enzymes, toluene dioxygenase (TDO), to produce improved variants with greatly increased activity for the cis-dihydroxylation of benzoates. Through rational mutagenesis and screening, TDO variants with substantially improved activity over the wild-type enzyme were identified. Homology modeling, docking studies, molecular dynamics simulations, and substrate tunnel analysis were applied in an effort to elucidate how the identified mutations resulted in improved activity for this polar substrate class. These analyses revealed modification of the substrate tunnel as the likely cause of the improved activity observed with the best-performing enzyme variants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Phillip C Betts
- Department of Chemistry, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, USA
| | - Spencer J Blakely
- Department of Chemistry, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, USA
| | | | - Brandon Bender
- Department of Chemistry, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, USA
| | - Cole Klingler
- Department of Chemistry, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, USA
| | - Jordan T Froese
- Department of Chemistry, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Zachrdla M, Turhan E, Pötzl C, Sadet A, Vasos PR, Kurzbach D. Hyperpolarized nuclear Overhauser enhancement of alanine methyl groups by doubly relayed proton exchange. JOURNAL OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE (SAN DIEGO, CALIF. : 1997) 2024; 364:107727. [PMID: 38941676 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmr.2024.107727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Hyperpolarized water in dissolution dynamic nuclear polarization (dDNP) experiments has emerged as a promising method for enhancing nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signals, particularly in studies of proteins and peptides. Herein, we focus on the application of "proton exchange-doubly relayed" nuclear Overhauser effects (NOE) from hyperpolarized water to achieve positive signal enhancement of methyl groups in the side chain of an alanine-glycine peptide. In particular, we show a cascade hyperpolarization transfer. Initial proton exchange between solvent and amide introduces hyperpolarization into the peptide. Subsequently, intermolecular NOE relays the hyperpolarization first to Ala-Hα and then in a second step to the Ala-CH3 moiety. Both NOEs have negative signs. Hence, the twice-relayed NOE pathway leads to a positive signal enhancement of the methyl group with respect to the thermal equilibrium magnetization. This effect might indicate a way towards hyperpolarized water-based signal enhancement for methyl groups, which are often used for NMR studies of large proteins in solution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milan Zachrdla
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währinger Str. 38, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Ertan Turhan
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währinger Str. 38, 1090 Vienna, Austria; University of Vienna, Vienna Doctoral School in Chemistry (DoSChem), Währinger Str. 42, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christopher Pötzl
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währinger Str. 38, 1090 Vienna, Austria; University of Vienna, Vienna Doctoral School in Chemistry (DoSChem), Währinger Str. 42, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Aude Sadet
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währinger Str. 38, 1090 Vienna, Austria; Biophysics and Biomedical Applications Laboratory and Group, LGED, Extreme Light Infrastructure-Nuclear Physics, "Horia Hulubei" National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering IFIN-HH, Reactorului Street, No. 30, 077125 Bucharest-Magurele, Romania
| | - Paul R Vasos
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währinger Str. 38, 1090 Vienna, Austria; Biophysics and Biomedical Applications Laboratory and Group, LGED, Extreme Light Infrastructure-Nuclear Physics, "Horia Hulubei" National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering IFIN-HH, Reactorului Street, No. 30, 077125 Bucharest-Magurele, Romania; University of Bucharest, Interdisciplinary School for Doctoral Studies (ISDS), 36-46 Bd Kogalniceanu, RO-050107 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dennis Kurzbach
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währinger Str. 38, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Parrow A, Kabedev A, Larsson P, Johansson P, Abrahamsson B, Bergström CAS. Drug solubilization in dog intestinal fluids with and without administration of lipid-based formulations. J Control Release 2024; 371:555-569. [PMID: 38844179 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.06.008] [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: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
The use of animal experiments can be minimized with computational models capable of reflecting the simulated environments. One such environment is intestinal fluid and the colloids formed in it. In this study we used molecular dynamics simulations to investigate solubilization patterns for three model drugs (carvedilol, felodipine and probucol) in dog intestinal fluid, a lipid-based formulation, and a mixture of both. We observed morphological transformations that lipids undergo due to the digestion process in the intestinal environment. Further, we evaluated the effect of bile salt concentration and observed the importance of interindividual variability. We applied two methods of estimating solubility enhancement based on the simulated data, of which one was in good qualitative agreement with the experimentally observed solubility enhancement. In addition to the computational simulations, we also measured solubility in i) aspirated dog intestinal fluid samples and ii) simulated canine intestinal fluid in the fasted state, and found there was no statistical difference between the two. Hence, a simplified dissolution medium suitable for in vitro studies provided physiologically relevant data for the systems explored. The computational protocol used in this study, coupled with in vitro studies using simulated intestinal fluids, can serve as a useful prescreening tool in the process of drug delivery strategies development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Albin Parrow
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala Biomedical Center, P.O. Box 580, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Aleksei Kabedev
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala Biomedical Center, P.O. Box 580, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per Larsson
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala Biomedical Center, P.O. Box 580, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; The Swedish Drug Delivery Center, Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Biomedical Center, P.O. Box 580, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | | | - Christel A S Bergström
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala Biomedical Center, P.O. Box 580, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; The Swedish Drug Delivery Center, Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Biomedical Center, P.O. Box 580, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Bian H, Liang X, Lu D, Lin J, Lu X, Jin J, Zhang L, Wu Y, Chen H, Zhang W, Luan X. In Silico Discovery of Stapled Peptide Inhibitor Targeting the Nur77-PPARγ Interaction and Its Anti-Breast-Cancer Efficacy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308435. [PMID: 38682467 PMCID: PMC11234460 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The binding of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) to the orphan nuclear receptor Nur77 facilitates the ubiquitination and degradation of Nur77, and leads to aberrant fatty acid uptake for breast cancer progression. Because of its crucial role in clinical prognosis, the interaction between Nur77 and PPARγ is an attractive target for anti-breast-cancer therapy. However, developing an inhibitor of the Nur77-PPARγ interaction poses a technical challenge due to the absence of the crystal structure of PPARγ and its corresponding interactive model with Nur77. Here, ST-CY14, a stapled peptide, is identified as a potent modulator of Nur77 with a KD value of 3.247 × 10-8 M by in silico analysis, rational design, and structural modification. ST-CY14 effectively increases Nur77 protein levels by blocking the Nur77-PPARγ interaction, thereby inhibiting lipid metabolism in breast tumor cells. Notably, ST-CY14 significantly suppresses breast cancer growth and bone metastasis in mice. The findings demonstrate the feasibility of exploiting directly Nur77-PPARγ interaction in breast cancer, and generate what to the best knowledge is the first direct inhibitor of the Nur77-PPARγ interaction available for impeding fatty acid uptake and therapeutic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huiting Bian
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xiaohui Liang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Dong Lu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jiayi Lin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xinchen Lu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jinmei Jin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Lijun Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hongzhuan Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Gao X, Guan Y, Wang C, Jia M, Ahmad S, Nouman MF, Ai H. Specific interaction from different Aβ 42 peptide fragments to α7nAChR-A study of molecular dynamics simulation. J Mol Model 2024; 30:233. [PMID: 38937296 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-024-06032-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Existing researches confirmed that β amyloid (Aβ) has a high affinity for the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR), associating closely to Alzheimer's disease. The majority of related studies focused on the experimental reports on the neuroprotective role of Aβ fragment (Aβx), however, with a lack of investigation into the most suitable binding region and mechanism of action between Aβ fragment and α7nAChR. In the study, we employed four Aβ1-42 fragments Aβx, Aβ1-16, Aβ10-16, Aβ12-28, and Aβ30-42, of which the first three were confirmed to play neuroprotective roles upon directly binding, to interact with α7nAChR. METHODS The protein-ligand docking server of CABS-DOCK was employed to obtain the α7nAChR-Aβx complexes. Only the top α7nAChR-Aβx complexes were used to perform all-atom GROMACS dynamics simulation in combination with Charmm36 force field, by which α7nAChR-Aβx interactions' dynamic behavior and specific locations of these different Aβx fragments were identified. MM-PBSA calculations were also done to estimate the binding free energies and the different contributions from the residues in the Aβx. Two distinct results for the first three and fourth Aβx fragments in binding site, strength, key residue, and orientation, account for why the fourth fails to play a neuroprotective role at the molecular level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xvzhi Gao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, People's Republic of China
| | - Yvning Guan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuanbo Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengke Jia
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, People's Republic of China
| | - Sajjad Ahmad
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, People's Republic of China
| | - Muhammad Fahad Nouman
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongqi Ai
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Zbiri M, Guilbert AAY. Dynamics of Polyalkylfluorene Conjugated Polymers: Insights from Neutron Spectroscopy and Molecular Dynamics Simulations. J Phys Chem B 2024; 128:6197-6206. [PMID: 38885432 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.4c01760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The dynamics of the conjugated polymers poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene) (PF8) and poly(9,9-didodecylfluorene) (PF12), differing by the length of their side chains, is investigated in the amorphous phase using the temperature-dependent quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS) technique. The neutron spectroscopy measurements are synergistically underpinned by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The probe is focused on the picosecond time scale, where the structural dynamics of both PF8 and PF12 would mainly be dominated by the motions of their side chains. The measurements highlighted temperature-induced dynamics, reflected in the broadening of the QENS spectra upon heating. The MD simulations reproduced well the observations; hence, the neutron measurements validate the MD force fields, the adopted amorphous model structures, and the numerical procedure. As the QENS spectra are dominated by the signal from the hydrogens on the backbones and side chains of PF8 and PF12, extensive analysis of the MD simulations allowed the following: (i) tagging these hydrogens, (ii) estimating their contributions to the self-part of the van Hove functions and hence to the QENS spectra, and (iii) determining the activation energies of the different motions involving the tagged hydrogens. PF12 is found to exhibit QENS spectra broader than those of PF8, indicating a more pronounced motion of the didodecyl chains of PF12 as compared to dioctyl chains of PF8. This is in agreement with the outcome of our MD analysis: (i) confirming a lower glass transition temperature of PF12 compared to PF8, (ii) showing PF12 having a lower density than PF8, and (iii) highlighting lower activation energies of the motions of PF12 in comparison with PF8. This study helped to gain insights into the temperature-induced side-chain dynamics of the PF8 and PF12 conjugated polymers, influencing their stability, which could potentially impact, on the practical side, the performance of the associated optoelectronic active layer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Zbiri
- Institut Laue-Langevin, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, Grenoble Cedex 9 38042, France
| | - Anne A Y Guilbert
- Department of Physics, Imperial College London, Prince Consort Road, London SW7 2AZ, U.K
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Lee D, Lee J, Kim W, Suh Y, Park J, Kim S, Kim Y, Kwon S, Jeong S. Systematic Selection of High-Affinity ssDNA Sequences to Carbon Nanotubes. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2308915. [PMID: 38932669 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have gained significant interest for their potential in biomedicine and nanoelectronics. The functionalization of SWCNTs with single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) enables the precise control of SWCNT alignment and the development of optical and electronic biosensors. This study addresses the current gaps in the field by employing high-throughput systematic selection, enriching high-affinity ssDNA sequences from a vast random library. Specific base compositions and patterns are identified that govern the binding affinity between ssDNA and SWCNTs. Molecular dynamics simulations validate the stability of ssDNA conformations on SWCNTs and reveal the pivotal role of hydrogen bonds in this interaction. Additionally, it is demonstrated that machine learning could accurately distinguish high-affinity ssDNA sequences, providing an accessible model on a dedicated webpage (http://service.k-medai.com/ssdna4cnt). These findings open new avenues for high-affinity ssDNA-SWCNT constructs for stable and sensitive molecular detection across diverse scientific disciplines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dakyeon Lee
- School of Biomedical Convergence Engineering, Pusan National University, Yangsan, 50612, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemistry, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaekang Lee
- School of Biomedical Convergence Engineering, Pusan National University, Yangsan, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Woojin Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kookmin University, Seoul, 02707, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeongjoo Suh
- School of Biomedical Convergence Engineering, Pusan National University, Yangsan, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiwoo Park
- School of Biomedical Convergence Engineering, Pusan National University, Yangsan, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungjee Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - YongJoo Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunyoung Kwon
- School of Biomedical Convergence Engineering, Pusan National University, Yangsan, 50612, Republic of Korea
- Center for Artificial Intelligence Research, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghwa Jeong
- School of Biomedical Convergence Engineering, Pusan National University, Yangsan, 50612, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Behbahanipour M, Navarro S, Bárcenas O, Garcia-Pardo J, Ventura S. Bioengineered self-assembled nanofibrils for high-affinity SARS-CoV-2 capture and neutralization. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 674:753-765. [PMID: 38955007 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.06.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spurred intense research efforts to develop new materials with antiviral activity. In this study, we genetically engineered amyloid-based nanofibrils for capturing and neutralizing SARS-CoV-2. Building upon the amyloid properties of a short Sup35 yeast prion sequence, we fused it to SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) capturing proteins, LCB1 and LCB3. By tuning the reaction conditions, we achieved the spontaneous self-assembly of the Sup35-LCB1 fusion protein into a highly homogeneous and well-dispersed amyloid-like fibrillar material. These nanofibrils exhibited high affinity for the SARS-CoV-2 RBD, effectively inhibiting its interaction with the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, the primary entry point for the virus into host cells. We further demonstrate that this functional nanomaterial entraps and neutralizes SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particles (VLPs), with a potency comparable to that of therapeutic antibodies. As a proof of concept, we successfully fabricated patterned surfaces that selectively capture SARS-CoV-2 RBD protein on wet environments. Collectively, these findings suggest that these protein-only nanofibrils hold promise as disinfecting coatings endowed with selective SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing properties to combat viral spread or in the development of sensitive viral sampling and diagnostic tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Molood Behbahanipour
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina (IBB) and Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain.
| | - Susanna Navarro
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina (IBB) and Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain.
| | - Oriol Bárcenas
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina (IBB) and Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain.
| | - Javier Garcia-Pardo
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina (IBB) and Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain.
| | - Salvador Ventura
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina (IBB) and Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Rodríguez Longarela N, Paredes Ramos M, López Vilariño JM. Bioinformatics tools for the study of bioactive peptides from vegetal sources: evolution and future perspectives. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2024:1-20. [PMID: 38907628 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2024.2367571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Bioactive peptides from vegetal sources have been shown to have functional properties as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihypertensive or antidiabetic capacity. For this reason, they have been proposed as an interesting and promising alternative to improve human health. In recent years, the numerous advances in the bioinformatics field for in silico prediction have speeded up the discovery of bioactive peptides, also reducing the associated costs when using an integrated approach between the classical and bioinformatics discovery. This review aims to provide an overview of the evolution, limitations and latest advances in the field of bioinformatics and computational tools, and specifically make a critical and comprehensive insight into computational techniques used to study the mechanism of interaction that allows the explanation of plant bioactive peptide functionality. In particular, molecular docking is considered key to explain the different functionalities that have been previously identified. The assumptions to simplify such a high complex environment implies a degree of uncertainty that can only be guaranteed and validated by in vitro or in vivo studies, however, the combination of databases, software and bioinformatics applications with the classical approach has become a promising procedure for the study of bioactive peptides.
Collapse
|
47
|
Obenauer ML, Dresel JA, Schweitzer M, Besenius P, Schmid F. Atomistic Molecular Dynamics Simulations of ABA-Type Polymer Peptide Conjugates: Insights into Supramolecular Structures and their Circular Dichroism Spectra. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024:e2400149. [PMID: 38973657 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202400149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
A combination of atomistic molecular dynamics (aMD) simulations and circular dichroism (CD) analysis is used to explore supramolecular structures of amphiphilic ABA-type triblock polymer peptide conjugates (PPC). Using the example of a recently introduced PPC with pH- and temperature responsive self-assembling behavior [Otter et al., Macromolecular Rapid Communications 2018, 39, 1800459], this study shows how molecular dynamics simulations of simplified fragment molecules can add crucial information to CD data, which helps to correctly identify the self-assembled structures and monitor the folding/unfolding pathways of the molecules. The findings offer insights into the nature of structural transitions induced by external stimuli, thus contributing to the understanding of the connection of microscopic structures with macroscopic properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maren Schweitzer
- Department of Chemistry, Duesbergweg 10-14, D-55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Pol Besenius
- Department of Chemistry, Duesbergweg 10-14, D-55128, Mainz, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
da Rosa Pinheiro T, Urquhart CG, Dantas GA, Cargnelutti JF, da Silva RB, de Souza PR, de Oliveira TE, Santos RCV, Iglesias BA. In vitro antimicrobial, antibiofilm photodynamic activity, and molecular dynamic simulations of tetra-cationic porphyrinmembrane interactions against foodborne microorganisms. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:248. [PMID: 38904740 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-04054-3] [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: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
This manuscript presents a new report on the in vitro antimicrobial photo-inactivation of foodborne microorganisms (Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes) using tetra-cationic porphyrins. Isomeric tetra-cationic porphyrins (3MeTPyP, 4MeTPyP, 3PtTPyP, and 4PtTPyP) were tested, and antimicrobial activity assays were performed at specific photosensitizer concentrations under dark and white-light LED irradiation conditions. Among the tested bacterial strains, 4MeTPyP exhibited the highest efficiency, inhibiting bacterial growth within just 60 min at low concentrations (17.5 μM). The minimal inhibitory concentration of 4MeTPyP increased when reactive oxygen species scavengers were present, indicating the significant involvement of singlet oxygen species in the photooxidation mechanism. Furthermore, the checkerboard assay testing the association of 4MeTPyP showed an indifferent effect. Atomic force microscopy analyses and dynamic simulations were conducted to enhance our understanding of the interaction between this porphyrin and the strain's membrane.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ticiane da Rosa Pinheiro
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Carolina Gonzalez Urquhart
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Gabrielle Aguiar Dantas
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, 97105-900, Brazil
| | | | | | - Paulo Ricardo de Souza
- Department of Physics, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, 97105-900, Brazil
| | | | | | - Bernardo Almeida Iglesias
- Bioinorganic and Porphyrin Materials Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, 97105-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Zhai Z, Chen Q, Wang Y, Ren W, Guo P. Orientational dynamics of the water layer adjacent to Au surface accelerated by polarization effect. J Chem Phys 2024; 160:234704. [PMID: 38884408 DOI: 10.1063/5.0198777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The orientation and rearrangement of water on a gold electrode significantly influences its physicochemical heterogeneous performance. Despite numerous experimental and theoretical studies aimed at uncovering the structural characteristics of interfacial water, the orientational behavior resulting from electrode-induced rearrangements remains a subject of ongoing debate. Here, we employed molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the adaptive structure and dynamics properties of interfacial water on Au(111) and Au(100) surfaces by considering a polarizable model for Au atoms in comparison with the non-polarizable model. Compared to the nonpolarizable systems, the polarization effect can enhance the interaction between water molecules and the gold surface. Unexpectedly, the rotational dynamics directly associated with the orientational behavior of water adjacent to the gold surface is accelerated, thereby reducing the hydrogen bond lifetime. The underlying mechanism for this anomalous phenomenon originates from the polarization effect, which induces the attraction of the positive hydrogen atoms to the surface by the negative image charge. This leads to a change in orientation that disrupts the hydrogen bonds in the first water layer and subsequently accelerates reorientation dynamics of water molecules adjacent to the gold surface. These results shed light on the intricate interplay between polarization effects and water molecule dynamics on metal surfaces, establishing the foundation for the rational regulation of the orientation of interfacial water.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhidong Zhai
- Department of Physics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of High Temperature Superconductors, International Centre of Quantum and Molecular Structures, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Qun Chen
- Department of Physics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of High Temperature Superconductors, International Centre of Quantum and Molecular Structures, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Yin Wang
- Department of Physics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of High Temperature Superconductors, International Centre of Quantum and Molecular Structures, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Wei Ren
- Department of Physics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of High Temperature Superconductors, International Centre of Quantum and Molecular Structures, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Pan Guo
- Department of Physics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of High Temperature Superconductors, International Centre of Quantum and Molecular Structures, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Jaczynska K, Esser V, Xu J, Sari L, Lin MM, Rosenmund C, Rizo J. A lever hypothesis for Synaptotagmin-1 action in neurotransmitter release. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.17.599417. [PMID: 38948826 PMCID: PMC11212951 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.17.599417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Neurotransmitter release is triggered in microseconds by Ca2+-binding to the Synaptotagmin-1 C2 domains and by SNARE complexes that form four-helix bundles between synaptic vesicles and plasma membranes, but the coupling mechanism between Ca2+-sensing and membrane fusion is unknown. Release requires extension of SNARE helices into juxtamembrane linkers that precede transmembrane regions (linker zippering) and binding of the Synaptotagmin-1 C2B domain to SNARE complexes through a 'primary interface' comprising two regions (I and II). The Synaptotagmin-1 Ca2+-binding loops were believed to accelerate membrane fusion by inducing membrane curvature, perturbing lipid bilayers or helping bridge the membranes, but SNARE complex binding orients the Ca2+-binding loops away from the fusion site, hindering these putative activities. Molecular dynamics simulations now suggest that Synaptotagmin-1 C2 domains near the site of fusion hinder SNARE action, providing an explanation for this paradox and arguing against previous models of Sytnaptotagmin-1 action. NMR experiments reveal that binding of C2B domain arginines to SNARE acidic residues at region II remains after disruption of region I. These results and fluorescence resonance energy transfer assays, together with previous data, suggest that Ca2+ causes reorientation of the C2B domain on the membrane and dissociation from the SNAREs at region I but not region II. Based on these results and molecular modeling, we propose that Synaptotagmin-1 acts as a lever that pulls the SNARE complex when Ca2+ causes reorientation of the C2B domain, facilitating linker zippering and fast membrane fusion. This hypothesis is supported by the electrophysiological data described in the accompanying paper.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Jaczynska
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Victoria Esser
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Junjie Xu
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Levent Sari
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Green Center for Systems Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Milo M. Lin
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Green Center for Systems Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Christian Rosenmund
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Neurophysiology, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence, Berlin, Germany
| | - Josep Rizo
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| |
Collapse
|