1
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Kawakami N, Sato H, Terasaka N, Matsumoto K, Suga H. MET-Activating Ubiquitin Multimers. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202307157. [PMID: 37450419 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202307157] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are generally activated through their dimerization and/or oligomerization induced by their cognate ligands, and one such RTK hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor, known as MET, plays an important role in tissue regeneration. Here we show the development of ubiquitin (Ub)-based protein ligand multimers, referred to as U-bodies, which act as surrogate agonists for MET and are derived from MET-binding macrocyclic peptides. Monomeric Ub constructs (U-body) were first generated by genetic implantation of a macrocyclic peptide pharmacophore into a structural loop of Ub (lasso-grafting) and subsequent optimization of its flanking spacer sequences via mRNA display. Such U-body constructs exhibit potent binding affinity to MET, thermal stability, and proteolytic stability. The U-body constructs also partially/fully inhibited or enhanced HGF-induced MET-phosphorylation. Their multimerization to dimeric, tetrameric, and octameric U-bodies linked by an appropriate peptide linker yielded potent MET activation activity and downstream cell proliferation-promoting activity. This work suggests that lasso-grafting of macrocycles to Ub is an effective approach to devising protein-based artificial RTK agonists and it can be useful in the development of a new class of biologics for various therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoya Kawakami
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Hiroki Sato
- Division of Tumor Dynamics and Regulation, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
- WPI-Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Naohiro Terasaka
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
- Earth-Life Science Institute, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 2-12-1 Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8550, Japan
| | - Kunio Matsumoto
- Division of Tumor Dynamics and Regulation, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
- WPI-Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Suga
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
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2
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Li M, Pedersen LC, Xu D. Targeting heparan sulfate-protein interactions with oligosaccharides and monoclonal antibodies. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1194293. [PMID: 37275960 PMCID: PMC10235622 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1194293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Heparan sulfate-binding proteins (HSBPs) are structurally diverse extracellular and membrane attached proteins that interact with HS under normal physiological conditions. Interactions with HS offer an additional level of control over the localization and function of HSBPs, which enables them to behave in a more refined manner. Because all cell signaling events start at the cell membrane, and cell-cell communication relies on translocation of soluble factors across the extracellular matrix, HS occupies an apical position in cellular signal transduction by interacting with hundreds of growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, enzymes, enzyme inhibitors, receptors and adhesion molecules. These extracellular and membrane proteins can play important roles in physiological and pathological conditions. For most HS-binding proteins, the interaction with HS represents an essential element in regulating their normal physiological functions. Such dependence on HS suggests that manipulating HS-protein interactions could be explored as a therapeutic strategy to selectively antagonize/activate HS-binding proteins. In this review, we will discuss current understanding of the diverse nature of HS-HSBP interactions, and the latest advancements in targeting the HS-binding site of HSBPs using structurally-defined HS oligosaccharides and monoclonal antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Li
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, the State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Lars C. Pedersen
- Genome Integrity and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Ding Xu
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, the State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
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3
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de Nola G, Leclercq B, Mougel A, Taront S, Simonneau C, Forneris F, Adriaenssens E, Drobecq H, Iamele L, Dubuquoy L, Melnyk O, Gherardi E, de Jonge H, Vicogne J. Dimerization of kringle 1 domain from hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor provides a potent MET receptor agonist. Life Sci Alliance 2022; 5:5/12/e202201424. [PMID: 35905995 PMCID: PMC9348577 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202201424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We designed and characterized a potent full MET receptor agonist consisting of two recombinantly linked HGF/SF kringle 1 domains and demonstrated its potential in epithelial tissue regeneration. Hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) and its cognate receptor MET play several essential roles in embryogenesis and regeneration in postnatal life of epithelial organs such as the liver, kidney, lung, and pancreas, prompting a strong interest in harnessing HGF/SF-MET signalling for regeneration of epithelial organs after acute or chronic damage. The limited stability and tissue diffusion of native HGF/SF, however, which reflect the tightly controlled, local mechanism of action of the morphogen, have led to a major search of HGF/SF mimics for therapy. In this work, we describe the rational design, production, and characterization of K1K1, a novel minimal MET agonist consisting of two copies of the kringle 1 domain of HGF/SF in tandem orientation. K1K1 is highly stable and displays biological activities equivalent or superior to native HGF/SF in a variety of in vitro assay systems and in a mouse model of liver disease. These data suggest that this engineered ligand may find wide applications in acute and chronic diseases of the liver and other epithelial organs dependent of MET activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni de Nola
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Unit of Immunology and General Pathology Section, Pavia, Italy
| | - Bérénice Leclercq
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019, UMR 9017, CIIL, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Alexandra Mougel
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019, UMR 9017, CIIL, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Solenne Taront
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286, INFINITE, Institute for Translational Research in Inflammation, Lille, France
| | - Claire Simonneau
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development (pRED), Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Federico Forneris
- The Armenise-Harvard Laboratory of Structural Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eric Adriaenssens
- University of Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Centre Oscar Lambret, UMR 9020, UMR 1277, Canther, Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille, France
| | - Hervé Drobecq
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019, UMR 9017, CIIL, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Luisa Iamele
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Unit of Immunology and General Pathology Section, Pavia, Italy
| | - Laurent Dubuquoy
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286, INFINITE, Institute for Translational Research in Inflammation, Lille, France
| | - Oleg Melnyk
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019, UMR 9017, CIIL, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Ermanno Gherardi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Unit of Immunology and General Pathology Section, Pavia, Italy
| | - Hugo de Jonge
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Unit of Immunology and General Pathology Section, Pavia, Italy
| | - Jérôme Vicogne
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019, UMR 9017, CIIL, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
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4
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Tauran Y, Lereau-Bernier M, Segard BD, Danoy M, Kimura K, Shinohara M, Brioude A, Sakai Y, de Jonge H, Melnyk O, Vicogne J, Leclerc E. A novel agonist for the HGF receptor MET promotes differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into hepatocyte-like cells. Dev Growth Differ 2022; 64:527-536. [PMID: 36251346 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12818] [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: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is the natural ligand of the MET receptor tyrosine kinase. This ligand-receptor couple is essential for the maturation process of hepatocytes. Previously, the rational design of a synthetic protein based on the assembly of two K1 domains from HGF led to the production of a potent and stable MET receptor agonist. In this study, we compared the effects of K1K1 with HGF during the differentiation of hepatocyte progenitors derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). In vitro, K1K1, in the range of 20 to 200 nM, successfully substituted for HGF and efficiently activated ERK downstream signaling. Analysis of the levels of hepatocyte markers showed typical liver mRNA and protein expression (HNF4α, albumin, alpha-fetoprotein, CYP3A4) and phenotypes. Although full maturation was not achieved, the results suggest that K1K1 is an attractive candidate MET agonist suitable for replacing complex and expensive HGF treatments to induce hepatic differentiation of hiPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Tauran
- CNRS IRL 2820, Laboratory for Integrated Micro Mechatronic Systems, Institute of Industrial Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,LMI CNRS UMR5615, Université Lyon 1, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Myriam Lereau-Bernier
- CNRS IRL 2820, Laboratory for Integrated Micro Mechatronic Systems, Institute of Industrial Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Bertrand David Segard
- CNRS IRL 2820, Laboratory for Integrated Micro Mechatronic Systems, Institute of Industrial Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mathieu Danoy
- CNRS IRL 2820, Laboratory for Integrated Micro Mechatronic Systems, Institute of Industrial Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiichi Kimura
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Marie Shinohara
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Arnaud Brioude
- LMI CNRS UMR5615, Université Lyon 1, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Yasuyuki Sakai
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hugo de Jonge
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Pavia University Immunology and General Pathology section, Pavia, Italy
| | - Oleg Melnyk
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019, UMR 9017, CIIL, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Jérôme Vicogne
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019, UMR 9017, CIIL, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Eric Leclerc
- CNRS IRL 2820, Laboratory for Integrated Micro Mechatronic Systems, Institute of Industrial Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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5
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Holmes SG, Nagarajan B, Desai UR. 3- O-Sulfation induces sequence-specific compact topologies in heparan sulfate that encode a dynamic sulfation code. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:3884-3898. [PMID: 35891779 PMCID: PMC9309406 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Heparan sulfate (HS) is arguably the most diverse linear biopolymer that is known to modulate hundreds of proteins. Whereas the configurational and conformational diversity of HS is well established in terms of varying sulfation patterns and iduronic acid (IdoA) puckers, a linear helical topology resembling a cylindrical rod is the only topology thought to be occupied by the biopolymer. We reasoned that 3-O-sulfation, a rare modification in natural HS, may induce novel topologies that contribute to selective recognition of proteins. In this work, we studied a library of 24 distinct HS hexasaccharides using molecular dynamics (MD). We discovered novel compact (C) topologies that are populated significantly by a unique group of 3-O-sulfated sequences containing IdoA residues. 3-O-sulfated sequences containing glucuronic acid (GlcA) residue and sequences devoid of 3-O-sulfate groups did not exhibit high levels of the C topology and primarily exhibited only the canonical linear (L) form. The C topology arises under dynamical conditions due to rotation around an IdoA → GlcN glycosidic linkage, especially in psi (Ψ) torsion. At an atomistic level, the L → C transformation is a multi-factorial phenomenon engineered to reduce like-charge repulsion, release one or more HS-bound water molecules, and organize a bi-dentate "IdoA-cation-IdoA" interaction. These forces also drive an L → C transformation in a 3-O-sulfated octasaccharide, which has shown evidence of the unique C topology in the co-crystallized state. The 3-O-sulfate-based generation of unique, sequence-specific, compact topologies indicate that natural HS encodes a dynamic sulfation code that could be exploited for selective recognition of target proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel G. Holmes
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23219, USA
| | - Balaji Nagarajan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23219, USA
| | - Umesh R. Desai
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23219, USA
- Corresponding author at: Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery, and Development, 800 E. Leigh Street, Suite 212, Richmond, VA 23219, USA.
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6
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Kelly JH. A single injection of CM1021, a long half-life hepatocyte growth factor mimetic, increases liver mass in mice. Biochem Biophys Rep 2021; 28:101186. [PMID: 34977363 PMCID: PMC8683692 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2021.101186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite years of positive animal data, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) has never been developed into a useful pharmaceutical, primarily due to its poor pharmacological properties. CM1021 is a fusion protein containing the K1 loop of HGF and the human IgG1 Fc region. The experiments described here demonstrate that CM1021 has the biological properties of HGF and the pharmacological properties of a monoclonal antibody. CM1021 stimulates scattering and branching morphogenesis in MDCK cells and stimulates liver growth in vivo. Unlike HGF, it is available via intraperitoneal injection and has an estimated half-life similar to an antibody. Fusion of the K1 loop of HGF to the Fc region of IgG creates CM1021, a long half-life HGF mimetic. CM1021 has the biological properties of HGF without the pharmacological liabilities. CM1021 stimulates hepatocyte division in vivo. CM1021 can realize the potential of HGF in regenerative medicine.
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7
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Gayen P, Jan S, Chowdhury N, Ghosh S, Hembram M, Bagchi A, Sinha Roy R. Engineered Bio-inspired Multifunctional Peptide- and Protein-based Therapeutic Biomolecules for Better Wound Care. Chem Asian J 2021; 16:4018-4036. [PMID: 34643055 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202101022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Developing non-immunogenic therapeutic biomolecules for facilitating blood clotting followed by wound healing via therapeutic angiogenesis, still remains a formidable challenge. Excessive blood loss of accident victims and battalions cause a huge number of deaths worldwide. Patients with inherited bleeding disorders face acute complications during injury and post-surgery. Biologically-inspired peptide-based hemostat can act as a potential therapeutic for handling coagulopathy. Additionally, non-healing wounds for patients having ischemic diseases can cause severe clinical complications. Advancement in stabilized growth-factor-based proangiogenic therapy may offer effective possibilities for the treatment of ischemic pathology. This review will discuss nature-inspired biocompatible stabilized peptide- and protein-based molecular medicines to serve unmet medical challenges for handling traumatic coagulopathy and impaired wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paramita Gayen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, 741246, Mohanpur, India
| | - Somnath Jan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, 741246, Mohanpur, India
| | - Nilkanta Chowdhury
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, 741235, Nadia, West Bengal, India
| | - Snehasish Ghosh
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, 741246, Mohanpur, India
| | - Monjuri Hembram
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, 741246, Mohanpur, India
| | - Angshuman Bagchi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, 741235, Nadia, West Bengal, India
| | - Rituparna Sinha Roy
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, 741246, Mohanpur, India.,Centre for Advanced Functional Materials, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, 741246, Mohanpur, India.,Centre for Climate and Environmental Studies, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, 741246, Mohanpur, India
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8
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Uchikawa E, Chen Z, Xiao GY, Zhang X, Bai XC. Structural basis of the activation of c-MET receptor. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4074. [PMID: 34210960 PMCID: PMC8249616 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24367-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The c-MET receptor is a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) that plays essential roles in normal cell development and motility. Aberrant activation of c-MET can lead to both tumors growth and metastatic progression of cancer cells. C-MET can be activated by either hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), or its natural isoform NK1. Here, we report the cryo-EM structures of c-MET/HGF and c-MET/NK1 complexes in the active state. The c-MET/HGF complex structure reveals that, by utilizing two distinct interfaces, one HGF molecule is sufficient to induce a specific dimerization mode of c-MET for receptor activation. The binding of heparin as well as a second HGF to the 2:1 c-MET:HGF complex further stabilize this active conformation. Distinct to HGF, NK1 forms a stable dimer, and bridges two c-METs in a symmetrical manner for activation. Collectively, our studies provide structural insights into the activation mechanisms of c-MET, and reveal how two isoforms of the same ligand use dramatically different mechanisms to activate the receptor. Activation of c-MET receptor tyrosine kinase involves hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and glycosaminoglycans, but the molecular mechanism is still under debate. Here, the authors present cryoEM structures of c-MET bound to two HGF splice variants and heparin, revealing the structural basis for c-MET activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiko Uchikawa
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Zhiming Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Guan-Yu Xiao
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Department of Thoracic Head Neck Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xuewu Zhang
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA. .,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Xiao-Chen Bai
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA. .,Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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9
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State of the structure address on MET receptor activation by HGF. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:645-661. [PMID: 33860789 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The MET receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) and its cognate ligand hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) comprise a signaling axis essential for development, wound healing and tissue homeostasis. Aberrant HGF/MET signaling is a driver of many cancers and contributes to drug resistance to several approved therapeutics targeting other RTKs, making MET itself an important drug target. In RTKs, homeostatic receptor signaling is dependent on autoinhibition in the absence of ligand binding and orchestrated set of conformational changes induced by ligand-mediated receptor dimerization that result in activation of the intracellular kinase domains. A fundamental understanding of these mechanisms in the MET receptor remains incomplete, despite decades of research. This is due in part to the complex structure of the HGF ligand, which remains unknown in its full-length form, and a lack of high-resolution structures of the complete MET extracellular portion in an apo or ligand-bound state. A current view of HGF-dependent MET activation has evolved from biochemical and structural studies of HGF and MET fragments and here we review what these findings have thus far revealed.
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10
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Maszota-Zieleniak M, Marcisz M, Kogut MM, Siebenmorgen T, Zacharias M, Samsonov SA. Evaluation of replica exchange with repulsive scaling approach for docking glycosaminoglycans. J Comput Chem 2021; 42:1040-1053. [PMID: 33768554 DOI: 10.1002/jcc.26496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), long linear periodic anionic polysaccharides, are key molecules in the extracellular matrix (ECM). Therefore, deciphering their role in the biologically relevant context is important for fundamental understanding of the processes ongoing in ECM and for establishing new strategies in the regenerative medicine. Although GAGs represent a number of computational challenges, molecular docking is a powerful tool for analysis of their interactions. Despite the recent development of GAG-specific docking approaches, there is plenty of room for improvement. Here, replica exchange molecular dynamics with repulsive scaling (REMD-RS) recently proved to be a successful approach for protein-protein complexes, was applied to dock GAGs. In this method, effective pairwise radii are increased in different Hamiltonian replicas. REMD-RS is shown to be an attractive alternative to classical docking approaches for GAGs. This work contributes to setting up of GAG-specific computational protocols and provides new insights into the nature of these biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Till Siebenmorgen
- Physics Department, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
| | - Martin Zacharias
- Physics Department, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
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11
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Santonastaso A, Maggi M, De Jonge H, Scotti C. High resolution structure of human apolipoprotein (a) kringle IV type 2: beyond the lysine binding site. J Lipid Res 2020; 61:1687-1696. [PMID: 32907988 PMCID: PMC7707183 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.ra120001023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] is characterized by an LDL-like composition in terms of lipids and apoB100, and by one copy of a unique glycoprotein, apo(a). The apo(a) structure is mainly based on the repetition of tandem kringle domains with high homology to plasminogen kringles 4 and 5. Among them, kringle IV type 2 (KIV-2) is present in a highly variable number of genetically encoded repeats, whose length is inversely related to Lp(a) plasma concentration and cardiovascular risk. Despite it being the major component of apo(a), the actual function of KIV-2 is still unclear. Here, we describe the first high-resolution crystallographic structure of this domain. It shows a general fold very similar to other KIV domains with high and intermediate affinity for the lysine analog, ε-aminocaproic acid. Interestingly, KIV-2 presents a lysine binding site (LBS) with a unique shape and charge distribution. KIV-2 affinity for predicted small molecule binders was found to be negligible in surface plasmon resonance experiments; and with the LBS being nonfunctional, we propose to rename it "pseudo-LBS". Further investigation of the protein by computational small-molecule docking allowed us to identify a possible heparin-binding site away from the LBS, which was confirmed by specific reverse charge mutations abolishing heparin binding. This study opens new possibilities to define the pathogenesis of Lp(a)-related diseases and to facilitate the design of specific therapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Santonastaso
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Maristella Maggi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Hugo De Jonge
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Scotti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
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12
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A Novel HGF/SF Receptor (MET) Agonist Transiently Delays the Disease Progression in an Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Mouse Model by Promoting Neuronal Survival and Dampening the Immune Dysregulation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228542. [PMID: 33198383 PMCID: PMC7696450 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease with no effective treatment. The Hepatocyte Growth Factor/Scatter Factor (HGF/SF), through its receptor MET, is one of the most potent survival-promoting factors for motor neurons (MN) and is known as a modulator of immune cell function. We recently developed a novel recombinant MET agonist optimized for therapy, designated K1K1. K1K1 was ten times more potent than HGF/SF in preventing MN loss in an in vitro model of ALS. Treatments with K1K1 delayed the onset of muscular impairment and reduced MN loss and skeletal muscle denervation of superoxide dismutase 1 G93A (SOD1G93A) mice. This effect was associated with increased levels of phospho-extracellular signal-related kinase (pERK) in the spinal cord and sciatic nerves and the activation of non-myelinating Schwann cells. Moreover, reduced activated microglia and astroglia, lower T cells infiltration and increased interleukin 4 (IL4) levels were found in the lumbar spinal cord of K1K1 treated mice. K1K1 treatment also prevented the infiltration of T cells in skeletal muscle of SOD1G93A mice. All these protective effects were lost on long-term treatment suggesting a mechanism of drug tolerance. These data provide a rational justification for further exploring the long-term loss of K1K1 efficacy in the perspective of providing a potential treatment for ALS.
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13
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Abstract
Cooperation between cells in multicellular organisms is preserved by an active regulation of growth through the control of cell division. Molecular signals used by cells for tissue growth are usually present during developmental stages, angiogenesis, wound healing and other processes. In this context, the use of molecular signals triggering cell division is a puzzle, because any molecule inducing and aiding growth can be exploited by a cancer cell, disrupting cellular cooperation. A significant difference is that normal cells in a multicellular organism have evolved in competition between high-level organisms to be altruistic, being able to send signals even if it is to their detriment. Conversely, cancer cells evolve their abuse over the cancer’s lifespan by out-competing their neighbours. A successful mutation leading to cancer must evolve to be adaptive, enabling a cancer cell to send a signal that results in higher chances to be selected. Using a mathematical model of such molecular signalling mechanism, this paper argues that a signal mechanism would be effective against abuse by cancer if it affects the cell that generates the signal as well as neighbouring cells that would receive a benefit without any cost, resulting in a selective disadvantage for a cancer signalling cell. We find that such molecular signalling mechanisms normally operate in cells as exemplified by growth factors. In scenarios of global and local competition between cells, we calculate how this process affects the fixation probability of a mutant cell generating such a signal, and find that this process can play a key role in limiting the emergence of cancer.
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14
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Xie M, Li JP. Heparan sulfate proteoglycan - A common receptor for diverse cytokines. Cell Signal 2018; 54:115-121. [PMID: 30500378 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2018.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) are macromolecular glyco-conjugates expressed ubiquitously on the cell surface and in the extracellular matrix where they interact with a wide range of ligands to regulate many aspects of cellular function. The capacity of the side glycosaminoglycan chain heparan sulfate (HS) being able to interact with diverse protein ligands relies on its complex structure that is generated by a controlled biosynthesis process, involving the actions of glycosyl-transferases, sulfotransferases and the glucuronyl C5-epimerase. It is believed that activities of the modification enzymes control the HS structures that are designed to serve the biological functions in a given cell or biological status. In this review, we briefly discuss recent understandings on the roles of HSPG in cytokine stimulated cellular signaling, focusing on FGF, TGF-β, Wnt, Hh, HGF and VEGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Xie
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jin-Ping Li
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, SciLifeLab Uppsala, The Biomedical Center, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden.
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15
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Thayaparan T, Petrovic RM, Achkova DY, Zabinski T, Davies DM, Klampatsa A, Parente-Pereira AC, Whilding LM, van der Stegen SJ, Woodman N, Sheaff M, Cochran JR, Spicer JF, Maher J. CAR T-cell immunotherapy of MET-expressing malignant mesothelioma. Oncoimmunology 2017; 6:e1363137. [PMID: 29209570 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2017.1363137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesothelioma is an incurable cancer for which effective therapies are required. Aberrant MET expression is prevalent in mesothelioma, although targeting using small molecule-based therapeutics has proven disappointing. Chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) couple the HLA-independent binding of a cell surface target to the delivery of a tailored T-cell activating signal. Here, we evaluated the anti-tumor activity of MET re-targeted CAR T-cells against mesothelioma. Using immunohistochemistry, MET was detected in 67% of malignant pleural mesotheliomas, most frequently of epithelioid or biphasic subtype. The presence of MET did not influence patient survival. Candidate MET-specific CARs were engineered in which a CD28+CD3ζ endodomain was fused to one of 3 peptides derived from the N and K1 domains of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), which represents the minimum MET binding element present in this growth factor. Using an NIH3T3-based artificial antigen-presenting cell system, we found that all 3 candidate CARs demonstrated high specificity for MET. By contrast, these CARs did not mediate T-cell activation upon engagement of other HGF binding partners, namely CD44v6 or heparan sulfate proteoglycans, including Syndecan-1. NK1-targeted CARs demonstrated broadly similar in vitro potency, indicated by destruction of MET-expressing mesothelioma cell lines, accompanied by cytokine release. In vivo anti-tumor activity was demonstrated following intraperitoneal delivery to mice with an established mesothelioma xenograft. Progressive tumor regression occurred without weight loss or other clinical indicators of toxicity. These data confirm the frequent expression of MET in malignant pleural mesothelioma and demonstrate that this can be targeted effectively and safely using a CAR T-cell immunotherapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thivyan Thayaparan
- King's College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Roseanna M Petrovic
- King's College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Daniela Y Achkova
- King's College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Tomasz Zabinski
- King's College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - David M Davies
- King's College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Astero Klampatsa
- King's College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK.,Pulmonary, Allergy & Critical Care Division, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ana C Parente-Pereira
- King's College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Lynsey M Whilding
- King's College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | | | - Natalie Woodman
- King's College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Michael Sheaff
- Department of Histopathology, Barts Health NHS Trust, The Royal London Hospital, London E1 2ES, UK
| | - Jennifer R Cochran
- Department of Bioengineering and Chemical Engineering, Stanford Cancer Institute, 443 Via Ortega, Room 356, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - James F Spicer
- King's College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK.,Department of Medical Oncology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - John Maher
- King's College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK.,Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK.,Department of Immunology, Eastbourne Hospital, Kings Drive, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 2UD, UK
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16
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Mulloy B, Hogwood J, Gray E, Lever R, Page CP. Pharmacology of Heparin and Related Drugs. Pharmacol Rev 2016; 68:76-141. [PMID: 26672027 DOI: 10.1124/pr.115.011247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 227] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Heparin has been recognized as a valuable anticoagulant and antithrombotic for several decades and is still widely used in clinical practice for a variety of indications. The anticoagulant activity of heparin is mainly attributable to the action of a specific pentasaccharide sequence that acts in concert with antithrombin, a plasma coagulation factor inhibitor. This observation has led to the development of synthetic heparin mimetics for clinical use. However, it is increasingly recognized that heparin has many other pharmacological properties, including but not limited to antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antimetastatic actions. Many of these activities are independent of its anticoagulant activity, although the mechanisms of these other activities are currently less well defined. Nonetheless, heparin is being exploited for clinical uses beyond anticoagulation and developed for a wide range of clinical disorders. This article provides a "state of the art" review of our current understanding of the pharmacology of heparin and related drugs and an overview of the status of development of such drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Mulloy
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.); and University College London School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - John Hogwood
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.); and University College London School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - Elaine Gray
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.); and University College London School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - Rebecca Lever
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.); and University College London School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - Clive P Page
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.); and University College London School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
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17
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Ueki R, Ueki A, Kanda N, Sando S. Oligonucleotide-Based Mimetics of Hepatocyte Growth Factor. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2015; 55:579-82. [PMID: 26592704 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201508572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2015] [Revised: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Oligonucleotide-based hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) mimetics are described. A DNA aptamer to Met, a cognate receptor for HGF, was shown to induce Met activation when used in dimer form. The most potent aptamer dimer, ss-0, which was composed solely of 100-mer single-stranded DNA, exhibited nanomolar potency. Aptamer ss-0 reproduced HGF-induced cellular behaviors, including migration and proliferation. The present work sheds light on oligonucleotides as a novel chemical entity for the design of growth factor mimetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Ueki
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 (Japan)
| | - Ayaka Ueki
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 (Japan)
| | - Naoto Kanda
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 (Japan)
| | - Shinsuke Sando
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 (Japan).
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18
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Ueki R, Ueki A, Kanda N, Sando S. Oligonucleotide‐Based Mimetics of Hepatocyte Growth Factor. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201508572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Ueki
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 Japan
| | - Ayaka Ueki
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 Japan
| | - Naoto Kanda
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 Japan
| | - Shinsuke Sando
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 Japan
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19
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Gallagher J. Fell-Muir Lecture: Heparan sulphate and the art of cell regulation: a polymer chain conducts the protein orchestra. Int J Exp Pathol 2015; 96:203-31. [PMID: 26173450 PMCID: PMC4561558 DOI: 10.1111/iep.12135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Heparan sulphate (HS) sits at the interface of the cell and the extracellular matrix. It is a member of the glycosaminoglycan family of anionic polysaccharides with unique structural features designed for protein interaction and regulation. Its client proteins include soluble effectors (e.g. growth factors, morphogens, chemokines), membrane receptors and cell adhesion proteins such as fibronectin, fibrillin and various types of collagen. The protein-binding properties of HS, together with its strategic positioning in the pericellular domain, are indicative of key roles in mediating the flow of regulatory signals between cells and their microenvironment. The control of transmembrane signalling is a fundamental element in the complex biology of HS. It seems likely that, in some way, HS orchestrates diverse signalling pathways to facilitate information processing inside the cell. A dictionary definition of an orchestra is 'a large group of musicians who play together on various instruments …' to paraphrase, the HS orchestra is 'a large group of proteins that play together on various receptors'. HS conducts this orchestra to ensure that proteins hit the right notes on their receptors but, in the manner of a true conductor, does it also set 'the musical pulse' and create rhythm and harmony attractive to the cell? This is too big a question to answer but fun to think about as you read this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Gallagher
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, Institute of Cancer Sciences, Paterson Building, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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20
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Sigurdardottir AG, Winter A, Sobkowicz A, Fragai M, Chirgadze D, Ascher DB, Blundell TL, Gherardi E. Exploring the chemical space of the lysine-binding pocket of the first kringle domain of hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) yields a new class of inhibitors of HGF/SF-MET binding. Chem Sci 2015; 6:6147-6157. [PMID: 30090230 PMCID: PMC6054100 DOI: 10.1039/c5sc02155c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The growth/motility factor hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) and its receptor, the tyrosine kinase MET, constitute a signalling system essential for embryogenesis and for tissue/organ regeneration in post-natal life. HGF/SF-MET signalling, however, also plays a key role in the onset of metastasis of a large number of human tumours. Both HGF/SF and MET are high molecular weight proteins that bury an extensive interface upon complex formation and thus constitute a challenging target for the development of low molecular weight inhibitors. Here we have used surface plasmon resonance (SPR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and X-ray crystallography to screen a diverse fragment library of 1338 members as well as a range of piperazine-like compounds. Several small molecules were found to bind in the lysine-binding pocket of the kringle 1 domain of HGF/SF and its truncated splice variant NK1. We have defined the binding mode of these compounds, explored their biological activity and we show that selected fragments inhibit MET downstream signalling. Thus we demonstrate that targeting the lysine-binding pocket of NK1 is an effective strategy to generate MET receptor antagonists and we offer proof of concept that the HGF/SF-MET interface may be successfully targeted with small molecules. These studies have broad implications for the development of HGF/SF-MET therapeutics and cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- A G Sigurdardottir
- Department of Biochemistry , University of Cambridge , 80 Tennis Court Road , Cambridge , CB2 1GA , UK . ;
| | - A Winter
- Department of Biochemistry , University of Cambridge , 80 Tennis Court Road , Cambridge , CB2 1GA , UK . ;
| | - A Sobkowicz
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Center , Hills Road , Cambridge , CB2 0QH , UK
| | - M Fragai
- Magnetic Resonance Center (CERM) and Department of Chemistry , University of Florence , Via L. Sacconi 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino , Florence , Italy
| | - D Chirgadze
- Department of Biochemistry , University of Cambridge , 80 Tennis Court Road , Cambridge , CB2 1GA , UK . ;
| | - D B Ascher
- Department of Biochemistry , University of Cambridge , 80 Tennis Court Road , Cambridge , CB2 1GA , UK . ;
| | - T L Blundell
- Department of Biochemistry , University of Cambridge , 80 Tennis Court Road , Cambridge , CB2 1GA , UK . ;
| | - E Gherardi
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Center , Hills Road , Cambridge , CB2 0QH , UK.,Unit of Immunology and General Pathology , Department of Molecular Medicine , University of Pavia , 9 via A Ferrata , 27100 Pavia , Italy
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21
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Blaszczyk M, Harmer NJ, Chirgadze DY, Ascher DB, Blundell TL. Achieving high signal-to-noise in cell regulatory systems: Spatial organization of multiprotein transmembrane assemblies of FGFR and MET receptors. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 118:103-11. [PMID: 25957048 PMCID: PMC4832006 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2015.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Revised: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
How is information communicated both within and between cells of living systems with high signal to noise? We discuss transmembrane signaling models involving two receptor tyrosine kinases: the fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) and the MET receptor. We suggest that simple dimerization models might occur opportunistically giving rise to noise but cooperative clustering of the receptor tyrosine kinases observed in these systems is likely to be important for signal transduction. We propose that this may be a more general prerequisite for high signal to noise in transmembrane receptor signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Blaszczyk
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK
| | - Nicholas J Harmer
- The Henry Wellcome Building for Biocatalysis, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Dimitri Y Chirgadze
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK
| | - David B Ascher
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK.
| | - Tom L Blundell
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK.
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22
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Simonneau C, Bérénice Leclercq, Mougel A, Adriaenssens E, Paquet C, Raibaut L, Ollivier N, Drobecq H, Marcoux J, Cianférani S, Tulasne D, de Jonge H, Melnyk O, Vicogne J. Semi-synthesis of a HGF/SF kringle one (K1) domain scaffold generates a potent in vivo MET receptor agonist. Chem Sci 2015; 6:2110-2121. [PMID: 28717459 PMCID: PMC5496502 DOI: 10.1039/c4sc03856h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of MET receptor agonists is an important goal in regenerative medicine, but is limited by the complexity and incomplete understanding of its interaction with HGF/SF (Hepatocyte Growth Factor/Scatter Factor). NK1 is a natural occurring agonist comprising the N-terminal (N) and the first kringle (K1) domains of HGF/SF. In the presence of heparin, NK1 can self-associate into a "head to tail" dimer which is considered as the minimal structural module able to trigger MET dimerization and activation whereas isolated K1 and N domains showed a weak or a complete lack of agonistic activity respectively. Starting from these structural and biological observations, we investigated whether it was possible to recapitulate the biological properties of NK1 using a new molecular architecture of isolated N or K1 domains. Therefore, we engineered multivalent N or K1 scaffolds by combining synthetic and homogeneous site-specifically biotinylated N and K1 domains (NB and K1B) and streptavidin (S). NB alone or in complex failed to activate MET signaling and to trigger cellular phenotypes. Importantly and to the contrary of K1B alone, the semi-synthetic K1B/S complex mimicked NK1 MET agonist activity in cell scattering, morphogenesis and survival phenotypic assays. Impressively, K1B/S complex stimulated in vivo angiogenesis and, when injected in mice, protected the liver against fulminant hepatitis in a MET dependent manner whereas NK1 and HGF were substantially less potent. These data reveal that without N domain, proper multimerization of K1 domain is a promising strategy for the rational design of powerful MET agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Simonneau
- UMR CNRS 8161 CNRS , Université de Lille , Institut Pasteur de Lille , 1 rue du Pr Calmette , 59021 Lille Cedex , France . ;
| | - Bérénice Leclercq
- UMR CNRS 8161 CNRS , Université de Lille , Institut Pasteur de Lille , 1 rue du Pr Calmette , 59021 Lille Cedex , France . ;
| | - Alexandra Mougel
- UMR CNRS 8161 CNRS , Université de Lille , Institut Pasteur de Lille , 1 rue du Pr Calmette , 59021 Lille Cedex , France . ;
| | - Eric Adriaenssens
- UMR CNRS 8161 CNRS , Université de Lille , Institut Pasteur de Lille , 1 rue du Pr Calmette , 59021 Lille Cedex , France . ;
| | - Charlotte Paquet
- SIRIC ONCOLille , Maison Régionale de la Recherche Clinique , 6 rue du Pr. Laguesse , 59037 Lille Cedex , France
| | - Laurent Raibaut
- UMR CNRS 8161 CNRS , Université de Lille , Institut Pasteur de Lille , 1 rue du Pr Calmette , 59021 Lille Cedex , France . ;
| | - Nathalie Ollivier
- UMR CNRS 8161 CNRS , Université de Lille , Institut Pasteur de Lille , 1 rue du Pr Calmette , 59021 Lille Cedex , France . ;
| | - Hervé Drobecq
- UMR CNRS 8161 CNRS , Université de Lille , Institut Pasteur de Lille , 1 rue du Pr Calmette , 59021 Lille Cedex , France . ;
| | - Julien Marcoux
- UMR 7178 CNRS , Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse BioOrganique (LSMBO) , IPHC-DSA , Université de Strasbourg , 25 rue Becquerel , 67087 Strasbourg , France
| | - Sarah Cianférani
- UMR 7178 CNRS , Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse BioOrganique (LSMBO) , IPHC-DSA , Université de Strasbourg , 25 rue Becquerel , 67087 Strasbourg , France
| | - David Tulasne
- UMR CNRS 8161 CNRS , Université de Lille , Institut Pasteur de Lille , 1 rue du Pr Calmette , 59021 Lille Cedex , France . ;
| | - Hugo de Jonge
- Division of Immunology and General Pathology , Department of Molecular Medicine , University of Pavia , 9 via A Ferrata , 27100 Pavia , Italy
| | - Oleg Melnyk
- UMR CNRS 8161 CNRS , Université de Lille , Institut Pasteur de Lille , 1 rue du Pr Calmette , 59021 Lille Cedex , France . ;
| | - Jérôme Vicogne
- UMR CNRS 8161 CNRS , Université de Lille , Institut Pasteur de Lille , 1 rue du Pr Calmette , 59021 Lille Cedex , France . ;
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23
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Wright JW, Kawas LH, Harding JW. The development of small molecule angiotensin IV analogs to treat Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Prog Neurobiol 2014; 125:26-46. [PMID: 25455861 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2014.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases are neurodegenerative diseases presently without effective drug treatments. AD is characterized by general cognitive impairment, difficulties with memory consolidation and retrieval, and with advanced stages episodes of agitation and anger. AD is increasing in frequency as life expectancy increases. Present FDA approved medications do little to slow disease progression and none address the underlying progressive loss of synaptic connections and neurons. New drug design approaches are needed beyond cholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonists. Patients with PD experience the symptomatic triad of bradykinesis, tremor-at-rest, and rigidity with the possibility of additional non-motor symptoms including sleep disturbances, depression, dementia, and autonomic nervous system failure. This review summarizes available information regarding the role of the brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in learning and memory and motor functions, with particular emphasis on research results suggesting a link between angiotensin IV (AngIV) interacting with the AT4 receptor subtype. Currently there is controversy over the identity of this AT4 receptor protein. Albiston and colleagues have offered convincing evidence that it is the insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP). Recently members of our laboratory have presented evidence that the brain AngIV/AT4 receptor system coincides with the brain hepatocyte growth factor/c-Met receptor system. In an effort to resolve this issue we have synthesized a number of small molecule AngIV-based compounds that are metabolically stable, penetrate the blood-brain barrier, and facilitate compromised memory and motor systems. These research efforts are described along with details concerning a recently synthesized molecule, Dihexa that shows promise in overcoming memory and motor dysfunctions by augmenting synaptic connectivity via the formation of new functional synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Wright
- Departments of Psychology, Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience and Program in Biotechnology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4820, USA; M3 Biotechnology, Inc., 4000 Mason Rd Suite 300, Box 352141, Seattle, WA 98195-2141, USA.
| | - Leen H Kawas
- Departments of Psychology, Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience and Program in Biotechnology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4820, USA; M3 Biotechnology, Inc., 4000 Mason Rd Suite 300, Box 352141, Seattle, WA 98195-2141, USA
| | - Joseph W Harding
- Departments of Psychology, Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience and Program in Biotechnology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4820, USA; M3 Biotechnology, Inc., 4000 Mason Rd Suite 300, Box 352141, Seattle, WA 98195-2141, USA
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Liu CJ, Jones DS, Tsai PC, Venkataramana A, Cochran JR. An engineered dimeric fragment of hepatocyte growth factor is a potent c-MET agonist. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:4831-7. [PMID: 25451235 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Revised: 11/02/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), through activation of the c-MET receptor, mediates biological processes critical for tissue regeneration; however, its clinical application is limited by protein instability and poor recombinant expression. We previously engineered an HGF fragment (eNK1) that possesses increased stability and expression yield and developed a c-MET agonist by coupling eNK1 through an introduced cysteine residue. Here, we further characterize this eNK1 dimer and show it elicits significantly greater c-MET activation, cell migration, and proliferation than the eNK1 monomer. The efficacy of the eNK1 dimer was similar to HGF, suggesting its promise as a c-MET agonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassie J Liu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Douglas S Jones
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Ping-Chuan Tsai
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | | | - Jennifer R Cochran
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States; Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.
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25
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Makeneni S, Foley BL, Woods RJ. BFMP: a method for discretizing and visualizing pyranose conformations. J Chem Inf Model 2014; 54:2744-50. [PMID: 25289680 PMCID: PMC4210171 DOI: 10.1021/ci500325b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We report a new classification method for pyranose ring conformations called Best-fit, Four-Membered Plane (BFMP), which describes pyranose ring conformations based on reference planes defined by four atoms. The method is able to characterize all asymmetrical and symmetrical shapes of a pyran ring, is readily automated, easy to interpret, and maps trivially to IUPAC definitions. It also provides a qualitative measurement of the distortion of the ring. Example applications include the analysis of data from crystal structures and molecular dynamics simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spandana Makeneni
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia , 315 Riverbend Road, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
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26
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Mottarella SE, Beglov D, Beglova N, Nugent MA, Kozakov D, Vajda S. Docking server for the identification of heparin binding sites on proteins. J Chem Inf Model 2014; 54:2068-78. [PMID: 24974889 PMCID: PMC4184157 DOI: 10.1021/ci500115j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Many proteins of widely differing functionality and structure are capable of binding heparin and heparan sulfate. Since crystallizing protein-heparin complexes for structure determination is generally difficult, computational docking can be a useful approach for understanding specific interactions. Previous studies used programs originally developed for docking small molecules to well-defined pockets, rather than for docking polysaccharides to highly charged shallow crevices that usually bind heparin. We have extended the program PIPER and the automated protein-protein docking server ClusPro to heparin docking. Using a molecular mechanics energy function for scoring and the fast Fourier transform correlation approach, the method generates and evaluates close to a billion poses of a heparin tetrasaccharide probe. The docked structures are clustered using pairwise root-mean-square deviations as the distance measure. It was shown that clustering of heparin molecules close to each other but having different orientations and selecting the clusters with the highest protein-ligand contacts reliably predicts the heparin binding site. In addition, the centers of the five most populated clusters include structures close to the native orientation of the heparin. These structures can provide starting points for further refinement by methods that account for flexibility such as molecular dynamics. The heparin docking method is available as an advanced option of the ClusPro server at http://cluspro.bu.edu/ .
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott E Mottarella
- Program in Bioinformatics and ‡Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University , 44 Cummington Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
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27
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Besret S, Vicogne J, Dahmani F, Fafeur V, Desmet R, Drobecq H, Romieu A, Melnyk P, Melnyk O. Thiocarbamate-linked polysulfonate-peptide conjugates as selective hepatocyte growth factor receptor binders. Bioconjug Chem 2014; 25:1000-10. [PMID: 24749766 PMCID: PMC4064695 DOI: 10.1021/bc500137j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The capacity of many proteins to interact with natural or synthetic polyanions has been exploited for modulating their biological action. However, the polydispersity of these macromolecular polyanions as well as their poor specificity is a severe limitation to their use as drugs. An emerging trend in this field is the synthesis of homogeneous and well-defined polyanion-peptide conjugates, which act as bivalent ligands, with the peptide part bringing the selectivity of the scaffold. Alternately, this strategy can be used for improving the binding of short peptides to polyanion-binding protein targets. This work describes the design and first synthesis of homogeneous polysulfonate-peptide conjugates using thiocarbamate ligation for binding to the extracellular domain of MET tyrosine kinase receptor for hepatocyte growth factor.
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Abstract
Numerous proteins, including cytokines and chemokines, enzymes and enzyme inhibitors, extracellular matrix proteins, and membrane receptors, bind heparin. Although they are traditionally classified as heparin-binding proteins, under normal physiological conditions these proteins actually interact with the heparan sulfate chains of one or more membrane or extracellular proteoglycans. Thus, they are more appropriately classified as heparan sulfate-binding proteins (HSBPs). This review provides an overview of the various modes of interaction between heparan sulfate and HSBPs, emphasizing biochemical and structural insights that improve our understanding of the many biological functions of heparan sulfate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ding Xu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Glycobiology Research and Training Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093; ,
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29
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Ballut L, Sapay N, Chautard E, Imberty A, Ricard-Blum S. Mapping of heparin/heparan sulfate binding sites on αvβ3 integrin by molecular docking. J Mol Recognit 2013; 26:76-85. [PMID: 23334915 DOI: 10.1002/jmr.2250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Revised: 10/15/2012] [Accepted: 10/15/2012] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Heparin/heparan sulfate interact with growth factors, chemokines, extracellular proteins, and receptors. Integrins are αβ heterodimers that serve as receptors for extracellular proteins, regulate cell behavior, and participate in extracellular matrix assembly. Heparin binds to RGD-dependent integrins (αIIbβ3, α5β1, αvβ3, and αvβ5) and to RGD-independent integrins (α4β1, αXβ2, and αMβ2), but their binding sites have not been located on integrins. We report the mapping of heparin binding sites on the ectodomain of αvβ3 integrin by molecular modeling. The surface of the ectodomain was scanned with small rigid probes mimicking the sulfated domains of heparan sulfate. Docking results were clustered into binding spots. The best results were selected for further docking simulations with heparin hexasaccharide. Six potential binding spots containing lysine and/or arginine residues were identified on the ectodomain of αvβ3 integrin. Heparin would mostly bind to the top of the genu domain, the Calf-I domain of the α subunit, and the top of the β subunit of RGD-dependent integrins. Three spots were close enough from each other on the integrin surface to form an extended binding site that could interact with heparin/heparan sulfate chains. Because heparin does not bind to the same integrin site as protein ligands, no steric hindrance prevents the formation of ternary complexes comprising the integrin, its protein ligand, and heparin/heparan sulfate. The basic amino acid residues predicted to interact with heparin are conserved in the sequences of RGD-dependent but not of RGD-independent integrins suggesting that heparin/heparan sulfate could bind to different sites on these two integrin subfamilies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lionel Ballut
- UMR 5086 CNRS-Université Lyon 1, Institut de Biologie et Chimie des Protéines, 7 passage du Vercors, 69367 Lyon Cedex 07, France
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Targeting tumor micro-environment for design and development of novel anti-angiogenic agents arresting tumor growth. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2013; 113:333-54. [PMID: 24139944 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2013.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2013] [Revised: 10/05/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis: a process of generation of new blood vessels has been proved to be necessary for sustained tumor growth and cancer progression. Inhibiting angiogenesis pathway has long been remained a significant hope for the development of novel, effective and target orientated antitumor agents arresting the tumor proliferation and metastasis. The process of neoangiogenesis as a biological process is regulated by several pro- and anti-angiogenic factors, especially vascular endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, epidermal growth factor, hypoxia inducible factor 1 and transforming growth factor. Every endothelial cell destined for vessel formation is equipped with receptors for these angiogenic peptides. Moreover, numerous other angiogenic cytokines such as platelet derived growth factor (PGDF), placenta growth factor (PGF), nerve growth factor (NGF), stem-cell factor (SCF), and interleukins-2, 4, 6 etc. These molecular players performs critical role in regulating the angiogenic switch. Couple of decade's research in molecular aspects of tumor biology has unraveled numerous structural and functional mysteries of these angiogenic peptides. In present article, a detailed update on the functional and structural peculiarities of the various angiogenic peptides is described focusing on structural opportunities made available that has potential to be used to modulate function of these angiogenic peptides in developing therapeutic agents targeting neoplastic angiogenesis. The data may be useful in the mainstream of developing novel anticancer agents targeting tumor angiogenesis. We also discuss major therapeutic agents that are currently used in angiogenesis associated therapies as well as those are subject of active research or are in clinical trials.
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Zymogen activation of neurotrypsin and neurotrypsin-dependent agrin cleavage on the cell surface are enhanced by glycosaminoglycans. Biochem J 2013; 453:83-100. [PMID: 23560819 DOI: 10.1042/bj20130166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The serine peptidase neurotrypsin is stored in presynaptic nerve endings and secreted in an inactive zymogenic form by synaptic activity. After activation, which requires activity of postsynaptic NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors, neurotrypsin cleaves the heparan sulfate proteoglycan agrin at active synapses. The resulting C-terminal 22-kDa fragment of agrin induces dendritic filopodia, which are considered to be precursors of new synapses. In the present study, we investigated the role of GAGs (glycosaminoglycans) in the activation of neurotrypsin and neurotrypsin-dependent agrin cleavage. We found binding of neurotrypsin to the GAG side chains of agrin, which in turn enhanced the activation of neurotrypsin by proprotein convertases and resulted in enhanced agrin cleavage. A similar enhancement of neurotrypsin binding to agrin, neurotrypsin activation and agrin cleavage was induced by the four-amino-acid insert at the y splice site of agrin, which is crucial for the formation of a heparin-binding site. Non-agrin GAGs also contributed to binding and activation of neurotrypsin and, thereby, to agrin cleavage, albeit to a lesser extent. Binding of neurotrypsin to cell-surface glycans locally restricts its conversion from zymogen into active peptidase. This provides the molecular foundation for the local action of neurotrypsin at or in the vicinity of its site of synaptic secretion. By its local action at synapses with correlated pre- and post-synaptic activity, the neurotrypsin-agrin system fulfils the requirements for a mechanism serving experience-dependent modification of activated synapses, which is essential for adaptive structural reorganizations of neuronal circuits in the developing and/or adult brain.
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Graveel CR, Tolbert D, Vande Woude GF. MET: a critical player in tumorigenesis and therapeutic target. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2013; 5:a009209. [PMID: 23818496 PMCID: PMC3685898 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a009209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Since its discovery more than 25 years ago, numerous studies have established that the MET receptor is unique among tyrosine kinases. Signaling through MET is necessary for normal development and for the progression of a wide range of human cancers. MET activation has been shown to drive numerous signaling pathways; however, it is not clear how MET signaling mediates diverse cellular responses such as motility, invasion, growth, and angiogenesis. Great strides have been made in understanding the pleotropic aspects of MET signaling using three-dimensional molecular structures, cell culture systems, human tumors, and animal models. These combined approaches have driven the development of MET-targeted therapeutics that have shown promising results in the clinic. Here we examine the unique features of MET and hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) structure and signaling, mutational activation, genetic mouse models of MET and HGF/SF, and MET-targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie R Graveel
- Molecular Oncology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, USA
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Raibaut L, Vicogne J, Leclercq B, Drobecq H, Desmet R, Melnyk O. Total synthesis of biotinylated N domain of human hepatocyte growth factor. Bioorg Med Chem 2013; 21:3486-94. [PMID: 23523386 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2013.02.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2013] [Revised: 02/18/2013] [Accepted: 02/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) is the high affinity ligand of MET tyrosine kinase receptor. We report here the total synthesis of a biotinylated analogue of human HGF/SF N domain. Functionally, N domain is part of the HGF/SF high affinity binding site for MET and also the main HGF/SF binding site for heparin. The 97 Aa linear chain featuring a C-terminal biotin group was assembled in high yield using an N-to-C one-pot three segments assembly strategy relying on a sequential Native Chemical Ligation (NCL)/bis(2-sulfanylethyl)amido (SEA) native peptide ligation process. The folded protein displayed the native disulfide bond pattern and showed the ability to bind heparin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Raibaut
- UMR CNRS 8161 Univ Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 1 rue du Pr Calmette, Lille 59021, France
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Niemann HH. Structural basis of MET receptor dimerization by the bacterial invasion protein InlB and the HGF/SF splice variant NK1. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2012; 1834:2195-204. [PMID: 23123275 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2012.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2012] [Revised: 10/19/2012] [Accepted: 10/23/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The structural basis of ligand-induced dimerization of the receptor tyrosine kinase MET by its natural ligand hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) is not well understood. However, interesting insight into the molecular mechanism of MET dimerization has emerged from crystal structures of MET in complex with a bacterial agonist, the invasion protein internalin B (InlB) from pathogenic Listeria monocytogenes. MET activation by InlB promotes uptake of bacteria into host cells. Structural and biophysical data suggest that InlB is monomeric on its own but dimerizes upon binding to the membrane-anchored MET receptor promoting the formation of a signaling active 2:2 complex. The dimerization interface is small and unusually located on the convex side of the curved InlB leucine-rich repeat (LRR) domain. As InlB does not dimerize in solution, the dimerization site could only be identified by studying packing contacts of InlB in various crystal forms and had to be proven by scrutinizing its biological relevance in cellular assays. InlB dimerization is thus an example of a low-affinity contact that appears irrelevant in solution but becomes physiologically significant in the context of 2-dimensional diffusion restricted to the membrane plane. The resulting 2:2 InlB:MET complex has an InlB dimer at its center with one MET molecule bound peripherally to each InlB. This model of ligand-mediated MET dimerization may serve as a blue-print to understand MET activation by NK1, a naturally occurring HGF/SF splice variant and MET agonist. Crystal structures of NK1 repeatedly show a NK1 dimer, in which residues implicated in MET-binding are located on the outside. Thus, MET dimerization by NK1 may also be ligand-mediated with a NK1 dimer at the center of the 2:2 complex with one MET molecule bound peripherally to each NK1. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Emerging recognition and activation mechanisms of receptor tyrosine kinases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hartmut H Niemann
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Biotechnology (CeBiTec), Bielefeld University, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany.
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Ikebuchi F, Oka K, Mizuno S, Fukuta K, Hayata D, Ohnishi H, Nakamura T. Dissociation of c-Met phosphotyrosine sites in human cells in response to mouse hepatocyte growth factor but not human hepatocyte growth factor: the possible roles of different amino acids in different species. Cell Biochem Funct 2012; 31:298-304. [PMID: 22996389 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.2898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2012] [Revised: 07/21/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is essential for embryogenesis, tissue regeneration and tumour malignancy through the activation of its receptor, c-Met. We previously demonstrated that HGF α-chain hairpin-loop, K1 domain and β-chain are required for c-Met signalling. The sequential phosphorylation of tyrosine residues, from c-Met kinase domain to multidocking regions, is required for HGF-signalling transduction. Herein, we provide evidence that the disconcerted activation of c-Met tyrosine regions fails to induce biological functions. When human cells were incubated with 'mouse HGF', kinase domain activation (i.e. phospho-Tyr-1230/34/35) became evident, but the multidocking site (i.e. Tyr-1349) was not phosphorylated, resulting in unsuccessful induction of migration and mitogenesis. The binding ability of mouse HGF α-chain, or of β-chain, to human c-Met was lower than that of human HGF, as evidenced by HGF-chimera assay. Notably, only four amino acid positions in HGF α-chain hairpin-loop and K1 domain and six positions in β-chain differed between human HGF and mouse HGF. The human-specific amino acids (such as Gln-95 in hairpin-loop, Arg-134 in K1 domain and Cys-561 in β-chain) may be important for accurate c-Met assembly and signalling transduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumie Ikebuchi
- Kringle Pharma Joint Research Division for Regenerative Drug Discovery, Center for Advanced Science and Innovation, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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Cecchi F, Pajalunga D, Fowler CA, Uren A, Rabe DC, Peruzzi B, MacDonald NJ, Blackman DK, Stahl SJ, Byrd RA, Bottaro DP. Targeted disruption of heparan sulfate interaction with hepatocyte and vascular endothelial growth factors blocks normal and oncogenic signaling. Cancer Cell 2012; 22:250-62. [PMID: 22897854 PMCID: PMC3422512 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2012.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2011] [Revised: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 06/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) regulate normal development and homeostasis and drive disease progression in many forms of cancer. Both proteins signal by binding to receptor tyrosine kinases and heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans on target cell surfaces. Basic residues comprising the primary HS binding sites on HGF and VEGF provide similar surface charge distributions without underlying structural similarity. Combining three acidic amino acid substitutions in these sites in the HGF isoform NK1 or the VEGF isoform VEGF165 transformed each into potent, selective competitive antagonists of their respective normal and oncogenic signaling pathways. Our findings illustrate the importance of HS in growth factor driven cancer progression and reveal an efficient strategy for therapeutic antagonist development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Deborah Pajalunga
- Macromolecular NMR Section, Structural Biophysics Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702-1201 USA
- EntreMed, Inc., Rockville, MD 20850 USA
| | - C. Andrew Fowler
- Macromolecular NMR Section, Structural Biophysics Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702-1201 USA
| | - Aykut Uren
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, D.C. 20057-1469
| | | | | | | | | | - Stephen J. Stahl
- Protein Expression Laboratory, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-2775 USA
| | - R. Andrew Byrd
- Macromolecular NMR Section, Structural Biophysics Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702-1201 USA
| | - Donald P. Bottaro
- Correspondence: Urologic Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bldg 10 CRC Rm 2-3952, 10 Center Drive MSC 1107, Bethesda, MD 20892-1107 USA Tel: 301-402-6499, Fax: 301-402-0922,
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Ozeki M, Tabata Y. Interaction of hepatocyte growth factor with gelatin as the carrier material. JOURNAL OF BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE-POLYMER EDITION 2012; 17:163-75. [PMID: 16411606 DOI: 10.1163/156856206774879162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to physicochemically investigate the interaction between hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and acidic gelatin compared with that between HGF and basic gelatin or heparin. Gelatin- or heparin-immobilized agarose beads were prepared and HGF interaction with them was evaluated by Scatchard binding assay. The dissociation constant of HGF with the acidic gelatin was about 2-3 orders of magnitude higher than that of heparin. The cell proliferation assay revealed that the proliferation promotion activity of HGF complexed with the acidic gelatin was detected, although it was lower than that of original HGF. The ability of HGF to enhance the cell proliferation was reduced by the trypsin treatment, although the extent of the reduction was significantly suppressed by HGF complexation with acidic gelatin. Electrophoresis experimentally confirmed enhanced resistance to the molecular mass loss of HGF by gelatin complexation. Moreover, the recognized level of an antibody to HGF was reduced by the complexation with the acidic gelatin, indicating that the acidic gelatin is present around HGF molecules. It is possible that the HGF molecule is covered with the acidic gelatin, resulting in protection from enzymatic digestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Ozeki
- Institute of Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Japan
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Ross J, Gherardi E, Mallorqui-Fernandez N, Bocci M, Sobkowicz A, Rees M, Rowe A, Ellmerich S, Massie I, Soeda J, Selden C, Hodgson H. Protein engineered variants of hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor promote proliferation of primary human hepatocytes and in rodent liver. Gastroenterology 2012; 142:897-906. [PMID: 22178588 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2011.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2011] [Revised: 11/11/2011] [Accepted: 12/01/2011] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) stimulates hepatocyte DNA synthesis and protects against apoptosis; in vivo it promotes liver regeneration and reduces fibrosis. However, its therapeutic value is limited by its complex domain structure, high cost of production, instability, and poor tissue penetration due to sequestration by heparin sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). METHODS Using protein engineering techniques, we created a full-length form of HGF/SF (called HP21) and a form of the small, naturally occurring HGF/SF fragment, NK1 (called 1K1), which have reduced affinity for HSPG. We characterized the stability and proliferative and anti-apoptotic effects of these variants in primary human hepatocytes and in rodents. RESULTS Analytical ultracentrifugation showed that 1K1 and NK1 were more stable than the native, full-length protein. All 4 forms of HGF/SF induced similar levels of DNA synthesis in human hepatocytes; 1K1 and NK1 required heparin, an HSPG analogue, for full agonistic activity. All the proteins reduced levels of Fas ligand-mediated apoptosis, reducing the activity of caspase-3/7 and cleavage of poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase. 1K1 was more active than NK1 in rodents; in healthy mice, 1K1 significantly increased hepatocyte DNA synthesis, and in mice receiving carbon tetrachloride, it reduced fibrosis. In rats, after 70% partial hepatectomy, daily administration of 1K1 for 5 days significantly increased liver mass and the bromodeoxyuridine labeling index compared with mice given NK1. CONCLUSIONS 1K1, an engineered form of the small, naturally occurring HGF/SF fragment NK1, has reduced affinity for HSPG and exerts proliferative and antiapoptotic effects in cultured hepatocytes. In rodents, 1K1 has antifibrotic effects and promotes liver regeneration. The protein has better stability and is easier to produce than HGF/SF and might be developed as a therapeutic for acute and chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Ross
- UCL Hepatology, Royal Free Campus, University College London, London, England, UK
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Marchant J, Cowper B, Liu Y, Lai L, Pinzan C, Marq JB, Friedrich N, Sawmynaden K, Liew L, Chai W, Childs RA, Saouros S, Simpson P, Roque Barreira MC, Feizi T, Soldati-Favre D, Matthews S. Galactose recognition by the apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:16720-33. [PMID: 22399295 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.325928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxosplasma gondii is the model parasite of the phylum Apicomplexa, which contains numerous obligate intracellular parasites of medical and veterinary importance, including Eimeria, Sarcocystis, Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, and Plasmodium species. Members of this phylum actively enter host cells by a multistep process with the help of microneme protein (MIC) complexes that play important roles in motility, host cell attachment, moving junction formation, and invasion. T. gondii (Tg)MIC1-4-6 complex is the most extensively investigated microneme complex, which contributes to host cell recognition and attachment via the action of TgMIC1, a sialic acid-binding adhesin. Here, we report the structure of TgMIC4 and reveal its carbohydrate-binding specificity to a variety of galactose-containing carbohydrate ligands. The lectin is composed of six apple domains in which the fifth domain displays a potent galactose-binding activity, and which is cleaved from the complex during parasite invasion. We propose that galactose recognition by TgMIC4 may compromise host protection from galectin-mediated activation of the host immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Marchant
- Division of Molecular Biosciences, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Ischemic disease causes a large number of deaths and significant clinical problems worldwide. Therapeutic angiogenesis, strengthened by advances in growth-factor-based therapies, is a promising solution to ischemic pathologies. Major challenges in therapeutic angiogenesis are the lack of stability of native angiogenic proteins and also providing sustained delivery of biologically active proteins at the ischemic sites. This paper will discuss various protein engineering strategies to develop stabilized proangiogenic proteins and several biomaterial technologies used to amplify the angiogenic outcome by delivering biologically active growth factors in a sustained manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rituparna Sinha Roy
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, Mohanpur Campus, P O BCKV Campus Mail Office, West Bengal 741252, India.
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Müller JJ, Weiss MS, Heinemann U. PAN-modular structure of microneme protein SML-2 from the parasiteSarcocystis murisat 1.95 Å resolution and its complex with 1-thio-β-D-galactose. ACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA SECTION D: BIOLOGICAL CRYSTALLOGRAPHY 2011; 67:936-44. [DOI: 10.1107/s0907444911037796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2011] [Accepted: 09/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Engineering hepatocyte growth factor fragments with high stability and activity as Met receptor agonists and antagonists. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:13035-40. [PMID: 21788476 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1102561108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The Met receptor tyrosine kinase and its ligand hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) play an important role in mediating both tumor progression and tissue regeneration. The N-terminal and first Kringle domains (NK1) of HGF comprise a naturally occurring splice variant that retains the ability to activate the Met receptor. However, NK1 is a weak agonist and is relatively unstable, limiting its therapeutic potential. Here, we engineered NK1 mutants with improved biochemical and biophysical properties that function as Met receptor agonists or antagonists. We first engineered NK1 for increased stability and recombinant expression yield using directed evolution. The NK1 variants isolated from our library screens acted as weak Met receptor antagonists due to a mutation at the NK1 homodimerization interface. We introduced point mutations that restored this NK1 homodimerization interface to create an agonistic ligand, or that further disrupted this interface to create more effective antagonists. The rationally engineered antagonists exhibited melting temperatures up to approximately 64 °C, a 15 °C improvement over antagonists derived from wild-type NK1, and approximately 40-fold improvement in expression yield. Next, we created disulfide-linked NK1 homodimers through introduction of an N-terminal cysteine residue. These covalent dimers exhibited nearly an order of magnitude improved agonistic activity compared to wild-type NK1, approaching the activity of full-length HGF. Moreover, covalent NK1 dimers formed from agonistic or antagonistic monomeric subunits elicited similar activity, further signifying that NK1 dimerization mediates agonistic activity. These engineered NK1 proteins are promising candidates for therapeutic development and will be useful tools for further exploring determinants of Met receptor activation.
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Intracellular signaling cascades triggered by the NK1 fragment of hepatocyte growth factor in human prostate epithelial cell line PNT1A. Cell Signal 2011; 23:1961-71. [PMID: 21777671 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2011.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2011] [Revised: 06/21/2011] [Accepted: 07/04/2011] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF)/c-MET signaling has an emerging role in promoting cell proliferation, survival, migration, wound repair and branching in a variety of cell types. HGF plays a crucial role as a mediator of stromal-epithelial interactions in the normal prostate but the precise biological function of HGF/c-Met interaction in the normal prostate and in prostate cancer is not clear. HGF has two naturally occurring splice variants and NK1, the smallest of these HGF variants, consists of the HGF amino terminus through the first kringle domain. We evaluated the intracellular signaling cascades and the morphological changes triggered by NK1 in human prostate epithelial cell line PNT1A which shows molecular and biochemical properties close to the normal prostate epithelium. We demonstrated that these cells express a functional c-MET, and cell exposure to NK1 induces the phosphorylation of tyrosines 1313/1349/1356 residues of c-MET which provide docking sites for signaling molecules. We observed an increased phosphorylation of ERK1/2, Akt, c-Src, p125FAK, SMAD2/3, and STAT3, down-regulation of the expression of epithelial cell-cell adhesion marker E-cadherin, and enhanced expression levels of mesenchymal markers vimentin, fibronectin, vinculin, α-actinin, and α-smooth muscle actin. This results in cell proliferation, in the appearance of a mesenchymal phenotype, in morphological changes resembling cell scattering and in wound healing. Our findings highlight the function of NK1 in non-tumorigenic human prostatic epithelial cells and provide a picture of the signaling pathways triggered by NK1 in a unique cell line.
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Sapay N, Cabannes E, Petitou M, Imberty A. Molecular modeling of the interaction between heparan sulfate and cellular growth factors: bringing pieces together. Glycobiology 2011; 21:1181-93. [PMID: 21572110 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/cwr052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Heparan sulfate is a polysaccharide belonging to the glycaminoglycan family. It interacts with numerous proteins of the extracellular matrix, in particular cellular growth factors. The number of experimental protein-heparin sulfate complexes obtained by crystallography or nuclear magnetic resonance is limited. Alternatively, computational approaches can be employed. Generally, they restrain the conformation of the glycosidic rings and linkages in order to reduce the complexity of the problem. Modeling the interaction between protein and heparan sulfate is indeed challenging because of the large size of the fragment needed for a strong binding, the flexibility brought by the glycosidic rings and linkages and the high density of negative charges. We propose a two-step method based on molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. Molecular docking allows exploring the positioning of a rigid heparin sulfate fragment on the protein surface. Molecular dynamics refine selected docking models by explicitly representing solvent molecules and not restraining the polysaccharide backbone. The interaction of a hexamer of heparin sulfate was studied in interaction with fibroblast growth factor 2 and stromal cell-derived factor 1α. This approach shed light on the plasticity of the growth factors interacting with heparan sulfate. This approach can be extended to the study of other protein/glycosaminoglycan complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Sapay
- Centre de Recherches sur les Macromolécules Végétales-CNRS, 601 rue de la Chimie, BP 53, 38041 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
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Niemann HH. Structural insights into Met receptor activation. Eur J Cell Biol 2011; 90:972-81. [PMID: 21242015 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2010.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2010] [Revised: 11/24/2010] [Accepted: 11/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase Met plays a pivotal role in vertebrate development and tissue regeneration, its deregulation contributes to cancer. Met is also targeted during the infection by the facultative intracellular bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. The mechanistic basis for Met activation by its natural ligand hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) is only beginning to be understood at a structural level. Crystal structures of Met in complex with L. monocytogenes InlB suggest that Met dimerization by this bacterial invasion protein is mediated by a dimer contact of the ligand. Here, I review the structural basis of Met activation by InlB and highlight parallels and differences to the physiological Met ligand HGF/SF and its splice variant NK1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hartmut H Niemann
- Department of Chemistry, Bielefeld University, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany.
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Stella GM, Benvenuti S, Comoglio PM. Targeting the MET oncogene in cancer and metastases. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2010; 19:1381-94. [PMID: 20868306 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2010.522988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD 'Invasive growth' is a genetic program involved in embryonic development and adult organ regeneration and usurped by cancer cells. Although its control is complex, tumor- and context-specific and regulated by several cytokines and growth factors, the role played by the MET oncogene is well documented. In human cancers the contribution of MET to invasive growth is mainly through overexpression, driven by unfavorable microenvironmental conditions. MET activation confers a selective advantage to neoplastic cells in tumor progression and drug resistance. A subset of tumors feature alterations of the MET gene and a consequent MET-addicted phenotype. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW The molecular basis and rationale of MET inhibition in cancer and metastases are discussed. A number of molecules designed to block MET signaling are under development and several Phase II trials are ongoing. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN Knowledge of the state of the art of anti-MET targeted approaches and the molecular basis and strategies to select patients eligible for treatment with MET inhibitors. TAKE HOME MESSAGE Due to its versatile functions MET is a promising candidate for cancer therapy. Understanding molecular mechanisms of sensitization and resistance to MET inhibitors is a priority to guide tailored therapies and select patients that are most likely to achieve a clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia M Stella
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (IRCC), University of Turin Medical School, I-10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy.
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Cañadas I, Rojo F, Arumí-Uría M, Rovira A, Albanell J, Arriola E. C-MET as a new therapeutic target for the development of novel anticancer drugs. Clin Transl Oncol 2010; 12:253-60. [PMID: 20462834 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-010-0501-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
MET is a tyrosine kinase receptor that, upon binding of its natural ligand, the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), is phosphorylated and subsequently activates different signalling pathways involved in proliferation, motility, migration and invasion. MET has been found to be aberrantly activated in human cancer via mutation, amplification or protein overexpression. MET expression and activation have been associated with prognosis in a number of tumour types and predict response to MET inhibitors in preclinical models. Here we review the HGF/MET signalling pathway, its role in human cancer and the different inhibitory strategies that have been developed for therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Cañadas
- Molecular Therapeutics and Biomarkers in Cancer Laboratory, Institut Municipal d'Investigacions Mediques, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
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Blaum BS, Deakin JA, Johansson CM, Herbert AP, Barlow PN, Lyon M, Uhrín D. Lysine and arginine side chains in glycosaminoglycan-protein complexes investigated by NMR, cross-linking, and mass spectrometry: a case study of the factor H-heparin interaction. J Am Chem Soc 2010; 132:6374-81. [PMID: 20394361 DOI: 10.1021/ja1000517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
We have used the interaction between module 7 of complement factor H (CFH approximately 7) and a fully sulfated heparin tetrasaccharide to exemplify a new approach for studying contributions of basic side chains to the formation of glycosaminoglycan (GAG)-protein complexes. We first employed HISQC and H(2)CN NMR experiments to monitor the side-chain resonances of lysines and arginines in (15)N, (13)C-labeled protein during titrations with a fully sulfated heparin tetrasaccharide under physiological conditions. Under identical conditions and using (15)N-labeled protein, we then cross-linked tetrasaccharide to CFH approximately 7 and confirmed the 1:1 stoichiometry by FT-ICR-MS. We subsequently characterized this covalent protein-GAG conjugate by NMR and further MS techniques. MALDI-TOF MS identified protein fragments obtained via trypsin digestion or chemical fragmentation, yielding information concerning the site of GAG attachment. Combining MS and NMR data allowed us to identify the side chain of K405 as the point of attachment of the cross-linked heparin oligosaccharide to CFH approximately 7. On the basis of the analysis of NMR and MS data of the noncovalent and cross-linked CFH approximately 7-tetrasaccharide complexes, we conclude that the K446 side chain is not essential for binding the tetrasaccharide, despite the large chemical shift perturbations of its backbone amide (15)N and (1)H resonances during titrations. We show that R444 provides the most important charge-charge interaction within a C-terminal heparin-binding subsite of CFH approximately 7 whereas side chains of R404, K405, and K388 are the predominant contributors to an N-terminal binding subsite located in the immediate vicinity of residue 402, which is implicated in age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bärbel S Blaum
- Edinburgh Biomolecular NMR Unit, School of Chemistry and School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JJ, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Coupling growth-factor engineering with nanotechnology for therapeutic angiogenesis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:13608-13. [PMID: 20639469 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1006007107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic angiogenesis is an emerging paradigm for the management of ischemic pathologies. Proangiogenic Therapy is limited, however, by the current inability to deliver angiogenic factors in a sustained manner at the site of pathology. In this study, we investigated a unique nonglycosylated active fragment of hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor, 1K1, which acts as a potent angiogenic agent in vitro and in a zebrafish embryo and a murine matrigel implant model. Furthermore, we demonstrate that nanoformulating 1K1 for sustained release temporally alters downstream signaling through the mitogen activated protein kinase pathway, and amplifies the angiogenic outcome. Merging protein engineering and nanotechnology offers exciting possibilities for the treatment of ischemic disease, and furthermore allows the selective targeting of downstream signaling pathways, which translates into discrete phenotypes.
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50
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Structural basis for agonism and antagonism of hepatocyte growth factor. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:13264-9. [PMID: 20624990 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1005183107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is an activating ligand of the Met receptor tyrosine kinase, whose activity is essential for normal tissue development and organ regeneration but abnormal activation of Met has been implicated in growth, invasion, and metastasis of many types of solid tumors. HGF has two natural splice variants, NK1 and NK2, which contain the N-terminal domain (N) and the first kringle (K1) or the first two kringle domains of HGF. NK1, which is a Met agonist, forms a head-to-tail dimer complex in crystal structures and mutations in the NK1 dimer interface convert NK1 to a Met antagonist. In contrast, NK2 is a Met antagonist, capable of inhibiting HGF's activity in cell proliferation without clear mechanism. Here we report the crystal structure of NK2, which forms a "closed" monomeric conformation through interdomain interactions between the N- domain and the second kringle domain (K2). Mutations that were designed to open up the NK2 closed conformation by disrupting the N/K2 interface convert NK2 from a Met antagonist to an agonist. Remarkably, this mutated NK2 agonist can be converted back to an antagonist by a mutation that disrupts the NK1/NK1 dimer interface. These results reveal the molecular determinants that regulate the agonist/antagonist properties of HGF NK2 and provide critical insights into the dimerization mechanism that regulates the Met receptor activation by HGF.
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