1
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Weaver DR, Schaefer KG, King GM. Atomic force microscope kymograph analysis: A case study of two membrane proteins. Methods 2024; 223:83-94. [PMID: 38286332 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2024.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Kymograph analysis is employed across the biological atomic force microscopy (AFM) community to boost temporal resolution. The method is well suited for revealing protein dynamics at the single molecule level in near-native conditions. Yet, kymograph analysis comes with limitations that depend on several factors including protein geometry and instrumental drift. This work focuses on conformational dynamics of difficult-to-study sparse distributions of membrane proteins. We compare and contrast AFM kymograph analysis for two proteins, one of which (SecDF) exhibits conformational dynamics primarily in the vertical direction (normal to the membrane surface) and the other (Pgp) exhibits a combination of lateral dynamics and vertical motion. Common experimental issues are analyzed including translational and rotational drift. Conformational transition detection is evaluated via kymograph simulations followed by state detection algorithms. We find that kymograph analysis is largely robust to lateral drift. Displacement of the AFM line scan trajectory away from the protein center of mass by a few nanometers, roughly half of the molecule diameter, does not significantly affect transition detection nor generate undue dwell time errors. On the other hand, for proteins like Pgp that exhibit significant azimuthal maximum height dependence, rotational drift can potentially produce artifactual transitions. Measuring the height of a membrane protein protrusion is generally superior to measurement of width, confirming intuition based on vertical resolution superiority. In low signal-to-noise scenarios, common state detection algorithms struggle with transition detection as opposed to infinite hidden Markov models. AFM kymography represents a valuable addition to the membrane biophysics toolkit; continued hardware and software improvements are poised to expand the method's impact in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan R Weaver
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia MO 65211 USA
| | - Katherine G Schaefer
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia MO 65211 USA
| | - Gavin M King
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia MO 65211 USA; Joint with Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia MO 65211 USA.
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2
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Wilhelm J, Pos KM. Molecular insights into the determinants of substrate specificity and efflux inhibition of the RND efflux pumps AcrB and AdeB. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2024; 170:001438. [PMID: 38358391 PMCID: PMC10924465 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Gram-negative bacterial members of the Resistance Nodulation and cell Division (RND) superfamily form tripartite efflux pump systems that span the cell envelope. One of the intriguing features of the multiple drug efflux members of this superfamily is their ability to recognize different classes of antibiotics, dyes, solvents, bile salts, and detergents. This review provides an overview of the molecular mechanisms of multiple drug efflux catalysed by the tripartite RND efflux system AcrAB-TolC from Eschericha coli. The determinants for sequential or simultaneous multiple substrate binding and efflux pump inhibitor binding are discussed. A comparison is made with the determinants for substrate binding of AdeB from Acinetobacter baumannii, which acts within the AdeABC multidrug efflux system. There is an apparent general similarity between the structures of AcrB and AdeB and their substrate specificity. However, the presence of distinct conformational states and different drug efflux capacities as revealed by single-particle cryo-EM and mutational analysis suggest that the drug binding and transport features exhibited by AcrB may not be directly extrapolated to the homolog AdeB efflux pump.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Wilhelm
- Institute of Biochemistry, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Klaas Martinus Pos
- Institute of Biochemistry, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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3
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Strach M, Koch F, Fiedler S, Liebeton K, Graumann PL. Protein secretion zones during overexpression of amylase within the Gram-positive cell wall. BMC Biol 2023; 21:206. [PMID: 37794427 PMCID: PMC10552229 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01684-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whereas the translocation of proteins across the cell membrane has been thoroughly investigated, it is still unclear how proteins cross the cell wall in Gram-positive bacteria, which are widely used for industrial applications. We have studied the secretion of α-amylase AmyE within two different Bacillus strains, B. subtilis and B. licheniformis. RESULTS We show that a C-terminal fusion of AmyE with the fluorescent reporter mCherry is secreted via discrete patches showing very low dynamics. These are visible at many places within the cell wall for many minutes. Expression from a high copy number plasmid was required to be able to see these structures we term "secretion zones". Zones corresponded to visualized AmyE activity on the surface of cells, showing that they release active enzymes. They overlapped with SecA signals but did not frequently co-localize with the secretion ATPase. Single particle tracking showed higher dynamics of SecA and of SecDF, involved in AmyE secretion, at the cell membrane than AmyE. These experiments suggest that SecA initially translocates AmyE molecules through the cell membrane, and then diffuses to a different translocon. Single molecule tracking of SecA suggests the existence of three distinct diffusive states of SecA, which change during AmyE overexpression, but increased AmyE secretion does not appear to overwhelm the system. CONCLUSIONS Because secretion zones were only found during the transition to and within the stationary phase, diffusion rather than passive transport based on cell wall growth from inside to outside may release AmyE and, thus, probably secreted proteins in general. Our findings suggest active transport through the cell membrane and slow, passive transition through the cell wall, at least for overexpressed proteins, in bacteria of the genus Bacillus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Strach
- Centre for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO) and Fachbereich Chemie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, 35032, Germany
| | - Felicitas Koch
- Centre for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO) and Fachbereich Chemie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, 35032, Germany
| | - Svenja Fiedler
- Centre for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO) and Fachbereich Chemie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, 35032, Germany
| | - Klaus Liebeton
- BRAIN Biotech AG, Darmstädter Str. 34-36, Zwingenberg, 64673, Germany
| | - Peter L Graumann
- Centre for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO) and Fachbereich Chemie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, 35032, Germany.
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4
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Allen WJ, Collinson I. A unifying mechanism for protein transport through the core bacterial Sec machinery. Open Biol 2023; 13:230166. [PMID: 37643640 PMCID: PMC10465204 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.230166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Encapsulation and compartmentalization are fundamental to the evolution of cellular life, but they also pose a challenge: how to partition the molecules that perform biological functions-the proteins-across impermeable barriers into sub-cellular organelles, and to the outside. The solution lies in the evolution of specialized machines, translocons, found in every biological membrane, which act both as gate and gatekeeper across and into membrane bilayers. Understanding how these translocons operate at the molecular level has been a long-standing ambition of cell biology, and one that is approaching its denouement; particularly in the case of the ubiquitous Sec system. In this review, we highlight the fruits of recent game-changing technical innovations in structural biology, biophysics and biochemistry to present a largely complete mechanism for the bacterial version of the core Sec machinery. We discuss the merits of our model over alternative proposals and identify the remaining open questions. The template laid out by the study of the Sec system will be of immense value for probing the many other translocons found in diverse biological membranes, towards the ultimate goal of altering or impeding their functions for pharmaceutical or biotechnological purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J. Allen
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Ian Collinson
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
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5
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Surveying membrane landscapes: a new look at the bacterial cell surface. Nat Rev Microbiol 2023:10.1038/s41579-023-00862-w. [PMID: 36828896 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-023-00862-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies applying advanced imaging techniques are changing the way we understand bacterial cell surfaces, bringing new knowledge on everything from single-cell heterogeneity in bacterial populations to their drug sensitivity and mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance. In both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, the outermost surface of the bacterial cell is being imaged at nanoscale; as a result, topographical maps of bacterial cell surfaces can be constructed, revealing distinct zones and specific features that might uniquely identify each cell in a population. Functionally defined assembly precincts for protein insertion into the membrane have been mapped at nanoscale, and equivalent lipid-assembly precincts are suggested from discrete lipopolysaccharide patches. As we review here, particularly for Gram-negative bacteria, the applications of various modalities of nanoscale imaging are reawakening our curiosity about what is conceptually a 3D cell surface landscape: what it looks like, how it is made and how it provides resilience to respond to environmental impacts.
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6
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Atomic Force Microscopy Reveals Complexity Underlying General Secretory System Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010055. [PMID: 36613499 PMCID: PMC9820662 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The translocation of specific polypeptide chains across membranes is an essential activity for all life forms. The main components of the general secretory (Sec) system of E. coli include integral membrane translocon SecYEG, peripheral ATPase SecA, and SecDF, an ancillary complex that enhances polypeptide secretion by coupling translocation to proton motive force. Atomic force microscopy (AFM), a single-molecule imaging technique, is well suited to unmask complex, asynchronous molecular activities of membrane-associated proteins including those comprising the Sec apparatus. Using AFM, the dynamic structure of membrane-external protein topography of Sec system components can be directly visualized with high spatial-temporal precision. This mini-review is focused on AFM imaging of the Sec system in near-native fluid conditions where activity can be maintained and biochemically verified. Angstrom-scale conformational changes of SecYEG are reported on 100 ms timescales in fluid lipid bilayers. The association of SecA with SecYEG, forming membrane-bound SecYEG/SecA translocases, is directly visualized. Recent work showing topographical aspects of the translocation process that vary with precursor species is also discussed. The data suggests that the Sec system does not employ a single translocation mechanism. We posit that differences in the spatial frequency distribution of hydrophobic content within precursor sequences may be a determining factor in mechanism selection. Precise AFM investigations of active translocases are poised to advance our currently vague understanding of the complicated macromolecular movements underlying protein export across membranes.
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7
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Miyazaki R, Ai M, Tanaka N, Suzuki T, Dhomae N, Tsukazaki T, Akiyama Y, Mori H. Inner membrane YfgM–PpiD heterodimer acts as a functional unit that associates with the SecY/E/G translocon and promotes protein translocation. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102572. [PMID: 36209828 PMCID: PMC9643414 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
PpiD and YfgM are inner membrane proteins that are both composed of an N-terminal transmembrane segment and a C-terminal periplasmic domain. Escherichia coli YfgM and PpiD form a stable complex that interacts with the SecY/E/G (Sec) translocon, a channel that allows protein translocation across the cytoplasmic membrane. Although PpiD is known to function in protein translocation, the functional significance of PpiD–YfgM complex formation as well as the molecular mechanisms of PpiD–YfgM and PpiD/YfgM–Sec translocon interactions remain unclear. Here, we conducted genetic and biochemical studies using yfgM and ppiD mutants and demonstrated that a lack of YfgM caused partial PpiD degradation at its C-terminal region and hindered the membrane translocation of Vibrio protein export monitoring polypeptide (VemP), a Vibrio secretory protein, in both E. coli and Vibrio alginolyticus. While ppiD disruption also impaired VemP translocation, we found that the yfgM and ppiD double deletion exhibited no additive or synergistic effects. Together, these results strongly suggest that both PpiD and YfgM are required for efficient VemP translocation. Furthermore, our site-directed in vivo photocrosslinking analysis revealed that the tetratricopeptide repeat domain of YfgM and a conserved structural domain (NC domain) in PpiD interact with each other and that YfgM, like PpiD, directly interacts with the SecG translocon subunit. Crosslinking analysis also suggested that PpiD–YfgM complex formation is required for these proteins to interact with SecG. In summary, we propose that PpiD and YfgM form a functional unit that stimulates protein translocation by facilitating their proper interactions with the Sec translocon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoji Miyazaki
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Japan
| | - Mengting Ai
- Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Natsuko Tanaka
- Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takehiro Suzuki
- Biomolecular Characterization Unit, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Saitama, Japan
| | - Naoshi Dhomae
- Biomolecular Characterization Unit, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Saitama, Japan
| | - Tomoya Tsukazaki
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Akiyama
- Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Mori
- Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
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8
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Clark KA, Seyedsayamdost MR. Bioinformatic Atlas of Radical SAM Enzyme-Modified RiPP Natural Products Reveals an Isoleucine-Tryptophan Crosslink. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:17876-17888. [PMID: 36128669 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c06497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) are a growing family of natural products with diverse activities and structures. RiPP classes are defined by the tailoring enzyme, which can introduce a narrow range of modifications or a diverse set of alterations. In the latter category, RiPPs synthesized by radical S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) enzymes, known as RaS-RiPPs, have emerged as especially divergent. A map of all RaS-RiPP gene clusters does not yet exist. Moreover, precursor peptides remain difficult to predict using computational methods. Herein, we have addressed these challenges and reported a bioinformatic atlas of RaS-RiPP gene clusters in available microbial genome sequences. Using co-occurrence of RaS enzymes and transporters from varied families as a bioinformatic hook in conjunction with an in-house code to identify precursor peptides, we generated a map of ∼15,500 RaS-RiPP gene clusters, which reveal a remarkable diversity of syntenies pointing to a tremendous range of enzymatic and natural product chemistries that remain to be explored. To assess its utility, we examined one family of gene clusters encoding a YcaO enzyme and a RaS enzyme. We find the former is noncanonical, contains an iron-sulfur cluster, and installs a novel modification, a backbone amidine into the precursor peptide. The RaS enzyme was also found to install a new modification, a C-C crosslink between the unactivated terminal δ-methyl group of Ile and a Trp side chain. The co-occurrence search can be applied to other families of RiPPs, as we demonstrate with the emerging DUF692 di-iron enzyme superfamily.
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9
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Bianchi D, Pelletier JF, Hutchison CA, Glass JI, Luthey-Schulten Z. Toward the Complete Functional Characterization of a Minimal Bacterial Proteome. J Phys Chem B 2022; 126:6820-6834. [PMID: 36048731 PMCID: PMC9483919 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.2c04188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Recently, we presented a whole-cell kinetic model of the genetically minimal bacterium JCVI-syn3A that described the coupled metabolic and genetic information processes and predicted behaviors emerging from the interactions among these networks. JCVI-syn3A is a genetically reduced bacterial cell that has the fewest number and smallest fraction of genes of unclear function, with approximately 90 of its 452 protein-coding genes (that is less than 20%) unannotated. Further characterization of unclear JCVI-syn3A genes strengthens the robustness and predictive power of cell modeling efforts and can lead to a deeper understanding of biophysical processes and pathways at the cell scale. Here, we apply computational analyses to elucidate the functions of the products of several essential but previously uncharacterized genes involved in integral cellular processes, particularly those directly affecting cell growth, division, and morphology. We also suggest directed wet-lab experiments informed by our analyses to further understand these "missing puzzle pieces" that are an essential part of the mosaic of biological interactions present in JCVI-syn3A. Our workflow leverages evolutionary sequence analysis, protein structure prediction, interactomics, and genome architecture to determine upgraded annotations. Additionally, we apply the structure prediction analysis component of our work to all 452 protein coding genes in JCVI-syn3A to expedite future functional annotation studies as well as the inverse mapping of the cell state to more physical models requiring all-atom or coarse-grained representations for all JCVI-syn3A proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- David
M. Bianchi
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana−Champaign, 600 S Mathews Ave, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - James F. Pelletier
- Centro
Nacional de Biotecnologia, Calle Darwin no. 3, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Clyde A. Hutchison
- J.
Craig Venter Institute, 4120 Capricorn Ln. La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - John I. Glass
- J.
Craig Venter Institute, 4120 Capricorn Ln. La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Zaida Luthey-Schulten
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana−Champaign, 600 S Mathews Ave, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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10
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The conformations and basal conformational dynamics of translocation factor SecDF vary with translocon SecYEG interaction. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102412. [PMID: 36007614 PMCID: PMC9508474 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The general secretory, or Sec, system is a primary protein export pathway from the cytosol of Escherichia coli and all eubacteria. Integral membrane protein complex SecDF is a translocation factor that enhances polypeptide secretion, which is driven by the Sec translocase, consisting of translocon SecYEG and ATPase SecA. SecDF is thought to utilize a proton gradient to effectively pull precursor proteins from the cytoplasm into the periplasm. Working models have been developed to describe the structure and function of SecDF, but important mechanistic questions remain unanswered. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a powerful technique for studying the dynamics of single-molecule systems including membrane proteins in near-native conditions. The sharp tip of the AFM provides direct access to membrane-external protein conformations. Here, we acquired AFM images and kymographs (∼100 ms resolution) to visualize SecDF protrusions in near-native supported lipid bilayers and compared the experimental data to simulated AFM images based on static structures. When studied in isolation, SecDF exhibited a stable and compact conformation close to the lipid bilayer surface, indicative of a resting state. Interestingly, upon SecYEG introduction, we observed changes in both SecDF conformation and conformational dynamics. The population of periplasmic protrusions corresponding to an intermediate form of SecDF, which is thought to be active in precursor protein handling, increased >9-fold. In conjunction, our dynamics measurements revealed an enhancement in the transition rate between distinct SecDF conformations when the translocon was present. Together, this work provides a novel vista of basal-level SecDF conformational dynamics in near-native conditions.
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11
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Allen WJ, Corey RA, Watkins DW, Oliveira ASF, Hards K, Cook GM, Collinson I. Rate-limiting transport of positively charged arginine residues through the Sec-machinery is integral to the mechanism of protein secretion. eLife 2022; 11:e77586. [PMID: 35486093 PMCID: PMC9110029 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Transport of proteins across and into membranes is a fundamental biological process with the vast majority being conducted by the ubiquitous Sec machinery. In bacteria, this is usually achieved when the SecY-complex engages the cytosolic ATPase SecA (secretion) or translating ribosomes (insertion). Great strides have been made towards understanding the mechanism of protein translocation. Yet, important questions remain - notably, the nature of the individual steps that constitute transport, and how the proton-motive force (PMF) across the plasma membrane contributes. Here, we apply a recently developed high-resolution protein transport assay to explore these questions. We find that pre-protein transport is limited primarily by the diffusion of arginine residues across the membrane, particularly in the context of bulky hydrophobic sequences. This specific effect of arginine, caused by its positive charge, is mitigated for lysine which can be deprotonated and transported across the membrane in its neutral form. These observations have interesting implications for the mechanism of protein secretion, suggesting a simple mechanism through which the PMF can aid transport by enabling a 'proton ratchet', wherein re-protonation of exiting lysine residues prevents channel re-entry, biasing transport in the outward direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J Allen
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University WalkBristolUnited Kingdom
| | - Robin A Corey
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University WalkBristolUnited Kingdom
| | - Daniel W Watkins
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University WalkBristolUnited Kingdom
| | - A Sofia F Oliveira
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University WalkBristolUnited Kingdom
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, University WalkBristolUnited Kingdom
| | - Kiel Hards
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Gregory M Cook
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Ian Collinson
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University WalkBristolUnited Kingdom
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12
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Gao M, Nakajima An D, Skolnick J. Deep learning-driven insights into super protein complexes for outer membrane protein biogenesis in bacteria. eLife 2022; 11:82885. [PMID: 36576775 PMCID: PMC9797188 DOI: 10.7554/elife.82885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
To reach their final destinations, outer membrane proteins (OMPs) of gram-negative bacteria undertake an eventful journey beginning in the cytosol. Multiple molecular machines, chaperones, proteases, and other enzymes facilitate the translocation and assembly of OMPs. These helpers usually associate, often transiently, forming large protein assemblies. They are not well understood due to experimental challenges in capturing and characterizing protein-protein interactions (PPIs), especially transient ones. Using AF2Complex, we introduce a high-throughput, deep learning pipeline to identify PPIs within the Escherichia coli cell envelope and apply it to several proteins from an OMP biogenesis pathway. Among the top confident hits obtained from screening ~1500 envelope proteins, we find not only expected interactions but also unexpected ones with profound implications. Subsequently, we predict atomic structures for these protein complexes. These structures, typically of high confidence, explain experimental observations and lead to mechanistic hypotheses for how a chaperone assists a nascent, precursor OMP emerging from a translocon, how another chaperone prevents it from aggregating and docks to a β-barrel assembly port, and how a protease performs quality control. This work presents a general strategy for investigating biological pathways by using structural insights gained from deep learning-based predictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu Gao
- Center for the Study of Systems Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaUnited States
| | - Davi Nakajima An
- School of Computer Science, Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaUnited States
| | - Jeffrey Skolnick
- Center for the Study of Systems Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaUnited States
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13
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Thoma J, Burmann BM. Architects of their own environment: How membrane proteins shape the Gram-negative cell envelope. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2021; 128:1-34. [PMID: 35034716 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Gram-negative bacteria are surrounded by a complex multilayered cell envelope, consisting of an inner and an outer membrane, and separated by the aqueous periplasm, which contains a thin peptidoglycan cell wall. These bacteria employ an arsenal of highly specialized membrane protein machineries to ensure the correct assembly and maintenance of the membranes forming the cell envelope. Here, we review the diverse protein systems, which perform these functions in Escherichia coli, such as the folding and insertion of membrane proteins, the transport of lipoproteins and lipopolysaccharide within the cell envelope, the targeting of phospholipids, and the regulation of mistargeted envelope components. Some of these protein machineries have been known for a long time, yet still hold surprises. Others have only recently been described and some are still missing pieces or yet remain to be discovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Thoma
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden; Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.
| | - Björn M Burmann
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden; Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
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14
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Lateral gate dynamics of the bacterial translocon during cotranslational membrane protein insertion. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2100474118. [PMID: 34162707 PMCID: PMC8256087 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2100474118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Membrane proteins are inserted into the phospholipid bilayer through a lateral gate in the translocon, SecYEG in bacteria, which is expected to be closed in the resting state. Here, we use single-molecule FRET to study the translocon dynamics on timescales ranging from submilliseconds to seconds. We show that the lateral gate is highly dynamic, fluctuating through a continuum of states from open to closed. The insertase YidC facilitates the insertion of transmembrane helices by shifting the fluctuations toward more open conformations. Spontaneous fluctuations allow the gate to rapidly release newly synthesized transmembrane segments into the phospholipid bilayer during ongoing translation. The results highlight the important role of rapid spontaneous fluctuations during the key step in the biogenesis of inner-membrane proteins. During synthesis of membrane proteins, transmembrane segments (TMs) of nascent proteins emerging from the ribosome are inserted into the central pore of the translocon (SecYEG in bacteria) and access the phospholipid bilayer through the open lateral gate formed of two helices of SecY. Here we use single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer to monitor lateral-gate fluctuations in SecYEG embedded in nanodiscs containing native membrane phospholipids. We find the lateral gate to be highly dynamic, sampling the whole range of conformations between open and closed even in the absence of ligands, and we suggest a statistical model-free approach to evaluate the ensemble dynamics. Lateral gate fluctuations take place on both short (submillisecond) and long (subsecond) timescales. Ribosome binding and TM insertion do not halt fluctuations but tend to increase sampling of the open state. When YidC, a constituent of the holotranslocon, is bound to SecYEG, TM insertion facilitates substantial opening of the gate, which may aid in the folding of YidC-dependent polytopic membrane proteins. Mutations in lateral gate residues showing in vivo phenotypes change the range of favored states, underscoring the biological significance of lateral gate fluctuations. The results suggest how rapid fluctuations of the lateral gate contribute to the biogenesis of inner-membrane proteins.
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15
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Alav I, Kobylka J, Kuth MS, Pos KM, Picard M, Blair JMA, Bavro VN. Structure, Assembly, and Function of Tripartite Efflux and Type 1 Secretion Systems in Gram-Negative Bacteria. Chem Rev 2021; 121:5479-5596. [PMID: 33909410 PMCID: PMC8277102 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Tripartite efflux pumps and the related type 1 secretion systems (T1SSs) in Gram-negative organisms are diverse in function, energization, and structural organization. They form continuous conduits spanning both the inner and the outer membrane and are composed of three principal components-the energized inner membrane transporters (belonging to ABC, RND, and MFS families), the outer membrane factor channel-like proteins, and linking the two, the periplasmic adaptor proteins (PAPs), also known as the membrane fusion proteins (MFPs). In this review we summarize the recent advances in understanding of structural biology, function, and regulation of these systems, highlighting the previously undescribed role of PAPs in providing a common architectural scaffold across diverse families of transporters. Despite being built from a limited number of basic structural domains, these complexes present a staggering variety of architectures. While key insights have been derived from the RND transporter systems, a closer inspection of the operation and structural organization of different tripartite systems reveals unexpected analogies between them, including those formed around MFS- and ATP-driven transporters, suggesting that they operate around basic common principles. Based on that we are proposing a new integrated model of PAP-mediated communication within the conformational cycling of tripartite systems, which could be expanded to other types of assemblies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilyas Alav
- Institute
of Microbiology and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Kobylka
- Institute
of Biochemistry, Biocenter, Goethe Universität
Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 9, D-60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Miriam S. Kuth
- Institute
of Biochemistry, Biocenter, Goethe Universität
Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 9, D-60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Klaas M. Pos
- Institute
of Biochemistry, Biocenter, Goethe Universität
Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 9, D-60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Martin Picard
- Laboratoire
de Biologie Physico-Chimique des Protéines Membranaires, CNRS
UMR 7099, Université de Paris, 75005 Paris, France
- Fondation
Edmond de Rothschild pour le développement de la recherche
Scientifique, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Jessica M. A. Blair
- Institute
of Microbiology and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Vassiliy N. Bavro
- School
of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, CO4 3SQ United Kingdom
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16
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Oswald J, Njenga R, Natriashvili A, Sarmah P, Koch HG. The Dynamic SecYEG Translocon. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:664241. [PMID: 33937339 PMCID: PMC8082313 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.664241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The spatial and temporal coordination of protein transport is an essential cornerstone of the bacterial adaptation to different environmental conditions. By adjusting the protein composition of extra-cytosolic compartments, like the inner and outer membranes or the periplasmic space, protein transport mechanisms help shaping protein homeostasis in response to various metabolic cues. The universally conserved SecYEG translocon acts at the center of bacterial protein transport and mediates the translocation of newly synthesized proteins into and across the cytoplasmic membrane. The ability of the SecYEG translocon to transport an enormous variety of different substrates is in part determined by its ability to interact with multiple targeting factors, chaperones and accessory proteins. These interactions are crucial for the assisted passage of newly synthesized proteins from the cytosol into the different bacterial compartments. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about SecYEG-mediated protein transport, primarily in the model organism Escherichia coli, and describe the dynamic interaction of the SecYEG translocon with its multiple partner proteins. We furthermore highlight how protein transport is regulated and explore recent developments in using the SecYEG translocon as an antimicrobial target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Oswald
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zentrum für Biochemie und Molekulare Medizin (ZMBZ), Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Robert Njenga
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zentrum für Biochemie und Molekulare Medizin (ZMBZ), Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Biology, Albert Ludwigs Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ana Natriashvili
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zentrum für Biochemie und Molekulare Medizin (ZMBZ), Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Biology, Albert Ludwigs Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Pinku Sarmah
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zentrum für Biochemie und Molekulare Medizin (ZMBZ), Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Biology, Albert Ludwigs Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Georg Koch
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zentrum für Biochemie und Molekulare Medizin (ZMBZ), Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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17
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Miyazaki R, Akiyama Y, Mori H. Fine interaction profiling of VemP and mechanisms responsible for its translocation-coupled arrest-cancelation. eLife 2020; 9:62623. [PMID: 33320090 PMCID: PMC7793623 DOI: 10.7554/elife.62623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial cells utilize monitoring substrates, which undergo force-sensitive translation elongation arrest, to feedback-regulate a Sec-related gene. Vibrio alginolyticus VemP controls the expression of SecD/F that stimulates a late step of translocation by undergoing export-regulated elongation arrest. Here, we attempted at delineating the pathway of the VemP nascent-chain interaction with Sec-related factors, and identified the signal recognition particle (SRP) and PpiD (a membrane-anchored periplasmic chaperone) in addition to other translocon components and a ribosomal protein as interacting partners. Our results showed that SRP is required for the membrane-targeting of VemP, whereas PpiD acts cooperatively with SecD/F in the translocation and arrest-cancelation of VemP. We also identified the conserved Arg-85 residue of VemP as a crucial element that confers PpiD-dependence to VemP and plays an essential role in the regulated arrest-cancelation. We propose a scheme of the arrest-cancelation processes of VemP, which likely monitors late steps in the protein translocation pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoji Miyazaki
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Akiyama
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Mori
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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18
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Comparison of Single and Multiple Turnovers of SecYEG in Escherichia coli. J Bacteriol 2020; 202:JB.00462-20. [PMID: 32989086 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00462-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Precursor proteins are translocated across the cytoplasmic membrane in Escherichia coli by the general secretory, or Sec, pathway. The main components of the pathway are the integral membrane heterotrimeric SecYEG complex and the peripheral membrane ATPase, SecA. In this study, we have applied an in vitro assay using inverted cytoplasmic membrane vesicles to investigate the complex cycle that leads to translocation. We compared the apparent rate constants for nine precursors under two experimental conditions, single turnover and multiple turnovers. For each precursor, the rate constant for a single turnover was higher than for multiple turnovers, indicating that a different step limits the rate under the two conditions. We conclude that the rate-limiting step for a single turnover is an early step in the initial phase of transit through the channel, whereas the rate of multiple turnovers is limited by the resetting of the translocon. The presence of the chaperone SecB during multiple turnovers increased the maximal amplitude translocated for the three precursor species tested, pGBP, pPhoA, and proOmpA, and also increased the apparent rate constants for both pGBP and pPhoA. The rate constant for proOmpA was decreased by the presence of SecB.IMPORTANCE Vastly different experimental techniques and conditions have been used to study export in E. coli We demonstrated that altering experimental conditions can change the step that is observed during study. Investigators should consider specific experimental conditions when comparing data from different laboratories, as well as when comparing data from different experiments within a laboratory. We have shown that each precursor species has inherent properties that determine the translocation rate; thus generalizations from studies of a single species must be made with caution. A summary of advantages and disadvantages in use of nine precursors is presented.
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19
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Fujiwara K, Katagi Y, Ito K, Chiba S. Proteome-wide Capture of Co-translational Protein Dynamics in Bacillus subtilis Using TnDR, a Transposable Protein-Dynamics Reporter. Cell Rep 2020; 33:108250. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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20
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Crossing the Vacuolar Rubicon: Structural Insights into Effector Protein Trafficking in Apicomplexan Parasites. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8060865. [PMID: 32521667 PMCID: PMC7355975 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8060865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Apicomplexans form a large phylum of parasitic protozoa, including the genera Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, and Cryptosporidium, the causative agents of malaria, toxoplasmosis, and cryptosporidiosis, respectively. They cause diseases not only in humans but also in animals, with dramatic consequences in agriculture. Most apicomplexans are vacuole-dwelling and obligate intracellular parasites; as they invade the host cell, they become encased in a parasitophorous vacuole (PV) derived from the host cellular membrane. This creates a parasite-host interface that acts as a protective barrier but also constitutes an obstacle through which the pathogen must import nutrients, eliminate wastes, and eventually break free upon egress. Completion of the parasitic life cycle requires intense remodeling of the infected host cell. Host cell subversion is mediated by a subset of essential effector parasitic proteins and virulence factors actively trafficked across the PV membrane. In the malaria parasite Plasmodium, a unique and highly specialized ATP-driven vacuolar secretion system, the Plasmodium translocon of exported proteins (PTEX), transports effector proteins across the vacuolar membrane. Its core is composed of the three essential proteins EXP2, PTEX150, and HSP101, and is supplemented by the two auxiliary proteins TRX2 and PTEX88. Many but not all secreted malarial effector proteins contain a vacuolar trafficking signal or Plasmodium export element (PEXEL) that requires processing by an endoplasmic reticulum protease, plasmepsin V, for proper export. Because vacuolar parasitic protein export is essential to parasite survival and virulence, this pathway is a promising target for the development of novel antimalarial therapeutics. This review summarizes the current state of structural and mechanistic knowledge on the Plasmodium parasitic vacuolar secretion and effector trafficking pathway, describing its most salient features and discussing the existing differences and commonalities with the vacuolar effector translocation MYR machinery recently described in Toxoplasma and other apicomplexans of significance to medical and veterinary sciences.
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21
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Young JW, Wason IS, Zhao Z, Rattray DG, Foster LJ, Duong Van Hoa F. His-Tagged Peptidiscs Enable Affinity Purification of the Membrane Proteome for Downstream Mass Spectrometry Analysis. J Proteome Res 2020; 19:2553-2562. [PMID: 32364744 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.0c00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Characterization of the integral membrane proteome by mass spectrometry (MS) remains challenging due its high complexity and inherent insolubility. In a typical experiment, the cellular membranes are isolated, the proteins are solubilized and fractionated, and the detergent micelles are removed before MS analysis. Detergents are not compatible with mass spectrometry, however, and their removal from biological samples often results in reduced protein identification. As an alternative to detergents, we recently developed the peptidisc membrane mimetic, which allows entrapment of the cell envelope proteome into water-soluble particles, termed a "peptidisc library". Here, we employ a His-tagged version of the peptidisc peptide scaffold to enrich the reconstituted membrane proteome by affinity chromatography. This purification step reduces the sample complexity by depleting ribosomal and soluble proteins that often cosediment with cellular membranes. As a result, the peptidisc library is enriched in low-abundance membrane proteins. We apply this method to survey changes in the membrane proteome upon depletion of the SecDFyajC complex, the ancillary subunit of the Sec translocon. In the depleted strain, we detect increased membrane localization of the motor ATPase SecA, along with increased levels of an unannotated inner membrane protein, YibN. Together, these results demonstrate the utility of the peptidisc for global purification of membrane proteins and for monitoring change in the membrane proteome.
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Affiliation(s)
- John William Young
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Irvinder Singh Wason
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Zhiyu Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - David G Rattray
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada.,Michael Smith Laboratory, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Leonard J Foster
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada.,Michael Smith Laboratory, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Franck Duong Van Hoa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
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22
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Lomovatskaya LA, Romanenko AS. Secretion Systems of Bacterial Phytopathogens and Mutualists (Review). APPL BIOCHEM MICRO+ 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s0003683820020106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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23
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Abstract
More than a third of all bacterial polypeptides, comprising the 'exportome', are transported to extracytoplasmic locations. Most of the exportome is targeted and inserts into ('membranome') or crosses ('secretome') the plasma membrane. The membranome and secretome use distinct targeting signals and factors, and driving forces, but both use the ubiquitous and essential Sec translocase and its SecYEG protein-conducting channel. Membranome export is co-translational and uses highly hydrophobic N-terminal signal anchor sequences recognized by the signal recognition particle on the ribosome, that also targets C-tail anchor sequences. Translating ribosomes drive movement of these polypeptides through the lateral gate of SecY into the inner membrane. On the other hand, secretome export is post-translational and carries two types of targeting signals: cleavable N-terminal signal peptides and multiple short hydrophobic targeting signals in their mature domains. Secretome proteins remain translocation competent due to occupying loosely folded to completely non-folded states during targeting. This is accomplished mainly by the intrinsic properties of mature domains and assisted by signal peptides and/or chaperones. Secretome proteins bind to the dimeric SecA subunit of the translocase. SecA converts from a dimeric preprotein receptor to a monomeric ATPase motor and drives vectorial crossing of chains through SecY aided by the proton motive force. Signal peptides are removed by signal peptidases and translocated chains fold or follow subsequent trafficking.
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24
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Tsukazaki T. Structural Basis of the Sec Translocon and YidC Revealed Through X-ray Crystallography. Protein J 2020; 38:249-261. [PMID: 30972527 DOI: 10.1007/s10930-019-09830-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Protein translocation and membrane integration are fundamental, conserved processes. After or during ribosomal protein synthesis, precursor proteins containing an N-terminal signal sequence are directed to a conserved membrane protein complex called the Sec translocon (also known as the Sec translocase) in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane in eukaryotic cells, or the cytoplasmic membrane in bacteria. The Sec translocon comprises the Sec61 complex in eukaryotic cells, or the SecY complex in bacteria, and mediates translocation of substrate proteins across/into the membrane. Several membrane proteins are associated with the Sec translocon. In Escherichia coli, the membrane protein YidC functions not only as a chaperone for membrane protein biogenesis along with the Sec translocon, but also as an independent membrane protein insertase. To understand the molecular mechanism underlying these dynamic processes at the membrane, high-resolution structural models of these proteins are needed. This review focuses on X-ray crystallographic analyses of the Sec translocon and YidC and discusses the structural basis for protein translocation and integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Tsukazaki
- Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara, 630-0192, Japan.
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25
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Komarudin AG, Driessen AJM. SecA-Mediated Protein Translocation through the SecYEG Channel. Microbiol Spectr 2019; 7:10.1128/microbiolspec.psib-0028-2019. [PMID: 31373268 PMCID: PMC10957188 DOI: 10.1128/microbiolspec.psib-0028-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In bacteria, the Sec translocase mediates the translocation of proteins into and across the cytoplasmic membrane. It consists of a protein conducting channel SecYEG, the ATP-dependent motor SecA, and the accessory SecDF complex. Here we discuss the function and structure of the Sec translocase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalina Ghaisani Komarudin
- Molecular Microbiology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, and the Zernike Institute of Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Arnold J M Driessen
- Molecular Microbiology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, and the Zernike Institute of Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
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26
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Abstract
Membranes surrounding the biological cell and its internal compartments host proteins that catalyze chemical reactions essential for the functioning of the cell. Rather than being a passive structural matrix that holds membrane-embedded proteins in place, the membrane can largely shape the conformational energy landscape of membrane proteins and impact the energetics of their chemical reaction. Here, we highlight the challenges in understanding how lipids impact the conformational energy landscape of macromolecular membrane complexes whose functioning involves chemical reactions including proton transfer. We review here advances in our understanding of how chemical reactions occur at membrane interfaces gleaned with both theoretical and experimental advances using simple protein systems as guides. Our perspective is that of bridging experiments with theory to understand general physicochemical principles of membrane reactions, with a long term goal of furthering our understanding of the role of the lipids on the functioning of complex macromolecular assemblies at the membrane interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana-Nicoleta Bondar
- Freie Universität Berlin , Department of Physics, Theoretical Molecular Biophysics Group , Arnimallee 14 , D-14195 Berlin , Germany
| | - M Joanne Lemieux
- University of Alberta , Department of Biochemistry, Membrane Protein Disease Research Group , Edmonton , Alberta T6G 2H7 , Canada
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27
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Buyuktimkin B, Zafar H, Saier MH. Comparative genomics of the transportome of Ten Treponema species. Microb Pathog 2019; 132:87-99. [PMID: 31029716 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2019.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Treponema is a diverse bacterial genus, the species of which can be pathogenic, symbiotic, or free living. These treponemes can cause various diseases in humans and other animals, such as periodontal disease, bovine digital dermatitis and animal skin lesions. However, the most important and well-studied disease of treponemes that affects humans is 'syphilis'. This disease is caused by Treponema pallidum subspecie pallidum with 11-12 million new cases around the globe on an annual basis. In this study we analyze the transportome of ten Treponema species, with emphasis on the types of encoded transport proteins and their substrates. Of the ten species examined, two (T. primitia and T. azonutricium) reside as symbionts in the guts of termites; six (T. pallidum, T. paraluiscuniculi, T. pedis, T. denticola, T. putidum and T. brennaborense) are pathogens of either humans or animals, and T. caldarium and T. succinifaciens are avirulent species, the former being thermophilic. All ten species have a repertoire of transport proteins that assists them in residing in their respective ecological niches. For instance, oral pathogens use transport proteins that take up nutrients uniquely present in their ecosystem; they also encode multiple multidrug/macromolecule exporters that protect against antimicrobials and aid in biofilm formation. Proteins of termite gut symbionts convert cellulose into other sugars that can be metabolized by the host. As often observed for pathogens and symbionts, several of these treponemes have reduced genome sizes, and their small genomes correlate with their dependencies on the host. Overall, the transportomes of T. pallidum and other pathogens have a conglomerate of parasitic lifestyle-assisting proteins. For example, a T. pallidum repeat protein (TprK) mediates immune evasion; outer membrane proteins (OMPs) allow nutrient uptake and end product export, and several ABC transporters catalyze sugar uptake, considered pivotal to parasitic lifestyles. Taken together, the results of this study yield new information that may help open new avenues of treponeme research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bora Buyuktimkin
- Department of Molecular Biology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA
| | - Hassan Zafar
- Department of Molecular Biology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA; Institute of Microbiology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Milton H Saier
- Department of Molecular Biology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA.
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28
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Abstract
The inner membrane of Gram-negative bacteria is a ~6 nm thick phospholipid bilayer. It forms a semi-permeable barrier between the cytoplasm and periplasm allowing only regulated export and import of ions, sugar polymers, DNA and proteins. Inner membrane proteins, embedded via hydrophobic transmembrane α-helices, play an essential role in this regulated trafficking: they mediate insertion into the membrane (insertases) or complete crossing of the membrane (translocases) or both. The Gram-negative inner membrane is equipped with a variety of different insertases and translocases. Many of them are specialized, taking care of the export of only a few protein substrates, while others have more general roles. Here, we focus on the three general export/insertion pathways, the secretory (Sec) pathway, YidC and the twin-arginine translocation (TAT) pathway, focusing closely on the Escherichia coli (E. coli) paradigm. We only briefly mention dedicated export pathways found in different Gram-negative bacteria. The Sec system deals with the majority of exported proteins and functions both as a translocase for secretory proteins and an insertase for membrane proteins. The insertase YidC assists the Sec system or operates independently on membrane protein clients. Sec and YidC, in common with most export pathways, require their protein clients to be in soluble non-folded states to fit through the translocation channels and grooves. The TAT pathway is an exception, as it translocates folded proteins, some loaded with prosthetic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jozefien De Geyter
- Laboratory of Molecular Bacteriology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dries Smets
- Laboratory of Molecular Bacteriology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Spyridoula Karamanou
- Laboratory of Molecular Bacteriology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anastassios Economou
- Laboratory of Molecular Bacteriology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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29
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Substrate Proteins Take Shape at an Improved Bacterial Translocon. J Bacteriol 2018; 201:JB.00618-18. [PMID: 30322856 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00618-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Characterization of Sec-dependent bacterial protein transport has often relied on an in vitro protein translocation system comprised in part of Escherichia coli inverted inner membrane vesicles or, more recently, purified SecYEG translocons reconstituted into liposomes using mostly a single substrate (proOmpA). A paper published in this issue (P. Bariya and L. Randall, J Bacteriol 201:e00493-18, 2019, https://doi.org/10.1128/JB.00493-18) finds that inclusion of SecA protein during SecYEG proteoliposome reconstitution dramatically improves the number of active translocons. This experimentally useful and intriguing result that may arise from SecA membrane integration properties is discussed here. Furthermore, determination of the rate-limiting transport step for nine different substrates implicates the mature region distal to the signal peptide in the observed rate constant differences, indicating that more nuanced transport models that respond to differences in protein sequence and structure are needed.
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Coassembly of SecYEG and SecA Fully Restores the Properties of the Native Translocon. J Bacteriol 2018; 201:JB.00493-18. [PMID: 30275279 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00493-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In all cells, a highly conserved channel transports proteins across membranes. In Escherichia coli, that channel is SecYEG. Many investigations of this protein complex have used purified SecYEG reconstituted into proteoliposomes. How faithfully do activities of reconstituted systems reflect the properties of SecYEG in the native membrane environment? We investigated by comparing three in vitro systems: the native membrane environment of inner membrane vesicles and two methods of reconstitution. One method was the widely used reconstitution of SecYEG alone into lipid bilayers. The other was our method of coassembly of SecYEG with SecA, the ATPase of the translocase. For nine different precursor species we assessed parameters that characterize translocation: maximal amplitude of competent precursor translocated, coupling of energy to transfer, and apparent rate constant. In addition, we investigated translocation in the presence and absence of chaperone SecB. For all nine precursors, SecYEG coassembled with SecA was as active as SecYEG in native membrane for each of the parameters studied. Effects of SecB on transport of precursors faithfully mimicked observations made in vivo From investigation of the nine different precursors, we conclude that the apparent rate constant, which reflects the step that limits the rate of translocation, is dependent on interactions with the translocon of portions of the precursors other than the leader. In addition, in some cases the rate-limiting step is altered by the presence of SecB. Candidates for the rate-limiting step that are consistent with our data are discussed.IMPORTANCE This work presents a comprehensive quantification of the parameters of transport by the Sec general secretory system in the three in vitro systems. The standard reconstitution used by most investigators can be enhanced to yield six times as many active translocons simply by adding SecA to SecYEG during reconstitution. This robust system faithfully reflects the properties of translocation in native membrane vesicles. We have expanded the number of precursors studied to nine. This has allowed us to conclude that the rate constant for translocation varies with precursor species.
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Shahrizal M, Daimon Y, Tanaka Y, Hayashi Y, Nakayama S, Iwaki S, Narita SI, Kamikubo H, Akiyama Y, Tsukazaki T. Structural Basis for the Function of the β-Barrel Assembly-Enhancing Protease BepA. J Mol Biol 2018; 431:625-635. [PMID: 30521812 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2018.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The β-barrel assembly machinery (BAM) complex mediates the assembly of β-barrel membrane proteins in the outer membrane. BepA, formerly known as YfgC, interacts with the BAM complex and functions as a protease/chaperone for the enhancement of the assembly and/or degradation of β-barrel membrane proteins. To elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying the dual functions of BepA, its full-length three-dimensional structure is needed. Here, we report the crystal structure of full-length BepA at 2.6-Å resolution. BepA possesses an N-terminal protease domain and a C-terminal tetratricopeptide repeat domain, which interact with each other. Domain cross-linking by structure-guided introduction of disulfide bonds did not affect the activities of BepA in vivo, suggesting that the function of this protein does not involve domain rearrangement. The full-length BepA structure is compatible with the previously proposed docking model of BAM complex and tetratricopeptide repeat domain of BepA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yasushi Daimon
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Tanaka
- Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Yugo Hayashi
- Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Shintaro Nakayama
- Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Shigehiro Iwaki
- Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichiro Narita
- Faculty of Nutritional Sciences, University of Morioka, Iwate 020-0694, Japan
| | - Hironari Kamikubo
- Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Akiyama
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Tomoya Tsukazaki
- Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan.
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Haruyama T, Sugano Y, Kodera N, Uchihashi T, Ando T, Tanaka Y, Konno H, Tsukazaki T. Single-Unit Imaging of Membrane Protein-Embedded Nanodiscs from Two Oriented Sides by High-Speed Atomic Force Microscopy. Structure 2018; 27:152-160.e3. [PMID: 30318467 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2018.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Membrane proteins play important roles in various cellular functions. To analyze membrane proteins, nanodisc technology using membrane scaffold proteins allows single membrane protein units to be embedded into the lipid bilayer disc without detergents. Recent advancements in high-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM) have enabled us to monitor the real-time dynamics of proteins in solution at the nanometer scale. In this study, we report HS-AFM imaging of membrane proteins reconstituted into nanodiscs using two membrane protein complexes, SecYEG complex and MgtE dimer. The observed images showed single particles of membrane protein-embedded nanodiscs in an end-up orientation whereby the membrane was fixed parallel to the supporting solid surface and in a side-on orientation whereby the membrane plane was vertically fixed to the solid surface, enabling the elucidation of domain fluctuations in membrane proteins. This technique provides a basic method for the high-resolution imaging of single membrane proteins by HS-AFM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takamitsu Haruyama
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Yasunori Sugano
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Kodera
- Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
| | | | - Toshio Ando
- Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Tanaka
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Hiroki Konno
- Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan.
| | - Tomoya Tsukazaki
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Nara 630-0192, Japan.
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