Infrared nanospectroscopic mapping of a single metaphase chromosome

Water-mediated cytosine self-assembly in infrared perspective

Self-assembly plays a crucial role in the formation and allosteric processes of many biomolecules, water molecules can affect these processes. Cytosine (Cyt) has excellent self-assembly ability, forming a flat and ordered structure through hydrogen bonds (HBs) in the presence of water molecules. However, the vibration dynamics and interaction mechanism of water induced Cyt self-assembly are still unclear. In this work, infrared spectroscopy techniques, combined with density functional theory (DFT) theoretical calculations, were employed to investigate the vibrational characteristics and interactions of water molecule mediated self-assembly of Cyt and its reverse process. The results indicate that the induction of Cyt self-assembly by water molecules has differential effects on the various vibrational modes of the Cyt molecule. Multi-view infrared spectroscopy provides a powerful tool for the characterization of biomolecules in situ. This study will contribute to a deeper understanding and application of nucleic acid biological nanostructures.

Molecular alterations in metaphase chromosomes induced by bleomycin

Chromosomes are intranuclear structures, their main function is to store and transmit genetic information during cell division. They are composed of tightly packed DNA in the form of chromatin, which is constantly exposed to various damaging factors. The resulting changes in DNA can have serious consequences (e.g. mutations) if they are not repaired or repaired incorrectly. In this article, we studied chromosomes isolated from human cervical cancer cells (HeLa) exposed to a genotoxic drug causing both single- and double-strand breaks. Specifically, we used bleomycin to induce DNA damage. We followed morphological and chemical changes in chromosomes upon damage induction. Atomic force microscopy was used to visualize the morphology of chromosomes, while Raman microspectroscopy enabled the detection of changes in the chemical structure of chromatin with the resolution close to the diffraction limit. Additionally, we extracted spectra corresponding to chromosome I or chromatin from hyperspectral Raman maps with convolutional neural networks (CNN), which were further analysed with the principal component analysis (PCA) algorithm to reveal molecular markers of DNA damage in chromosomes. The applied multimodal approach revealed simultaneous morphological and molecular changes, including chromosomal aberrations, alterations in DNA conformation, methylation pattern, and increased protein expression upon the bleomycin treatment at the level of the single chromosome.

Synchrotron-based FTIR microspectroscopy reveals DNA methylation profile in DNA-HALO structure

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a rapid, non-destructive and label-free technique for identifying subtle changes in all bio-macromolecules, and has been used as a method of choice for studying DNA conformation, secondary DNA structure transition and DNA damage. In addition, the specific level of chromatin complexity is introduced via epigenetic modifications forcing the technological upgrade in the analysis of such an intricacy. As the most studied epigenetic mechanism, DNA methylation is a major regulator of transcriptional activity, involved in the suppression of a broad spectrum of genes and its deregulation is involved in all non-communicable diseases. The present study was designed to explore the use of synchrotron-based FTIR analysis to monitor the subtle changes in molecule bases regarding the DNA methylation status of cytosine in the whole genome. In order to reveal the conformation-related best sample for FTIR-based DNA methylation analysis in situ, we used methodology for nuclear HALO preparations and slightly modified it to isolated DNA in HALO formations. Nuclear DNA-HALOs represent samples with preserved higher-order chromatin structure liberated of any protein residues that are closer to native DNA conformation than genomic DNA (gDNA) isolated by the standard batch procedure. Using FTIR spectroscopy we analyzed the DNA methylation profile of isolated gDNA and compared it with the DNA-HALOs. This study demonstrated the potential of FTIR microspectroscopy to detect DNA methylation marks in analyzed DNA-HALO specimens more precisely in comparison with classical DNA extraction procedures that yield unstructured whole genomic DNA. In addition, we used different cell types to assess their global DNA methylation profile, as well as defined specific infrared peaks that can be used for screening DNA methylation.

AFM-IR for Nanoscale Chemical Characterization in Life Sciences: Recent Developments and Future Directions

Despite the ubiquitous absorption of mid-infrared (IR) radiation by virtually all molecules that belong to the major biomolecules groups (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids), the application of conventional IR microscopy to the life sciences remained somewhat limited, due to the restrictions on spatial resolution imposed by the diffraction limit (in the order of several micrometers). This issue is addressed by AFM-IR, a scanning probe-based technique that allows for chemical analysis at the nanoscale with resolutions down to 10 nm and thus has the potential to contribute to the investigation of nano and microscale biological processes. In this perspective, in addition to a concise description of the working principles and operating modes of AFM-IR, we present and evaluate the latest key applications of AFM-IR to the life sciences, summarizing what the technique has to offer to this field. Furthermore, we discuss the most relevant current limitations and point out potential future developments and areas for further application for fruitful interdisciplinary collaboration.

Use of Atomic Force Microscopy in UVB-Induced Chromosome Damage Provides Important Bioinformation for Cell Damage Assessment

The chromosomal structure derived from UVB-stimulated HaCaT cells was detected by atomic force microscopy (AFM) to evaluate the effect of UVB irradiation. The results showed that the higher the UVB irradiation dose, the more the cells that had chromosome aberration. At the same time, different representative types of chromosome structural aberrations were investigated. We also revealed damage to both DNA and cells under the corresponding irradiation doses. It was found that the degree of DNA damage was directly proportional to the irradiation dose. The mechanical properties of cells were also changed after UVB irradiation, suggesting that cells experienced a series of chain reactions from inside to outside after irradiation. The high-resolution imaging of chromosome structures by AFM after UVB irradiation enables us to relate the damage between chromosomes, DNA, and cells caused by UVB irradiation and provides specific information on genetic effects.

Label-Free Physical-Analytical Techniques Reveal Epigenetic Modifications of Breast Cancer Chromosomes

Epigenetic dysregulation including DNA methylation and histone modifications is being increasingly recognized as a promising biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer. Herein, we devised a label-free analytical toolbox comprising IR, UV-vis, CD spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry, which is capable to differentiate significantly hyper-methylated breast cancer chromosomes from the normal breast epithelial counterparts.

Direct observation of surface charge and stiffness of human metaphase chromosomes

Metaphase chromosomes in which both polynucleotides and proteins are condensed with hierarchies are closely related to life phenomena such as cell division, cancer development, and cellular senescence. Nevertheless, their nature is rarely revealed, owing to their structural complexity and technical limitations in analytical methods. In this study, we used surface potential and nanomechanics mapping technology based on atomic force microscopy to measure the surface charge and intrinsic stiffness of metaphase chromosomes. We found that extra materials covering the chromosomes after the extraction process were positively charged. With the covering materials, the chromosomes were positively charged (ca. 44.9 ± 16.48 mV) and showed uniform stiffness (ca. 6.23 ± 1.98 MPa). In contrast, after getting rid of the extra materials through treatment with RNase and protease, the chromosomes were strongly negatively charged (ca. -197.4 ± 77.87 mV) and showed relatively non-uniform and augmented stiffness (ca. 36.87 ± 17.56 MPa). The results suggested undulating but compact coordination of condensed chromosomes. Additionally, excessive treatment with RNase and protease could destroy the chromosomal structure, providing an exceptional opportunity for multiscale stiffness mapping of polynucleotides, nucleosomes, chromatin fibers, and chromosomes in a single image. Our approach offers a new horizon in terms of an analytical technique for studying chromosome-related diseases.

Infrared nanospectroscopic imaging of DNA molecules on mica surface

Significant efforts have been done in last two decades to develop nanoscale spectroscopy techniques owning to their great potential for single-molecule structural detection and in addition, to resolve open questions in heterogeneous biological systems, such as protein-DNA complexes. Applying IR-AFM technique has become a powerful leverage for obtaining simultaneous absorption spectra with a nanoscale spatial resolution for studied proteins, however the AFM-IR investigation of DNA molecules on surface, as a benchmark for a nucleoprotein complexes nanocharacterization, has remained elusive. Herein, we demonstrate methodological approach for acquisition of AFM-IR mapping modalities with corresponding absorption spectra based on two different DNA deposition protocols on spermidine and Ni²⁺ pretreated mica surface. The nanoscale IR absorbance of distinctly formed DNA morphologies on mica are demonstrated through series of AFM-IR absorption maps with corresponding IR spectrum. Our results thus demonstrate the sensitivity of AFM-IR nanospectroscopy for a nucleic acid research with an open potential to be employed in further investigation of nucleoprotein complexes.

Unraveling the Physicochemical Determinants of Protein Liquid-liquid Phase Separation by Nanoscale Infrared Vibrational Spectroscopy

The phenomenon of reversible liquid-liquid phase separation of proteins underlies the formation of membraneless organelles, which are crucial for cellular processes such as signalling and transport. In addition, it is also of great interest to uncover the mechanisms of further irreversible maturation of the functional dense liquid phase into aberrant insoluble assemblies due to its implication in human disease. Recent advances in methods based on atomic force microscopy (AFM) have made it possible to study protein condensates at the nanometer level, providing unprecedented information on the nature of the intermolecular interactions governing phase separation. Here, we provide an in-depth description of a protocol for the characterisation of the morphology, stiffness, and chemical properties of protein condensates using infrared nanospectroscopy (AFM-IR).

Diverse and unexpected outcomes from oxidation of the platinum(II) anticancer agent [Pt{(p-BrC6F4)NCH2CH2NEt2}Cl(py)] by hydrogen peroxide

Oxidation of the anti-tumour agent [Pt{(p-BrC₆F₄)NCH₂CH₂NEt₂}Cl(py)], 1 (py = pyridine) with hydrogen peroxide under a variety of conditions yields a range of organoenamineamidoplatinum(II) compounds [Pt{(p-BrC₆F₄)NCH=C(X)NEt₂}Cl(py)] (X = H, Cl, Br) as well as species with shared occupancy involving H, Cl and Br. Thus, oxidation of the -CH₂-CH₂- backbone (dehydrogenation) occurs, often accompanied by substitution. Oxidation of 1 with H₂O₂ in acetone yielded 1:1 co-crystallized [Pt{(p-BrC₆F₄)NCH=CHNEt₂}Cl(py)], 1H and [Pt{(p-BrC₆F₄)NCH=C(Cl)NEt₂}Cl(py)], 1Cl. The former was obtained pure in low yield from the oxidation of 1 with (NH₄)₂[Ce(NO₃)₆] in acetone, and the latter was obtained from 1 and H₂O₂ in CH₂Cl₂ at near reflux. From the latter reaction under vigorous refluxing [Pt{(p-BrC₆F₄)NCH=C(Br)NEt₂}Cl(py)], 1Br was isolated. In refluxing acetonitrile, oxidation of 1 with H₂O₂ yielded [Pt{(p-BrC₆F₄)NCH=C(H₀.₂₅Br_0.75)NEt₂}Cl(py)], 1H_0.25Br_0.75, in which the alkene is mainly substituted by Br in a dual occupancy. Treatment of 1 with H₂O₂ and tetrabutylammonium hydroxide in acetone at room temperature formed [Pt{(p-HC₆F₄)NCH₂CH₂NEt₂}Cl(py)], 2. Oxidation of [Pt{(p-HC₆F₄)NCH₂CH₂NEt₂}Br(py)], 3 with H₂O₂ in boiling acetonitrile gave the ligand oxidation product [Pt{(p-HC₆F₄)NCH=C(Br)NEt₂}Br(py)], 3Br. All major products were identified by X-ray crystallography as well as by ¹H and ¹⁹F NMR spectra. In cases of mixed crystals or dual occupancy compounds, the ¹⁹F and ¹H NMR spectra showed dissociation into the components in the solution in the same proportions as in isolated crystalline material.

Evolution of Conformation, Nanomechanics, and Infrared Nanospectroscopy of Single Amyloid Fibrils Converting into Microcrystals

Nanomechanical properties of amyloid fibrils and nanocrystals depend on their secondary and quaternary structure, and the geometry of intermolecular hydrogen bonds. Advanced imaging methods based on atomic force microscopy (AFM) have unravelled the morphological and mechanical heterogeneity of amyloids, however a full understanding has been hampered by the limited resolution of conventional spectroscopic methods. Here, it is shown that single molecule nanomechanical mapping and infrared nanospectroscopy (AFM-IR) in combination with atomistic modelling enable unravelling at the single aggregate scale of the morphological, nanomechanical, chemical, and structural transition from amyloid fibrils to amyloid microcrystals in the hexapeptides, ILQINS, IFQINS, and TFQINS. Different morphologies have different Young's moduli, within 2-6 GPa, with amyloid fibrils exhibiting lower Young's moduli compared to amyloid microcrystals. The origins of this stiffening are unravelled and related to the increased content of intermolecular β-sheet and the increased lengthscale of cooperativity following the transition from twisted fibril to flat nanocrystal. Increased stiffness in Young's moduli is correlated with increased density of intermolecular hydrogen bonding and parallel β-sheet structure, which energetically stabilize crystals over the other polymorphs. These results offer additional evidence for the position of amyloid crystals in the minimum of the protein folding and aggregation landscape.

Phenalenyl based platinum anticancer compounds with superior efficacy: design, synthesis, characterization, and interaction with nuclear DNA

New and efficacious phenalenyl based Pt(ii) compounds have been used to design an “easy to use tool” for mechanistic understanding.

Gold Nanopeanuts as Prospective Support for Cisplatin in Glioblastoma Nano-Chemo-Radiotherapy

Herein, we propose newly designed and synthesized gold nanopeanuts (Au NPes) as supports for cisplatin (cPt) immobilization, dedicated to combined glioblastoma nano-chemo-radiotherapy. Au NPes offer a large active surface, which can be used for drugs immobilization. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that the size of the synthesized Au NPes along the longitudinal axis is ~60 nm, while along the transverse axis ~20 nm. Raman, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DCS) measurements showed, that the created nanosystem is stable up to a temperature of 110 °C. MTT assay revealed, that the highest cell mortality was observed for cell lines subjected to nano-chemo-radiotherapy (20–55%). Hence, Au NPes with immobilized cPt (cPt@AuNPes) are a promising nanosystem to improve the therapeutic efficiency of combined nano-chemo-radiotherapy.

Genetic Material Manipulation and Modification by Optical Trapping and Nanosurgery-A Perspective

Light can be employed as a tool to alter and manipulate matter in many ways. An example has been the implementation of optical trapping, the so called optical tweezers, in which light can hold and move small objects with 3D control. Of interest for the Life Sciences and Biotechnology is the fact that biological objects in the size range from tens of nanometers to hundreds of microns can be precisely manipulated through this technology. In particular, it has been shown possible to optically trap and move genetic material (DNA and chromatin) using optical tweezers. Also, these biological entities can be severed, rearranged and reconstructed by the combined use of laser scissors and optical tweezers. In this review, the background, current state and future possibilities of optical tweezers and laser scissors to manipulate, rearrange and alter genetic material (DNA, chromatin and chromosomes) will be presented. Sources of undesirable effects by the optical procedure and measures to avoid them will be discussed. In addition, first tentative approaches at cellular-level genetic and organelle surgery, in which genetic material or DNA-carrying organelles are extracted out or introduced into cells, will be presented.

Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase 1 Activity Determines the Maintenance of DNMT1-Mediated DNA Methylation Patterns in Pancreatic β-Cells

Metabolic stress, such as lipotoxicity, affects the DNA methylation profile in pancreatic β-cells and thus contributes to β-cell failure and the progression of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) is a rate-limiting enzyme that is involved in monounsaturated fatty acid synthesis, which protects pancreatic β-cells against lipotoxicity. The present study found that SCD1 is also required for the establishment and maintenance of DNA methylation patterns in β-cells. We showed that SCD1 inhibition/deficiency caused DNA hypomethylation and changed the methyl group distribution within chromosomes in β-cells. Lower levels of DNA methylation in SCD1-deficient β-cells were followed by lower levels of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1). We also found that the downregulation of SCD1 in pancreatic β-cells led to the activation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and an increase in the activity of the NAD-dependent deacetylase sirtuin-1 (SIRT1). Furthermore, the physical association between DNMT1 and SIRT1 stimulated the deacetylation of DNMT1 under conditions of SCD1 inhibition/downregulation, suggesting a mechanism by which SCD1 exerts control over DNMT1. We also found that SCD1-deficient β-cells that were treated with compound c, an inhibitor of AMPK, were characterized by higher levels of both global DNA methylation and DNMT1 protein expression compared with untreated cells. Therefore, we found that activation of the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway mediates the effect of SCD1 inhibition/deficiency on DNA methylation status in pancreatic β-cells. Altogether, these findings suggest that SCD1 is a gatekeeper that protects β-cells against the lipid-derived loss of DNA methylation and provide mechanistic insights into the mechanism by which SCD1 regulates DNA methylation patterns in β-cells and T2D-relevant tissues.

Single molecule secondary structure determination of proteins through infrared absorption nanospectroscopy

The chemical and structural properties of biomolecules determine their interactions, and thus their functions, in a wide variety of biochemical processes. Innovative imaging methods have been developed to characterise biomolecular structures down to the angstrom level. However, acquiring vibrational absorption spectra at the single molecule level, a benchmark for bulk sample characterization, has remained elusive. Here, we introduce off-resonance, low power and short pulse infrared nanospectroscopy (ORS-nanoIR) to allow the acquisition of infrared absorption spectra and chemical maps at the single molecule level, at high throughput on a second timescale and with a high signal-to-noise ratio (~10-20). This high sensitivity enables the accurate determination of the secondary structure of single protein molecules with over a million-fold lower mass than conventional bulk vibrational spectroscopy. These results pave the way to probe directly the chemical and structural properties of individual biomolecules, as well as their interactions, in a broad range of chemical and biological systems.