1
|
Shaham-Niv S, Ezra A, Zaguri D, Shotan SR, Haimov E, Engel H, Brider T, Simhaev L, Barr HM, Adler-Abramovich L, Gazit E. Targeting phenylalanine assemblies as a prospective disease-modifying therapy for phenylketonuria. Biophys Chem 2024; 308:107215. [PMID: 38432113 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2024.107215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Phenylketonuria is characterized by the accumulation of phenylalanine, resulting in severe cognitive and neurological disorders if not treated by a remarkably strict diet. There are two approved drugs today, yet both provide only a partial solution. We have previously demonstrated the formation of amyloid-like toxic assemblies by aggregation of phenylalanine, suggesting a new therapeutic target to be further pursued. Moreover, we showed that compounds that halt the formation of these assemblies also prevent their resulting toxicity. Here, we performed high-throughput screening, searching for compounds with inhibitory effects on phenylalanine aggregation. Morin hydrate, one of the most promising hits revealed during the screen, was chosen to be tested in vivo using a phenylketonuria mouse model. Morin hydrate significantly improved cognitive and motor function with a reduction in the number of phenylalanine brain deposits. Moreover, while phenylalanine levels remained high, we observed a recovery in dopaminergic, adrenergic, and neuronal markers. To conclude, the ability of Morin hydrate to halt phenylalanine aggregation without reducing phenylalanine levels implies the toxic role of the phenylalanine assemblies in phenylketonuria and opens new avenues for disease-modifying treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shira Shaham-Niv
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Assaf Ezra
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Dor Zaguri
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Stav Roni Shotan
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Elvira Haimov
- BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Hamutal Engel
- BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Tamara Brider
- BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Luba Simhaev
- BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Haim Michael Barr
- Nancy and Stephen Grand Israel National Center for Personalized Medicine, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Lihi Adler-Abramovich
- Department of Oral Biology, The Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Ehud Gazit
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Garg A, Kumar G, Singh V, Sinha S. Doxorubicin catalyses self-assembly of p53 by phase separation. Curr Res Struct Biol 2024; 7:100133. [PMID: 38435052 PMCID: PMC10906149 DOI: 10.1016/j.crstbi.2024.100133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation plays a crucial role in cellular physiology, as it leads to the formation of membrane-less organelles in response to various internal stimuli, contributing to various cellular functions. However, the influence of exogenous stimuli on this process in the context of disease intervention remains unexplored. In this current investigation, we explore the impact of doxorubicin on the abnormal self-assembly of p53 using a combination of biophysical and imaging techniques. Additionally, we shed light on the potential mechanisms behind chemoresistance in cancer cells carrying mutant p53. Our findings reveal that doxorubicin co-localizes with both wild-type p53 (WTp53) and its mutant variants. Our in vitro experiments indicate that doxorubicin interacts with the N-terminal-deleted form of WTp53 (WTp53ΔNterm), inducing liquid-liquid phase separation, ultimately leading to protein aggregation. Notably, the p53 variants at the R273 position exhibit a propensity for phase separation even in the absence of doxorubicin, highlighting the destabilizing effects of point mutations at this position. The strong interaction between doxorubicin and p53 variants, along with its localization within the protein condensates, provides a potential explanation for the development of chemotherapy resistance. Collectively, our cellular and in vitro studies emphasize the role of exogenous agents in driving phase separation-mediated p53 aggregation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ankush Garg
- Chemical Biology Unit, Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Sector- 81, Mohali (SAS Nagar), Punjab, 140306, India
| | - Gaurav Kumar
- Chemical Biology Unit, Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Sector- 81, Mohali (SAS Nagar), Punjab, 140306, India
| | - Varinder Singh
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Sector- 81, Mohali (SAS Nagar), Punjab, 140306, India
| | - Sharmistha Sinha
- Chemical Biology Unit, Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Sector- 81, Mohali (SAS Nagar), Punjab, 140306, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Louros N, Schymkowitz J, Rousseau F. Mechanisms and pathology of protein misfolding and aggregation. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:912-933. [PMID: 37684425 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00647-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Despite advances in machine learning-based protein structure prediction, we are still far from fully understanding how proteins fold into their native conformation. The conventional notion that polypeptides fold spontaneously to their biologically active states has gradually been replaced by our understanding that cellular protein folding often requires context-dependent guidance from molecular chaperones in order to avoid misfolding. Misfolded proteins can aggregate into larger structures, such as amyloid fibrils, which perpetuate the misfolding process, creating a self-reinforcing cascade. A surge in amyloid fibril structures has deepened our comprehension of how a single polypeptide sequence can exhibit multiple amyloid conformations, known as polymorphism. The assembly of these polymorphs is not a random process but is influenced by the specific conditions and tissues in which they originate. This observation suggests that, similar to the folding of native proteins, the kinetics of pathological amyloid assembly are modulated by interactions specific to cells and tissues. Here, we review the current understanding of how intrinsic protein conformational propensities are modulated by physiological and pathological interactions in the cell to shape protein misfolding and aggregation pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Louros
- Switch Laboratory, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joost Schymkowitz
- Switch Laboratory, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Frederic Rousseau
- Switch Laboratory, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wittung-Stafshede P. Chemical catalysis by biological amyloids. Biochem Soc Trans 2023; 51:1967-1974. [PMID: 37743793 PMCID: PMC10657172 DOI: 10.1042/bst20230617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Toxic aggregation of proteins and peptides into amyloid fibers is the basis of several human diseases. In each disease, a particular peptide noncovalently assembles into long thin structures with an overall cross-β fold. Amyloids are not only related to disease: functional amyloids are found in many biological systems and artificial peptide amyloids are developed into novel nanomaterials. Amyloid fibers can act as template for the generation of more amyloids but are considered nonreactive in chemical catalysis. The perception of amyloids as chemically inert species was recently challenged by in vitro work on three human amyloid systems. With the use of model substrates, amyloid-β, α-synuclein and glucagon amyloids were found to catalyze biologically relevant chemical reactions. The detected catalytic activity was much less than that of 'real' enzymes, but like that of designed (synthetic) catalytic amyloids. I here describe the current knowledge around this new activity of natural amyloids and the putative connection to metabolic changes in amyloid diseases. These pioneering studies imply that catalytic activity is an unexplored gain-of-function activity of disease amyloids. In fact, all biological amyloids may harbor intrinsic catalytic activity, tuned by each amyloid's particular fold, that await discovery.
Collapse
|
5
|
Taha HB, Chawla E, Bitan G. IM-MS and ECD-MS/MS Provide Insight into Modulation of Amyloid Proteins Self-Assembly by Peptides and Small Molecules. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2023; 34:2066-2086. [PMID: 37607351 DOI: 10.1021/jasms.3c00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative proteinopathies are characterized by formation and deposition of misfolded, aggregated proteins in the nervous system leading to neuronal dysfunction and death. It is widely believed that metastable oligomers of the offending proteins, preceding the fibrillar aggregates found in the tissue, are the proximal neurotoxins. There are currently almost no disease-modifying therapies for these diseases despite an active pipeline of preclinical development and clinical trials for over two decades, largely because studying the metastable oligomers and their interaction with potential therapeutics is notoriously difficult. Mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful analytical tool for structural investigation of proteins, including protein-protein and protein-ligand interactions. Specific MS tools have been useful in determining the composition and conformation of abnormal protein oligomers involved in proteinopathies and the way they interact with drug candidates. Here, we analyze critically the utilization of ion-mobility spectroscopy-MS (IM-MS) and electron-capture dissociation (ECD) MS/MS for analyzing the oligomerization and conformation of multiple amyloidogenic proteins. We also discuss IM-MS investigation of their interaction with two classes of compounds developed by our group over the last two decades: C-terminal fragments derived from the 42-residue form of amyloid β-protein (Aβ42) and molecular tweezers. Finally, we review the utilization of ECD-MS/MS for elucidating the binding sites of the ligands on multiple proteins. These approaches are readily applicable to future studies addressing similar questions and hold promise for facilitating the development of successful disease-modifying drugs against neurodegenerative proteinopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hash Brown Taha
- Department of Neurology, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Esha Chawla
- Department of Neurology, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Gal Bitan
- Department of Neurology, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Levkovich SA, Gazit E, Laor Bar-Yosef D. The Metabolostasis Network and the Cellular Depository of Aggregation-Prone Metabolites. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202217622. [PMID: 37266966 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202217622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The vital role of metabolites across all branches of life and their involvement in various disorders have been investigated for decades. Many metabolites are poorly soluble in water or in physiological buffers and tend to form supramolecular aggregates. On the other hand, in the cell, they should be preserved in a pool and be readily available for the execution of biochemical functions. We thus propose that a quality-control network, termed "metabolostasis", has evolved to regulate the storage and retrieval of aggregation-prone metabolites. Such a system should control metabolite concentration, subcellular localization, supramolecular arrangement, and interaction in dynamic environments, thus enabling normal cellular physiology, healthy development, and preventing disease onset. The paradigm-shifting concept of metabolostasis calls for a reevaluation of the traditional view of metabolite storage and dynamics in physiology and pathology and proposes unprecedented directions for therapeutic targets under conditions where metabolostasis is imbalanced.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shon A Levkovich
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Ehud Gazit
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
- BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Dana Laor Bar-Yosef
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Koshal P, Matera I, Abruzzese V, Ostuni A, Bisaccia F. The Crosstalk between HepG2 and HMC-III Cells: In Vitro Modulation of Gene Expression with Conditioned Media. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214443. [PMID: 36430920 PMCID: PMC9696318 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have postulated an inverse correlation between developing cancer and neurodegeneration. It is known that the secretome plays a vital role in cell-cell communication in health and disease; the microglia is the resident macrophage of the central nervous system which maintains neuronal integrity by adapting as the microenvironment changes. The present study aimed to identify, in a cell model, biomarkers that link neurodegenerative diseases to cancer or vice versa. Real-time PCR and western blot analysis were used to characterize the effects on gene and protein expression of human hepatoblastoma (HepG2) and human microglia (HMC-III) cells after exchanging part of their conditioned medium. Biomarkers of the endoplasmic reticulum, and mitophagy and inflammatory processes were evaluated. In both cell types, we observed the activation of cytoprotective mechanisms against any potential pro-oxidant or pro-inflammatory signals present in secretomes. In contrast, HepG2 but not HMC-III cells seem to trigger autophagic processes following treatment with conditioned medium of microglia, thus suggesting a cell-specific adaptive response.
Collapse
|
8
|
Nandi S, Mukhopadhyay A, Nandi PK, Bera N, Hazra R, Chatterjee J, Sarkar N. Amyloids Formed by Nonaromatic Amino Acid Methionine and Its Cross with Phenylalanine Significantly Affects Phospholipid Vesicle Membrane: An Insight into Hypermethioninemia Disorder. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:8252-8265. [PMID: 35758025 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c00648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The incorrect metabolic breakdown of the nonaromatic amino acid methionine (Met) leads to the disorder called hypermethioninemia via an unknown mechanism. To understand the molecular level pathogenesis of this disorder, we prepared a DMPC lipid membrane, the mimicking setup of the cell membrane, and explored the effect of the millimolar level of Met on it. We found that Met forms toxic fibrillar aggregates that disrupt the rigidity of the membrane bilayer, and increases the dynamic response of water molecules surrounding the membrane as well as the heterogeneity of the membrane. Such aggregates strongly deform red blood cells. This opens the requirement to consider therapeutic antagonists either to resist or to inhibit the toxic amyloid aggregates against hypermethioninemia. Moreover, such disrupting effect on membrane bilayer and cytotoxicity along with deformation effect on RBC by the cross amyloids of Met and Phenylalanine (Phe) was found to be most virulent. This exclusive observation of the enhanced virulent effect of the cross amyloids is expected to be an informative asset to explain the coexistence of two amyloid disorders.
Collapse
|
9
|
Bogár F, Fülöp L, Penke B. Novel Therapeutic Target for Prevention of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Modulation of Neuroinflammation with Sig-1R Ligands. Biomolecules 2022; 12:363. [PMID: 35327555 PMCID: PMC8945408 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are characterized by progressive deterioration of the structure and function of cells and their networks in the nervous system. There are currently no drugs or other treatments that can stop the progression of NDDs. NDDs have many similarities and common pathways, e.g., formation of misfolded amyloid proteins, intra- and extracellular amyloid deposits, and chronic inflammation. Initially, the inflammation process has a cytoprotective function; however, an elevated and prolonged immune response has damaging effects and causes cell death. Neuroinflammation has been a target of drug development for treating and curing NDDs. Treatment of different NDDs with non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has failed or has given inconsistent results. The use of NSAIDs in diagnosed Alzheimer's disease is currently not recommended. Sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R) is a novel target for NDD drug development. Sig-1R plays a key role in cellular stress signaling, and it regulates endoplasmic reticulum stress and unfolded protein response. Activation of Sig-1R provides neuroprotection in cell cultures and animal studies. Clinical trials demonstrated that several Sig-1R agonists (pridopidine, ANAVEX3-71, fluvoxamine, dextrometorphan) and their combinations have a neuroprotective effect and slow down the progression of distinct NDDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ferenc Bogár
- MTA-SZTE Biomimetic Systems Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Dóm Square 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Dóm Square 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Lívia Fülöp
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Dóm Square 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Botond Penke
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Dóm Square 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gour N, Gazit E. Metabolite assemblies: A surprising extension to the amyloid hypothesis. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2021; 64:154-164. [PMID: 34482124 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The realization of the ability of metabolites to form self-assembled amyloid-like nanostructures was a surprising phenomenon. This discovery paved the way towards understanding the pathophysiology of the inborn error of metabolism disorders from a new perspective, relating them to amyloid-associated diseases that are characterized by the aggregation of proteins and polypeptides. Hence, a 'generic amyloid hypothesis' can be proposed. This theory implies that the formation of amyloid-like structures is a general phenomenon not limited to proteins and reflects a common etiology for both age-related amyloid-associated diseases and inborn error of metabolism disorders. Here, we present a comprehensive survey of the recent research related to metabolite amyloids including their structure formation through self-association, propagation, interactions, transmission, and their role in metabolic disorders and neurodegenerative diseases and their applications for the fabrication of novel materials which implicate metabolite assemblies as a surprising extension to the amyloid scheme.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Gour
- School of Science, Department of Chemistry, Indrashil University, Mehsana, Gujarat, 382740 India
| | - Ehud Gazit
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel; BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Adsi H, Levkovich SA, Haimov E, Kreiser T, Meli M, Engel H, Simhaev L, Karidi-Heller S, Colombo G, Gazit E, Laor Bar-Yosef D. Chemical Chaperones Modulate the Formation of Metabolite Assemblies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9172. [PMID: 34502079 PMCID: PMC8431448 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The formation of amyloid-like structures by metabolites is associated with several inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs). These structures display most of the biological, chemical and physical properties of protein amyloids. However, the molecular interactions underlying the assembly remain elusive, and so far, no modulating therapeutic agents are available for clinical use. Chemical chaperones are known to inhibit protein and peptide amyloid formation and stabilize misfolded enzymes. Here, we provide an in-depth characterization of the inhibitory effect of osmolytes and hydrophobic chemical chaperones on metabolite assemblies, thus extending their functional repertoire. We applied a combined in vivo-in vitro-in silico approach and show their ability to inhibit metabolite amyloid-induced toxicity and reduce cellular amyloid content in yeast. We further used various biophysical techniques demonstrating direct inhibition of adenine self-assembly and alteration of fibril morphology by chemical chaperones. Using a scaffold-based approach, we analyzed the physiochemical properties of various dimethyl sulfoxide derivatives and their role in inhibiting metabolite self-assembly. Lastly, we employed whole-atom molecular dynamics simulations to elucidate the role of hydrogen bonds in osmolyte inhibition. Our results imply a dual mode of action of chemical chaperones as IEMs therapeutics, that could be implemented in the rational design of novel lead-like molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanaa Adsi
- Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (H.A.); (S.A.L.); (T.K.)
| | - Shon A. Levkovich
- Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (H.A.); (S.A.L.); (T.K.)
| | - Elvira Haimov
- BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (E.H.); (H.E.); (L.S.)
| | - Topaz Kreiser
- Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (H.A.); (S.A.L.); (T.K.)
| | | | - Hamutal Engel
- BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (E.H.); (H.E.); (L.S.)
| | - Luba Simhaev
- BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (E.H.); (H.E.); (L.S.)
| | - Shai Karidi-Heller
- The Future Scientists Center–Alpha Program at Tel Aviv Youth University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel;
| | - Giorgio Colombo
- SCITEC-CNR, via Mario Bianco 9, 20131 Milano, Italy; (M.M.); (G.C.)
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, via Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Ehud Gazit
- Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (H.A.); (S.A.L.); (T.K.)
- BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (E.H.); (H.E.); (L.S.)
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Dana Laor Bar-Yosef
- Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (H.A.); (S.A.L.); (T.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
ASL expression in ALDH1A1 + neurons in the substantia nigra metabolically contributes to neurodegenerative phenotype. Hum Genet 2021; 140:1471-1485. [PMID: 34417872 PMCID: PMC8460544 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-021-02345-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Argininosuccinate lyase (ASL) is essential for the NO-dependent regulation of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and thus for catecholamine production. Using a conditional mouse model with loss of ASL in catecholamine neurons, we demonstrate that ASL is expressed in dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, including the ALDH1A1 + subpopulation that is pivotal for the pathogenesis of Parkinson disease (PD). Neuronal loss of ASL results in catecholamine deficiency, in accumulation and formation of tyrosine aggregates, in elevation of α-synuclein, and phenotypically in motor and cognitive deficits. NO supplementation rescues the formation of aggregates as well as the motor deficiencies. Our data point to a potential metabolic link between accumulations of tyrosine and seeding of pathological aggregates in neurons as initiators for the pathological processes involved in neurodegeneration. Hence, interventions in tyrosine metabolism via regulation of NO levels may be therapeutic beneficial for the treatment of catecholamine-related neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
|
13
|
Paul A, Jacoby G, Laor Bar-Yosef D, Beck R, Gazit E, Segal D. Glucosylceramide Associated with Gaucher Disease Forms Amyloid-like Twisted Ribbon Fibrils That Induce α-Synuclein Aggregation. ACS NANO 2021; 15:11854-11868. [PMID: 34213307 PMCID: PMC8397424 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c02957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
A major risk factor for Gaucher's disease is loss of function mutations in the GBA1 gene that encodes lysosomal β-glucocerebrosidase, resulting in accumulation of glucosylceramide (GlcCer), a key lysosomal sphingolipid. GBA1 mutations also enhance the risk for Parkinson's disease, whose hallmark is the aggregation of α-synuclein (αSyn). However, the role of accumulated GlcCer in αSyn aggregation is not completely understood. Using various biophysical assays, we demonstrate that GlcCer self-assembles to form amyloid-like fibrillar aggregates in vitro. The GlcCer assemblies are stable in aqueous media of different pH and exhibit a twisted ribbon-like structure. Near lysosomal pH GlcCer aggregates induced αSyn aggregation and stabilized its nascent oligomers. We found that several bona fide inhibitors of proteinaceous amyloids effectively inhibited aggregation of GlcCer. This study contributes to the growing evidence of cross-talk between proteinaceous amyloids and amyloid-like aggregates of metabolites accumulated in diseases and suggests these aggregates as therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashim Paul
- Department
of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, Shmunis School of Biomedicine
and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Guy Jacoby
- The
Raymond and Beverly Sackler School of Physics and Astronomy, The Center
for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, and the Center for Physics and
Chemistry of Living Systems, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Dana Laor Bar-Yosef
- Department
of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, Shmunis School of Biomedicine
and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Roy Beck
- The
Raymond and Beverly Sackler School of Physics and Astronomy, The Center
for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, and the Center for Physics and
Chemistry of Living Systems, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ehud Gazit
- Department
of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, Shmunis School of Biomedicine
and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty
of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Daniel Segal
- Department
of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, Shmunis School of Biomedicine
and Cancer Research, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Sagol
Interdisciplinary School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Homocysteine fibrillar assemblies display cross-talk with Alzheimer's disease β-amyloid polypeptide. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2017575118. [PMID: 34099562 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2017575118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
High levels of homocysteine are reported as a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Correspondingly, inborn hyperhomocysteinemia is associated with an increased predisposition to the development of dementia in later stages of life. Yet, the mechanistic link between homocysteine accumulation and the pathological neurodegenerative processes is still elusive. Furthermore, despite the clear association between protein aggregation and AD, attempts to develop therapy that specifically targets this process have not been successful. It is envisioned that the failure in the development of efficacious therapeutic intervention may lie in the metabolomic state of affected individuals. We recently demonstrated the ability of metabolites to self-assemble and cross-seed the aggregation of pathological proteins, suggesting a role for metabolite structures in the initiation of neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we provide a report of homocysteine crystal structure and self-assembly into amyloid-like toxic fibrils, their inhibition by polyphenols, and their ability to seed the aggregation of the AD-associated β-amyloid polypeptide. A yeast model of hyperhomocysteinemia indicates a toxic effect, correlated with increased intracellular amyloid staining that could be rescued by polyphenol treatment. Analysis of AD mouse model brain sections indicates the presence of homocysteine assemblies and the interplay between β-amyloid and homocysteine. This work implies a molecular basis for the association between homocysteine accumulation and AD pathology, potentially leading to a paradigm shift in the understanding of AD initial pathological processes.
Collapse
|
15
|
Bustad HJ, Kallio JP, Vorland M, Fiorentino V, Sandberg S, Schmitt C, Aarsand AK, Martinez A. Acute Intermittent Porphyria: An Overview of Therapy Developments and Future Perspectives Focusing on Stabilisation of HMBS and Proteostasis Regulators. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:E675. [PMID: 33445488 PMCID: PMC7827610 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is an autosomal dominant inherited disease with low clinical penetrance, caused by mutations in the hydroxymethylbilane synthase (HMBS) gene, which encodes the third enzyme in the haem biosynthesis pathway. In susceptible HMBS mutation carriers, triggering factors such as hormonal changes and commonly used drugs induce an overproduction and accumulation of toxic haem precursors in the liver. Clinically, this presents as acute attacks characterised by severe abdominal pain and a wide array of neurological and psychiatric symptoms, and, in the long-term setting, the development of primary liver cancer, hypertension and kidney failure. Treatment options are few, and therapies preventing the development of symptomatic disease and long-term complications are non-existent. Here, we provide an overview of the disorder and treatments already in use in clinical practice, in addition to other therapies under development or in the pipeline. We also introduce the pathomechanistic effects of HMBS mutations, and present and discuss emerging therapeutic options based on HMBS stabilisation and the regulation of proteostasis. These are novel mechanistic therapeutic approaches with the potential of prophylactic correction of the disease by totally or partially recovering the enzyme functionality. The present scenario appears promising for upcoming patient-tailored interventions in AIP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helene J. Bustad
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway; (H.J.B.); (J.P.K.)
| | - Juha P. Kallio
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway; (H.J.B.); (J.P.K.)
| | - Marta Vorland
- Norwegian Porphyria Centre (NAPOS), Department for Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway; (M.V.); (S.S.)
| | - Valeria Fiorentino
- INSERM U1149, Center for Research on Inflammation (CRI), Université de Paris, 75018 Paris, France; (V.F.); (C.S.)
| | - Sverre Sandberg
- Norwegian Porphyria Centre (NAPOS), Department for Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway; (M.V.); (S.S.)
- Norwegian Organization for Quality Improvement of Laboratory Examinations (Noklus), Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, 5009 Bergen, Norway
| | - Caroline Schmitt
- INSERM U1149, Center for Research on Inflammation (CRI), Université de Paris, 75018 Paris, France; (V.F.); (C.S.)
- Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Centre Français des Porphyries, Hôpital Louis Mourier, 92700 Colombes, France
| | - Aasne K. Aarsand
- Norwegian Porphyria Centre (NAPOS), Department for Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway; (M.V.); (S.S.)
- Norwegian Organization for Quality Improvement of Laboratory Examinations (Noklus), Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, 5009 Bergen, Norway
| | - Aurora Martinez
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway; (H.J.B.); (J.P.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Levkovich SA, Rencus-Lazar S, Gazit E, Laor Bar-Yosef D. Microbial Prions: Dawn of a New Era. Trends Biochem Sci 2021; 46:391-405. [PMID: 33423939 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2020.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Protein misfolding and aggregation are associated with human diseases and aging. However, microorganisms widely exploit the self-propagating properties of misfolded infectious protein particles, prions, as epigenetic information carriers that drive various phenotypic adaptations and encode molecular information. Microbial prion research has faced a paradigm shift in recent years, with breakthroughs that demonstrate the great functional and structural diversity of these agents. Here, we outline unorthodox examples of microbial prions in yeast and other microorganisms, focusing on their noncanonical functions. We discuss novel molecular mechanisms for the inheritance of conformationally-encoded epigenetic information and the evolutionary advantages they confer. Lastly, in light of recent advancements in the field of molecular self-assembly, we present a hypothesis regarding the existence of non-proteinaceous prion-like entities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shon A Levkovich
- School of Molecular Cell Biology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Sigal Rencus-Lazar
- School of Molecular Cell Biology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ehud Gazit
- School of Molecular Cell Biology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Sagol Interdisciplinary School of Neurosciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Dana Laor Bar-Yosef
- School of Molecular Cell Biology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ke PC, Zhou R, Serpell LC, Riek R, Knowles TPJ, Lashuel HA, Gazit E, Hamley IW, Davis TP, Fändrich M, Otzen DE, Chapman MR, Dobson CM, Eisenberg DS, Mezzenga R. Half a century of amyloids: past, present and future. Chem Soc Rev 2020; 49:5473-5509. [PMID: 32632432 PMCID: PMC7445747 DOI: 10.1039/c9cs00199a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 293] [Impact Index Per Article: 73.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Amyloid diseases are global epidemics with profound health, social and economic implications and yet remain without a cure. This dire situation calls for research into the origin and pathological manifestations of amyloidosis to stimulate continued development of new therapeutics. In basic science and engineering, the cross-β architecture has been a constant thread underlying the structural characteristics of pathological and functional amyloids, and realizing that amyloid structures can be both pathological and functional in nature has fuelled innovations in artificial amyloids, whose use today ranges from water purification to 3D printing. At the conclusion of a half century since Eanes and Glenner's seminal study of amyloids in humans, this review commemorates the occasion by documenting the major milestones in amyloid research to date, from the perspectives of structural biology, biophysics, medicine, microbiology, engineering and nanotechnology. We also discuss new challenges and opportunities to drive this interdisciplinary field moving forward.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pu Chun Ke
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 111 Yixueyuan Rd, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruhong Zhou
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, New York, 10027, USA
| | - Louise C. Serpell
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, East Sussex BN1 9QG, UK
| | - Roland Riek
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Wolfgang-Pauli-Str. 10, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tuomas P. J. Knowles
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK
- Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, CB3 0HE, Cambridge, UK
| | - Hilal A. Lashuel
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology and Neuroproteomics, Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ehud Gazit
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, 69978 Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ian W. Hamley
- School of Chemistry, Food Biosciences and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading RG6 6AD, UK
| | - Thomas P. Davis
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Marcus Fändrich
- Institute of Protein Biochemistry, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Daniel Erik Otzen
- Department of Molecular Biology, Center for Insoluble Protein Structures (inSPIN), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Matthew R. Chapman
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Centre for Microbial Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1048, USA
| | - Christopher M. Dobson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK
| | - David S. Eisenberg
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Raffaele Mezzenga
- Department of Health Science & Technology, ETH Zurich, Schmelzbergstrasse 9, LFO, E23, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Materials, ETH Zurich, Wolfgang Pauli Strasse 10, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
The ‘amyloid hypothesis’ dominates Alzheimer’s disease (AD) research but has failed to deliver effective therapies. Amyloid precursor protein (APP) and presenilin-1 (PSEN1) genetic mutations are undoubtedly pathogenic, albeit by unclear mechanisms. Conversely, high dose B-vitamins convincingly slow brain atrophy in a pre-stage state of sporadic AD. Here we suggest a link between sporadic and genetic AD: 1) Increased serum homocysteine, a marker of B-vitamin deficiencies, is a significant risk factor for sporadic AD. It also correlates with elevated levels of antichymotrypsin, a serine protease inhibitor. 2) Family members with codon 717 APP mutations and dementia have low serum vitamin B12 values. Overexpression of the APP domain coding for a Kunitz type serine protease inhibitor might explain this. 3) PSEN1 mutations disrupt lysosomal function due to reduced proteolytic activity. They also trap cobalamin (B12) within lysosomes, leading to intracellular deficiency of the vitamin. In summary, APP and PSEN1 mutations both confer a risk for reduced protease activity and B12 bio-availability. Comparably, sporadic AD features a constellation of increased protease inhibition and B-vitamin deficiencies, the central part of which is believed to be B12. These concordant observations in three disparate AD etiologies suggest a common neuropathogenic pathway. This hypothesis is evaluable in laboratory and clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Björn Regland
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Andrew McCaddon
- University of Chester, Chester Medical School, Bache Hall, Chester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lei C, Wang Q, Tang N, Wang K. GSTZ1-1 downregulates Wnt/β-catenin signalling in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. FEBS Open Bio 2020; 10:6-17. [PMID: 31782257 PMCID: PMC6943223 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.12769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Glutathione S-transferase Zeta 1-1 (GSTZ1-1), an enzyme involved in the catabolism of phenylalanine and the detoxification of xenobiotics, plays a tumour suppressor role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. Here, we further explored the function of GSTZ1-1 in HCC through transcriptome analysis by RNA sequencing. The analysis revealed that 223 genes were upregulated and 290 genes were downregulated in GSTZ1-1-overexpressing Huh7 cells. Gene Ontology analysis showed that these differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were highly enriched for protein phosphorylation, cell cycle arrest and metabolic processes. Pathway analysis revealed that metabolic pathways were the predominant enriched pathways among the upregulated genes, while the TGF-β and Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathways were prominent in the downregulated clusters. Pathway interaction networks also showed that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway was located in the centre of the cluster. The expression levels of selected DEGs were validated by qRT-PCR, and Wnt/β-catenin involvement was validated by luciferase assays, western blotting and immunohistochemical analysis in vitro and in vivo. These results provide a comprehensive overview of the transcriptome in GSTZ1-1-overexpressing Huh7 cells and indicate that GSTZ1-1 may play a tumour suppressor role by inactivating the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chong Lei
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education)Department of Infectious DiseasesInstitute for Viral HepatitisThe Second Affiliated HospitalChongqing Medical UniversityChina
| | - Qiujie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education)Department of Infectious DiseasesInstitute for Viral HepatitisThe Second Affiliated HospitalChongqing Medical UniversityChina
| | - Ni Tang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education)Department of Infectious DiseasesInstitute for Viral HepatitisThe Second Affiliated HospitalChongqing Medical UniversityChina
| | - Kai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education)Department of Infectious DiseasesInstitute for Viral HepatitisThe Second Affiliated HospitalChongqing Medical UniversityChina
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Seidler PM, Boyer DR, Murray KA, Yang TP, Bentzel M, Sawaya MR, Rosenberg G, Cascio D, Williams CK, Newell KL, Ghetti B, DeTure MA, Dickson DW, Vinters HV, Eisenberg DS. Structure-based inhibitors halt prion-like seeding by Alzheimer's disease-and tauopathy-derived brain tissue samples. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:16451-16464. [PMID: 31537646 PMCID: PMC6827308 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.009688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In Alzheimer's disease (AD) and tauopathies, tau aggregation accompanies progressive neurodegeneration. Aggregated tau appears to spread between adjacent neurons and adjacent brain regions by prion-like seeding. Hence, inhibitors of this seeding offer a possible route to managing tauopathies. Here, we report the 1.0 Å resolution micro-electron diffraction structure of an aggregation-prone segment of tau with the sequence SVQIVY, present in the cores of patient-derived fibrils from AD and tauopathies. This structure illuminates how distinct interfaces of the parent segment, containing the sequence VQIVYK, foster the formation of distinct structures. Peptide-based fibril-capping inhibitors designed to target the two VQIVYK interfaces blocked proteopathic seeding by patient-derived fibrils. These VQIVYK inhibitors add to a panel of tau-capping inhibitors that targets specific polymorphs of recombinant and patient-derived tau fibrils. Inhibition of seeding initiated by brain tissue extracts differed among donors with different tauopathies, suggesting that particular fibril polymorphs of tau are associated with certain tauopathies. Donors with progressive supranuclear palsy exhibited more variation in inhibitor sensitivity, suggesting that fibrils from these donors were more polymorphic and potentially vary within individual donor brains. Our results suggest that a subset of inhibitors from our panel could be specific for particular disease-associated polymorphs, whereas inhibitors that blocked seeding by extracts from all of the tauopathies tested could be used to broadly inhibit seeding by multiple disease-specific tau polymorphs. Moreover, we show that tau-capping inhibitors can be transiently expressed in HEK293 tau biosensor cells, indicating that nucleic acid-based vectors can be used for inhibitor delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Matthew Seidler
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute, Molecular Biology Institute, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - David R Boyer
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute, Molecular Biology Institute, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Kevin A Murray
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute, Molecular Biology Institute, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Tianxiao P Yang
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute, Molecular Biology Institute, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Megan Bentzel
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute, Molecular Biology Institute, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Michael R Sawaya
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute, Molecular Biology Institute, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Gregory Rosenberg
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute, Molecular Biology Institute, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Duilio Cascio
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute, Molecular Biology Institute, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Christopher Kazu Williams
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Kathy L Newell
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
| | | | - Michael A DeTure
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida 32224
| | - Dennis W Dickson
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida 32224
| | - Harry V Vinters
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - David S Eisenberg
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, UCLA-DOE Institute, Molecular Biology Institute, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Gour N, Kanth P. C, Koshti B, Kshtriya V, Shah D, Patel S, Agrawal-Rajput R, Pandey MK. Amyloid-like Structures Formed by Single Amino Acid Self-Assemblies of Cysteine and Methionine. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:1230-1239. [PMID: 30380833 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We report for the very first time the discovery of amyloid-like self-assemblies formed by the nonaromatic single amino acids cysteine (Cys) and methionine (Met) under neutral aqueous conditions. The structure formation was assessed and characterized by various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques such as optical microscopy, phase contrast microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The mechanism of self-assembly and the role of hydrogen bonding and thiol interactions of Cys and Met were assessed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, and solid state NMR along with various control experiments. In addition, molecular dynamics simulations were carried out to gain insight into assembly initiation. Further, Thioflavin T and Congo red binding assays with Cys and Met structures indicated that these single amino acid assemblies may have amyloid-like characteristics. To understand the biological significance of the Cys and Met structures, cytotoxicity assays of the assemblies were performed on human neuroblastoma IMR-32 cells and monkey kidney cells (COS-7). The results revealed that both Cys and Met fibers were cytotoxic. The cell viability assay further supported the hypothesis that aggregation of single amino acid may contribute to the etiology of metabolic disorders like cystinuria and hypermethioninemia. The results presented in this study are striking, and to the best of our knowledge this is the first report which demonstrates that nonaromatic amino acids like Cys and Met can undergo spontaneous self-assembly to form amyloidogenic aggregates. The results presented are also consistent with the established generic amyloid hypothesis and support a new paradigm for the study of the etiology of single amino acid initiated metabolic disorders in amyloid related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Gour
- Centre of Engineering and Enterprise, Indian Institute of Advanced Research, Gandhinagar, Gujarat 382426, India
| | - Chandra Kanth P.
- Department of Science, School of Technology, Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat 382007, India
| | - Bharti Koshti
- Centre of Engineering and Enterprise, Indian Institute of Advanced Research, Gandhinagar, Gujarat 382426, India
| | - Vivekshinh Kshtriya
- Centre of Engineering and Enterprise, Indian Institute of Advanced Research, Gandhinagar, Gujarat 382426, India
| | - Dhruvi Shah
- School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Advanced Research, Gandhinagar, Gujarat 382426, India
| | - Sunita Patel
- UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, Mumbai University Campus, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400098, India
| | - Reena Agrawal-Rajput
- School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Advanced Research, Gandhinagar, Gujarat 382426, India
| | - Manoj K. Pandey
- Department of Science, School of Technology, Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat 382007, India
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Quinolinic Acid Amyloid-like Fibrillar Assemblies Seed α-Synuclein Aggregation. J Mol Biol 2018; 430:3847-3862. [PMID: 30098337 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2018.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Quinolinic acid (QA), a downstream neurometabolite in the kynurenine pathway, the biosynthetic pathway of tryptophan, is associated with neurodegenerative diseases pathology. Mutations in genes encoding kynurenine pathway enzymes, which control the level of QA production, are linked with elevated risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Recent findings have revealed the accumulation and deposition of QA in post-mortem samples, as well as in cellular models of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Furthermore, intrastriatal inoculation of mice with QA results in increased levels of phosphorylated α-synuclein and neurodegenerative pathological and behavioral characteristics. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the involvement of QA accumulation in protein aggregation and neurodegeneration remain elusive. We recently established that self-assembled ordered structures are formed by various metabolites and hypothesized that these "metabolite amyloids" may seed amyloidogenic proteins. Here we demonstrate the formation of QA amyloid-like fibrillar assemblies and seeding of α-synuclein aggregation by these nanostructures both in vitro and in cell culture. Notably, α-synuclein aggregation kinetics was accelerated by an order of magnitude. Additional amyloid-like properties of QA assemblies were demonstrated using thioflavin T assay, powder X-ray diffraction and cell apoptosis analysis. Moreover, fluorescently labeled QA assemblies were internalized by neuronal cells and co-localized with α-synuclein aggregates. In addition, we observed cell-to-cell propagation of fluorescently labeled QA assemblies in a co-culture of treated and untreated cells. Our findings suggest that excess QA levels, due to mutations in the kynurenine pathway, for example, may lead to the formation of metabolite assemblies that seed α-synuclein aggregation, resulting in neuronal toxicity and induction of Parkinson's disease.
Collapse
|
23
|
Uyaver S, Hernandez HW, Habiboglu MG. Self-assembly of aromatic amino acids: a molecular dynamics study. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2018; 20:30525-30536. [DOI: 10.1039/c8cp06239k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Common structures identified in the assembly of aromatic amino acids and their mixtures include the four-fold tube (a and b) and the zig-zag structure (c and d).
Collapse
|