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Hopfe C, Ospina-Jara B, Schulze T, Tischer M, Morales D, Reinhartz V, Esfahani RE, Valderrama C, Pérez-Rigueiro J, Bleidorn C, Feldhaar H, Cabra-García J, Scheibel T. Impact of environmental factors on spider silk properties. Curr Biol 2024; 34:56-67.e5. [PMID: 38118450 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Spider orb webs have evolved to stop flying prey, fast and slow alike. One of the main web elements dissipating impact energy is the radial fibers, or major ampullate silks, which possess a toughness surpassing most man-made materials. Orb webs are extended phenotypes, and as such their architectural elements, including major ampullate silks, have been selected to optimize prey capture under the respective environmental conditions. In this study, we investigated the correlation of three landscape scales and three microhabitat characteristics with intrinsic silk properties (elastic modulus, yield stress, tensile strength, extensibility, and toughness) to understand underlying ecological patterns. For this purpose, we collected and mechanically tested major ampullate silks from 50 spider species inhabiting large altitudinal and climatic gradients in Colombia. Using regression analysis and model selection, we investigated the environmental drivers of inter- and intra-specific patterns of major ampullate silk properties, taking into account phylogenetic relatedness based on newly sequenced mitochondrial genomes. We found that the total amount of energy absorbed, i.e., toughness and tensile strength, is higher for fibers from species inhabiting regions where heavy rainfall is common. Interestingly, we observe the same general trend between individuals of the same species, stressing the importance of this environmental driver. We also observe a phylogenetic conservation in the relation of environmental variables with silk tensile strength and yield stress. In conclusion, the increase in major ampullate silk tensile strength and toughness may reflect an adaptation to prevent frequent rain damage to orb webs and the associated energetic loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Hopfe
- Department of Biomaterials, Universität Bayreuth, Prof.-Rüdiger-Bormann-Str. 1, Bayreuth 95447, Germany.
| | - Bryan Ospina-Jara
- Department of Biology, Universidad del Valle, Cl. 13 #100-00, Cali 760042, Colombia
| | - Thilo Schulze
- Department of Animal Evolution and Biodiversity, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Untere Karspüle 2, Göttingen 37073, Germany
| | - Marta Tischer
- Department of Animal Evolution and Biodiversity, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Untere Karspüle 2, Göttingen 37073, Germany
| | - Diego Morales
- Department of Biology, Universidad del Valle, Cl. 13 #100-00, Cali 760042, Colombia
| | - Vivien Reinhartz
- Department of Biomaterials, Universität Bayreuth, Prof.-Rüdiger-Bormann-Str. 1, Bayreuth 95447, Germany
| | - Rashin Eshghi Esfahani
- Department of Biomaterials, Universität Bayreuth, Prof.-Rüdiger-Bormann-Str. 1, Bayreuth 95447, Germany
| | - Carlos Valderrama
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad del Rosario, Cl. 12c #6-25, Bogotá 111711, Colombia
| | - José Pérez-Rigueiro
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Crta. M40, Madrid 28223, Spain; Departamento de Ciencia de Materiales, ETSI Caminos, Canales y Puertos, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, C/Prof. Aranguren 3, Madrid 28040, Spain; Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid 28029, Spain; Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), C/ Prof. Martín Lagos s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Christoph Bleidorn
- Department of Animal Evolution and Biodiversity, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Untere Karspüle 2, Göttingen 37073, Germany
| | - Heike Feldhaar
- Department of Animal Ecology I, Bayreuth Center of Ecology and Environmental Research (BayCEER), Universität Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, Bayreuth 95440, Germany
| | - Jimmy Cabra-García
- Department of Biology, Universidad del Valle, Cl. 13 #100-00, Cali 760042, Colombia
| | - Thomas Scheibel
- Department of Biomaterials, Universität Bayreuth, Prof.-Rüdiger-Bormann-Str. 1, Bayreuth 95447, Germany; Bayreuther Zentrum für Kolloide und Grenzflächen, Universität Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, Bayreuth 95440, Germany; Bayreuther Materialzentrum, Universität Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, Bayreuth 95440, Germany; Bayreuther Zentrum für Molekulare Biowissenschaften, Universität Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, Bayreuth 95440, Germany; Bayrisches Polymerinstitut, Universität Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, Bayreuth 95440, Germany.
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Wilczek G, Surmiak-Stalmach K, Morenc M, Niemiec-Cyganek A, Rost-Roszkowska M, Karcz J, Skowronek M. The effect of ingested copper on the structural and cytotoxic properties of Steatoda grossa (Theridiidae) spider silk. ZOOLOGY 2024; 162:126143. [PMID: 38218003 DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2024.126143] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Spiders, assigned to macroconcentrators of heavy metals, are particularly threatened by the toxic effects of these chemicals. Until now, it has not been specified to what extent metals alter the processes proceeding in silk glands and if such changes could consequently influence the chemical and structural properties of the spun web threads. In the present study selected biological properties of Steatoda grossa (Theridiidae) silk yarn after nutritional exposure to copper at sublethal doses (0.234 mM CuSO4) were assessed. It was determined both changes in ultrastructure of ampullate glands and hunting web's architecture as well the cytotoxic effect in model cells (fibroblasts: line ATCC® CCL-1 NCTC clone 929), that were in contact with the analyzed biomaterial. The exposure of spiders to copper caused the occurrence of apoptotic cells in the ampullate glands as well as a significant reduction in the diameter of single fibers in double and multiple connection complexes as compared with control. At both 24 and 72 h of incubation, intensification of apoptotic and necrotic processes was observed in the fibroblast cultures that were remaining in indirect contact with the webs produced by copper-contaminated individuals. In the case of fibroblasts in direct contact with silk from the copper group, a clear cytotoxic effect resulting in an increased frequency of necrosis was observed after 72 h of incubation. The results indicated that copper may change the biological properties of spider silk and compromise its biomaterial properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grażyna Wilczek
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, 40-007 Katowice, Poland.
| | - Kinga Surmiak-Stalmach
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, 40-007 Katowice, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Morenc
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, 40-007 Katowice, Poland; Prof. Zbigniew Religa Foundation of Cardiac Surgery Development, Wolności 345a, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | | | - Magdalena Rost-Roszkowska
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, 40-007 Katowice, Poland
| | - Jagna Karcz
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, 40-007 Katowice, Poland
| | - Magdalena Skowronek
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, 40-007 Katowice, Poland
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3
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Rapid molecular diversification and homogenization of clustered major ampullate silk genes in Argiope garden spiders. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010537. [PMID: 36508456 PMCID: PMC9779670 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolutionary diversification of orb-web weaving spiders is closely tied to the mechanical performance of dragline silk. This proteinaceous fiber provides the primary structural framework of orb web architecture, and its extraordinary toughness allows these structures to absorb the high energy of aerial prey impact. The dominant model of dragline silk molecular structure involves the combined function of two highly repetitive, spider-specific, silk genes (spidroins)-MaSp1 and MaSp2. Recent genomic studies, however, have suggested this framework is overly simplistic, and our understanding of how MaSp genes evolve is limited. Here we present a comprehensive analysis of MaSp structural and evolutionary diversity across species of Argiope (garden spiders). This genomic analysis reveals the largest catalog of MaSp genes found in any spider, driven largely by an expansion of MaSp2 genes. The rapid diversification of Argiope MaSp genes, located primarily in a single genomic cluster, is associated with profound changes in silk gene structure. MaSp2 genes, in particular, have evolved complex hierarchically organized repeat units (ensemble repeats) delineated by novel introns that exhibit remarkable evolutionary dynamics. These repetitive introns have arisen independently within the genus, are highly homogenized within a gene, but diverge rapidly between genes. In some cases, these iterated introns are organized in an alternating structure in which every other intron is nearly identical in sequence. We hypothesize that this intron structure has evolved to facilitate homogenization of the coding sequence. We also find evidence of intergenic gene conversion and identify a more diverse array of stereotypical amino acid repeats than previously recognized. Overall, the extreme diversification found among MaSp genes requires changes in the structure-function model of dragline silk performance that focuses on the differential use and interaction among various MaSp paralogs as well as the impact of ensemble repeat structure and different amino acid motifs on mechanical behavior.
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Abstract
![]()
The tiny spider makes
dragline silk fibers with unbeatable toughness,
all under the most innocuous conditions. Scientists have persistently
tried to emulate its natural silk spinning process using recombinant
proteins with a view toward creating a new wave of smart materials,
yet most efforts have fallen short of attaining the native fiber’s
excellent mechanical properties. One reason for these shortcomings
may be that artificial spider silk systems tend to be overly simplified
and may not sufficiently take into account the true complexity of
the underlying protein sequences and of the multidimensional aspects
of the natural self-assembly process that give rise to the hierarchically
structured fibers. Here, we discuss recent findings regarding the
material constituents of spider dragline silk, including novel spidroin
subtypes, nonspidroin proteins, and possible involvement of post-translational
modifications, which together suggest a complexity that transcends
the two-component MaSp1/MaSp2 system. We subsequently consider insights
into the spidroin domain functions, structures, and overall mechanisms
for the rapid transition from disordered soluble protein into a highly
organized fiber, including the possibility of viewing spider silk
self-assembly through a framework relevant to biomolecular condensates.
Finally, we consider the concept of “biomimetics” as
it applies to artificial spider silk production with a focus on key
practical aspects of design and evaluation that may hopefully inform
efforts to more closely reproduce the remarkable structure and function
of the native silk fiber using artificial methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali D Malay
- Biomacromolecules Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Hamish C Craig
- Biomacromolecules Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Jianming Chen
- Biomacromolecules Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Nur Alia Oktaviani
- Biomacromolecules Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Keiji Numata
- Biomacromolecules Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan.,Department of Material Chemistry, Kyoto University, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan
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Saric M, Eisoldt L, Döring V, Scheibel T. Interplay of Different Major Ampullate Spidroins during Assembly and Implications for Fiber Mechanics. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2006499. [PMID: 33496360 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202006499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Major ampullate (MA) spider silk has fascinating mechanical properties combining strength and elasticity. All known natural MA silks contain at least two or more different spidroins; however, it is unknown why and if there is any interplay in the spinning dope. Here, two different spidroins from Araneus diadematus are co-produced in Escherichia coli to study the possible dimerization and effects thereof on the mechanical properties of fibers. During the production of the two spidroins, a mixture of homo- and heterodimers is formed triggered by the carboxyl-terminal domains. Interestingly, homodimeric species of the individual spidroins self-assemble differently in comparison to heterodimers, and stoichiometric mixtures of homo- and heterodimers yield spidroin networks upon assembly with huge impact on fiber mechanics upon spinning. The obtained results provide the basis for man-made tuning of spinning dopes to yield high-performance fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merisa Saric
- Lehrstuhl Biomaterialien, Universität Bayreuth, Prof-Rüdiger-Bormann-Str. 1, Bayreuth, 95447, Germany
| | - Lukas Eisoldt
- Lehrstuhl Biomaterialien, Universität Bayreuth, Prof-Rüdiger-Bormann-Str. 1, Bayreuth, 95447, Germany
| | - Volker Döring
- Lehrstuhl Biomaterialien, Universität Bayreuth, Prof-Rüdiger-Bormann-Str. 1, Bayreuth, 95447, Germany
| | - Thomas Scheibel
- Lehrstuhl Biomaterialien, Universität Bayreuth, Prof-Rüdiger-Bormann-Str. 1, Bayreuth, 95447, Germany
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Forcibly spun dragline silk fibers from web-building spider Trichonephila clavata ensure robustness irrespective of spinning speed and humidity. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 168:550-557. [PMID: 33333091 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.12.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Web-building spiders secrete dragline silk fibers to sustain their body and use them as frameworks during web construction. They spin dragline silk fibers at various spinning speed and humidity conditions depending on their natural habitat. Here, we investigated the effect of spinning speed and humidity on the structural and mechanical properties of dragline silk fibers from web-building spider Trichonephila clavata obtained by the forcibly spinning method. We found that the crystal and morphological structures did not rely on the spinning speed and humidity. Furthermore, the mechanical strength and extensibility of the dragline silk fibers were maintained, demonstrating that dragline silk fibers ensure robustness irrespective of the spinning speed and humidity. The results obtained in the present study are helpful not only to understand the biological basis of the silk fiber formation of spiders but also contribute to consider the spinning conditions for the process of creating synthetic silk fibers.
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Lüddecke T, von Reumont BM, Förster F, Billion A, Timm T, Lochnit G, Vilcinskas A, Lemke S. An Economic Dilemma Between Molecular Weapon Systems May Explain an Arachno-atypical Venom in Wasp Spiders ( Argiope bruennichi). Biomolecules 2020; 10:E978. [PMID: 32630016 PMCID: PMC7407881 DOI: 10.3390/biom10070978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Spiders use venom to subdue their prey, but little is known about the diversity of venoms in different spider families. Given the limited data available for orb-weaver spiders (Araneidae), we selected the wasp spider Argiope bruennichi for detailed analysis. Our strategy combined a transcriptomics pipeline based on multiple assemblies with a dual proteomics workflow involving parallel mass spectrometry techniques and electrophoretic profiling. We found that the remarkably simple venom of A. bruennichi has an atypical composition compared to other spider venoms, prominently featuring members of the cysteine-rich secretory protein, antigen 5 and pathogenesis-related protein 1 (CAP) superfamily and other, mostly high-molecular-weight proteins. We also detected a subset of potentially novel toxins similar to neuropeptides. We discuss the potential function of these proteins in the context of the unique hunting behavior of wasp spiders, which rely mostly on silk to trap their prey. We propose that the simplicity of the venom evolved to solve an economic dilemma between two competing yet metabolically expensive weapon systems. This study emphasizes the importance of cutting-edge methods to encompass the lineages of smaller venomous species that have yet to be characterized in detail, allowing us to understand the biology of their venom systems and to mine this prolific resource for translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Lüddecke
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Gießen, Germany; (A.B.); (A.V.)
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt, Germany; (B.M.v.R.); (S.L.)
| | - Björn M. von Reumont
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt, Germany; (B.M.v.R.); (S.L.)
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University of Gießen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Gießen, Germany
| | - Frank Förster
- Institute for Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Justus-Liebig-University of Gießen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 58, 35392 Gießen, Germany;
| | - André Billion
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Gießen, Germany; (A.B.); (A.V.)
| | - Thomas Timm
- Institute of Biochemistry, Justus-Liebig-University of Gießen, Friedrichstr. 24, 35392 Gießen, Germany; (T.T.); (G.L.)
| | - Günter Lochnit
- Institute of Biochemistry, Justus-Liebig-University of Gießen, Friedrichstr. 24, 35392 Gießen, Germany; (T.T.); (G.L.)
| | - Andreas Vilcinskas
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Gießen, Germany; (A.B.); (A.V.)
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt, Germany; (B.M.v.R.); (S.L.)
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University of Gießen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Gießen, Germany
| | - Sarah Lemke
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt, Germany; (B.M.v.R.); (S.L.)
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University of Gießen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Gießen, Germany
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Peng CA, Kozubowski L, Marcotte WR. Advances in Plant-Derived Scaffold Proteins. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 11:122. [PMID: 32161608 PMCID: PMC7052361 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.00122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Scaffold proteins form critical biomatrices that support cell adhesion and proliferation for regenerative medicine and drug screening. The increasing demand for such applications urges solutions for cost effective and sustainable supplies of hypoallergenic and biocompatible scaffold proteins. Here, we summarize recent efforts in obtaining plant-derived biosynthetic spider silk analogue and the extracellular matrix protein, collagen. Both proteins are composed of a large number of tandem block repeats, which makes production in bacterial hosts challenging. Furthermore, post-translational modification of collagen is essential for its function which requires co-transformation of multiple copies of human prolyl 4-hydroxylase. We discuss our perspectives on how the GAANTRY system could potentially assist the production of native-sized spider dragline silk proteins and prolyl hydroxylated collagen. The potential of recombinant scaffold proteins in drug delivery and drug discovery is also addressed.
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Wilczek G, Surmiak K, Wawszczak B, Sajewicz M, Kowalska T, Sindera P, Wiśniewska K, Szulinska E. Effect of long-term cadmium and copper intoxication on the efficiency of ampullate silk glands in false black widow Steatoda grossa (Theridiidae) spiders. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2019; 224:108564. [PMID: 31276814 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2019.108564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to compare cellular effects of xenobiotic cadmium and biogenic copper in ampullate silk glands of false black widow Steatoda grossa spider after long-term exposure via ingestion under laboratory conditions. Both the level of selected detoxification parameters (glutathione S-transferase, catalase, and the level of total antioxidant capacity) and degree of genotoxic changes (comet assay) were determined in the silk glands. Additionally the contents of selected amino acids (L-Ala, L-Pro, L-His, L-Phe, DL-Ile, and DL-Asn) in the hunting webs produced by spiders of this species were assessed. The ability of S. grossa females to accumulate cadmium was higher than that for copper. Long-term exposure of spiders to copper did not change the level of detoxification parameters, and the level of DNA damage in the cells of ampullate silk glands was also low. Cadmium had a stronger prooxidative and genotoxic effect than copper in the cells of the analyzed silk glands. However, regardless of the type of metal used, no significant changes in the level of amino acids in silk were found. The obtained results confirmed the effectiveness of metal neutralization mechanisms in the body of the studied spider species, which results in the protection of the function of ampullate silk glands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grażyna Wilczek
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland.
| | - Kinga Surmiak
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Beata Wawszczak
- Department of General Chemistry and Chromatography, Institute of Chemistry, University of Silesia, Szkolna 9, Katowice 40-006, Poland
| | - Mieczysław Sajewicz
- Department of General Chemistry and Chromatography, Institute of Chemistry, University of Silesia, Szkolna 9, Katowice 40-006, Poland
| | - Teresa Kowalska
- Department of General Chemistry and Chromatography, Institute of Chemistry, University of Silesia, Szkolna 9, Katowice 40-006, Poland
| | - Piotr Sindera
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Kamila Wiśniewska
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Szulinska
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
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10
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Wilczek G, Karcz J, Rost-Roszkowska M, Kędziorski A, Wilczek P, Skowronek M, Wiśniewska K, Kaszuba F, Surmiak K. Evaluation of selected biological properties of the hunting web spider (Steatoda grossa, Theridiidae) in the aspect of short- and long-term exposure to cadmium. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 656:297-306. [PMID: 30504028 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.11.374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The study aimed at comparing the effects of short- and long-term exposure of Steatoda grossa female spiders to cadmium on the web's architecture, its energy content, and ultrastructure of ampullate glands. Simple food chain model (medium with 0.25 mM CdCl2 → Drosophila hydei flies → spider (for 4 weeks or 12 months) was used for the exposure. Analysis of Cd content provided evidence that silk fibers of the web are well protected against its incorporation irrespectively of the exposure period. Long-term exposure to cadmium resulted in the occurrence of numerous autophagosomes with degenerated organelles as well as apoptotic and necrotic cells in the ampullate glands. Concurrently, the individual silk fibers building double and multiple combination complexes were significantly thinner than in the control threads. Moreover, exposed spiders spun net with smaller mean calorific value than did the control individuals. Hence, evaluation of both the diameter of silk fibers and calorific value of the web can serve as biomarkers of the effects caused by exposure of these predators to cadmium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grażyna Wilczek
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland.
| | - Jagna Karcz
- Laboratory of Scanning Electron Microscopy, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Jagiellońska 28, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Magdalena Rost-Roszkowska
- Department of Embriology and Histology of Animals, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Andrzej Kędziorski
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Piotr Wilczek
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Heart Prosthesis Institute FRK, Wolności 345a, Zabrze 41-800, Poland
| | - Magdalena Skowronek
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Kamila Wiśniewska
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Florentyna Kaszuba
- Department of Embriology and Histology of Animals, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Kinga Surmiak
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
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11
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Aigner TB, DeSimone E, Scheibel T. Biomedical Applications of Recombinant Silk-Based Materials. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2018; 30:e1704636. [PMID: 29436028 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201704636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Silk is mostly known as a luxurious textile, which originates from silkworms first cultivated in China. A deeper look into the variety of silk reveals that it can be used for much more, in nature and by humanity. For medical purposes, natural silks were recognized early as a potential biomaterial for surgical threads or wound dressings; however, as biomedical engineering advances, the demand for high-performance, naturally derived biomaterials becomes more pressing and stringent. A common problem of natural materials is their large batch-to-batch variation, the quantity available, their potentially high immunogenicity, and their fast biodegradation. Some of these common problems also apply to silk; therefore, recombinant approaches for producing silk proteins have been developed. There are several research groups which study and utilize various recombinantly produced silk proteins, and many of these have also investigated their products for biomedical applications. This review gives a critical overview over of the results for applications of recombinant silk proteins in biomedical engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elise DeSimone
- University Bayreuth, Lehrstuhl Biomaterialien, Universitätsstr. 30, 95447, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Thomas Scheibel
- Bayreuther Zentrum für Kolloide und Grenzflächen (BZKG), Bayreuther Zentrum für Bio-Makromoleküle (bio-mac), Bayreuther Zentrum für Molekulare Biowissenschaften (BZMB), Bayreuther Materialzentrum (BayMAT), Bayerisches Polymerinstitut (BPI), University Bayreuth, Universitätsstr. 30, 95447, Bayreuth, Germany
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12
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Abé H, Nabeshima M, Tanaka Y. Structural comparisons of isomorphic breeding nests between closely allied spiders Cheiracanthium japonicum and Cheiracanthium lascivum (Araneae: Eutichuridae). J NAT HIST 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/00222933.2017.1381773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Abé
- Biological Laboratory, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Momoe Nabeshima
- Biological Laboratory, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Yoshikatsu Tanaka
- Biological Laboratory, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Japan
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13
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Malay AD, Arakawa K, Numata K. Analysis of repetitive amino acid motifs reveals the essential features of spider dragline silk proteins. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183397. [PMID: 28832627 PMCID: PMC5568437 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The extraordinary mechanical properties of spider dragline silk are dependent on the highly repetitive sequences of the component proteins, major ampullate spidroin 1 and 2 (MaSp2 and MaSp2). MaSp sequences are dominated by repetitive modules composed of short amino acid motifs; however, the patterns of motif conservation through evolution and their relevance to silk characteristics are not well understood. We performed a systematic analysis of MaSp sequences encompassing infraorder Araneomorphae based on the conservation of explicitly defined motifs, with the aim of elucidating the essential elements of MaSp1 and MaSp2. The results show that the GGY motif is nearly ubiquitous in the two types of MaSp, while MaSp2 is invariably associated with GP and di-glutamine (QQ) motifs. Further analysis revealed an extended MaSp2 consensus sequence in family Araneidae, with implications for the classification of the archetypal spidroins ADF3 and ADF4. Additionally, the analysis of RNA-seq data showed the expression of a set of distinct MaSp-like variants in genus Tetragnatha. Finally, an apparent association was uncovered between web architecture and the abundance of GP, QQ, and GGY motifs in MaSp2, which suggests a co-expansion of these motifs in response to the evolution of spiders' prey capture strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali D. Malay
- Enzyme Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, Wako-shi, Saitama, Japan
- * E-mail: (ADM); (KN)
| | - Kazuharu Arakawa
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Kakuganji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, Japan
| | - Keiji Numata
- Enzyme Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, Wako-shi, Saitama, Japan
- * E-mail: (ADM); (KN)
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14
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Henneken J, Goodger JQD, Jones TM, Elgar MA. Variation in the web-based chemical cues of Argiope keyserlingi. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2017; 101:15-21. [PMID: 28606855 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2017.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Revised: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Pheromones are chemical compounds used to transmit information between individuals of the same species. Pheromone composition is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Numerous studies, predominately of insects, have demonstrated a role for diet in pheromone expression. The chemical composition of spider web-silk varies with diet and in many species these chemicals are crucial to mate choice processes. Here, we investigated individual variation in the chemical compounds found on the surface of web-silk of female Argiope keyserlingi, and further explored the degree to which they are influenced by diet, investment in egg sac production and site of collection. We observed variation in the web-based chemical cues both between and within individuals. Additionally, we found that some of this variation could be explained by diet and gravid status but not by collection site. We discuss our findings in relation to mate choice processes and the costs and benefits of the observed variation in these web-based chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Henneken
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Jason Q D Goodger
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Therèsa M Jones
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark A Elgar
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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15
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Wilczek G, Karcz J, Putko A, Kędziorski A, Wilczek P, Stalmach M, Szulińska E. The effect of ingested cadmium on the calorific value and structural properties of hunting webs produced by Steatoda grossa (Theridiidae) spiders. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 586:1298-1307. [PMID: 28237463 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.02.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The study aimed to assess whether cadmium administered via ingestion to Steatoda grossa cobweb spiders (Theridiidae) affects the energy content and selected structural properties of the produced hunting webs. Cadmium content in webs was assessed with AAS and SEM X-ray microanalysis, while the diameters of silk fibers were estimated with SEM. The energy content of samples was measured in an oxygen micro-bomb calorimeter. Females and males showed different reactions to cadmium supplied through food. In comparison to females, males displayed higher metal concentrations in their bodies and hunting webs, however their calorific values and structural features were not significantly changed. Cadmium-treated females spun webs with smaller single-strand diameters and more frequent multi-stranded threads and invested 47% less energy in web production than the control individuals. It cannot be excluded that such a reduction in energy expenditure for web building in females resulted from energetically costly detoxifying reactions triggered in response to direct and indirect effects of cadmium toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grażyna Wilczek
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland.
| | - Jagna Karcz
- Laboratory of Scanning Electron Microscopy, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Jagiellońska 28, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Anna Putko
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Andrzej Kędziorski
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Piotr Wilczek
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Heart Prosthesis Institute FRK, Wolności 345a, Zabrze 41-800, Poland
| | - Monika Stalmach
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Szulińska
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, Katowice 40-007, Poland
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16
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Peng CA, Russo J, Lyda TA, Marcotte WR. Polyelectrolyte Fiber Assembly of Plant-Derived Spider Silk-like Proteins. Biomacromolecules 2017; 18:740-746. [PMID: 28196414 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.6b01552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Spider dragline silk is a proteinaceous material that combines superior toughness and biocompatibility, which makes it a promising biomaterial. The distinct protein structure and the fiber formation process contribute to the superior toughness of dragline silk. Previously, we have produced recombinant spider silk-like proteins in transgenic tobacco that are readily purified from plant extracts. The plant-derived spidroin-like proteins consisted of native major ampullate spidroin 1 or spidroin 2 N- and C-termini flanking 8, 16, or 32 copies of their respective consensus block repeats (mini-spidroins). Here, we present the generation of fibers from mini-spidroins (rMaSp1R8 and rMaSp2R8) by polyelectrolyte complex formation using an anionic polyelectrolyte, gellan gum. Mini-spidroins, when treated with acetic acid and cross-linked by glutaraldehyde, formed a thin film at the interface when overlaid with a gellan gum solution. Immediate pulling of the film resulted in autofluorescent fibrous materials from either mini-spidroin alone or a combination of rMaSp1R8 and rMaSp2R8 (70:30). Addition of chitosan to the mini-spidroin solutions permitted continuous fiber production until the spinning dope supply was exhausted. When air-dried as-spun fibers were rehydrated and stretched in water, the fiber diameter decreased and the overall toughness improved. This study showed that spider silk-like fibers can be produced in large quantities through charge attraction that assembles chitosan, mini-spidroins, and gellan gum into fibrous complexes. We speculate that the spider silk self-assembly process in the duct may involve attraction of variously charged chitinous polymers, spidroins, and glycoproteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congyue Annie Peng
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University , 130 McGinty Court, Robert F. Poole Agricultural Center, Room 154, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, United States
| | - Julia Russo
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University , 130 McGinty Court, Robert F. Poole Agricultural Center, Room 154, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, United States
| | - Todd A Lyda
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University , 130 McGinty Court, Robert F. Poole Agricultural Center, Room 154, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, United States
| | - William R Marcotte
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University , 130 McGinty Court, Robert F. Poole Agricultural Center, Room 154, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, United States
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17
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Blamires SJ, Blackledge TA, Tso IM. Physicochemical Property Variation in Spider Silk: Ecology, Evolution, and Synthetic Production. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ENTOMOLOGY 2017; 62:443-460. [PMID: 27959639 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-ento-031616-035615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The unique combination of great stiffness, strength, and extensibility makes spider major ampullate (MA) silk desirable for various biomimetic and synthetic applications. Intensive research on the genetics, biochemistry, and biomechanics of this material has facilitated a thorough understanding of its properties at various levels. Nevertheless, methods such as cloning, recombination, and electrospinning have not successfully produced materials with properties as impressive as those of spider silk. It is nevertheless becoming clear that silk properties are a consequence of whole-organism interactions with the environment in addition to genetic expression, gland biochemistry, and spinning processes. Here we assimilate the research done and assess the techniques used to determine distinct forms of spider silk chemical and physical property variability. We suggest that more research should focus on testing hypotheses that explain spider silk property variations in ecological and evolutionary contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean J Blamires
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 40704, Taiwan;
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia;
| | - Todd A Blackledge
- Department of Biology, Integrated Bioscience Program, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325;
| | - I-Min Tso
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 40704, Taiwan;
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18
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Blamires SJ, Kasumovic MM, Tso IM, Martens PJ, Hook JM, Rawal A. Evidence of Decoupling Protein Structure from Spidroin Expression in Spider Dragline Silks. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17081294. [PMID: 27517909 PMCID: PMC5000691 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17081294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The exceptional strength and extensibility of spider dragline silk have been thought to be facilitated by two spidroins, major ampullate spidroin 1 (MaSp1) and major ampullate spidroin 2 (MaSp2), under the assumption that protein secondary structures are coupled with the expressed spidroins. We tested this assumption for the dragline silk of three co-existing Australian spiders, Argiope keyserlingi, Latrodectus hasselti and Nephila plumipes. We found that silk amino acid compositions did not differ among spiders collected in May. We extended these analyses temporally and found the amino acid compositions of A. keyserlingi silks to differ when collected in May compared to November, while those of L. hasselti did not. To ascertain whether their secondary structures were decoupled from spidroin expression, we performed solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) analysis on the silks of all spiders collected in May. We found the distribution of alanine toward β-sheet and 3,10helix/random coil conformations differed between species, as did their relative crystallinities, with A. keyserlingi having the greatest 3,10helix/random coil composition and N. plumipes the greatest crystallinity. The protein secondary structures correlated with the mechanical properties for each of the silks better than the amino acid compositions. Our findings suggested that a differential distribution of alanine during spinning could decouple secondary structures from spidroin expression ensuring that silks of desirable mechanical properties are consistently produced. Alternative explanations include the possibility that other spidroins were incorporated into some silks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean J Blamires
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
| | - Michael M Kasumovic
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
| | - I-Min Tso
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 40704, Taiwan.
| | - Penny J Martens
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
| | - James M Hook
- NMR Facility, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
| | - Aditya Rawal
- NMR Facility, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
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19
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Peng CA, Russo J, Gravgaard C, McCartney H, Gaines W, Marcotte WR. Spider silk-like proteins derived from transgenic Nicotiana tabacum. Transgenic Res 2016; 25:517-26. [PMID: 27026165 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-016-9949-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The high tensile strength and biocompatibility of spider dragline silk makes it a desirable material in many engineering and tissue regeneration applications. Here, we present the feasibility to produce recombinant proteins in transgenic tobacco Nicotiana tabacum with sequences representing spider silk protein building blocks . Recombinant mini-spidroins contain native N- and C-terminal domains of major ampullate spidroin 1 (rMaSp1) or rMaSp2 flanking an abbreviated number (8, 16 or 32) of consensus repeat domains. Two different expression plasmid vectors were tested and a downstream chitin binding domain and self-cleavable intein were included to facilitate protein purification. We confirmed gene insertion and RNA transcription by PCR and reverse-transcriptase PCR, respectively. Mini-spidroin production was detected by N-terminus specific antibodies. Purification of mini-spidroins was performed through chitin affinity chromatography and subsequent intein activation with reducing reagent. Mini-spidroins, when dialyzed and freeze-dried, formed viscous gelatin-like fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congyue Annie Peng
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University, 130 McGinty Court, 153 Robert F. Poole Agricultural Center, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Julia Russo
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University, 130 McGinty Court, 153 Robert F. Poole Agricultural Center, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Charlene Gravgaard
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University, 130 McGinty Court, 153 Robert F. Poole Agricultural Center, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
- College of Pharmacy, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Heather McCartney
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University, 130 McGinty Court, 153 Robert F. Poole Agricultural Center, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - William Gaines
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University, 130 McGinty Court, 153 Robert F. Poole Agricultural Center, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - William R Marcotte
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University, 130 McGinty Court, 153 Robert F. Poole Agricultural Center, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA.
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20
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Bonte D, Verduyn L, Braeckman BP. Life history trade-offs imposed by dragline use in two money spiders. J Exp Biol 2015; 219:26-30. [PMID: 26596528 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.132191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Trade-offs among life history traits are central to understanding the limits of adaptations to stress. In animals, virtually all decisions taken during life are expected to have downstream consequences. To what degree rare, but energy-demanding, decisions carry over to individual performance is rarely studied in arthropods. We used spiders as a model system to test how single investments in silk use - for dispersal or predator escape - affect individual performance. Silk produced for safe lines and as threads for ballooning is of the strongest kind and is energetically costly, especially when resources are limited. We induced dragline spinning in two species of money spider at similar quantities to that under natural conditions and tested trade-offs with lifespan and egg sac production under unlimited prey availability and a dietary restriction treatment. We demonstrate strong trade-offs between dragline spinning and survival and fecundity. Survival trade-offs were additive to those imposed by the dietary treatment, but a reduction in eggs produced after silk use was only prevalent under conditions where food was restricted during the spider's life. Because draglines are not recycled after their use for dispersal or predator escape, their spinning incurs substantial fitness costs in dispersal, especially in environments with prey limitation. Rare but energetically costly decisions related to dispersal or predator escape may thus carry over to adult performance and explain phenotypic heterogeneity in natural populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dries Bonte
- Ghent University, Department of Biology, Terrestrial Ecology Unit, K. L. Ledeganckstraat 35, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Lieselot Verduyn
- Ghent University, Department of Biology, Terrestrial Ecology Unit, K. L. Ledeganckstraat 35, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Bart P Braeckman
- Ghent University, Department of Biology, Laboratory of Ageing Physiology and Molecular Evolution, Proeftuinstraat 86 N1, Gent 9000, Belgium
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21
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Blamires SJ, Liao CP, Chang CK, Chuang YC, Wu CL, Blackledge TA, Sheu HS, Tso IM. Mechanical Performance of Spider Silk Is Robust to Nutrient-Mediated Changes in Protein Composition. Biomacromolecules 2015; 16:1218-25. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.5b00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sean J. Blamires
- Department
of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 40704, Taiwan
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - Chen-Pan Liao
- Department
of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 40704, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Kai Chang
- National Synchrotron
Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu 3000, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chun Chuang
- National Synchrotron
Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu 3000, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Lin Wu
- Center
for Measurement Standards, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu 30011, Taiwan
| | - Todd A. Blackledge
- Department
of Biology, Integrated Bioscience Program, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
| | - Hwo-Shuenn Sheu
- National Synchrotron
Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu 3000, Taiwan
| | - I-Min Tso
- Department
of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 40704, Taiwan
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22
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Borkner CB, Elsner MB, Scheibel T. Coatings and films made of silk proteins. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2014; 6:15611-15625. [PMID: 25004395 DOI: 10.1021/am5008479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Silks are a class of proteinaceous materials produced by arthropods for various purposes. Spider dragline silk is known for its outstanding mechanical properties, and it shows high biocompatibility, good biodegradability, and a lack of immunogenicity and allergenicity. The silk produced by the mulberry silkworm B. mori has been used as a textile fiber and in medical devices for a long time. Here, recent progress in the processing of different silk materials into highly tailored isotropic and anisotropic coatings for biomedical applications such as tissue engineering, cell adhesion, and implant coatings as well as for optics and biosensors is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian B Borkner
- Lehrstuhl Biomaterialien, Fakultät für Ingenieurwissenschaften, ‡Bayreuther Zentrum für Kolloide und Grenzflächen (BZKG), §Institut für Bio-Makromoleküle (bio-mac), ∥Bayreuther Zentrum für Molekulare Biowissenschaften (BZMB), and ⊥Bayreuther Materialzentrum (BayMAT), Universität Bayreuth , Universitätsstrasse 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
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23
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Chaw RC, Zhao Y, Wei J, Ayoub NA, Allen R, Atrushi K, Hayashi CY. Intragenic homogenization and multiple copies of prey-wrapping silk genes in Argiope garden spiders. BMC Evol Biol 2014; 14:31. [PMID: 24552485 PMCID: PMC3933166 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2148-14-31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 02/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spider silks are spectacular examples of phenotypic diversity arising from adaptive molecular evolution. An individual spider can produce an array of specialized silks, with the majority of constituent silk proteins encoded by members of the spidroin gene family. Spidroins are dominated by tandem repeats flanked by short, non-repetitive N- and C-terminal coding regions. The remarkable mechanical properties of spider silks have been largely attributed to the repeat sequences. However, the molecular evolutionary processes acting on spidroin terminal and repetitive regions remain unclear due to a paucity of complete gene sequences and sampling of genetic variation among individuals. To better understand spider silk evolution, we characterize a complete aciniform spidroin gene from an Argiope orb-weaving spider and survey aciniform gene fragments from congeneric individuals. Results We present the complete aciniform spidroin (AcSp1) gene from the silver garden spider Argiope argentata (Aar_AcSp1), and document multiple AcSp1 loci in individual genomes of A. argentata and the congeneric A. trifasciata and A. aurantia. We find that Aar_AcSp1 repeats have >98% pairwise nucleotide identity. By comparing AcSp1 repeat amino acid sequences between Argiope species and with other genera, we identify regions of conservation over vast amounts of evolutionary time. Through a PCR survey of individual A. argentata, A. trifasciata, and A. aurantia genomes, we ascertain that AcSp1 repeats show limited variation between species whereas terminal regions are more divergent. We also find that average dN/dS across codons in the N-terminal, repetitive, and C-terminal encoding regions indicate purifying selection that is strongest in the N-terminal region. Conclusions Using the complete A. argentata AcSp1 gene and spidroin genetic variation between individuals, this study clarifies some of the molecular evolutionary processes underlying the spectacular mechanical attributes of aciniform silk. It is likely that intragenic concerted evolution and functional constraints on A. argentata AcSp1 repeats result in extreme repeat homogeneity. The maintenance of multiple AcSp1 encoding loci in Argiope genomes supports the hypothesis that Argiope spiders require rapid and efficient protein production to support their prolific use of aciniform silk for prey-wrapping and web-decorating. In addition, multiple gene copies may represent the early stages of spidroin diversification.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Crystal Chaw
- Department of Biology, University of California, 900 University Avenue, Riverside 92507, Riverside, CA, USA.
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24
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Blamires SJ, Wu CC, Wu CL, Sheu HS, Tso IM. Uncovering Spider Silk Nanocrystalline Variations That Facilitate Wind-Induced Mechanical Property Changes. Biomacromolecules 2013; 14:3484-90. [DOI: 10.1021/bm400803z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sean J. Blamires
- Department
of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 40704, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Chia Wu
- Department
of Life Science, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Lin Wu
- Center
for Measurement Standards, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu 30011, Taiwan
| | - Hwo-Shuenn Sheu
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - I-Min Tso
- Department
of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 40704, Taiwan
- Department
of Life Science, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
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Amino acid analysis of spider dragline silk using 1H NMR. Anal Biochem 2013; 440:150-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2013.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2013] [Revised: 05/10/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Probing site-specific 13C/15N-isotope enrichment of spider silk with liquid-state NMR spectroscopy. Anal Bioanal Chem 2013; 405:3997-4008. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-013-6802-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2012] [Revised: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Moisenovich MM, Pustovalova O, Shackelford J, Vasiljeva TV, Druzhinina TV, Kamenchuk YA, Guzeev VV, Sokolova OS, Bogush VG, Debabov VG, Kirpichnikov MP, Agapov II. Tissue regeneration in vivo within recombinant spidroin 1 scaffolds. Biomaterials 2012; 33:3887-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2012.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2011] [Accepted: 02/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Blamires SJ, Wu CL, Tso IM. Variation in protein intake induces variation in spider silk expression. PLoS One 2012; 7:e31626. [PMID: 22363691 PMCID: PMC3282770 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0031626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2011] [Accepted: 01/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is energetically expensive to synthesize certain amino acids. The proteins (spidroins) of spider major ampullate (MA) silk, MaSp1 and MaSp2, differ in amino acid composition. Glutamine and proline are prevalent in MaSp2 and are expensive to synthesize. Since most orb web spiders express high proline silk they might preferentially attain the amino acids needed for silk from food and shift toward expressing more MaSp1 in their MA silk when starved. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We fed three spiders; Argiope aetherea, Cyrtophora moluccensis and Leucauge blanda, high protein, low protein or no protein solutions. A. aetherea and L. blanda MA silks are high in proline, while C. moluccesnsis MA silks are low in proline. After 10 days of feeding we determined the amino acid compositions and mechanical properties of each species' MA silk and compared them between species and treatments with pre-treatment samples, accounting for ancestry. We found that the proline and glutamine of A. aetherea and L. blanda silks were affected by protein intake; significantly decreasing under the low and no protein intake treatments. Glutmaine composition in C. moluccensis silk was likewise affected by protein intake. However, the composition of proline in their MA silk was not significantly affected by protein intake. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that protein limitation induces a shift toward different silk proteins with lower glutamine and/or proline content. Contradictions to the MaSp model lie in the findings that C. moluccensis MA silks did not experience a significant reduction in proline and A. aetherea did not experience a significant reduction in serine on low/no protein. The mechanical properties of the silks could not be explained by a MaSp1 expressional shift. Factors other than MaSp expression, such as the expression of spidroin-like orthologues, may impact on silk amino acid composition and spinning and glandular processes may impact mechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean J. Blamires
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Lin Wu
- Center for Measurement Standards, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - I-Min Tso
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Life Science, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
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Hidaka Y, Kontani KI, Taniguchi R, Saiki M, Yokoi S, Yukuhiro K, Yamaguchi H, Miyazawa M. Fiber formation of a synthetic spider peptide derived from Nephila clavata. Biopolymers 2011; 96:222-7. [DOI: 10.1002/bip.21402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Blamires SJ, Chao IC, Tso IM. Prey type, vibrations and handling interactively influence spider silk expression. J Exp Biol 2010; 213:3906-10. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.046730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY
The chemical and mechanical properties of spider major ampullate (MA) silks vary in response to different prey, mostly via differential expression of two genes – MaSp1 and MaSp2 – although the spinning process exerts additional influence over the mechanical properties of silk. The prey cues that initiate differential gene expression are unknown. Prey nutrients, vibratory stimuli and handling have been suggested to be influential. We performed experiments to decouple the vibratory stimuli and handling associated with high and low kinetic energy prey (crickets vs flies) from their prey nutrients to test the relative influence of each as inducers of silk protein expression in the orb web spider Nephila pilipes. We found that the MA silks from spiders feeding on live crickets had greater percentages of glutamine, serine, alanine and glycine than those from spiders feeding on live flies. Proline composition of the silks was unaffected by feeding treatment. Increases in alanine and glycine in the MA silks of the live-cricket-feeding spiders indicate a probable increase in MaSp1 gene expression. The amino acid compositions of N. pilipes feeding on crickets with fly stimuli and N. pilipes feeding on flies with cricket stimuli did not differ from each other or from pre-treatment responses, so these feeding treatments did not induce differential MaSp expression. Our results indicate that cricket vibratory stimuli and handling interact with nutrients to induce N. pilipes to adjust their gene expression to produce webs with mechanical properties appropriate for the retention of this prey. This shows that spiders can genetically alter their silk chemical compositions and, presumably, mechanical properties upon exposure to different prey types. The lack of any change in proline composition with feeding treatment in N. pilipes suggests that the MaSp model determined for Nephila clavipes is not universally applicable to all Nephila.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. J. Blamires
- Department of Life Sciences, Tunghai University, Taichung 407, Taiwan
| | - I.-C. Chao
- Affiliated High School of National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 105, Taiwan
| | - I.-M. Tso
- Department of Life Sciences, Tunghai University, Taichung 407, Taiwan
- Center for Tropical Ecology and Biodiversity, Tunghai University, Taichung 407, Taiwan
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Chinali A, Vater W, Rudakoff B, Sponner A, Unger E, Grosse F, Guehrs KH, Weisshart K. Containment of extended length polymorphisms in silk proteins. J Mol Evol 2010; 70:325-38. [PMID: 20349054 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-010-9326-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2009] [Accepted: 02/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The spider silk gene family to the current date has been developed by gene duplication and homogenization events as well as conservation of crucial sequence parts. These evolutionary processes have created an amazing diversity of silk types each associated with specific properties and functions. In addition, they have led to allelic and gene variants within a species as exemplified by the major ampullate spidroin 1 gene of Nephila clavipes. Due to limited numbers of individuals screened to date little is known about the extent of these heterogeneities and how they are finally manifested in the proteins. Using expanded sample sizes, we show that sequence variations expressed as deletions or insertions of tri-nucleotides lead to different sized and structured repetitive units throughout a silk protein. Moreover, major ampullate spidroins 1 can quite dramatically differ in their overall lengths; however, extreme variants do not spread widely in a spider population. This suggests that a certain size range stabilized by purifying selection is important for spidroin 1 gene integrity and protein function. More than one locus for spidroin 1 genes possibly exist within one individual genome, which are homogenized in size, are differentially expressed and give a spider a certain degree of adaptation on silk's composition and properties. Such mechanisms are shared to a lesser extent by the second major ampullate spidroin gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Chinali
- Leibniz Institute for Age Research-Fritz Lipmann Institute, Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745 Jena, Germany
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