The structure and function of mammalian membrane-attack complex/perforin-like proteins

Two granzyme A/K homologs in Zebra mbuna have different specificities, one classical tryptase and one with chymase activity

Granzymes A and K are two highly homologous serine proteases expressed by mammalian cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) and natural killer (NK) cells. The locus encoding these two proteases is the first of the hematopoietic serine protease loci to appear during vertebrate evolution. This locus is found in all jawed vertebrates including the cartilaginous fishes. Granzyme A is the most abundant of the different granzymes expressed by CTLs and NK cells and its potential function has been studied extensively for many years. However, no clear conclusions concerning its primary role in the immune defense has been obtained. In all mammals, there are only one copy each of granzyme A and K, whereas additional copies are found in both cartilaginous and ray finned fishes. In cichlids two of these copies seem to encode new members of the granzyme A/K family. These two new members appear to have changed primary specificity and to be pure chymases based on the amino acids in their active site substrate binding pockets. Interestingly, one of these gene copies is located in the middle of the granzyme A/K locus, while the other copy is present in another locus, the met-ase locus. We here present a detailed characterization of the extended cleavage specificity of one of these non-classical granzymes, a Zebra mbuna granzyme positioned in the granzyme A/K locus. This enzyme, named granzyme A2, showed a high preference for tyrosine in the P1 position of substrates, thereby being a strict chymase. We have also characterized one of the classical granzyme A/Ks of the Zebra mbuna, granzyme A1, which is a tryptase with preference for arginine in the P1 position of substrates. Based on their extended specificities, the two granzymes showed major similarities, but also some differences in preferred amino acids in positions surrounding the cleavable amino acid. Fish lack one of the hematopoietic serine protease loci of mammals, the chymase locus, where one of the major mast cell enzymes is located. An interesting question is now if cichlids have by compensatory mechanisms generated a mast cell chymase from another locus, and if similar chymotryptic enzymes have appeared also in other fish species.

Genome-Wide Analysis of the Membrane Attack Complex and Perforin Genes and Their Expression Pattern under Stress in the Solanaceae

The Membrane Attack Complex and Perforin (MACPF) proteins play a crucial role in plant development and adaptation to environmental stresses. Heretofore, few MACPF genes have been functionally identified, leaving gaps in our understanding of MACPF genes in other plants, particularly in the Solanaceae family, which includes economically and culturally significant species, such as tomato, potato, and pepper. In this study, we have identified 26 MACPF genes in three Solanaceae species and in the water lily, which serves as the base group for angiosperms. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that angiosperm MACPF genes could be categorized into three distinct groups, with another moss and spikemoss lineage-specific group, which is further supported by the examination of gene structures and domain or motif organizations. Through inter-genome collinearity analysis, it is determined that there are 12 orthologous SolMACPF gene pairs. The expansion of SolMACPF genes is primarily attributed to dispersed duplications, with purifying selection identified as the principal driving force in their evolutionary process, as indicated by the ω values. Furthermore, the analysis of expression patterns revealed that Solanaceae genes are preferentially expressed in reproductive tissues and regulated by various environmental stimuli, particularly induced by submergence. Taken together, these findings offer valuable insights into and a fresh perspective on the evolution and function of SolMACPF genes, thereby establishing a foundation for further investigations into their phenotypic and functional characteristics.

Extended cleavage specificities of human granzymes A and K, two closely related enzymes with conserved but still poorly defined functions in T and NK cell-mediated immunity

Granzymes A and K are two highly homologous serine proteases expressed by mammalian cytotoxic T cells (CTL) and natural killer cells (NK). Granzyme A is the most abundant of the different granzymes (gzms) expressed by these two cell types. Gzms A and K are found in all jawed vertebrates and are the most well conserved of all hematopoietic serine proteases. Their potential functions have been studied extensively for many years, however, without clear conclusions. Gzm A was for many years thought to serve as a key component in the defense against viral infection by the induction of apoptosis in virus-infected cells, similar to gzm B. However, later studies have questioned this role and instead indicated that gzm A may act as a potent inducer of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Gzms A and K form clearly separate branches in a phylogenetic tree indicating separate functions. Transcriptional analyses presented here demonstrate the presence of gzm A and K transcripts in both CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells. To enable screening for their primary biological targets we have made a detailed analysis of their extended cleavage specificities. Phage display analysis of the cleavage specificity of the recombinant enzymes showed that both gzms A and K are strict tryptases with high selectivity for Arg over Lys in the P1 position. The major differences in the specificities of these two enzymes are located N-terminally of the cleavage site, where gzm A prefers small amino acids such as Gly in the P3 position and shows a relatively relaxed selectivity in the P2 position. In contrast, gzm K prefers large amino acids such as Phe, Tyr, and Trp in both the P2 and P3 positions and does not tolerate negatively charged residues in the P2 position. This major distinction in extended specificities is likely reflected also in preferred in vivo targets of these two enzymes. This information can now be utilized for high-precision screening of primary targets for gzms A and K in search of their highly conserved but still poorly defined functions in vertebrate immunity.

Mpeg1 is not essential for antibacterial or antiviral immunity, but is implicated in antigen presentation

To control infections phagocytes can directly kill invading microbes. Macrophage‐expressed gene 1 (Mpeg1), a pore‐forming protein sometimes known as perforin‐2, is reported to be essential for bacterial killing following phagocytosis. Mice homozygous for the mutant allele Mpeg1^tm1Pod succumb to bacterial infection and exhibit deficiencies in bacterial killing in vitro. Here we describe a new Mpeg mutant allele Mpeg1^tm1.1Pib on the C57BL/6J background. Mice homozygous for the new allele are not abnormally susceptible to bacterial or viral infection, and irrespective of genetic background show no perturbation in bacterial killing in vitro. Potential reasons for these conflicting findings are discussed. In further work, we show that cytokine responses to inflammatory mediators, as well as antibody generation, are also normal in Mpeg1^{tm1.1Pib/tm1.1Pib} mice. We also show that Mpeg1 is localized to a CD68‐positive endolysosomal compartment, and that it exists predominantly as a processed, two‐chain disulfide‐linked molecule. It is abundant in conventional dendritic cells 1, and mice lacking Mpeg1 do not present the model antigen ovalbumin efficiently. We conclude that Mpeg1 is not essential for innate antibacterial protection or antiviral immunity, but may play a focused role early in the adaptive immune response.

Birth and death in terminal complement pathway

The cytolytic activity of the membrane attack complex (MAC) is pivotal in the complement-mediated elimination of pathogens. Terminal complement pathway (TCP) genes encode the proteins that form the MAC. Although the TCP genes are well conserved within most vertebrate species, the early evolution of the TCP genes is poorly understood. Based on the comparative genomic analysis of the early evolutionary history of the TCP homologs, we evaluated four possible scenarios that could have given rise to the vertebrate TCP. Currently available genomic data support a scheme of complex sequential protein domain gains that may be responsible for the birth of the vertebrate C6 gene. The subsequent duplication and divergence of this vertebrate C6 gene formed the C7, C8α, C8β, and C9 genes. Compared to the widespread conservation of TCP components within vertebrates, we discovered that C9 has disintegrated in the genomes of galliform birds. Publicly available genome and transcriptome sequencing datasets of chicken from Illumina short read, PacBio long read, and Optical mapping technologies support the validity of the genome assembly at the C9 locus. In this study, we have generated a > 120X coverage whole-genome Chromium 10x linked-read sequencing dataset for the chicken and used it to verify the loss of the C9 gene in the chicken. We find multiple CR1 (chicken repeat 1) element insertions within and near the remnant exons of C9 in several galliform bird genomes. The reconstructed chronology of events shows that the CR1 insertions occurred after C9 gene loss in an early galliform ancestor. Loss of C9 in galliform birds, in contrast to conservation in other vertebrates, may have implications for host-pathogen interactions. Our study of C6 gene birth in an early vertebrate ancestor and C9 gene death in galliform birds provides insights into the evolution of the TCP.

Identification and functional analysis of the perforin-1 like gene in disease resistance in half smooth tongue sole (Cynoglossus semilaevis)

The pore-forming protein perforin is one of the effectors of cell-mediated killing via the granule exocytosis pathway. In this study, a genome-wide association study was conducted in Vibrio harveyi disease-resistant and disease-susceptible families of half smooth tongue sole (Cynoglossus semilaevis) to determine the genes accounting for host resistance, and a perforin homologue was identified, designated perforin-1 like (CsPRF1l). The full-length cDNA of CsPRF1l is 1835 bp, and encodes 514 amino acids. The CsPRF1l gene consists of 10 exons and 9 introns, spanning approximately 7 kb. The amino acid sequence of CsPRF1l shows 60.35, 54.03, 41.92, and 34.17% identities to Morone saxatilis PRF1l, Oryzias melastigma PRF1l, Danio rerio PRF1.5 and Homo sapiens PRF, respectively. Sequence analysis revealed the presence of membrane attack complex/perforin (MACPF) and C2 domains in CsPRF1l. Quantitative real-time PCR showed that CsPRF1l presented a higher intestinal expression level in disease-resistant families than in susceptible families. Tissue expression pattern analysis showed that CsPRF1l is present in most of the tested tissues and highly expressed in the intestine, brain, stomach and gills. After challenge with V. harveyi, CsPRF1l mRNA was markedly upregulated in the liver, spleen, kidney, intestine, gills and skin. In addition, the recombinant CsPRF1l protein exhibited obvious antimicrobial activity against V. harveyi in vitro and in a zebrafish model. Collectively, these data indicate that CsPRF1l modulates host immune defense against V. harveyi invasion and provide clues about the efficacy of rCsPRF1l in fish that will give rise to useful therapeutic applications for V. harveyi infection in C. semilaevis.

Functional characterization and gene expression profile of perforin-2 in starry flounder (Platichthys stellatus)

The membrane attack complex/perforin (MACPF) superfamily consists of multifunctional proteins that form pores on the membrane surface of microorganisms to induce their death and have various immune-related functions. PFN2 is a perforin-like protein with an MACPF domain, and humans with deficient PFN2 levels have increased susceptibility to bacterial infection, which can lead to fatal consequences for some patients. Therefore, in this study, we confirmed the antimicrobial function of PFN2 in starry flounder (Platichthys stellatus). The molecular properties were confirmed based on the verified amino acid sequence of PsPFN2. In addition, the expression characteristics of tissue-specific and pathogen-specific PsPFN2 mRNA were also confirmed. The recombinant protein was produced using Escherichia coli, and the antimicrobial activity was then confirmed. The coding sequence of PFN2 (PsPFN2) in P. stellatus consists of 710 residues. The MACPF domain was conserved throughout evolution, as shown by multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis. PsPFN2 mRNA is abundantly distributed in immune-related organs such as the spleen and gills of healthy starry flounder, and significant expression changes were confirmed after artificial infection by bacteria or viruses. We cloned the MACPF domain region of PFN2 to produce a recombinant protein (rPFN2) and confirmed its antibacterial effect against a wide range of bacterial species and the parasite (Miamiensis avidus).

Functional and Structural Variation among Sticholysins, Pore-Forming Proteins from the Sea Anemone Stichodactyla helianthus

Venoms constitute complex mixtures of many different molecules arising from evolution in processes driven by continuous prey-predator interactions. One of the most common compounds in these venomous cocktails are pore-forming proteins, a family of toxins whose activity relies on the disruption of the plasmatic membranes by forming pores. The venom of sea anemones, belonging to the oldest lineage of venomous animals, contains a large amount of a characteristic group of pore-forming proteins known as actinoporins. They bind specifically to sphingomyelin-containing membranes and suffer a conformational metamorphosis that drives them to make pores. This event usually leads cells to death by osmotic shock. Sticholysins are the actinoporins produced by Stichodactyla helianthus. Three different isotoxins are known: Sticholysins I, II, and III. They share very similar amino acid sequence and three-dimensional structure but display different behavior in terms of lytic activity and ability to interact with cholesterol, an important lipid component of vertebrate membranes. In addition, sticholysins can act in synergy when exerting their toxin action. The subtle, but important, molecular nuances that explain their different behavior are described and discussed throughout the text. Improving our knowledge about sticholysins behavior is important for eventually developing them into biotechnological tools.

Ancient but Not Forgotten: New Insights Into MPEG1, a Macrophage Perforin-Like Immune Effector

Macrophage-expressed gene 1 [MPEG1/Perforin-2 (PRF2)] is an ancient metazoan protein belonging to the Membrane Attack Complex/Perforin (MACPF) branch of the MACPF/Cholesterol Dependent Cytolysin (CDC) superfamily of pore-forming proteins (PFPs). MACPF/CDC proteins are a large and extremely diverse superfamily that forms large transmembrane aqueous channels in target membranes. In humans, MACPFs have known roles in immunity and development. Like perforin (PRF) and the membrane attack complex (MAC), MPEG1 is also postulated to perform a role in immunity. Indeed, bioinformatic studies suggest that gene duplications of MPEG1 likely gave rise to PRF and MAC components. Studies reveal partial or complete loss of MPEG1 causes an increased susceptibility to microbial infection in both cells and animals. To this end, MPEG1 expression is upregulated in response to proinflammatory signals such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Furthermore, germline mutations in MPEG1 have been identified in connection with recurrent pulmonary mycobacterial infections in humans. Structural studies on MPEG1 revealed that it can form oligomeric pre-pores and pores. Strikingly, the unusual domain arrangement within the MPEG1 architecture suggests a novel mechanism of pore formation that may have evolved to guard against unwanted lysis of the host cell. Collectively, the available data suggest that MPEG1 likely functions as an intracellular pore-forming immune effector. Herein, we review the current understanding of MPEG1 evolution, regulation, and function. Furthermore, recent structural studies of MPEG1 are discussed, including the proposed mechanisms of action for MPEG1 bactericidal activity. Lastly limitations, outstanding questions, and implications of MPEG1 models are explored in the context of the broader literature and in light of newly available structural data.

Perforins Expression by Cutaneous Gamma Delta T Cells

Gamma delta (GD) T cells are an unconventional T cell type present in both the epidermis and the dermis of human skin. They are critical to regulating skin inflammation, wound healing, and anti-microbial defense. Similar to CD8+ cytotoxic T cells expressing an alpha beta (AB) TCR, GD T cells have cytolytic capabilities. They play an important role in elimination of cutaneous tumors and virally infected cells and have also been implicated in pathogenicity of several autoimmune diseases. T cell cytotoxicity is associated with the expression of the pore forming protein Perforin. Perforin is an innate immune protein containing a membrane attack complex perforin-like (MACPF) domain and functions by forming pores in the membranes of target cells, which allow granzymes and reactive oxygen species to enter the cells and destroy them. Perforin-2, encoded by the gene MPEG1, is a newly discovered member of this protein family that is critical for clearance of intracellular bacteria. Cutaneous GD T cells express both Perforin and Perforin-2, but many questions remain regarding the role that these proteins play in GD T cell mediated cytotoxicity against tumors and bacterial pathogens. Here, we review what is known about Perforin expression by skin GD T cells and the mechanisms that contribute to Perforin activation.

Evolution and Expression of the Membrane Attack Complex and Perforin Gene Family in the Poaceae

Membrane Attack Complex and Perforin (MACPF) proteins play crucial roles in plant development and plant responses to environmental stresses. To date, only four MACPF genes have been identified in Arabidopsis thaliana, and the functions of the MACPF gene family members in other plants, especially in important crop plants, such as the Poaceae family, remain largely unknown. In this study, we identified and analyzed 42 MACPF genes from six completely sequenced and well annotated species representing the major Poaceae clades. A phylogenetic analysis of MACPF genes resolved four groups, characterized by shared motif organizations and gene structures within each group. MACPF genes were unevenly distributed along the Poaceae chromosomes. Moreover, segmental duplications and dispersed duplication events may have played significant roles during MACPF gene family expansion and functional diversification in the Poaceae. In addition, phylogenomic synteny analysis revealed a high degree of conservation among the Poaceae MACPF genes. In particular, Group I, II, and III MACPF genes were exposed to strong purifying selection with different evolutionary rates. Temporal and spatial expression analyses suggested that Group III MACPF genes were highly expressed relative to the other groups. In addition, most MACPF genes were highly expressed in vegetative tissues and up-regulated by several biotic and abiotic stresses. Taken together, these findings provide valuable information for further functional characterization and phenotypic validation of the Poaceae MACPF gene family.

Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus and Host Interaction by the Complement System

Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) modulates the immune response to allow the virus to establish persistent infection in the host and facilitate the development of KSHV-associated cancer. The complement system has a central role in the defense against pathogens. Hence, KSHV has adopted an evasion strategy for complement attack using the viral protein encoded by KSHV open reading frame 4. However, despite this defense mechanism, the complement system appears to become activated in KSHV-infected cells as well as in the region surrounding Kaposi’s sarcoma tumors. Given that the complement system can affect cell fate as well as the inflammatory microenvironment, complement activation is likely associated with KSHV pathogenesis. A better understanding of the interplay between KSHV and the complement system may, therefore, translate into the development of novel therapeutic interventions for KSHV-associated tumors. In this review, the mechanisms and functions of complement activation in KSHV-infected cells are discussed.

Receptor Tyrosine Kinases in Development: Insights from Drosophila

Cell-to-cell communication mediates a plethora of cellular decisions and behaviors that are crucial for the correct and robust development of multicellular organisms. Many of these signals are encoded in secreted hormones or growth factors that bind to and activate cell surface receptors, to transmit the cue intracellularly. One of the major superfamilies of cell surface receptors are the receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). For nearly half a century RTKs have been the focus of intensive study due to their ability to alter fundamental aspects of cell biology, such as cell proliferation, growth, and shape, and because of their central importance in diseases such as cancer. Studies in model organisms such a Drosophila melanogaster have proved invaluable for identifying new conserved RTK pathway components, delineating their contributions, and for the discovery of conserved mechanisms that control RTK-signaling events. Here we provide a brief overview of the RTK superfamily and the general mechanisms used in their regulation. We further highlight the functions of several RTKs that govern distinct cell-fate decisions in Drosophila and explore how their activities are developmentally controlled.

Essential role of Plasmodium perforin-like protein 4 in ookinete midgut passage

Pore forming proteins such as those belonging to the membrane attack/perforin (MACPF) family have important functions in many organisms. Of the five MACPF proteins found in Plasmodium parasites, three have functions in cell passage and one in host cell egress. Here we report an analysis of the perforin-like protein 4, PPLP4, in the rodent parasite Plasmodium berghei. We found that the protein is expressed only in the ookinete, the invasive stage of the parasite formed in the mosquito midgut. Transcriptional analysis revealed that expression of the pplp4 gene commences during ookinete development. The protein was detected in retorts and mature ookinetes. Using two antibodies, the protein was found localized in a dotted pattern, and 3-D SIM super-resolution microcopy revealed the protein in the periphery of the cell. Analysis of a C-terminal mCherry fusion of the protein however showed mainly cytoplasmic label. A pplp4 null mutant formed motile ookinetes, but these were unable to invade and traverse the midgut epithelium resulting in severely impaired oocyst formation and no transmission to naïve mice. However, when in vitro cultured ookinetes were injected into the thorax of the mosquito, thus by-passing midgut passage, sporozoites were formed and the mutant parasites were able to infect naïve mice. Taken together, our data show that PPLP4 is required only for ookinete invasion of the mosquito midgut. Thus PPLP4 has a similar role to the previously studied PPLP3 and PPLP5, raising the question why three proteins with MACPF domains are needed for invasion by the ookinete of the mosquito midgut epithelium.

Computational studies of peptide-induced membrane pore formation

A variety of peptides induce pores in biological membranes; the most common ones are naturally produced antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which are small, usually cationic, and defend diverse organisms against biological threats. Because it is not possible to observe these pores directly on a molecular scale, the structure of AMP-induced pores and the exact sequence of steps leading to their formation remain uncertain. Hence, these questions have been investigated via molecular modelling. In this article, we review computational studies of AMP pore formation using all-atom, coarse-grained, and implicit solvent models; evaluate the results obtained and suggest future research directions to further elucidate the pore formation mechanism of AMPs.This article is part of the themed issue 'Membrane pores: from structure and assembly, to medicine and technology'.

The Membrane Attack Complex/Perforin Superfamily

The membrane attack complex/perforin (MACPF) superfamily consists of a diverse group of proteins involved in bacterial pathogenesis and sporulation as well as eukaryotic immunity, embryonic development, neural migration and fruiting body formation. The present work shows that the evolutionary relationships between the members of the superfamily, previously suggested by comparison of their tertiary structures, can also be supported by analyses of their primary structures. The superfamily includes the MACPF family (TC 1.C.39), the cholesterol-dependent cytolysin (CDC) family (TC 1.C.12.1 and 1.C.12.2) and the pleurotolysin pore-forming (pleurotolysin B) family (TC 1.C.97.1), as revealed by expansion of each family by comparison against a large protein database, and by the comparisons of their hidden Markov models. Clustering analyses demonstrated grouping of the CDC homologues separately from the 12 MACPF subfamilies, which also grouped separately from the pleurotolysin B family. Members of the MACPF superfamily revealed a remarkably diverse range of proteins spanning eukaryotic, bacterial, and archaeal taxonomic domains, with notable variations in protein domain architectures. Our strategy should also be helpful in putting together other highly divergent protein families.

Finding a Balance between Protection and Pathology: The Dual Role of Perforin in Human Disease

Perforin is critical for controlling viral infection and tumor surveillance. Clinically, mutations in perforin are viewed as unfavorable, as lack of this pore-forming protein results in lethal, childhood disease, familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis type 2 (FHL 2). However, many mutations in the coding region of PRF1 are not yet associated with disease. Animal models of viral-associated blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption and experimental cerebral malaria (ECM) have identified perforin as critical for inducing pathologic central nervous system CNS vascular permeability. This review focuses on the role of perforin in both protecting and promoting human disease. It concludes with a novel hypothesis that diversity observed in the PRF1 gene may be an example of selective advantage that protects an individual from perforin-mediated pathology, such as BBB disruption.

Neurodevelopmental MACPFs: The vertebrate astrotactins and BRINPs

Astrotactins (ASTNs) and Bone morphogenetic protein/retinoic acid inducible neural-specific proteins (BRINPs) are two groups of Membrane Attack Complex/Perforin (MACPF) superfamily proteins that show overlapping expression in the developing and mature vertebrate nervous system. ASTN(1-2) and BRINP(1-3) genes are found at conserved loci in humans that have been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Here we review the tissue distribution and cellular localization of these proteins, and discuss recent studies that provide insight into their structure and interactions. We highlight the genetic relationships and co-expression of Brinps and Astns; and review recent knock-out mouse phenotypes that indicate a possible overlap in protein function between ASTNs and BRINPs.

The Complement System: A Prey of Trypanosoma cruzi

Trypanosoma cruzi is a protozoan parasite known to cause Chagas disease (CD), a neglected sickness that affects around 6-8 million people worldwide. Originally, CD was mainly found in Latin America but more recently, it has been spread to countries in North America, Asia, and Europe due the international migration from endemic areas. Thus, at present CD represents an important concern of global public health. Most of individuals that are infected by T. cruzi may remain in asymptomatic form all lifelong, but up to 40% of them will develop cardiomyopathy, digestive mega syndromes, or both. The interaction between the T. cruzi infective forms and host-related immune factors represents a key point for a better understanding of the physiopathology of CD. In this context, the complement, as one of the first line of host defense against infection was shown to play an important role in recognizing T. cruzi metacyclic trypomastigotes and in controlling parasite invasion. The complement consists of at least 35 or more plasma proteins and cell surface receptors/regulators, which can be activated by three pathways: classical (CP), lectin (LP), and alternative (AP). The CP and LP are mainly initiated by immune complexes or pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), respectively, whereas AP is spontaneously activated by hydrolysis of C3. Once activated, several relevant complement functions are generated which include opsonization and phagocytosis of particles or microorganisms and cell lysis. An important step during T. cruzi infection is when intracellular trypomastigotes are release to bloodstream where they may be target by complement. Nevertheless, the parasite uses a sequence of events in order to escape from complement-mediated lysis. In fact, several T. cruzi molecules are known to interfere in the initiation of all three pathways and in the assembly of C3 convertase, a key step in the activation of complement. Moreover, T. cruzi promotes secretion of plasma membrane-derived vesicles from host cells, which prevent the activity of C3 convertase C4b2a and thereby may hinder complement. In this review, we aim to present an overview on the strategies used by T. cruzi in order to circumvent the activation of complement and, consequently, its biological effects.

Dysfunction of Arabidopsis MACPF domain protein activates programmed cell death via tryptophan metabolism in MAMP-triggered immunity

Plant immune responses triggered upon recognition of microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) typically restrict pathogen growth without a host cell death response. We isolated two Arabidopsis mutants, derived from accession Col-0, that activated cell death upon inoculation with nonadapted fungal pathogens. Notably, the mutants triggered cell death also when treated with bacterial MAMPs such as flg22. Positional cloning identified NSL1 (Necrotic Spotted Lesion 1) as a responsible gene for the phenotype of the two mutants, whereas nsl1 mutations of the accession No-0 resulted in necrotic lesion formation without pathogen inoculation. NSL1 encodes a protein of unknown function containing a putative membrane-attack complex/perforin (MACPF) domain. The application of flg22 increased salicylic acid (SA) accumulation in the nsl1 plants derived from Col-0, while depletion of isochorismate synthase 1 repressed flg22-inducible lesion formation, indicating that elevated SA is needed for the cell death response. nsl1 plants of Col-0 responded to flg22 treatment with an RBOHD-dependent oxidative burst, but this response was dispensable for the nsl1-dependent cell death. Surprisingly, loss-of-function mutations in PEN2, involved in the metabolism of tryptophan (Trp)-derived indole glucosinolates, suppressed the flg22-induced and nsl1-dependent cell death. Moreover, the increased accumulation of SA in the nsl1 plants was abrogated by blocking Trp-derived secondary metabolite biosynthesis, whereas the nsl1-dependent hyperaccumulation of PEN2-dependent compounds was unaffected when the SA biosynthesis pathway was blocked. Collectively, these findings suggest that MAMP-triggered immunity activates a genetically programmed cell death in the absence of the functional MACPF domain protein NSL1 via Trp-derived secondary metabolite-mediated activation of the SA pathway.

Brinp1(-/-) mice exhibit autism-like behaviour, altered memory, hyperactivity and increased parvalbumin-positive cortical interneuron density

BACKGROUND

BMP/RA-inducible neural-specific protein 1 (Brinp1) is highly conserved in vertebrates, and continuously expressed in the neocortex, hippocampus, olfactory bulb and cerebellum from mid-embryonic development through to adulthood.

METHODS

Brinp1 knock-out (Brinp1(-/-)) mice were generated by Cre-recombinase-mediated removal of the third exon of Brinp1. Knock-out mice were characterised by behavioural phenotyping, immunohistochemistry and expression analysis of the developing and adult brain.

RESULTS

Absence of Brinp1 during development results in a behavioural phenotype resembling autism spectrum disorder (ASD), in which knock-out mice show reduced sociability and changes in vocalisation capacity. In addition, Brinp1(-/-) mice exhibit hyper-locomotor activity, have impaired short-term memory, and exhibit poor reproductive success. Brinp1(-/-) mice show increased density of parvalbumin-expressing interneurons in the adult mouse brain. Brinp1(-/-) mice do not show signs of altered neural precursor proliferation or increased apoptosis during late embryonic brain development. The expression of the related neuronal migration genes Astn1 and Astn2 is increased in the brains of Brinp1(-/-) mice, suggesting that they may ameliorate the effects of Brinp1 loss.

CONCLUSIONS

Brinp1 plays an important role in normal brain development and function by influencing neuronal distribution within the cortex. The increased cortical PV-positive interneuron density and altered behaviour of Brinp1(-/-) mice resemble features of a subset of human neurological disorders; namely autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the hyperactivity aspect of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Complement-mediated 'bystander' damage initiates host NLRP3 inflammasome activation

Complement activation has long been associated with inflammation, primarily due to the elaboration of the complement anaphylotoxins C5a and C3a. In this work, we demonstrate that the phagocytosis of complement-opsonized particles promotes host inflammatory responses by a new mechanism that depends on the terminal complement components (C5b-C9). We demonstrate that during the phagocytosis of complement-opsonized particles, the membrane attack complex (MAC) of complement can be transferred from the activating particle to the macrophage plasma membrane by a 'bystander' mechanism. This MAC-mediated bystander damage initiates NLRP3 inflammasome activation, resulting in caspase-1 activation and IL-1β and IL-18 secretion. Inflammasome activation is not induced when macrophages phagocytize unopsonized particles or particles opsonized with serum deficient in one of the terminal complement components. The secretion of IL-1β and IL-18 by macrophages depends on NLRP3, ASC (also known as PYCARD) and caspase-1, as macrophages deficient in any one of these components fail to secrete these cytokines following phagocytosis. The phagocytosis of complement-opsonized particles increases leukocyte recruitment and promotes T helper 17 cell (TH17) biasing. These findings reveal a new mechanism by which complement promotes inflammation and regulates innate and adaptive immunity.

The membrane attack complex, perforin and cholesterol-dependent cytolysin superfamily of pore-forming proteins

The membrane attack complex and perforin proteins (MACPFs) and bacterial cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs) are two branches of a large and diverse superfamily of pore-forming proteins that function in immunity and pathogenesis. During pore formation, soluble monomers assemble into large transmembrane pores through conformational transitions that involve extrusion and refolding of two α-helical regions into transmembrane β-hairpins. These transitions entail a dramatic refolding of the protein structure, and the resulting assemblies create large holes in cellular membranes, but they do not use any external source of energy. Structures of the membrane-bound assemblies are required to mechanistically understand and modulate these processes. In this Commentary, we discuss recent advances in the understanding of assembly mechanisms and molecular details of the conformational changes that occur during MACPF and CDC pore formation.

Torso-like mediates extracellular accumulation of Furin-cleaved Trunk to pattern the Drosophila embryo termini

Patterning of the Drosophila embryonic termini is achieved by localized activation of the Torso receptor by the growth factor Trunk. Governing this event is the perforin-like protein Torso-like, which is localized to the extracellular space at the embryo poles and has long been proposed to control localized proteolytic activation of Trunk. However, a protease involved in terminal patterning remains to be identified, and the role of Torso-like remains unknown. Here we find that Trunk is cleaved intracellularly by Furin proteases. We further show that Trunk is secreted, and that levels of extracellular Trunk are greatly reduced in torso-like null mutants. On the basis of these and previous findings, we suggest that Torso-like functions to mediate secretion of Trunk, thus providing the mechanism for spatially restricted activation of Torso. Our data represent an alternative mechanism for the spatial control of receptor signalling, and define a different role for perforin-like proteins in eukaryotes.

Activation of the growth factor Trunk patterns the Drosophila embryonic termini but how this is regulated is unclear. Here, Johnson et al. report that Trunk is cleaved intracellularly by Furin proteases, and its extracellular accumulation is then mediated by the perforin-like protein Torso-like.

Perforin-2 is essential for intracellular defense of parenchymal cells and phagocytes against pathogenic bacteria

Perforin-2 (MPEG1) is a pore-forming, antibacterial protein with broad-spectrum activity. Perforin-2 is expressed constitutively in phagocytes and inducibly in parenchymal, tissue-forming cells. In vitro, Perforin-2 prevents the intracellular replication and proliferation of bacterial pathogens in these cells. Perforin-2 knockout mice are unable to control the systemic dissemination of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or Salmonella typhimurium and perish shortly after epicutaneous or orogastric infection respectively. In contrast, Perforin-2-sufficient littermates clear the infection. Perforin-2 is a transmembrane protein of cytosolic vesicles -derived from multiple organelles- that translocate to and fuse with bacterium containing vesicles. Subsequently, Perforin-2 polymerizes and forms large clusters of 100 Å pores in the bacterial surface with Perforin-2 cleavage products present in bacteria. Perforin-2 is also required for the bactericidal activity of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and hydrolytic enzymes. Perforin-2 constitutes a novel and apparently essential bactericidal effector molecule of the innate immune system.

An updated molecular basis for mussel immunity

Non-self recognition with the consequent tolerance or immune reaction is a crucial process to succeed as living organisms. At the same time the interactions between host species and their microbiome, including potential pathogens and parasites, significantly contribute to animal life diversity. Marine filter-feeding bivalves, mussels in particular, can survive also in heavily anthropized coastal waters despite being constantly surrounded by microorganisms. Based on the first outline of the Mytilus galloprovincialis immunome dated 2011, the continuously growing transcript data and the recent release of a draft mussel genome, we explored the available sequence data and scientific literature to reinforce our knowledge on the main gene-encoded elements of the mussel immune responses, from the pathogen recognition to its clearance. We carefully investigated molecules specialized in the sensing and targeting of potential aggressors, expected to show greater molecular diversification, and outlined, whenever relevant, the interconnected cascades of the intracellular signal transduction. Aiming to explore the diversity of extracellular, membrane-bound and intracellular pattern recognition receptors in mussel, we updated a highly complex immune system, comprising molecules which are described here in detail for the first time (e.g. NOD-like receptors) or which had only been partially characterized in bivalves (e.g. RIG-like receptors). Overall, our comparative sequence analysis supported the identification of over 70 novel full-length immunity-related transcripts in M. galloprovincialis. Nevertheless, the multiplicity of gene functions relevant to immunity, the involvement of part of them in other vital processes, and also the lack of a refined mussel genome make this work still not-exhaustive and support the development of more specific studies.

Pathway-Based Genome-Wide Association Studies for Plasma Triglycerides in Obese Females and Normal-Weight Controls

Pathway-based analysis as an alternative approach can provide complementary information to single-marker genome-wide association studies (GWASs), which always ignore the epistasis and does not have sufficient power to find rare variants. In this study, using genotypes from a genome-wide association study (GWAS), pathway-based association studies were carried out by a modified Gene Set Enrichment Algorithm (GSEA) method (GenGen) for triglyceride in 1028 unrelated European-American extremely obese females (BMI≥35kg/m²) and normal-weight controls (BMI<25kg/m²), and another pathway association analysis (ICSNPathway) was also used to verify the GenGen result in the same data. The GO0009110 pathway (vitamin anabolism) was among the strongest associations with triglyceride (empirical P<0.001); the result remained significant after FDR correction (P = 0.022). MMAB, an obesity-related locus, included in this pathway. The ABCG1 and BCL6 gene was found in several triglyceride-related pathways (empirical P<0.05), which were also replicated by ICSNPathway (empirical P<0.05, FDR<0.05). We also performed single-marked GWAS using PLINK for TG levels (log-transformed). Significant associations were found between ASTN2 gene SNPs and plasma triglyceride levels (rs7035794, P = 2.24×10⁻¹⁰). Our study suggested that vitamin anabolism pathway, BCL6 gene pathways and ASTN2 gene may contribute to the genetic variation of plasma triglyceride concentrations.

Perforin-2/Mpeg1 and other pore-forming proteins throughout evolution

Development of the ancient innate immune system required not only a mechanism to recognize foreign organisms from self but also to destroy them. Pore-forming proteins containing the membrane attack complex Perforin domain were one of the first triumphs of an innate immune system needing to eliminate microbes and virally infected cells. Membrane attack complex of complement and Perforin domain proteins is unique from other immune effector molecules in that the mechanism of attack is strictly physical and unspecific. The large water-filled holes created by membrane attack complex of complement and Perforin domain pore formation allow access for additional effectors to complete the destruction of the foreign organism via chemical or enzymatic attack. Perforin-2/macrophage-expressed protein 1 is one of the oldest membrane attack complexes of complement and Perforin domain protein involved in immune defense, and it is still functional today in vertebrates. Here, we trace the impact of Perforin-2/macrophage-expressed protein 1 from the earliest multicellular organisms to modern vertebrates, as well as review the development of other membrane attack complexes of complement and Perforin domain member proteins.

Quantitative Proteomics Reveals the Roles of Peroxisome-associated Proteins in Antiviral Innate Immune Responses

Compared with whole-cell proteomic analysis, subcellular proteomic analysis is advantageous not only for the increased coverage of low abundance proteins but also for generating organelle-specific data containing information regarding dynamic protein movement. In the present study, peroxisome-enriched fractions from Sendai virus (SeV)-infected or uninfected HepG2 cells were obtained and subjected to quantitative proteomics analysis. We identified 311 proteins that were significantly changed by SeV infection. Among these altered proteins, 25 are immune response-related proteins. Further bioinformatic analysis indicated that SeV infection inhibits cell cycle-related proteins and membrane attack complex-related proteins, all of which are beneficial for the survival and replication of SeV within host cells. Using Luciferase reporter assays on several innate immune-related reporters, we performed functional analysis on 11 candidate proteins. We identified LGALS3BP and CALU as potential negative regulators of the virus-induced activation of the type I interferons.

CD59 signaling and membrane pores drive Syk-dependent erythrocyte necroptosis

Mature erythrocytes (red blood cells (RBCs)) undergo the programmed cell death (PCD) pathway of necroptosis in response to bacterial pore-forming toxins (PFTs) that target human CD59 (hCD59) but not hCD59-independent PFTs. Here, we investigate the biochemical mechanism of RBC necroptosis with a focus on the mechanism of induction and the minimal requirements for such RBC death. Binding or crosslinking of the hCD59 receptor led to Syk-dependent induction of vesiculated morphology (echinocytes) that was associated with phosphorylation of Band 3 and was required for Fas ligand (FasL) release. FasL-dependent phosphorylation of receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIP1) in combination with plasma membrane pore formation was required for execution of RBC necroptosis. RIP1 phosphorylation led to the phosphorylation of RIP3, which was also critical for RBC necroptosis. Notably, RBC necroptosis was mediated by FasL and not by other candidate inducers, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). Other types of RBC damage, such as eryptotic damage, failed to induce necroptosis when combined with hCD59 crosslinking. This work sheds light on the requirements for this recently discovered PCD in RBCs and provides a clear picture of the biochemical mechanism of induction of RBC necroptosis.

Genome-Wide Identification of the Target Genes of AP2-O, a Plasmodium AP2-Family Transcription Factor

Stage-specific transcription is a fundamental biological process in the life cycle of the Plasmodium parasite. Proteins containing the AP2 DNA-binding domain are responsible for stage-specific transcriptional regulation and belong to the only known family of transcription factors in Plasmodium parasites. Comprehensive identification of their target genes will advance our understanding of the molecular basis of stage-specific transcriptional regulation and stage-specific parasite development. AP2-O is an AP2 family transcription factor that is expressed in the mosquito midgut-invading stage, called the ookinete, and is essential for normal morphogenesis of this stage. In this study, we identified the genome-wide target genes of AP2-O by chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing and elucidate how this AP2 family transcription factor contributes to the formation of this motile stage. The analysis revealed that AP2-O binds specifically to the upstream genomic regions of more than 500 genes, suggesting that approximately 10% of the parasite genome is directly regulated by AP2-O. These genes are involved in distinct biological processes such as morphogenesis, locomotion, midgut penetration, protection against mosquito immunity and preparation for subsequent oocyst development. This direct and global regulation by AP2-O provides a model for gene regulation in Plasmodium parasites and may explain how these parasites manage to control their complex life cycle using a small number of sequence-specific AP2 transcription factors.

Although malarial parasites have a complex life cycle, they harbor only 30 transcription factors in their genome. The majority of these transcription factors belong to a single family referred to as the AP2 family. Our previous study suggested that stage-specific AP2 family transcription factors have critical roles in maintaining the Plasmodium parasite life cycle. However, it remains fairly elusive as to how these transcription factors regulate each stage. AP2-O is an AP2 family transcription factor that is expressed during the mosquito midgut-invading stage, the ookinete, and is essential for normal development of this stage. In the present study, we identified the entire set of AP2-O target genes to elucidate how this AP2 family transcription factor contributes to the formation of this stage. Our results showed that AP2-O directly regulates 10% of the parasite genome and is involved in the whole process of mosquito midgut-invasion by ookinetes. The global and comprehensive regulation by the AP2 family transcription factor that we revealed provides a model for transcriptional regulation of this parasite and may explain how malarial parasites regulate their complex life cycle using a small number of sequence-specific transcription factors.

The In Vivo Granulopoietic Response to Dexamethasone Injection Is Abolished in Perforin-Deficient Mutant Mice and Corrected by Lymphocyte Transfer from Nonsensitized Wild-Type Donors

Exogenously administered glucocorticoids enhance eosinophil and neutrophil granulocyte production from murine bone-marrow. A hematological response dependent on endogenous glucocorticoids underlies bone-marrow eosinophilia induced by trauma or allergic sensitization/challenge. We detected a defect in granulopoiesis in nonsensitized, perforin-deficient mice. In steady-state conditions, perforin- (Pfp-) deficient mice showed significantly decreased bone-marrow and blood eosinophil and neutrophil counts, and colony formation in response to GM-CSF, relative to wild-type controls of comparable age and/or weight. By contrast, peripheral blood or spleen total cell and lymphocyte numbers were not affected by perforin deficiency. Dexamethasone enhanced colony formation by GM-CSF-stimulated progenitors from wild-type controls, but not Pfp mice. Dexamethasone injection increased bone-marrow eosinophil and neutrophil counts in wild-type controls, but not Pfp mice. Because perforin is expressed in effector lymphocytes, we examined whether this defect would be corrected by transferring wild-type lymphocytes into perforin-deficient recipients. Short-term reconstitution of the response to dexamethasone was separately achieved for eosinophils and neutrophils by transfer of distinct populations of splenic lymphocytes from nonsensitized wild-type donors. Transfer of the same amount of splenic lymphocytes from perforin-deficient donors was ineffective. This demonstrates that the perforin-dependent, granulopoietic response to dexamethasone can be restored by transfer of innate lymphocyte subpopulations.

The membrane attack complex as an inflammatory trigger

The final common pathway of all routes of complement activation involves the non-enzymatic assembly of a complex comprising newly formed C5b with the plasma proteins C6, C7, C8 and C9. When assembly occurs on a target cell membrane the forming complex inserts into and through the bilayer to create a pore, the membrane attack complex (MAC). On some targets, pore formation causes rapid lytic destruction; however, most nucleated cell targets resist lysis through a combination of ion pumps, membrane regulators and active recovery processes. Cells survive but not without consequence. The MAC pore causes ion fluxes and directly or indirectly impacts several important signalling pathways that in turn activate a diverse series of events in the cell, many of which are highly pro-inflammatory. Although this non-lytic, pro-inflammatory role of MAC has been recognised for thirty years, no consensus signalling pathway has emerged. Recent work, summarised here, has implicated specific signalling routes and, in some cells, inflammasome involvement, opening the door to novel approaches to therapy in complement-driven pathologies.

Macrophage-expressed perforins mpeg1 and mpeg1.2 have an anti-bacterial function in zebrafish

Macrophage-expressed gene 1 (MPEG1) encodes an evolutionarily conserved protein with a predicted membrane attack complex/perforin domain associated with host defence against invading pathogens. In vertebrates, MPEG1/perforin-2 is an integral membrane protein of macrophages, suspected to be involved in the killing of intracellular bacteria by pore-forming activity. Zebrafish have 3 copies of MPEG1; 2 are expressed in macrophages, whereas the third could be a pseudogene. The mpeg1 and mpeg1.2 genes show differential regulation during infection of zebrafish embryos with the bacterial pathogens Mycobacterium marinum and Salmonella typhimurium. While mpeg1 is downregulated during infection with both pathogens, mpeg1.2 is infection inducible. Upregulation of mpeg1.2 is partially dependent on the presence of functional Mpeg1 and requires the Toll-like receptor adaptor molecule MyD88 and the transcription factor NFκB. Knockdown of mpeg1 alters the immune response to M. marinum infection and results in an increased bacterial burden. In Salmonella typhimurium infection, both mpeg1 and mpeg1.2 knockdown increase the bacterial burdens, but mpeg1 morphants show increased survival times. The combined results of these two in vivo infection models support the anti-bacterial function of the MPEG1/perforin-2 family and indicate that the intricate cross-regulation of the two mpeg1 copies aids the zebrafish host in combatting infection of various pathogens.

Antibacterial activity and immune responses of a molluscan macrophage expressed gene-1 from disk abalone, Haliotis discus discus

The membrane-attack complex/perforin (MACPF) domain-containing proteins play an important role in the innate immune response against invading microbial pathogens. In the current study, a member of the MACPF domain-containing proteins, macrophage expressed gene-1 (MPEG1) encoding 730 amino acids with the theoretical molecular mass of 79.6 kDa and an isoelectric point (pI) of 6.49 was characterized from disk abalone Haliotis discus discus (AbMPEG1). We found that the characteristic MACPF domain (Val(131)-Tyr(348)) and transmembrane segment (Ala(669)-Ile(691)) of AbMPEG1 are located in the N- and C-terminal ends of the protein, respectively. Ortholog comparison revealed that AbMPEG1 has the highest sequence identity with its pink abalone counterpart, while sequences identities of greater than 90% were observed with MPEG1 members from other abalone species. Likewise, the furin cleavage site KRRRK was highly conserved in all abalone species, but not in other species investigated. We identified an intron-less genomic sequence within disk abalone AbMPEG1, which was similar to other mammalian, avian, and reptilian counterparts. Transcription factor binding sites, which are important for immune responses, were identified in the 5'-flanking region of AbMPEG1. qPCR revealed AbMPEG1 transcripts are present in every tissues examined, with the highest expression level occurring in mantle tissue. Significant up-regulation of AbMPEG1 transcript levels was observed in hemocytes and gill tissues following challenges with pathogens (Vibrio parahemolyticus, Listeria monocytogenes and viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus) as well as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs: lipopolysaccharides and poly I:C immunostimulant). Finally, the antibacterial activity of the MACPF domain was characterized against Gram-negative and -positive bacteria using a recombinant peptide. Taken together, these results indicate that the biological significance of the AbMPEG1 gene includes a role in protecting disk abalone through the ability of AbMPEG1 to initiate an innate immune response upon pathogen invasion.

Relationship between the complement system, risk factors and prediction models in age-related macular degeneration

Studies performed over the past decade in humans and experimental animals have been a major source of information and improved our understanding of how dysregulation of the complement system contributes to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) pathology. Drusen, the hall-mark of dry-type AMD are reported to be the by-product of complement mediated inflammatory processes. In wet AMD, unregulated complement activation results in increased production of angiogenic growth factors leading to choroidal neovascularization both in humans and in animal models. In this review article we have linked the complement system with modifiable and non-modifiable AMD risk factors as well as with prediction models of AMD. Understanding the association between the complement system, risk factors and prediction models will help improve our understanding of AMD pathology and management of this disease.

Capturing embryonic development from metamorphosis: how did the terminal patterning signalling pathway of Drosophila evolve?

The Torso receptor tyrosine kinase has two crucial roles in Drosophila melanogaster development. One is in the control of insect moulting, which is regulated by the neuropeptide hormone PTTH (prothoracicotropic hormone). PTTH activates ERK signalling via Torso in the prothoracic gland to stimulate ecdysone secretion. Torso also has a role in control of one of the earliest events in embryogenesis in Drosophila; patterning of the embryonic termini. Here Torso is activated by a different, but related, peptide called Trunk. During terminal patterning another protein, Torso-like, has a key role in mediating activation of Torso by Trunk. Torso-like is also expressed in the prothoracic gland and null-mutants have defective developmental timing in Drosophila. This function, however, has been recently shown to be independent of Torso and PTTH. We refer to these proteins, Trunk, PTTH, Torso and Torso-like, as the Torso-activation module. Outside Drosophila we see that the genes encoding the Torso-activation module have a complex phylogenetic history, with different origins and multiple losses of components of this signalling pathway during arthropod evolution. This, together with expression and functional data in a range of insects, leads us to propose that the terminal patterning pathway in Drosophila and Tribolium arose through co-option of PTTH/Trunk and Torso, which has a role in developmental timing, into a new context, and that Torso-like was recruited specifically in the ovary to modulate the specificity of this pathway.

A linkage map of transcribed single nucleotide polymorphisms in rohu (Labeo rohita) and QTL associated with resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila

BACKGROUND

Production of carp dominates world aquaculture. More than 1.1 million tonnes of rohu carp, Labeo rohita (Hamilton), were produced in 2010. Aeromonas hydrophila is a bacterial pathogen causing aeromoniasis in rohu, and is a major problem for carp production worldwide. There is a need to better understand the genetic mechanisms affecting resistance to this disease, and to develop tools that can be used with selective breeding to improve resistance. Here we use a 6 K SNP array to genotype 21 full-sibling families of L. rohita that were experimentally challenged intra-peritoneally with a virulent strain of A. hydrophila to scan the genome for quantitative trait loci associated with disease resistance.

RESULTS

In all, 3193 SNPs were found to be informative and were used to create a linkage map and to scan for QTL affecting resistance to A. hydrophila. The linkage map consisted of 25 linkage groups, corresponding to the number of haploid chromosomes in L. rohita. Male and female linkage maps were similar in terms of order, coverage (1384 and 1393 cM, respectively) and average interval distances (1.32 and 1.35 cM, respectively). Forty-one percent of the SNPs were annotated with gene identity using BLAST (cut off E-score of 0.001). Twenty-one SNPs mapping to ten linkage groups showed significant associations with the traits hours of survival and dead or alive (P <0.05 after Bonferroni correction). Of the SNPs showing significant or suggestive associations with the traits, several were homologous to genes of known immune function or were in close linkage to such genes. Genes of interest included heat shock proteins (70, 60, 105 and "small heat shock proteins"), mucin (5b precursor and 2), lectin (receptor and CD22), tributyltin-binding protein, major histocompatibility loci (I and II), complement protein component c7-1, perforin 1, ubiquitin (ligase, factor e4b isoform 2 and conjugation enzyme e2 c), proteasome subunit, T-cell antigen receptor and lymphocyte specific protein tyrosine kinase.

CONCLUSIONS

A panel of markers has been identified that will be validated for use with both genomic and marker-assisted selection to improve resistance of L. rohita to A. hydrophila.

Fluorescence imaging of MACPF/CDC proteins: new techniques and their application

Structural and biochemical investigations have helped illuminate many of the important details of MACPF/CDC pore formation. However, conventional techniques are limited in their ability to tackle many of the remaining key questions, and new biophysical techniques might provide the means to improve our understanding. Here we attempt to identify the properties of MACPF/CDC proteins that warrant further study, and explore how new developments in fluorescence imaging are able to probe these properties.

Structural biology of the membrane attack complex

The complement system is an intricate network of serum proteins that mediates humoral innate immunity through an amplification cascade that ultimately leads to recruitment of inflammatory cells or opsonisation or killing of pathogens. One effector arm of this network is the terminal pathway of complement, which leads to the formation of the membrane attack complex (MAC) composed of complement components C5b, C6, C7, C8 and C9. Upon formation of C5 convertases via the classical or alternative pathways of complement activation, C5b is generated from C5 by proteolytic cleavage, nucleating a series of association and polymerisation reactions of the MAC-constituting complement components that culminate in pore formation of pathogenic membranes. Recent structures of MAC components and homologous proteins significantly increased our understanding of oligomerisation, membrane association and integration, shedding light onto the molecular mechanism of this important branch of the innate immune system.

Visualization of cytolytic T cell differentiation and granule exocytosis with T cells from mice expressing active fluorescent granzyme B

To evaluate acquisition and activation of cytolytic functions during immune responses we generated knock in (KI) mice expressing Granzyme B (GZMB) as a fusion protein with red fluorescent tdTomato (GZMB-Tom). As for GZMB in wild type (WT) lymphocytes, GZMB-Tom was absent from naïve CD8 and CD4 T cells in GZMB-Tom-KI mice. It was rapidly induced in most CD8 T cells and in a subpopulation of CD4 T cells in response to stimulation with antibodies to CD3/CD28. A fraction of splenic NK cells expressed GZMB-Tom ex vivo with most becoming positive upon culture in IL-2. GZMB-Tom was present in CTL granules and active as a protease when these degranulated into cognate target cells, as shown with target cells expressing a specific FRET reporter construct. Using T cells from mice expressing GZMB-Tom but lacking perforin, we show that the transfer of fluorescent GZMB-Tom into target cells was dependent on perforin, favoring a role for perforin in delivery of GZMB at the target cells' plasma membranes. Time-lapse video microscopy showed Ca++ signaling in CTL upon interaction with cognate targets, followed by relocalization of GZMB-Tom-containing granules to the synaptic contact zone. A perforin-dependent step was next visualized by the fluorescence signal from the non-permeant dye TO-PRO-3 at the synaptic cleft, minutes before the labeling of the target cell nucleus, characterizing a previously undescribed synaptic event in CTL cytolysis. Transferred OVA-specific GZMB-Tom-expressing CD8 T cells acquired GZMB-Tom expression in Listeria monocytogenes-OVA infected mice as soon as 48h after infection. These GZMB-Tom positive CD8 T cells localized in the splenic T-zone where they interacted with CD11c positive dendritic cells (DC), as shown by GZMB-Tom granule redistribution to the T/DC contact zone. GZMB-Tom-KI mice thus also provide tools to visualize acquisition and activation of cytolytic function in vivo.

Canonical terminal patterning is an evolutionary novelty

Patterning of the terminal regions of the Drosophila embryo is achieved by an exquisitely regulated signal that passes between the follicle cells of the ovary, and the developing embryo. This pathway, however, is missing or modified in other insects. Here we trace the evolution of this pathway by examining the origins and expression of its components. The three core components of this pathway: trunk, torso and torso-like have different evolutionary histories and have been assembled step-wise to form the canonical terminal patterning pathway of Drosophila and Tribolium. Trunk, torso and a gene unrelated to terminal patterning, prothoraciotrophic hormone (PTTH), show an intimately linked evolutionary history, with every holometabolous insect, except the honeybee, possessing both PTTH and torso genes. Trunk is more restricted in its phylogenetic distribution, present only in the Diptera and Tribolium and, surprisingly, in the chelicerate Ixodes scapularis, raising the possibility that trunk and torso evolved earlier than previously thought. In Drosophila torso-like restricts the activation of the terminal patterning pathway to the poles of the embryo. Torso-like evolved in the pan-crustacean lineage, but based on expression of components of the canonical terminal patterning system in the hemimetabolous insect Acyrthosiphon pisum and the holometabolous insect Apis mellifera, we find that the canonical terminal-patterning system is not active in these insects. We therefore propose that the ancestral function of torso-like is unrelated to terminal patterning and that torso-like has become co-opted into terminal patterning in the lineage leading to Coleoptera and Diptera. We also show that this co-option has not resulted in changes to the molecular function of this protein. Torso-like from the pea aphid, honeybee and Drosophila, despite being expressed in different patterns, are functionally equivalent. We propose that co-option of torso-like into restricting the activity of trunk and torso facilitated the final step in the evolution of this pathway; the capture of transcriptional control of target genes such as tailless and huckebein by this complex and novel patterning pathway.