1
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Vu Huu K, Zangl R, Hoffmann J, Just A, Morgner N. Bacterial F-type ATP synthases follow a well-choreographed assembly pathway. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1218. [PMID: 35260553 PMCID: PMC8904574 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28828-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
F-type ATP synthases are multiprotein complexes composed of two separate coupled motors (F1 and FO) generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as the universal major energy source in a variety of relevant biological processes in mitochondria, bacteria and chloroplasts. While the structure of many ATPases is solved today, the precise assembly pathway of F1FO-ATP synthases is still largely unclear. Here, we probe the assembly of the F1 complex from Acetobacterium woodii. Using laser induced liquid bead ion desorption (LILBID) mass spectrometry, we study the self-assembly of purified F1 subunits in different environments under non-denaturing conditions. We report assembly requirements and identify important assembly intermediates in vitro and in cellula. Our data provide evidence that nucleotide binding is crucial for in vitro F1 assembly, whereas ATP hydrolysis appears to be less critical. We correlate our results with activity measurements and propose a model for the assembly pathway of a functional F1 complex. ATPases are the macromolecular machines for cellular energy production. Here the authors investigate factors that govern the assembly of the F1 complex from a bacterial F-type ATPase and relate differences in activity of complexes assembled in cells and in vitro to structural changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khanh Vu Huu
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Rene Zangl
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Jan Hoffmann
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Alicia Just
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Nina Morgner
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt/Main, Germany.
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2
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Nirody JA, Budin I, Rangamani P. ATP synthase: Evolution, energetics, and membrane interactions. J Gen Physiol 2021; 152:152111. [PMID: 32966553 PMCID: PMC7594442 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201912475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The synthesis of ATP, life’s “universal energy currency,” is the most prevalent chemical reaction in biological systems and is responsible for fueling nearly all cellular processes, from nerve impulse propagation to DNA synthesis. ATP synthases, the family of enzymes that carry out this endless task, are nearly as ubiquitous as the energy-laden molecule they are responsible for making. The F-type ATP synthase (F-ATPase) is found in every domain of life and has facilitated the survival of organisms in a wide range of habitats, ranging from the deep-sea thermal vents to the human intestine. Accordingly, there has been a large amount of work dedicated toward understanding the structural and functional details of ATP synthases in a wide range of species. Less attention, however, has been paid toward integrating these advances in ATP synthase molecular biology within the context of its evolutionary history. In this review, we present an overview of several structural and functional features of the F-type ATPases that vary across taxa and are purported to be adaptive or otherwise evolutionarily significant: ion channel selectivity, rotor ring size and stoichiometry, ATPase dimeric structure and localization in the mitochondrial inner membrane, and interactions with membrane lipids. We emphasize the importance of studying these features within the context of the enzyme’s particular lipid environment. Just as the interactions between an organism and its physical environment shape its evolutionary trajectory, ATPases are impacted by the membranes within which they reside. We argue that a comprehensive understanding of the structure, function, and evolution of membrane proteins—including ATP synthase—requires such an integrative approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine A Nirody
- Center for Studies in Physics and Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY.,All Souls College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Itay Budin
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Padmini Rangamani
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
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3
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Kozlova MI, Bushmakin IM, Belyaeva JD, Shalaeva DN, Dibrova DV, Cherepanov DA, Mulkidjanian AY. Expansion of the "Sodium World" through Evolutionary Time and Taxonomic Space. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2020; 85:1518-1542. [PMID: 33705291 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297920120056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In 1986, Vladimir Skulachev and his colleagues coined the term "Sodium World" for the group of diverse organisms with sodium (Na)-based bioenergetics. Albeit only few such organisms had been discovered by that time, the authors insightfully noted that "the great taxonomic variety of organisms employing the Na-cycle points to the ubiquitous distribution of this novel type of membrane-linked energy transductions". Here we used tools of bioinformatics to follow expansion of the Sodium World through the evolutionary time and taxonomic space. We searched for those membrane protein families in prokaryotic genomes that correlate with the use of the Na-potential for ATP synthesis by different organisms. In addition to the known Na-translocators, we found a plethora of uncharacterized protein families; most of them show no homology with studied proteins. In addition, we traced the presence of Na-based energetics in many novel archaeal and bacterial clades, which were recently identified by metagenomic techniques. The data obtained support the view that the Na-based energetics preceded the proton-dependent energetics in evolution and prevailed during the first two billion years of the Earth history before the oxygenation of atmosphere. Hence, the full capacity of Na-based energetics in prokaryotes remains largely unexplored. The Sodium World expanded owing to the acquisition of new functions by Na-translocating systems. Specifically, most classes of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which are targeted by almost half of the known drugs, appear to evolve from the Na-translocating microbial rhodopsins. Thereby the GPCRs of class A, with 700 representatives in human genome, retained the Na-binding site in the center of the transmembrane heptahelical bundle together with the capacity of Na-translocation. Mathematical modeling showed that the class A GPCRs could use the energy of transmembrane Na-potential for increasing both their sensitivity and selectivity. Thus, GPCRs, the largest protein family coded by human genome, stem from the Sodium World, which encourages exploration of other Na-dependent enzymes of eukaryotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M I Kozlova
- School of Physics, Osnabrueck University, Osnabrueck, 49069, Germany. .,Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119992, Russia
| | - I M Bushmakin
- School of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119992, Russia.
| | - J D Belyaeva
- School of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119992, Russia.
| | - D N Shalaeva
- School of Physics, Osnabrueck University, Osnabrueck, 49069, Germany.
| | - D V Dibrova
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119992, Russia.
| | - D A Cherepanov
- Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
| | - A Y Mulkidjanian
- School of Physics, Osnabrueck University, Osnabrueck, 49069, Germany. .,Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119992, Russia.,School of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119992, Russia
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4
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Kamariah N, Huber RG, Bond PJ, Müller V, Grüber G. 3D reconstruction and flexibility of the hybrid engine Acetobacterium woodii F-ATP synthase. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 527:518-524. [PMID: 32423799 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Na+-translocating F1FO ATP synthase from Acetobacterium woodii (AwF-ATP synthase) with a subunit stoichiometry of α3:β3:γ:δ:ε:a:b2:(c2/3)9:c1 represents an evolutionary path between ATP-synthases and vacuolar ATPases, by containing a heteromeric rotor c-ring, composed of subunits c1, c2 and c3, and an extra loop (γ195-211) within the rotary γ subunit. Here, the recombinant AwF-ATP synthase was subjected to negative stain electron microscopy and single particle analysis. The reference free 2D class averages revealed high flexibility of the enzyme, wherein the F1 and FO domains distinctively bended to adopt multiple conformations. Moreover, both the F1 and FO domains tilted relative to each other to a maximum extent of 28° and 30°, respectively. The first 3D reconstruction of the AwF-ATP synthase was determined which accommodates well the modelled structure of the AwF-ATP synthase as well as the γ195-211-loop. Molecular simulations of the enzyme underlined the bending features and flexibility observed in the electron micrographs, and enabled assessment of the dynamics of the extra γ195-211-loop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelagandan Kamariah
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Biological Sciences, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551, Republic of Singapore
| | - Roland G Huber
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), #07-01 Matrix, 30 Biopolis Street, Singapore, 38671
| | - Peter J Bond
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), #07-01 Matrix, 30 Biopolis Street, Singapore, 38671; Department of Biological Sciences (DBS), National University of Singapore (NUS), 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, 117543
| | - Volker Müller
- Molecular Microbiology & Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Gerhard Grüber
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Biological Sciences, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551, Republic of Singapore; Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), #07-01 Matrix, 30 Biopolis Street, Singapore, 38671.
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Müller V. New Horizons in Acetogenic Conversion of One-Carbon Substrates and Biological Hydrogen Storage. Trends Biotechnol 2019; 37:1344-1354. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2019.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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6
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Bogdanović N, Trifunović D, Sielaff H, Westphal L, Bhushan S, Müller V, Grüber G. The structural features of Acetobacterium woodii F-ATP synthase reveal the importance of the unique subunit γ-loop in Na + translocation and ATP synthesis. FEBS J 2019; 286:1894-1907. [PMID: 30791207 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The Na+ translocating F1 FO ATP synthase from Acetobacterium woodii shows a subunit stoichiometry of α3 :β3 :γ:δ:ε:a:b2 :(c2/3 )9 :c1 and reveals an evolutionary path between synthases and pumps involving adaptations in the rotor c-ring, which is composed of F- and vacuolar-type c subunits in a stoichiometry of 9 : 1. This hybrid turbine couples rotation with Na+ translocation in the FO part and rotation of the central stalk subunits γ-ε to drive ATP synthesis in the catalytic α3 :β3 headpiece. Here, we isolated a highly pure recombinant A. woodii F-ATP synthase and present the first projected structure of this hybrid engine as determined by negative-stain electron microscopy and single-particle analysis. The uniqueness of the A. woodii F-ATP synthase is also reflected by an extra 17 amino acid residues loop (195 TSGKVKITEETKEEKSK211 ) in subunit γ. Deleting the loop-encoding DNA sequence (γΔ195-211 ) and purifying the recombinant F-ATP synthase γΔ195-211 mutant provided a platform to study its effect in enzyme stability and activity. The recombinant F-ATP synthase γΔ195-211 mutant revealed the same subunit composition as the wild-type enzyme and a minor reduction in ATP hydrolysis. When reconstituted into proteoliposomes ATP synthesis and Na+ transport were diminished, demonstrating the importance of the γ195-211 loop in both enzymatic processes. Based on a structural model, a coupling mechanism for this enzyme is proposed, highlighting the role of the γ-loop. Finally, the γ195-211 loop of A. woodii is discussed in comparison with the extra γ-loops of mycobacterial and chloroplasts F-ATP synthases described to be involved in species-specific regulatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nebojša Bogdanović
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Biological Sciences, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Dragan Trifunović
- Molecular Microbiology & Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Hendrik Sielaff
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Biological Sciences, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Lars Westphal
- Molecular Microbiology & Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Shashi Bhushan
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Biological Sciences, Singapore City, Singapore.,NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Volker Müller
- Molecular Microbiology & Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Gerhard Grüber
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Biological Sciences, Singapore City, Singapore
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7
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Schoelmerich MC, Katsyv A, Sung W, Mijic V, Wiechmann A, Kottenhahn P, Baker J, Minton NP, Müller V. Regulation of lactate metabolism in the acetogenic bacterium Acetobacterium woodii. Environ Microbiol 2018; 20:4587-4595. [PMID: 30221442 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.14412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Acetogenic bacteria compete in an energy-limited environment by coupling different metabolic routes to their central metabolism of CO2 fixation. The underlying regulatory mechanisms are often still not understood. In this work, we analysed how lactate metabolism is regulated in the model acetogen Acetobacterium woodii. Construction of a ΔlctCDEF mutant and growth analyses demonstrated that the genes are essential for growth on lactate. Subsequent bridging PCR and quantitative PCR analyses revealed that the lctBCDEF genes form an operon that was expressed only during lactate metabolism. The lctA gene was cloned, expressed in Escherichia coli and purified. LctA bound to the intergenic DNA region between lctA and the lct operon in electromobility shift assays, and binding was revoked in the presence of lactate. Further restriction site protection analyses consolidated the lactate-dependent binding of LctA and identified the binding site within the DNA. Cells grew mixotrophically on lactate and another energy source and showed no diauxic growth. From these data, we conclude that the catabolic lactate metabolism is encoded by the lct operon and its expression is negatively regulated by the DNA-binding repressor LctA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander Katsyv
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Woung Sung
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Vanessa Mijic
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Anja Wiechmann
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Patrick Kottenhahn
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Jonathan Baker
- Clostridia Research Group, BBSRC/EPSRC Synthetic Biology Research Centre (SBRC), University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Nigel Peter Minton
- Clostridia Research Group, BBSRC/EPSRC Synthetic Biology Research Centre (SBRC), University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Volker Müller
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
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8
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Abstract
Mitochondria are the power stations of the eukaryotic cell, using the energy released by the oxidation of glucose and other sugars to produce ATP. Electrons are transferred from NADH, produced in the citric acid cycle in the mitochondrial matrix, to oxygen by a series of large protein complexes in the inner mitochondrial membrane, which create a transmembrane electrochemical gradient by pumping protons across the membrane. The flow of protons back into the matrix via a proton channel in the ATP synthase leads to conformational changes in the nucleotide binding pockets and the formation of ATP. The three proton pumping complexes of the electron transfer chain are NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase or complex I, ubiquinone-cytochrome c oxidoreductase or complex III, and cytochrome c oxidase or complex IV. Succinate dehydrogenase or complex II does not pump protons, but contributes reduced ubiquinone. The structures of complex II, III and IV were determined by x-ray crystallography several decades ago, but complex I and ATP synthase have only recently started to reveal their secrets by advances in x-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy. The complexes I, III and IV occur to a certain extent as supercomplexes in the membrane, the so-called respirasomes. Several hypotheses exist about their function. Recent cryo-electron microscopy structures show the architecture of the respirasome with near-atomic detail. ATP synthase occurs as dimers in the inner mitochondrial membrane, which by their curvature are responsible for the folding of the membrane into cristae and thus for the huge increase in available surface that makes mitochondria the efficient energy plants of the eukaryotic cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana S Sousa
- Department of Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Edoardo D'Imprima
- Department of Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Janet Vonck
- Department of Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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9
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Zhou M, Zhou J, Tan M, Du J, Yan B, Wong JWC, Zhang Y. Enhanced carboxylic acids production by decreasing hydrogen partial pressure during acidogenic fermentation of glucose. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2017; 245:44-51. [PMID: 28892705 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2017.08.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the effect of reduced hydrogen partial pressure (PH2) on the generation of carboxylic acids from acidogenic fermentation of glucose was investigated. Three strategies were applied to reduce PH2: headspace removal (T1), CO2 sparging (T2) and H2:CO2 (80:20) sparging (T3). Results showed that the production of carboxylic acids in T1-T3 were 10.21, 11.64 and 12.71g/L, respectively, which were 1.04, 1.19 and 1.30-fold of that in the control (T4). The composition of carboxylic acids changed significantly in T3 with enhancement of homoacetogenesis, as more acetate and butyrate were produced comparing to the control. In addition, decreasing PH2 led to more carbon flow to carboxylic acids. Species of Clostridium became dominant in treatment T3, resulting in the shift of metabolic pathways. This study demonstrated that decreasing PH2 could increase the production of carboxylic acids, especially under the strategy of enhancing homoacetogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Zhou
- Lab of Waste Valorization and Water Reuse, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing TECH University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Ming Tan
- Lab of Waste Valorization and Water Reuse, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266101, China
| | - Juan Du
- Lab of Waste Valorization and Water Reuse, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266101, China
| | - Binghua Yan
- Lab of Waste Valorization and Water Reuse, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266101, China.
| | - Jonathan W C Wong
- Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment, Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Yang Zhang
- Lab of Waste Valorization and Water Reuse, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266101, China
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10
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Abstract
Acetogenic bacteria are a diverse group of strictly anaerobic bacteria that utilize the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway for CO2 fixation and energy conservation. These microorganisms play an important part in the global carbon cycle and are a key component of the anaerobic food web. Their most prominent metabolic feature is autotrophic growth with molecular hydrogen and carbon dioxide as the substrates. However, most members also show an outstanding metabolic flexibility for utilizing a vast variety of different substrates. In contrast to autotrophic growth, which is hardly competitive, metabolic flexibility is seen as a key ability of acetogens to compete in ecosystems and might explain the almost-ubiquitous distribution of acetogenic bacteria in anoxic environments. This review covers the latest findings with respect to the heterotrophic metabolism of acetogenic bacteria, including utilization of carbohydrates, lactate, and different alcohols, especially in the model acetogen Acetobacterium woodii Modularity of metabolism, a key concept of pathway design in synthetic biology, together with electron bifurcation, to overcome energetic barriers, appears to be the basis for the amazing substrate spectrum. At the same time, acetogens depend on only a relatively small number of enzymes to expand the substrate spectrum. We will discuss the energetic advantages of coupling CO2 reduction to fermentations that exploit otherwise-inaccessible substrates and the ecological advantages, as well as the biotechnological applications of the heterotrophic metabolism of acetogens.
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Brandt K, Müller DB, Hoffmann J, Langer JD, Brutschy B, Morgner N, Müller V. Stoichiometry and deletion analyses of subunits in the heterotrimeric F-ATP synthasecring from the acetogenic bacteriumAcetobacterium woodii. FEBS J 2015; 283:510-20. [DOI: 10.1111/febs.13606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Revised: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karsten Brandt
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics; Institute of Molecular Biosciences; Goethe University Frankfurt am Main; Germany
| | - Daniel B. Müller
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics; Institute of Molecular Biosciences; Goethe University Frankfurt am Main; Germany
| | - Jan Hoffmann
- Institute for Physical and Theoretical Chemistry; Goethe University Frankfurt am Main; Germany
| | - Julian D. Langer
- Department of Molecular Membrane Biology; Max-Planck-Institute of Biophysics; Frankfurt am Main Germany
| | - Bernd Brutschy
- Institute for Physical and Theoretical Chemistry; Goethe University Frankfurt am Main; Germany
| | - Nina Morgner
- Institute for Physical and Theoretical Chemistry; Goethe University Frankfurt am Main; Germany
| | - Volker Müller
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics; Institute of Molecular Biosciences; Goethe University Frankfurt am Main; Germany
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12
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Bertsch J, Siemund AL, Kremp F, Müller V. A novel route for ethanol oxidation in the acetogenic bacterium Acetobacterium woodii: the acetaldehyde/ethanol dehydrogenase pathway. Environ Microbiol 2015; 18:2913-22. [PMID: 26472176 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.13082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Ethanol is a common substrate for anaerobic microorganisms despite its high redox potential (E0' etha- nol/acetaldehyde = -190mV), which does not allow for NAD(+) reduction. How this thermodynamic barrier is overcome is largely unknown. The acetogenic bacterium Acetobacterium woodii can also grow on ethanol. The genome harbours 11 genes encoding putative alcohol dehydrogenases, but only one, adhE, was upregulated during growth on ethanol. The bifunctional acetaldehyde/ethanol dehydrogenase (AdhE) was purified from ethanol-grown cells. It catalysed the NAD(+) - and CoA-dependent oxidation of ethanol via acetaldehyde to acetyl-CoA. The enzyme was regulated by free coenzyme A: in the absence of coenzyme A, the Km value for ethanol was shifted from 3.4 to 40 mM. The alcohol dehydrogenase domain could also oxidize 1-propanol and 1-butanol; however, the aldehyde dehydrogenase domain was highly specific for acetaldehyde as substrate. Apparently, the bifunctional AdhE allows for NAD(+) reduction by lowering the concentration of acetaldehyde, which makes the first oxidation reaction thermodynamically feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Bertsch
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Max-von-Laue Str. 9, D-60438, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Anna Lena Siemund
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Max-von-Laue Str. 9, D-60438, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Florian Kremp
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Max-von-Laue Str. 9, D-60438, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Volker Müller
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Max-von-Laue Str. 9, D-60438, Frankfurt, Germany.
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13
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Lever MA, Rogers KL, Lloyd KG, Overmann J, Schink B, Thauer RK, Hoehler TM, Jørgensen BB. Life under extreme energy limitation: a synthesis of laboratory- and field-based investigations. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2015; 39:688-728. [PMID: 25994609 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuv020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of microorganisms to withstand long periods with extremely low energy input has gained increasing scientific attention in recent years. Starvation experiments in the laboratory have shown that a phylogenetically wide range of microorganisms evolve fitness-enhancing genetic traits within weeks of incubation under low-energy stress. Studies on natural environments that are cut off from new energy supplies over geologic time scales, such as deeply buried sediments, suggest that similar adaptations might mediate survival under energy limitation in the environment. Yet, the extent to which laboratory-based evidence of starvation survival in pure or mixed cultures can be extrapolated to sustained microbial ecosystems in nature remains unclear. In this review, we discuss past investigations on microbial energy requirements and adaptations to energy limitation, identify gaps in our current knowledge, and outline possible future foci of research on life under extreme energy limitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Lever
- Center for Geomicrobiology, Institute of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Ny Munkegade 114, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Karyn L Rogers
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Jonsson-Rowland Science Center, 1W19, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Karen G Lloyd
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, M409 Walters Life Sciences, Knoxville, TN 37996-0845, USA
| | - Jörg Overmann
- Leibniz-Institut DSMZ-Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH, Inhoffenstraße 7B, D-38124 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Bernhard Schink
- Microbial Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, P.O. Box 55 60, D-78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Rudolf K Thauer
- Max Planck Institut für terrestrische Mikrobiologie, Karl-von-Frisch-Straße, D-35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Tori M Hoehler
- NASA Ames Research Center, Mail Stop 239-4, Moffett Field, CA 94035-1000, USA
| | - Bo Barker Jørgensen
- Center for Geomicrobiology, Institute of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Ny Munkegade 114, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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14
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Bosshart PD, Engel A, Fotiadis D. High-resolution atomic force microscopy imaging of rhodopsin in rod outer segment disk membranes. Methods Mol Biol 2015; 1271:189-203. [PMID: 25697525 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2330-4_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a powerful imaging technique that allows recording topographical information of membrane proteins under near-physiological conditions. Remarkable results have been obtained on membrane proteins that were reconstituted into lipid bilayers. High-resolution AFM imaging of native disk membranes from vertebrate rod outer segments has unveiled the higher-order oligomeric state of the G protein-coupled receptor rhodopsin, which is highly expressed in disk membranes. Based on AFM imaging, it has been demonstrated that rhodopsin assembles in rows of dimers and paracrystals and that the rhodopsin dimer is the fundamental building block of higher-order structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick D Bosshart
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse 28, Bern, CH-3012, Switzerland
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15
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Bertsch J, Müller V. Bioenergetic constraints for conversion of syngas to biofuels in acetogenic bacteria. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2015; 8:210. [PMID: 26692897 PMCID: PMC4676187 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-015-0393-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2015] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Synthesis gas (syngas) is a gas mixture consisting mainly of H2, CO, and CO2 and can be derived from different sources, including renewable materials like lignocellulose. The fermentation of syngas to certain biofuels, using acetogenic bacteria, has attracted more and more interest over the last years. However, this technology is limited by two things: (1) the lack of complete knowledge of the energy metabolism of acetogenic bacteria, and (2) the lack of sophisticated genetic tools for the modification of acetogens. In this review, we discuss the bioenergetic constraints for the conversion of syngas to different biofuels. We will mainly focus on Acetobacterium woodii, which is the best understood acetogen in terms of energy conservation. Syngas fermentation with Clostridium autoethanogenum will also be discussed, since this organism is well suited to convert syngas to certain products and already used in large-scale industrial processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Bertsch
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Volker Müller
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
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16
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Matthies D, Zhou W, Klyszejko AL, Anselmi C, Yildiz Ö, Brandt K, Müller V, Faraldo-Gómez JD, Meier T. High-resolution structure and mechanism of an F/V-hybrid rotor ring in a Na⁺-coupled ATP synthase. Nat Commun 2014; 5:5286. [PMID: 25381992 PMCID: PMC4228694 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
All rotary ATPases catalyse the interconversion of ATP and ADP-Pi through a mechanism that is coupled to the transmembrane flow of H(+) or Na(+). Physiologically, however, F/A-type enzymes specialize in ATP synthesis driven by downhill ion diffusion, while eukaryotic V-type ATPases function as ion pumps. To begin to rationalize the molecular basis for this functional differentiation, we solved the crystal structure of the Na(+)-driven membrane rotor of the Acetobacterium woodii ATP synthase, at 2.1 Å resolution. Unlike known structures, this rotor ring is a 9:1 heteromer of F- and V-type c-subunits and therefore features a hybrid configuration of ion-binding sites along its circumference. Molecular and kinetic simulations are used to dissect the mechanisms of Na(+) recognition and rotation of this c-ring, and to explain the functional implications of the V-type c-subunit. These structural and mechanistic insights indicate an evolutionary path between synthases and pumps involving adaptations in the rotor ring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doreen Matthies
- Department of Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Max-von-Laue-Str. 3, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Wenchang Zhou
- Theoretical Molecular Biophysics Section, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Building 5635FL, Suite T-800, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Adriana L Klyszejko
- Department of Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Max-von-Laue-Str. 3, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Claudio Anselmi
- Theoretical Molecular Biophysics Section, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Building 5635FL, Suite T-800, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Özkan Yildiz
- Department of Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Max-von-Laue-Str. 3, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Karsten Brandt
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Volker Müller
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - José D Faraldo-Gómez
- 1] Theoretical Molecular Biophysics Section, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Building 5635FL, Suite T-800, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA [2] Cluster of Excellence Macromolecular Complexes, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Thomas Meier
- 1] Department of Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Max-von-Laue-Str. 3, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany [2] Cluster of Excellence Macromolecular Complexes, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Nonacetogenic growth of the acetogen Acetobacterium woodii on 1,2-propanediol. J Bacteriol 2014; 197:382-91. [PMID: 25384483 DOI: 10.1128/jb.02383-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Acetogenic bacteria can grow by the oxidation of various substrates coupled to the reduction of CO2 in the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway. Here, we show that growth of the acetogen Acetobacterium woodii on 1,2-propanediol (1,2-PD) as the sole carbon and energy source is independent of acetogenesis. Enzymatic measurements and metabolite analysis revealed that 1,2-PD is dehydrated to propionaldehyde, which is further oxidized to propionyl coenzyme A (propionyl-CoA) with concomitant reduction of NAD. NADH is reoxidized by reducing propionaldehyde to propanol. The potential gene cluster coding for the responsible enzymes includes genes coding for shell proteins of bacterial microcompartments. Electron microscopy revealed the presence of microcompartments as well as storage granules in cells grown on 1,2-PD. Gene clusters coding for the 1,2-PD pathway can be found in other acetogens as well, but the distribution shows no relation to the phylogeny of the organisms.
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Autotrophy at the thermodynamic limit of life: a model for energy conservation in acetogenic bacteria. Nat Rev Microbiol 2014; 12:809-21. [DOI: 10.1038/nrmicro3365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 505] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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19
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Mayer F, Müller V. Adaptations of anaerobic archaea to life under extreme energy limitation. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2014; 38:449-72. [DOI: 10.1111/1574-6976.12043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2013] [Revised: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 09/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Schulz S, Iglesias-Cans M, Krah A, Yildiz Ö, Leone V, Matthies D, Cook GM, Faraldo-Gómez JD, Meier T. A new type of Na(+)-driven ATP synthase membrane rotor with a two-carboxylate ion-coupling motif. PLoS Biol 2013; 11:e1001596. [PMID: 23824040 PMCID: PMC3692424 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.1001596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 05/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The anaerobic bacterium Fusobacterium nucleatum uses glutamate decarboxylation to generate a transmembrane gradient of Na⁺. Here, we demonstrate that this ion-motive force is directly coupled to ATP synthesis, via an F₁F₀-ATP synthase with a novel Na⁺ recognition motif, shared by other human pathogens. Molecular modeling and free-energy simulations of the rotary element of the enzyme, the c-ring, indicate Na⁺ specificity in physiological settings. Consistently, activity measurements showed Na⁺ stimulation of the enzyme, either membrane-embedded or isolated, and ATP synthesis was sensitive to the Na⁺ ionophore monensin. Furthermore, Na⁺ has a protective effect against inhibitors targeting the ion-binding sites, both in the complete ATP synthase and the isolated c-ring. Definitive evidence of Na⁺ coupling is provided by two identical crystal structures of the c₁₁ ring, solved by X-ray crystallography at 2.2 and 2.6 Å resolution, at pH 5.3 and 8.7, respectively. Na⁺ ions occupy all binding sites, each coordinated by four amino acids and a water molecule. Intriguingly, two carboxylates instead of one mediate ion binding. Simulations and experiments demonstrate that this motif implies that a proton is concurrently bound to all sites, although Na⁺ alone drives the rotary mechanism. The structure thus reveals a new mode of ion coupling in ATP synthases and provides a basis for drug-design efforts against this opportunistic pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Schulz
- Department of Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Marina Iglesias-Cans
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Alexander Krah
- Theoretical Molecular Biophysics Group, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Özkan Yildiz
- Department of Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Vanessa Leone
- Theoretical Molecular Biophysics Group, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Doreen Matthies
- Department of Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Gregory M. Cook
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - José D. Faraldo-Gómez
- Theoretical Molecular Biophysics Group, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence “Macromolecular Complexes,” Goethe University of Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- * E-mail: (JDF-G); (TM)
| | - Thomas Meier
- Department of Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence “Macromolecular Complexes,” Goethe University of Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- * E-mail: (JDF-G); (TM)
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Bertsch J, Parthasarathy A, Buckel W, Müller V. An electron-bifurcating caffeyl-CoA reductase. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:11304-11. [PMID: 23479729 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.444919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A low potential electron carrier ferredoxin (E0' ≈ -500 mV) is used to fuel the only bioenergetic coupling site, a sodium-motive ferredoxin:NAD(+) oxidoreductase (Rnf) in the acetogenic bacterium Acetobacterium woodii. Because ferredoxin reduction with physiological electron donors is highly endergonic, it must be coupled to an exergonic reaction. One candidate is NADH-dependent caffeyl-CoA reduction. We have purified a complex from A. woodii that contains a caffeyl-CoA reductase and an electron transfer flavoprotein. The enzyme contains three subunits encoded by the carCDE genes and is predicted to have, in addition to FAD, two [4Fe-4S] clusters as cofactor, which is consistent with the experimental determination of 4 mol of FAD, 9 mol of iron, and 9 mol of acid-labile sulfur. The enzyme complex catalyzed caffeyl-CoA-dependent oxidation of reduced methyl viologen. With NADH as donor, it catalyzed caffeyl-CoA reduction, but this reaction was highly stimulated by the addition of ferredoxin. Spectroscopic analyses revealed that ferredoxin and caffeyl-CoA were reduced simultaneously, and a stoichiometry of 1.3:1 was determined. Apparently, the caffeyl-CoA reductase-Etf complex of A. woodii uses the novel mechanism of flavin-dependent electron bifurcation to drive the endergonic ferredoxin reduction with NADH as reductant by coupling it to the exergonic NADH-dependent reduction of caffeyl-CoA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Bertsch
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
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22
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Caffeate respiration in the acetogenic bacterium Acetobacterium woodii: a coenzyme A loop saves energy for caffeate activation. Appl Environ Microbiol 2013; 79:1942-7. [PMID: 23315745 DOI: 10.1128/aem.03604-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The anaerobic acetogenic bacterium Acetobacterium woodii couples reduction of caffeate with electrons derived from molecular hydrogen to the synthesis of ATP by a chemiosmotic mechanism with sodium ions as coupling ions. Caffeate is activated to caffeyl coenzyme A (caffeyl-CoA) prior to its reduction, and the caffeate reduction operon encodes an ATP-dependent caffeyl-CoA synthetase that is thought to catalyze the initial caffeate activation. The operon also encodes a potential CoA transferase, the product of carA, which was thought to be involved in subsequent ATP-independent caffeate activation. To prove the proposed function of carA, we overproduced its protein in Escherichia coli and then purified it. Purified CarA drives the formation of caffeyl-CoA from caffeate with hydrocaffeyl-CoA as the CoA donor. The dependence of the reaction on caffeate and hydrocaffeyl-CoA followed Michaelis-Menten kinetics, with apparent K(m) values of 75 ± 5 μM for caffeate and 8 ± 2 μM for hydrocaffeyl-CoA. The enzyme activity had broad ranges of pH and temperature optima. In addition to being able to use caffeate, CarA could use p-coumarate and ferulate but not cinnamate, sinapate, or p-hydroxybenzoate as a CoA acceptor. Neither acetyl-CoA nor butyryl-CoA served as the CoA donor for CarA. The enzyme uses a ping-pong mechanism for CoA transfer and is the first classified member of a new subclass of family I CoA transferases that has two catalytic domains on one polypeptide chain. Apparently, CarA catalyzes an energy-saving CoA loop for caffeate activation in the steady state of caffeate respiration.
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23
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Morgner N, Montenegro F, Barrera NP, Robinson CV. Mass spectrometry--from peripheral proteins to membrane motors. J Mol Biol 2012; 423:1-13. [PMID: 22750574 PMCID: PMC4058634 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2012.06.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2012] [Revised: 06/18/2012] [Accepted: 06/20/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
That membrane protein complexes could survive in the gas phase had always seemed impossible. The lack of chargeable residues, high hydrophobicity, and poor solubility and the vast excess of detergent contributed to the view that it would not be possible to obtain mass spectra of intact membrane complexes. With the recent success in recording mass spectra of these complexes, first from recombinant sources and later from the cellular environment, many surprising properties of these gas phase membrane complexes have been revealed. The first of these was that the interactions between membrane and soluble subunits could survive in vacuum, without detergent molecules adhering to the complex. The second unexpected feature was that their hydrophobicity and, consequently, lower charge state did not preclude ionization. The final surprising finding was that these gas phase membrane complexes carry with them lipids, bound specifically in subunit interfaces. This provides us with an opportunity to distinguish annular lipids that surround the membrane complexes, from structural lipids that have a role in maintaining structure and subunit interactions. In this perspective, we track these developments and suggest explanations for the various discoveries made during this research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Morgner
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 5QY, UK
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24
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Functional production of the Na+ F1FO ATP synthase from Acetobacterium woodii in Escherichia coli requires the native AtpI. J Bioenerg Biomembr 2012; 45:15-23. [DOI: 10.1007/s10863-012-9474-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 09/16/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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25
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Abstract
The Wood-Ljungdahl pathway of anaerobic CO(2) fixation with hydrogen as reductant is considered a candidate for the first life-sustaining pathway on earth because it combines carbon dioxide fixation with the synthesis of ATP via a chemiosmotic mechanism. The acetogenic bacterium Acetobacterium woodii uses an ancient version of the pathway that has only one site to generate the electrochemical ion potential used to drive ATP synthesis, the ferredoxin-fueled, sodium-motive Rnf complex. However, hydrogen-based ferredoxin reduction is endergonic, and how the steep energy barrier is overcome has been an enigma for a long time. We have purified a multimeric [FeFe]-hydrogenase from A. woodii containing four subunits (HydABCD) which is predicted to have one [H]-cluster, three [2Fe2S]-, and six [4Fe4S]-clusters consistent with the experimental determination of 32 mol of Fe and 30 mol of acid-labile sulfur. The enzyme indeed catalyzed hydrogen-based ferredoxin reduction, but required NAD(+) for this reaction. NAD(+) was also reduced but only in the presence of ferredoxin. NAD(+) and ferredoxin reduction both required flavin. Spectroscopic analyses revealed that NAD(+) and ferredoxin reduction are strictly coupled and that they are reduced in a 1:1 stoichiometry. Apparently, the multimeric hydrogenase of A. woodii is a soluble energy-converting hydrogenase that uses electron bifurcation to drive the endergonic ferredoxin reduction by coupling it to the exergonic NAD(+) reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Schuchmann
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
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26
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Abstract
ATP synthase membrane rotors consist of a ring of c-subunits whose stoichiometry is constant for a given species but variable across different ones. We investigated the importance of c/c-subunit contacts by site-directed mutagenesis of a conserved stretch of glycines (GxGxGxGxG) in a bacterial c(11) ring. Structural and biochemical studies show a direct, specific influence on the c-subunit stoichiometry, revealing c(<11), c(12), c(13), c(14), and c(>14) rings. Molecular dynamics simulations rationalize this effect in terms of the energetics and geometry of the c-subunit interfaces. Quantitative data from a spectroscopic interaction study demonstrate that the complex assembly is independent of the c-ring size. Real-time ATP synthesis experiments in proteoliposomes show the mutant enzyme, harboring the larger c(12) instead of c(11), is functional at lower ion motive force. The high degree of compliance in the architecture of the ATP synthase rotor offers a rationale for the natural diversity of c-ring stoichiometries, which likely reflect adaptations to specific bioenergetic demands. These results provide the basis for bioengineering ATP synthases with customized ion-to-ATP ratios, by sequence modifications.
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X-ray structure of the dimeric cytochrome bc(1) complex from the soil bacterium Paracoccus denitrificans at 2.7-Å resolution. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS 2011; 1807:1606-15. [PMID: 21996020 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2011.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2011] [Revised: 09/21/2011] [Accepted: 09/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The respiratory cytochrome bc(1) complex is a fundamental enzyme in biological energy conversion. It couples electron transfer from ubiquinol to cytochrome c with generation of proton motive force which fuels ATP synthesis. The complex from the α-proteobacterium Paracoccus denitrificans, a model for the medically relevant mitochondrial complexes, lacked structural characterization. We show by LILBID mass spectrometry that truncation of the organism-specific, acidic N-terminus of cytochrome c(1) changes the oligomerization state of the enzyme to a dimer. The fully functional complex was crystallized and the X-ray structure determined at 2.7-Å resolution. It has high structural homology to mitochondrial complexes and to the Rhodobacter sphaeroides complex especially for subunits cytochrome b and ISP. Species-specific binding of the inhibitor stigmatellin is noteworthy. Interestingly, cytochrome c(1) shows structural differences to the mitochondrial and even between the two Rhodobacteraceae complexes. The structural diversity in the cytochrome c(1) surface facing the ISP domain indicates low structural constraints on that surface for formation of a productive electron transfer complex. A similar position of the acidic N-terminal domains of cytochrome c(1) and yeast subunit QCR6p is suggested in support of a similar function. A model of the electron transfer complex with membrane-anchored cytochrome c(552), the natural substrate, shows that it can adopt the same orientation as the soluble substrate in the yeast complex. The full structural integrity of the P. denitrificans variant underpins previous mechanistic studies on intermonomer electron transfer and paves the way for using this model system to address open questions of structure/function relationships and inhibitor binding.
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Bender G, Pierce E, Hill JA, Darty JE, Ragsdale SW. Metal centers in the anaerobic microbial metabolism of CO and CO2. Metallomics 2011; 3:797-815. [PMID: 21647480 PMCID: PMC3964926 DOI: 10.1039/c1mt00042j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide are important components of the carbon cycle. Major research efforts are underway to develop better technologies to utilize the abundant greenhouse gas, CO(2), for harnessing 'green' energy and producing biofuels. One strategy is to convert CO(2) into CO, which has been valued for many years as a synthetic feedstock for major industrial processes. Living organisms are masters of CO(2) and CO chemistry and, here, we review the elegant ways that metalloenzymes catalyze reactions involving these simple compounds. After describing the chemical and physical properties of CO and CO(2), we shift focus to the enzymes and the metal clusters in their active sites that catalyze transformations of these two molecules. We cover how the metal centers on CO dehydrogenase catalyze the interconversion of CO and CO(2) and how pyruvate oxidoreductase, which contains thiamin pyrophosphate and multiple Fe(4)S(4) clusters, catalyzes the addition and elimination of CO(2) during intermediary metabolism. We also describe how the nickel center at the active site of acetyl-CoA synthase utilizes CO to generate the central metabolite, acetyl-CoA, as part of the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway, and how CO is channelled from the CO dehydrogenase to the acetyl-CoA synthase active site. We cover how the corrinoid iron-sulfur protein interacts with acetyl-CoA synthase. This protein uses vitamin B(12) and a Fe(4)S(4) cluster to catalyze a key methyltransferase reaction involving an organometallic methyl-Co(3+) intermediate. Studies of CO and CO(2) enzymology are of practical significance, and offer fundamental insights into important biochemical reactions involving metallocenters that act as nucleophiles to form organometallic intermediates and catalyze C-C and C-S bond formations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Güneş Bender
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-0606, USA. Fax: +1 734-763-4581; Tel: +1 734-615-4621
| | - Elizabeth Pierce
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-0606, USA. Fax: +1 734-763-4581; Tel: +1 734-615-4621
| | - Jeffrey A. Hill
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-0606, USA. Fax: +1 734-763-4581; Tel: +1 734-615-4621
| | - Joseph E. Darty
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-0606, USA. Fax: +1 734-763-4581; Tel: +1 734-615-4621
| | - Stephen W. Ragsdale
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-0606, USA. Fax: +1 734-763-4581; Tel: +1 734-615-4621
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29
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Mesbah NM, Wiegel J. The Na(+)-translocating F₁F₀-ATPase from the halophilic, alkalithermophile Natranaerobius thermophilus. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS 2011; 1807:1133-42. [PMID: 21600188 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2011.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2010] [Revised: 04/30/2011] [Accepted: 05/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Natranaerobius thermophilus is an unusual anaerobic extremophile, it is halophilic and alkalithermophilic; growing optimally at 3.3-3.9M Na(+), pH(50°C) 9.5 and 53°C. The ATPase of N. thermophilus was characterized at the biochemical level to ascertain its role in life under hypersaline, alkaline, thermal conditions. The partially purified enzyme (10-fold purification) displayed the typical subunit pattern for F-type ATPases, with a 5-subunit F(1) portion and 3-subunit-F(O) portion. ATP hydrolysis by the purified ATPase was stimulated almost 4-fold by low concentrations of Na(+) (5mM); hydrolysis activity was inhibited by higher Na(+) concentrations. Partially purified ATPase was alkaliphilic and thermophilic, showing maximal hydrolysis at 47°C and the alkaline pH(50°C) of 9.3. ATP hydrolysis was sensitive to the F-type ATPase inhibitor N,N'-dicylohexylcarbodiimide and exhibited inhibition by both free Mg(2+) and free ATP. ATP synthesis by inverted membrane vesicles proceeded slowly and was driven by a Na(+)-ion gradient that was sensitive to the Na(+)-ionophore monensin. Analysis of the atp operon showed the presence of the Na(+)-binding motif in the c subunit (Q(33), E(66), T(67), T(68), Y(71)), and a complete, untruncated ε subunit; suggesting that ATP hydrolysis by the enzyme is regulated. Based on these properties, the F(1)F(O)-ATPase of N. thermophilus is a Na(+)-translocating ATPase used primarily for expelling cytoplasmic Na(+) that accumulates inside cells of N. thermophilus during alkaline stress. In support of this theory are the presence of the c subunit Na(+)-binding motif and the low rates of ATP synthesis observed. The complete ε subunit is hypothesized to control excessive ATP hydrolysis and preserve intracellular Na(+) needed by electrogenic cation/proton antiporters crucial for cytoplasmic acidification in the obligately alkaliphilic N. thermophilus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha M Mesbah
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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Abstract
AbstractThe rotary ATPase family of membrane protein complexes may have only three members, but each one plays a fundamental role in biological energy conversion. The F1Fo-ATPase (F-ATPase) couples ATP synthesis to the electrochemical membrane potential in bacteria, mitochondria and chloroplasts, while the vacuolar H+-ATPase (V-ATPase) operates as an ATP-driven proton pump in eukaryotic membranes. In different species of archaea and bacteria, the A1Ao-ATPase (A-ATPase) can function as either an ATP synthase or an ion pump. All three of these multi-subunit complexes are rotary molecular motors, sharing a fundamentally similar mechanism in which rotational movement drives the energy conversion process. By analogy to macroscopic systems, individual subunits can be assigned to rotor, axle or stator functions. Recently, three-dimensional reconstructions from electron microscopy and single particle image processing have led to a significant step forward in understanding of the overall architecture of all three forms of these complexes and have allowed the organisation of subunits within the rotor and stator parts of the motors to be more clearly mapped out. This review describes the emerging consensus regarding the organisation of the rotor and stator components of V-, A- and F-ATPases, examining core similarities that point to a common evolutionary origin, and highlighting key differences. In particular, it discusses how newly revealed variation in the complexity of the inter-domain connections may impact on the mechanics and regulation of these molecular machines.
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Biegel E, Schmidt S, González JM, Müller V. Biochemistry, evolution and physiological function of the Rnf complex, a novel ion-motive electron transport complex in prokaryotes. Cell Mol Life Sci 2011; 68:613-34. [PMID: 21072677 PMCID: PMC11115008 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-010-0555-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 252] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2010] [Revised: 09/30/2010] [Accepted: 10/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Microbes have a fascinating repertoire of bioenergetic enzymes and a huge variety of electron transport chains to cope with very different environmental conditions, such as different oxygen concentrations, different electron acceptors, pH and salinity. However, all these electron transport chains cover the redox span from NADH + H(+) as the most negative donor to oxygen/H(2)O as the most positive acceptor or increments thereof. The redox range more negative than -320 mV has been largely ignored. Here, we have summarized the recent data that unraveled a novel ion-motive electron transport chain, the Rnf complex, that energetically couples the cellular ferredoxin to the pyridine nucleotide pool. The energetics of the complex and its biochemistry, as well as its evolution and cellular function in different microbes, is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Biegel
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Silke Schmidt
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - José M. González
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, University of La Laguna, 38206 La Laguna, Tenerife Spain
| | - Volker Müller
- Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
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A caffeyl-coenzyme A synthetase initiates caffeate activation prior to caffeate reduction in the acetogenic bacterium Acetobacterium woodii. J Bacteriol 2010; 193:971-8. [PMID: 21131487 DOI: 10.1128/jb.01126-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The anaerobic acetogenic bacterium Acetobacterium woodii couples the reduction of caffeate with electrons derived from hydrogen to the synthesis of ATP by a chemiosmotic mechanism using sodium ions as coupling ions, but the enzymes involved remain to be established. Previously, the electron transfer flavoproteins EtfA and EtfB were found to be involved in caffeate respiration. By inverse PCR, we identified three genes upstream of etfA and etfB: carA, carB, and carC. carA encodes a potential coenzyme A (CoA) transferase, carB an acyl-CoA synthetase, and carC an acyl-CoA dehydrogenase. carA, -B, and -C are located together with etfA/carE and etfB/carD on one polycistronic message, indicating that CarA, CarB, and CarC are also part of the caffeate respiration pathway. The genetic data suggest an initial ATP-dependent activation of caffeate by CarB. To prove the proposed function of CarB, the protein was overproduced in Escherichia coli, and the recombinant protein was purified. Purified CarB activates caffeate to caffeyl-CoA in an ATP- and CoA-dependent reaction. The enzyme has broad pH and temperature optima and requires K(+) for activity. In addition to caffeate, it can use ρ-coumarate, ferulate, and cinnamate as substrates, with 50, 15, and 9%, respectively, of the activity obtained with caffeate. Expression of the car operon is induced not only by caffeate, ρ-coumarate, ferulate, and cinnamate but also by sinapate. There is no induction by ρ-hydroxybenzoate or syringate.
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Abstract
The anaerobic acetogenic bacterium Acetobacterium woodii carries out a unique type of Na(+)-motive, anaerobic respiration with caffeate as electron acceptor, termed "caffeate respiration." Central, and so far the only identified membrane-bound reaction in this respiration pathway, is a ferredoxin:NAD(+) oxidoreductase (Fno) activity. Here we show that inverted membrane vesicles of A. woodii couple electron transfer from reduced ferredoxin to NAD(+) with the transport of Na(+) from the outside into the lumen of the vesicles. Na(+) transport was electrogenic, and accumulation was inhibited by sodium ionophores but not protonophores, demonstrating a direct coupling of Fno activity to Na(+) transport. Results from inhibitor studies are consistent with the hypothesis that Fno activity coupled to Na(+) translocation is catalyzed by the Rnf complex, a membrane-bound, iron-sulfur and flavin-containing electron transport complex encoded by many bacterial and some archaeal genomes. Fno is a unique type of primary Na(+) pump and represents an early evolutionary mechanism of energy conservation that expands the redox range known to support life. In addition, it explains the lifestyle of many anaerobic bacteria and gives a mechanistic explanation for the enigma of the energetic driving force for the endergonic reduction of ferredoxin with NADH plus H(+) as reductant in a number of aerobic bacteria.
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F1F0-ATP synthases of alkaliphilic bacteria: lessons from their adaptations. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS 2010; 1797:1362-77. [PMID: 20193659 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2010.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2010] [Revised: 02/22/2010] [Accepted: 02/23/2010] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on the ATP synthases of alkaliphilic bacteria and, in particular, those that successfully overcome the bioenergetic challenges of achieving robust H+-coupled ATP synthesis at external pH values>10. At such pH values the protonmotive force, which is posited to provide the energetic driving force for ATP synthesis, is too low to account for the ATP synthesis observed. The protonmotive force is lowered at a very high pH by the need to maintain a cytoplasmic pH well below the pH outside, which results in an energetically adverse pH gradient. Several anticipated solutions to this bioenergetic conundrum have been ruled out. Although the transmembrane sodium motive force is high under alkaline conditions, respiratory alkaliphilic bacteria do not use Na+- instead of H+-coupled ATP synthases. Nor do they offset the adverse pH gradient with a compensatory increase in the transmembrane electrical potential component of the protonmotive force. Moreover, studies of ATP synthase rotors indicate that alkaliphiles cannot fully resolve the energetic problem by using an ATP synthase with a large number of c-subunits in the synthase rotor ring. Increased attention now focuses on delocalized gradients near the membrane surface and H+ transfers to ATP synthases via membrane-associated microcircuits between the H+ pumping complexes and synthases. Microcircuits likely depend upon proximity of pumps and synthases, specific membrane properties and specific adaptations of the participating enzyme complexes. ATP synthesis in alkaliphiles depends upon alkaliphile-specific adaptations of the ATP synthase and there is also evidence for alkaliphile-specific adaptations of respiratory chain components.
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Abstract
In reviewing the structures of membrane proteins determined up to the end of 2009, we present in words and pictures the most informative examples from each family. We group the structures together according to their function and architecture to provide an overview of the major principles and variations on the most common themes. The first structures, determined 20 years ago, were those of naturally abundant proteins with limited conformational variability, and each membrane protein structure determined was a major landmark. With the advent of complete genome sequences and efficient expression systems, there has been an explosion in the rate of membrane protein structure determination, with many classes represented. New structures are published every month and more than 150 unique membrane protein structures have been determined. This review analyses the reasons for this success, discusses the challenges that still lie ahead, and presents a concise summary of the key achievements with illustrated examples selected from each class.
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Vonck J, Pisa KY, Morgner N, Brutschy B, Müller V. Three-dimensional structure of A1A0 ATP synthase from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus by electron microscopy. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:10110-9. [PMID: 19203996 PMCID: PMC2665065 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m808498200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2008] [Revised: 01/09/2009] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The archaeal ATP synthase is a multisubunit complex that consists of a catalytic A(1) part and a transmembrane, ion translocation domain A(0). The A(1)A(0) complex from the hyperthermophile Pyrococcus furiosus was isolated. Mass analysis of the complex by laser-induced liquid bead ion desorption (LILBID) indicated a size of 730 +/- 10 kDa. A three-dimensional map was generated by electron microscopy from negatively stained images. The map at a resolution of 2.3 nm shows the A(1) and A(0) domain, connected by a central stalk and two peripheral stalks, one of which is connected to A(0), and both connected to A(1) via prominent knobs. X-ray structures of subunits from related proteins were fitted to the map. On the basis of the fitting and the LILBID analysis, a structural model is presented with the stoichiometry A(3)B(3)CDE(2)FH(2)ac(10).
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Vonck
- Max-Planck-Institute of Biophysics, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 3, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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Matthies D, Preiss L, Klyszejko AL, Muller DJ, Cook GM, Vonck J, Meier T. The c13 ring from a thermoalkaliphilic ATP synthase reveals an extended diameter due to a special structural region. J Mol Biol 2009; 388:611-8. [PMID: 19327366 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2009.03.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2009] [Revised: 03/18/2009] [Accepted: 03/19/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
We have structurally characterized the c-ring from the thermoalkaliphilic Bacillus sp. strain TA2.A1 F(1)F(o)-ATP synthase. Atomic force microscopy imaging and cryo-electron microscopy analyses confirm previous mass spectrometric data indicating that this c-ring contains 13 c-subunits. The cryo-electron microscopy map obtained from two-dimensional crystals shows less closely packed helices in the inner ring compared to those of Na(+)-binding c(11) rings. The inner ring of alpha-helices in c(11) rings harbors a conserved GxGxGxGxG motif, with glycines located at the interface between c-subunits, which is responsible for the close packing of these helices. This glycine motif is altered in the c(13) ring of Bacillus sp. strain TA2.A1 to AxGxSxGxS, leading to a change in c-c subunit contacts and thereby enlarging the c-ring diameter to host a greater number of c-subunits. An altered glycine motif is a typical feature of c-subunit sequences in alkaliphilic Bacillus species. We propose that enlarged c-rings in proton-dependent F-ATP synthases may represent an adaptation to facilitate ATP synthesis at low overall proton-motive force, as occurs in bacteria that grow at alkaline pH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doreen Matthies
- Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 3, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Seelert H, Dani DN, Dante S, Hauss T, Krause F, Schäfer E, Frenzel M, Poetsch A, Rexroth S, Schwassmann HJ, Suhai T, Vonck J, Dencher NA. From protons to OXPHOS supercomplexes and Alzheimer's disease: structure-dynamics-function relationships of energy-transducing membranes. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS 2009; 1787:657-71. [PMID: 19281792 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2009.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2008] [Revised: 02/20/2009] [Accepted: 02/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
By the elucidation of high-resolution structures the view of the bioenergetic processes has become more precise. But in the face of these fundamental advances, many problems are still unresolved. We have examined a variety of aspects of energy-transducing membranes from large protein complexes down to the level of protons and functional relevant picosecond protein dynamics. Based on the central role of the ATP synthase for supplying the biological fuel ATP, one main emphasis was put on this protein complex from both chloroplast and mitochondria. In particular the stoichiometry of protons required for the synthesis of one ATP molecule and the supramolecular organisation of ATP synthases were examined. Since formation of supercomplexes also concerns other complexes of the respiratory chain, our work was directed to unravel this kind of organisation, e.g. of the OXPHOS supercomplex I(1)III(2)IV(1), in terms of structure and function. Not only the large protein complexes or supercomplexes work as key players for biological energy conversion, but also small components as quinones which facilitate the transfer of electrons and protons. Therefore, their location in the membrane profile was determined by neutron diffraction. Physico-chemical features of the path of protons from the generators of the electrochemical gradient to the ATP synthase, as well as of their interaction with the membrane surface, could be elucidated by time-resolved absorption spectroscopy in combination with optical pH indicators. Diseases such as Alzheimer's dementia (AD) are triggered by perturbation of membranes and bioenergetics as demonstrated by our neutron scattering studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Seelert
- Department of Chemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Petersenstrasse 22, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany.
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Constant c10 ring stoichiometry in the Escherichia coli ATP synthase analyzed by cross-linking. J Bacteriol 2009; 191:2400-4. [PMID: 19181809 DOI: 10.1128/jb.01390-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The subunit c stoichiometry of Escherichia coli ATP synthase was studied by intermolecular cross-linking via oxidation of bi-cysteine-substituted subunit c (cA21C/cM65C). Independent of the carbon source used for growth and independent of the presence of other FoF1 subunits, an equal pattern of cross-link formation stopping at the formation of decamers was obtained.
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Schmidt S, Biegel E, Müller V. The ins and outs of Na(+) bioenergetics in Acetobacterium woodii. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS 2009; 1787:691-6. [PMID: 19167341 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2008.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2008] [Revised: 12/30/2008] [Accepted: 12/30/2008] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The acetogenic bacterium Acetobacterium woodii uses a transmembrane electrochemical sodium ion potential for bioenergetic reactions. A primary sodium ion potential is established during carbonate (acetogenesis) as well as caffeate respiration. The electrogenic Na(+) pump connected to the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway (acetogenesis) still remains to be identified. The pathway of caffeate reduction with hydrogen as electron donor was investigated and the only membrane-bound activity was found to be a ferredoxin-dependent NAD(+) reduction. This exergonic electron transfer reaction may be catalyzed by the membrane-bound Rnf complex that was discovered recently and is suggested to couple exergonic electron transfer from ferredoxin to NAD(+) to the vectorial transport of Na(+) across the cytoplasmic membrane. Rnf may also be involved in acetogenesis. The electrochemical sodium ion potential thus generated is used to drive endergonic reactions such as flagellar rotation and ATP synthesis. The ATP synthase is a member of the F(1)F(O) class of enzymes but has an unusual and exceptional feature. Its membrane-embedded rotor is a hybrid made of F(O) and V(O)-like subunits in a stoichiometry of 9:1. This stoichiometry is apparently not variable with the growth conditions. The structure and function of the Rnf complex and the Na(+) F(1)F(O) ATP synthase as key elements of the Na(+) cycle in A. woodii are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Schmidt
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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41
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Ragsdale SW, Pierce E. Acetogenesis and the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway of CO(2) fixation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2008; 1784:1873-98. [PMID: 18801467 PMCID: PMC2646786 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2008.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 689] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2008] [Revised: 08/12/2008] [Accepted: 08/13/2008] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Conceptually, the simplest way to synthesize an organic molecule is to construct it one carbon at a time. The Wood-Ljungdahl pathway of CO(2) fixation involves this type of stepwise process. The biochemical events that underlie the condensation of two one-carbon units to form the two-carbon compound, acetate, have intrigued chemists, biochemists, and microbiologists for many decades. We begin this review with a description of the biology of acetogenesis. Then, we provide a short history of the important discoveries that have led to the identification of the key components and steps of this usual mechanism of CO and CO(2) fixation. In this historical perspective, we have included reflections that hopefully will sketch the landscape of the controversies, hypotheses, and opinions that led to the key experiments and discoveries. We then describe the properties of the genes and enzymes involved in the pathway and conclude with a section describing some major questions that remain unanswered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen W Ragsdale
- Department of Biological Chemistry, MSRB III, 5301, 1150 W. Medical Center Drive, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0606, USA.
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Vonck J, Schäfer E. Supramolecular organization of protein complexes in the mitochondrial inner membrane. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2008; 1793:117-24. [PMID: 18573282 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2008.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2008] [Revised: 05/21/2008] [Accepted: 05/23/2008] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The liquid state model that envisions respiratory chain complexes diffusing freely in the membrane is increasingly challenged by reports of supramolecular organization of the complexes in the mitochondrial inner membrane. Supercomplexes of complex III with complex I and/or IV can be isolated after solubilisation with mild detergents like digitonin. Electron microscopic studies have shown that these have a distinct architecture and are not random aggregates. A 3D reconstruction of a I1III2IV1 supercomplex shows that the ubiquinone and cytochrome c binding sites of the individual complexes are facing each other, suggesting a role in substrate channelling. Formation of supercomplexes plays a role in the assembly and stability of the complexes, suggesting that the supercomplexes are the functional state of the respiratory chain. Furthermore, a supramolecular organisation of ATP synthases has been observed in mitochondria, where ATP synthase is organised in dimer rows. Dimers can be isolated by mild detergent extraction and recent electron microscopic studies have shown that the membrane domains of the two partners in the dimer are at an angle to each other, indicating that in vivo the dimers would cause the membrane to bend. The suggested role in crista formation is supported by the observation of rows of ATP synthase dimers in the most curved parts of the cristae. Together these observations show that the mitochondrial inner membrane is highly organised and that the molecular events leading to ATP synthesis are carefully coordinated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Vonck
- Department of Structural Biology, Max-Planck-Institute of Biophysics, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 3, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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