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Theiss F, Lins J, Kergassner J, Wienands L, Döller S, Buntkowsky G. Two fields are better than one - A multifunctional (semi)automated setup for quantitative measurements of parahydrogen-induced signal enhancement at low and high fields. JOURNAL OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE (SAN DIEGO, CALIF. : 1997) 2024; 362:107673. [PMID: 38598990 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmr.2024.107673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
The rapid advancement of parahydrogen-induced hyperpolarization (PHIP) and its diverse array of applications highlights the critical need for enhanced signals in both 1H NMR and heteronuclear NMR spectroscopy. Simultaneously, there is an increasing interest in utilizing benchtop NMR analysis across various laboratory settings. However, due to their lower magnetic fields, benchtop NMR spectrometers inherently produce weaker signal intensities. Here, PHIP is a well-established solution to this challenge. Consequently, we are expanding our cost-effective PHIP setup from a high-field NMR spectrometer (11.7 T) to include an additional benchtop NMR spectrometer (1.4 T), thereby enabling concurrent execution of PHIP experiments and measurements. Through the implementation of automated experimental protocols, we aim to minimize experiment time while increasing reproducibility. In this work, a non-isotope labelled propargyl alcohol sample is used at low concentrations to demonstrate our setup's capabilities. It could be shown that single-scan PASADENA experiments can be run with comparable signal enhancements at the benchtop as well as the high-field spectrometer. At 1.4 T, fully automated PHIP pseudo-2D measurements will also be demonstrated. Additionally, two different field profiles for the spin-order transfer of p-H2 to 13C at zero- to ultralow fields are elaborated upon. The setup facilitates the measurement of carbon signal enhancement of more than 2000 on the benchtop NMR spectrometer, employing a straightforward one-pulse, one-scan experiment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Theiss
- Eduard-Zintl-Institute for Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Technical University Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 8, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Jonas Lins
- Eduard-Zintl-Institute for Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Technical University Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 8, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Jan Kergassner
- Eduard-Zintl-Institute for Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Technical University Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 8, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Laura Wienands
- Eduard-Zintl-Institute for Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Technical University Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 8, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Sonja Döller
- Eduard-Zintl-Institute for Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Technical University Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 8, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Gerd Buntkowsky
- Eduard-Zintl-Institute for Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Technical University Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 8, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany.
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2
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Vogl DP, Mateos B, Migotti M, Felkl M, Conibear AC, Konrat R, Becker CFW. Semisynthesis of segmentally isotope-labeled and site-specifically palmitoylated CD44 cytoplasmic tail. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 100:117617. [PMID: 38306881 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
CD44, a ubiquitously expressed transmembrane receptor, plays a crucial role in cell growth, migration, and tumor progression. Dimerization of CD44 is a key event in signal transduction and has emerged as a potential target for anti-tumor therapies. Palmitoylation, a posttranslational modification, disrupts CD44 dimerization and promotes CD44 accumulation in ordered membrane domains. However, the effects of palmitoylation on the structure and dynamics of CD44 at atomic resolution remain poorly understood. Here, we present a semisynthetic approach combining solid-phase peptide synthesis, recombinant expression, and native chemical ligation to investigate the impact of palmitoylation on the cytoplasmic domain (residues 669-742) of CD44 (CD44ct) by NMR spectroscopy. A segmentally isotope-labeled and site-specifically palmitoylated CD44 variant enabled NMR studies, which revealed chemical shift perturbations and indicated local and long-range conformational changes induced by palmitoylation. The long-range effects suggest altered intramolecular interactions and potential modulation of membrane association patterns. Semisynthetic, palmitoylated CD44ct serves as the basis for studying CD44 clustering, conformational changes, and localization within lipid rafts, and could be used to investigate its role as a tumor suppressor and to explore its therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik P Vogl
- University of Vienna, Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Währinger Str. 38, 1090 Vienna, Austria; University of Vienna, Vienna Doctoral School in Chemistry (DoSChem), Währinger Str. 42, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Borja Mateos
- Max Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter Campus 5, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Mario Migotti
- Max Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter Campus 5, 1030 Vienna, Austria; Vienna BioCenter PhD Program, Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, A-1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Manuel Felkl
- University of Vienna, Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Währinger Str. 38, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Anne C Conibear
- TU Wien, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060 Vienna, Austria
| | - Robert Konrat
- Max Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter Campus 5, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian F W Becker
- University of Vienna, Vienna Doctoral School in Chemistry (DoSChem), Währinger Str. 42, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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3
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Kerber PJ, Nuñez R, Jensen DR, Zhou AL, Peterson FC, Hill RB, Volkman BF, Smith BC. Fragment-based screening by protein-detected NMR spectroscopy. Methods Enzymol 2023; 690:285-310. [PMID: 37858532 PMCID: PMC10657026 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2023.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Fragment-based drug discovery (FBDD) identifies low molecular weight compounds that can be developed into ligands with high affinity and selectivity for therapeutic targets. Screening fragment libraries (<10,000 molecules) with biophysical techniques against macromolecules provides information about novel chemical spaces that bind the macromolecule and scaffolds that can be modified to increase potency. A fragment-screening pipeline requires a standardized protocol for target selection, library assembly and maintenance, library screening, and hit validation to ensure hit integrity. Herein, the fundamental aspects of a fragment screening pipeline-focusing on protein-detected NMR data collection and analysis-are discussed in detail for researchers to use as a resource in their FBDD projects. Selected screening targets must undergo rigorous stability and buffer testing by NMR spectroscopy to ensure the protein structure is stable for the entire screen. Biophysical instrumentation that rapidly measures protein thermostability is helpful in buffer screening. Molecules in fragment libraries are analyzed computationally and physically, stored at appropriate temperatures, and multiplexed in well plates for library conservation. The screening protocol is streamlined using liquid handling robotics for sample preparation and customized Python scripts for protein-detected NMR data analysis. Molecules identified from the screen are titrated to determine their binding site(s) and Kd values and confirmed with an orthogonal biophysical assay. This detailed FBDD screening pipeline developed by the Program in Chemical Biology at the Medical College of Wisconsin has successfully screened many unrelated target proteins to identified novel molecules that selectively bind to these target proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Kerber
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States; Program in Chemical Biology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Raymundo Nuñez
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States; Program in Chemical Biology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Davin R Jensen
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States; Program in Chemical Biology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Angela L Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States; Program in Chemical Biology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Francis C Peterson
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States; Program in Chemical Biology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - R Blake Hill
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States; Program in Chemical Biology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Brian F Volkman
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States; Program in Chemical Biology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
| | - Brian C Smith
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States; Program in Chemical Biology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
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Theiss F, Wienands L, Lins J, Alcaraz-Janßen M, Thiele CM, Buntkowsky G. Parahydrogen-induced polarization enables the single-scan NMR detection of a 236 kDa biopolymer at nanomolar concentrations. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10117. [PMID: 37344547 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37202-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments utilizing parahydrogen-induced polarization (PHIP) were performed to elucidate the PHIP activity of the synthetic 236 kDa biopolymer poly-γ-(4-propargyloxy)-benzyl-L-glutamate) (PPOBLG). The homopolypeptide was successfully hyperpolarized and the enhanced signals were detected in 11.7 T solution NMR as a function of the PPOBLG concentration. The hydrogenation with parahydrogen caused signal enhancements of 800 and more for the vinyl protons of the side chain at low substrate concentration. As a result of this high enhancement factor, even at 13 nM of PPOBLG, a single scan 1H-NMR detection of the hyperpolarized protons was possible, owing to the combination of hyperpolarization and density of PHIP active sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Theiss
- Eduard-Zintl-Institute for Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 8, 64287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Laura Wienands
- Eduard-Zintl-Institute for Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 8, 64287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Jonas Lins
- Eduard-Zintl-Institute for Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 8, 64287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Marcel Alcaraz-Janßen
- Clemens-Schöpf-Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 16, 64287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Christina M Thiele
- Clemens-Schöpf-Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 16, 64287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Gerd Buntkowsky
- Eduard-Zintl-Institute for Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Straße 8, 64287, Darmstadt, Germany.
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Arauzo-Aguilera K, Buscajoni L, Koch K, Thompson G, Robinson C, Berkemeyer M. Yields and product comparison between Escherichia coli BL21 and W3110 in industrially relevant conditions: anti-c-Met scFv as a case study. Microb Cell Fact 2023; 22:104. [PMID: 37208750 PMCID: PMC10197847 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-023-02111-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the biopharmaceutical industry, Escherichia coli is one of the preferred expression hosts for large-scale production of therapeutic proteins. Although increasing the product yield is important, product quality is a major factor in this industry because greatest productivity does not always correspond with the highest quality of the produced protein. While some post-translational modifications, such as disulphide bonds, are required to achieve the biologically active conformation, others may have a negative impact on the product's activity, effectiveness, and/or safety. Therefore, they are classified as product associated impurities, and they represent a crucial quality parameter for regulatory authorities. RESULTS In this study, fermentation conditions of two widely employed industrial E. coli strains, BL21 and W3110 are compared for recombinant protein production of a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) in an industrial setting. We found that the BL21 strain produces more soluble scFv than the W3110 strain, even though W3110 produces more recombinant protein in total. A quality assessment on the scFv recovered from the supernatant was then performed. Unexpectedly, even when our scFv is correctly disulphide bonded and cleaved from its signal peptide in both strains, the protein shows charge heterogeneity with up to seven distinguishable variants on cation exchange chromatography. Biophysical characterization confirmed the presence of altered conformations of the two main charged variants. CONCLUSIONS The findings indicated that BL21 is more productive for this specific scFv than W3110. When assessing product quality, a distinctive profile of the protein was found which was independent of the E. coli strain. This suggests that alterations are present in the recovered product although the exact nature of them could not be determined. This similarity between the two strains' generated products also serves as a sign of their interchangeability. This study encourages the development of innovative, fast, and inexpensive techniques for the detection of heterogeneity while also provoking a debate about whether intact mass spectrometry-based analysis of the protein of interest is sufficient to detect heterogeneity in a product.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luisa Buscajoni
- Biopharma Austria, Process Science, Boehringer-Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co KG, Dr. Boehringer-Gasse 5-11, 1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Karin Koch
- Biopharma Austria, Process Science, Boehringer-Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co KG, Dr. Boehringer-Gasse 5-11, 1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gary Thompson
- Wellcome Trust Biological NMR Facility, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ UK
| | - Colin Robinson
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ UK
| | - Matthias Berkemeyer
- Biopharma Austria, Process Science, Boehringer-Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co KG, Dr. Boehringer-Gasse 5-11, 1121 Vienna, Austria
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6
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Koch D, Kho AL, Fukuzawa A, Alexandrovich A, Vanaanen KJ, Beavil A, Pfuhl M, Rees M, Gautel M. Obscurin Rho GEF domains are phosphorylated by MST-family kinases but do not exhibit nucleotide exchange factor activity towards Rho GTPases in vitro. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284453. [PMID: 37079638 PMCID: PMC10118190 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Obscurin is a giant muscle protein (>800 kDa) featuring multiple signalling domains, including an SH3-DH-PH domain triplet from the Trio-subfamily of guanosine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs). While previous research suggests that these domains can activate the small GTPases RhoA and RhoQ in cells, in vitro characterization of these interactions using biophysical techniques has been hampered by the intrinsic instability of obscurin GEF domains. To study substrate specificity, mechanism and regulation of obscurin GEF function by individual domains, we successfully optimized recombinant production of obscurin GEF domains and found that MST-family kinases phosphorylate the obscurin DH domain at Thr5798. Despite extensive testing of multiple GEF domain fragments, we did not detect any nucleotide exchange activity in vitro against 9 representative small GTPases. Bioinformatic analyses show that obscurin differs from other Trio-subfamily GEFs in several important aspects. While further research is necessary to evaluate obscurin GEF activity in vivo, our results indicate that obscurin has atypical GEF domains that, if catalytically active at all, are subject to complex regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Koch
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ay Lin Kho
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Atsushi Fukuzawa
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Alexandrovich
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kutti J. Vanaanen
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Beavil
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Pfuhl
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Rees
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mathias Gautel
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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7
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Mons E, Kim RQ, Mulder MPC. Technologies for Direct Detection of Covalent Protein—Drug Adducts. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16040547. [PMID: 37111304 PMCID: PMC10146396 DOI: 10.3390/ph16040547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the past two decades, drug candidates with a covalent binding mode have gained the interest of medicinal chemists, as several covalent anticancer drugs have successfully reached the clinic. As a covalent binding mode changes the relevant parameters to rank inhibitor potency and investigate structure-activity relationship (SAR), it is important to gather experimental evidence on the existence of a covalent protein–drug adduct. In this work, we review established methods and technologies for the direct detection of a covalent protein–drug adduct, illustrated with examples from (recent) drug development endeavors. These technologies include subjecting covalent drug candidates to mass spectrometric (MS) analysis, protein crystallography, or monitoring intrinsic spectroscopic properties of the ligand upon covalent adduct formation. Alternatively, chemical modification of the covalent ligand is required to detect covalent adducts by NMR analysis or activity-based protein profiling (ABPP). Some techniques are more informative than others and can also elucidate the modified amino acid residue or bond layout. We will discuss the compatibility of these techniques with reversible covalent binding modes and the possibilities to evaluate reversibility or obtain kinetic parameters. Finally, we expand upon current challenges and future applications. Overall, these analytical techniques present an integral part of covalent drug development in this exciting new era of drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elma Mons
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Robbert Q. Kim
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Monique P. C. Mulder
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
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8
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Maya-Martinez R, Xu Y, Guthertz N, Walko M, Karamanos TK, Sobott F, Breeze AL, Radford SE. Dimers of D76N-β 2-microglobulin display potent antiamyloid aggregation activity. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102659. [PMID: 36328246 PMCID: PMC9712992 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-association of WT β2-microglobulin (WT-β2m) into amyloid fibrils is associated with the disorder dialysis related amyloidosis. In the familial variant D76N-β2m, the single amino acid substitution enhances the aggregation propensity of the protein dramatically and gives rise to a disorder that is independent of renal dysfunction. Numerous biophysical and structural studies on WT- and D76N-β2m have been performed in order to better understand the structure and dynamics of the native proteins and their different potentials to aggregate into amyloid. However, the structural properties of transient D76N-β2m oligomers and their role(s) in assembly remained uncharted. Here, we have utilized NMR methods, combined with photo-induced crosslinking, to detect, trap, and structurally characterize transient dimers of D76N-β2m. We show that the crosslinked D76N-β2m dimers have different structures from those previously characterized for the on-pathway dimers of ΔN6-β2m and are unable to assemble into amyloid. Instead, the crosslinked D76N-β2m dimers are potent inhibitors of amyloid formation, preventing primary nucleation and elongation/secondary nucleation when added in substoichiometric amounts with D76N-β2m monomers. The results highlight the specificity of early protein-protein interactions in amyloid formation and show how mapping these interfaces can inform new strategies to inhibit amyloid assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Maya-Martinez
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Yong Xu
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Nicolas Guthertz
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Walko
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, School of Chemistry, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Theodoros K Karamanos
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Frank Sobott
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander L Breeze
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Sheena E Radford
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom.
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9
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Du Z, Xu N, Yang Y, Li G, Tai Z, Li N, Sun Y. Study on internal structure of casein micelles in reconstituted skim milk powder. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 224:437-452. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.10.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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10
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Sarnowski CP, Bikaki M, Leitner A. Cross-linking and mass spectrometry as a tool for studying the structural biology of ribonucleoproteins. Structure 2022; 30:441-461. [PMID: 35366400 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cross-linking and mass spectrometry (XL-MS) workflows represent an increasingly popular technique for low-resolution structural studies of macromolecular complexes. Cross-linking reactions take place in the solution state, capturing contact sites between components of a complex that represent the native, functionally relevant structure. Protein-protein XL-MS protocols are widely adopted, providing precise localization of cross-linking sites to single amino acid positions within a pair of cross-linked peptides. In contrast, protein-RNA XL-MS workflows are evolving rapidly and differ in their ability to localize interaction regions within the RNA sequence. Here, we review protein-protein and protein-RNA XL-MS workflows, and discuss their applications in studies of protein-RNA complexes. The examples highlight the complementary value of XL-MS in structural studies of protein-RNA complexes, where more established high-resolution techniques might be unable to produce conclusive data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris P Sarnowski
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, Department of Biology, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; Systems Biology PhD Program, University of Zürich and ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maria Bikaki
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, Department of Biology, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Leitner
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, Department of Biology, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland.
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11
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Biswas K, Bhunia A. Probing the Functional Interaction Interface of Lipopolysaccharide and Antimicrobial Peptides: A Solution-State NMR Perspective. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2548:211-231. [PMID: 36151500 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2581-1_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been a topic of substantial research as the next-generation antibiotics. They have been extensively studied for the selectivity and action against microbial membrane lipids in imparting their targeted functioning. To determine the effectivity of the peptides against the Gram-negative pathogens, it is imperative to elucidate their role in interacting with the lipopolysaccharide moieties. Lipopolysaccharide is a major component of the outer membrane of the Gram-negative bacteria. It serves to protect the bacteria as well as govern the functionality of several antibacterial agents. It can prevent the access of the agents into the inner membrane of the bacteria, thus rendering them inactive. Several techniques have been employed to study the interaction for better designing of peptides; NMR spectroscopy is one of the most widely used techniques in determining the interactive properties of peptides with LPS as it can provide the details in atomistic level. NMR spectroscopy provides information about the structural and conformational changes as well as the dynamics of the interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anirban Bhunia
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India.
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12
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Vilca-Melendez S, Uthaug MV, Griffin JL. 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance: A Future Approach to the Metabolic Profiling of Psychedelics in Human Biofluids? Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:742856. [PMID: 34966300 PMCID: PMC8710695 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.742856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
While psychedelics may have therapeutic potential for treating mental health disorders such as depression, further research is needed to better understand their biological effects and mechanisms of action when considering the development of future novel therapy approaches. Psychedelic research could potentially benefit from the integration of metabonomics by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy which is an analytical chemistry-based approach that can measure the breakdown of drugs into their metabolites and their metabolic consequences from various biofluids. We have performed a systematic review with the primary aim of exploring published literature where 1H NMR analysed psychedelic substances including psilocin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), LSD derivatives, N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) and bufotenin. The second aim was to assess the benefits and limitations of 1H NMR spectroscopy-based metabolomics as a tool in psychedelic research and the final aim was to explore potential future directions. We found that the most current use of 1H NMR in psychedelic research has been for the structural elucidation and analytical characterisation of psychedelic molecules and that no papers used 1H NMR in the metabolic profiling of biofluids, thus exposing a current research gap and the underuse of 1H NMR. The efficacy of 1H NMR spectroscopy was also compared to mass spectrometry, where both metabonomics techniques have previously shown to be appropriate for biofluid analysis in other applications. Additionally, potential future directions for psychedelic research were identified as real-time NMR, in vivo 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and 1H NMR studies of the gut microbiome. Further psychedelic studies need to be conducted that incorporate the use of 1H NMR spectroscopy in the analysis of metabolites both in the peripheral biofluids and in vivo to determine whether it will be an effective future approach for clinical and naturalistic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvana Vilca-Melendez
- Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Malin V. Uthaug
- The Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Julian L. Griffin
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Pinto CPG, Walker AA, Robinson SD, Chin YKY, King GF, Rossi GD. Venom composition of the endoparasitoid wasp Cotesia flavipes (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and functional characterization of a major venom peptide. Toxicon 2021; 202:1-12. [PMID: 34547307 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Endoparasitoid wasps use complex biochemical arsenals to suppress the normal humoral and cellular immune responses of their hosts in order to transform them into a suitable environment for development of their eggs and larvae. Venom injected during oviposition is a key component of this arsenal, but the functions of individual venom toxins are still poorly understood. Furthermore, there has been little investigation of the potential biotechnological use of these venom toxins, for example for control of agricultural pests. The endoparasitoid Cotesia flavipes (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a biocontrol agent reared in biofactories and released extensively in Brazil to control the sugarcane borer Diatraea saccharalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae). The objectives of this work were to reveal venom components produced by C. flavipes and explore the function of a major venom peptide, Cf4. Using a combined proteomic/transcriptomic approach, we identified 38 putative venom toxins including both linear and disulfide-rich peptides, hydrolases, protease inhibitors, apolipophorins, lipid-binding proteins, and proteins of the odorant binding families. Because of its high abundance in the venom, we selected Cf4, a 33-residue peptide with three disulfide bonds, for synthesis and further characterization. We found that synthetic Cf4 reduced the capacity of D. saccharalis hemocytes to encapsulate foreign bodies without any effect on phenoloxidase activity, consistent with a role in disruption of the cellular host immune response. Feeding leaves coated with Cf4 to neonate D. saccharalis resulted in increased mortality and significantly reduced feeding compared to caterpillars fed untreated leaves, indicating that Cf4 is a potential candidate for insect pest control through ingestion. This study adds to our knowledge of endoparasitoid wasp venoms composition, host regulation mechanisms and their biotechnological potential for pest management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciro P G Pinto
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, SP, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Andrew A Walker
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia.
| | - Samuel D Robinson
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Yanni K-Y Chin
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Guilherme D Rossi
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, SP, 14884-900, Brazil.
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14
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Vogl DP, Conibear AC, Becker CFW. Segmental and site-specific isotope labelling strategies for structural analysis of posttranslationally modified proteins. RSC Chem Biol 2021; 2:1441-1461. [PMID: 34704048 PMCID: PMC8496066 DOI: 10.1039/d1cb00045d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Posttranslational modifications can alter protein structures, functions and locations, and are important cellular regulatory and signalling mechanisms. Spectroscopic techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared and Raman spectroscopy, as well as small-angle scattering, can provide insights into the structural and dynamic effects of protein posttranslational modifications and their impact on interactions with binding partners. However, heterogeneity of modified proteins from natural sources and spectral complexity often hinder analyses, especially for large proteins and macromolecular assemblies. Selective labelling of proteins with stable isotopes can greatly simplify spectra, as one can focus on labelled residues or segments of interest. Employing chemical biology tools for modifying and isotopically labelling proteins with atomic precision provides access to unique protein samples for structural biology and spectroscopy. Here, we review site-specific and segmental isotope labelling methods that are employed in combination with chemical and enzymatic tools to access posttranslationally modified proteins. We discuss illustrative examples in which these methods have been used to facilitate spectroscopic studies of posttranslationally modified proteins, providing new insights into biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik P Vogl
- University of Vienna, Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry Währinger Straße 38 1090 Vienna Austria +43-1-4277-870510 +43-1-4277-70510
| | - Anne C Conibear
- The University of Queensland, School of Biomedical Sciences St Lucia Brisbane 4072 QLD Australia
| | - Christian F W Becker
- University of Vienna, Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry Währinger Straße 38 1090 Vienna Austria +43-1-4277-870510 +43-1-4277-70510
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15
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Bennett JL, Nguyen GTH, Donald WA. Protein-Small Molecule Interactions in Native Mass Spectrometry. Chem Rev 2021; 122:7327-7385. [PMID: 34449207 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Small molecule drug discovery has been propelled by the continual development of novel scientific methodologies to occasion therapeutic advances. Although established biophysical methods can be used to obtain information regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying drug action, these approaches are often inefficient, low throughput, and ineffective in the analysis of heterogeneous systems including dynamic oligomeric assemblies and proteins that have undergone extensive post-translational modification. Native mass spectrometry can be used to probe protein-small molecule interactions with unprecedented speed and sensitivity, providing unique insights into polydisperse biomolecular systems that are commonly encountered during the drug discovery process. In this review, we describe potential and proven applications of native MS in the study of interactions between small, drug-like molecules and proteins, including large multiprotein complexes and membrane proteins. Approaches to quantify the thermodynamic and kinetic properties of ligand binding are discussed, alongside a summary of gas-phase ion activation techniques that have been used to interrogate the structure of protein-small molecule complexes. We additionally highlight some of the key areas in modern drug design for which native mass spectrometry has elicited significant advances. Future developments and applications of native mass spectrometry in drug discovery workflows are identified, including potential pathways toward studying protein-small molecule interactions on a whole-proteome scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack L Bennett
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Giang T H Nguyen
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - William A Donald
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
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16
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Gaber A, Pavšič M. Modeling and Structure Determination of Homo-Oligomeric Proteins: An Overview of Challenges and Current Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9081. [PMID: 34445785 PMCID: PMC8396596 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22169081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein homo-oligomerization is a very common phenomenon, and approximately half of proteins form homo-oligomeric assemblies composed of identical subunits. The vast majority of such assemblies possess internal symmetry which can be either exploited to help or poses challenges during structure determination. Moreover, aspects of symmetry are critical in the modeling of protein homo-oligomers either by docking or by homology-based approaches. Here, we first provide a brief overview of the nature of protein homo-oligomerization. Next, we describe how the symmetry of homo-oligomers is addressed by crystallographic and non-crystallographic symmetry operations, and how biologically relevant intermolecular interactions can be deciphered from the ordered array of molecules within protein crystals. Additionally, we describe the most important aspects of protein homo-oligomerization in structure determination by NMR. Finally, we give an overview of approaches aimed at modeling homo-oligomers using computational methods that specifically address their internal symmetry and allow the incorporation of other experimental data as spatial restraints to achieve higher model reliability.
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17
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Sharma G, Braga CB, Chen KE, Jia X, Ramanujam V, Collins BM, Rittner R, Mobli M. Structural basis for the binding of the cancer targeting scorpion toxin, ClTx, to the vascular endothelia growth factor receptor neuropilin-1. Curr Res Struct Biol 2021; 3:179-186. [PMID: 34401749 PMCID: PMC8358460 DOI: 10.1016/j.crstbi.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlorotoxin (ClTx) is a 36-residue disulfide-rich peptide isolated from the venom of the scorpion Leiurus quinquestriatus. This peptide has been shown to selectively bind to brain tumours (gliomas), however, with conflicting reports regarding its direct cellular target. Recently, the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, neuropilin-1 (NRP1) has emerged as a potential target of the peptide. Here, we sought to characterize the details of the binding of ClTx to the b1-domain of NRP1 (NRP1-b1) using solution state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The 3D structure of the isotope labelled peptide was solved using multidimensional heteronuclear NMR spectroscopy to produce a well-resolved structural ensemble. The structure points to three putative protein-protein interaction interfaces, two basic patches (R14/K15/K23 and R25/K27/R36) and a hydrophobic patch (F6/T7/T8/H10). The NRP1-b1 binding interface of ClTx was elucidated using 15N chemical shift mapping and included the R25/K27/R36 region of the peptide. The thermodynamics of binding was determined using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). In both NMR and ITC measurements, the binding was shown to be competitive with a known NRP1-b1 inhibitor. Finally, combining all of this data we generate a model of the ClTx:NRP1-b1 complex. The data shows that the peptide binds to the same region of NRP1 that is used by the SARS-CoV-2 virus for cell entry, however, via a non-canonical binding mode. Our results provide evidence for a non-standard NRP1 binding motif, while also providing a basis for further engineering of ClTx to generate peptides with improved NRP1 binding for future biomedical applications. Structural details of the binding of the scorpion toxin, chlorotoxin (ClTx) to the VEGF receptor neuropilin-1 (NRP1). ClTx was produced in its native fold and isotope labelled using a new, high-yield, bacterial expression system. Multidimensional heteronuclear NMR experiments reveal the high-resolution structure of ClTx and its binding to NRP1. ClTx binds to NRP1 via a non-canonical primary sequence that satisfies the receptor binding motif through its tertiary fold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gagan Sharma
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Carolyne B. Braga
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
- Chemistry Institute, University of Campinas, P.O. Box 6154, 13083-970, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Kai-En Chen
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Xinying Jia
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Brett M. Collins
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Roberto Rittner
- Chemistry Institute, University of Campinas, P.O. Box 6154, 13083-970, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Mehdi Mobli
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
- Corresponding author.
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18
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Shi M, Jin X, Wan Z, He X. Automated fragmentation quantum mechanical calculation of 13C and 1H chemical shifts in molecular crystals. J Chem Phys 2021; 154:064502. [PMID: 33588539 DOI: 10.1063/5.0039115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, the automated fragmentation quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (AF-QM/MM) approach was applied to calculate the 13C and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) chemical shifts in molecular crystals. Two benchmark sets of molecular crystals were selected to calculate the NMR chemical shifts. Systematic investigation was conducted to examine the convergence of AF-QM/MM calculations and the impact of various density functionals with different basis sets on the NMR chemical shift prediction. The result demonstrates that the calculated NMR chemical shifts are close to convergence when the distance threshold for the QM region is larger than 3.5 Å. For 13C chemical shift calculations, the mPW1PW91 functional is the best density functional among the functionals chosen in this study (namely, B3LYP, B3PW91, M06-2X, M06-L, mPW1PW91, OB98, and OPBE), while the OB98 functional is more suitable for the 1H NMR chemical shift prediction of molecular crystals. Moreover, with the B3LYP functional, at least a triple-ζ basis set should be utilized to accurately reproduce the experimental 13C and 1H chemical shifts. The employment of diffuse basis functions will further improve the accuracy for 13C chemical shift calculations, but not for the 1H chemical shift prediction. We further proposed a fragmentation scheme of dividing the central molecule into smaller fragments. By comparing with the results of the fragmentation scheme using the entire central molecule as the core region, the AF-QM/MM calculations with the fragmented central molecule can not only achieve accurate results but also reduce the computational cost. Therefore, the AF-QM/MM approach is capable of predicting the 13C and 1H NMR chemical shifts for molecular crystals accurately and effectively, and could be utilized for dealing with more complex periodic systems such as macromolecular polymers and biomacromolecules. The AF-QM/MM program for molecular crystals is available at https://github.com/shiman1995/NMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Shi
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Xinsheng Jin
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Zheng Wan
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Xiao He
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
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19
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El-Kamand S, Du Plessis MD, Lawson T, Cubeddu L, Gamsjaeger R. Expression, Purification, and Solution-State NMR Analysis of the Two Human Single-Stranded DNA-Binding Proteins hSSB1 (NABP2/OBFC2B) and hSSB2 (NAPB1/OBFC2A). Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2281:229-240. [PMID: 33847962 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1290-3_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Single-stranded DNA-binding proteins (SSBs) are essential to all living organisms as protectors and guardians of the genome. Apart from the well-characterized RPA, humans have also evolved two further SSBs, termed hSSB1 and hSSB2. Over the last few years, we have used NMR spectroscopy to determine the molecular and structural details of both hSSBs and their interactions with DNA and RNA. Here we provide a detailed overview of how to express and purify recombinant versions of these important human proteins for the purpose of detailed structural analysis by high-resolution solution-state NMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serene El-Kamand
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Teegan Lawson
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Liza Cubeddu
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia.
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Roland Gamsjaeger
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia.
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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20
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Caillet-Saguy C, Brûlé S, Wolff N, Raynal B. PDZ Sample Quality Assessment by Biochemical and Biophysical Characterizations. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2256:89-124. [PMID: 34014518 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1166-1_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
PDZ domains are small globular domains involved in protein-protein interactions. They participate in a wide range of critical cellular processes. These domains, very abundant in the human proteome, are widely studied by high-throughput interactomics approaches and by biophysical and structural methods. However, the quality of the results is strongly related to the optimal folding and solubility of the domains. We provide here a detailed description of protocols for a strict quality assessment of the PDZ constructs. We describe appropriate experimental approaches that have been selected to overcome the small size of such domains to check the purity, identity, homogeneity, stability, and folding of samples.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sébastien Brûlé
- Institut Pasteur, Plate-forme de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UMR 3528, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Wolff
- Institut Pasteur, Unité Récepteurs-Canaux, CNRS UMR 3571, Paris, France.
| | - Bertrand Raynal
- Institut Pasteur, Plate-forme de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UMR 3528, Paris, France
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21
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Bonjack M, Avnir D. The near-symmetry of protein oligomers: NMR-derived structures. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8367. [PMID: 32433550 PMCID: PMC7239866 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65097-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The majority of oligomeric proteins form clusters which have rotational or dihedral symmetry. Despite the many advantages of symmetric packing, protein oligomers are only nearly symmetric, and the origin of this phenomenon is still in need to be fully explored. Here we apply near-symmetry analyses by the Continuous Symmetry Measures methodology of protein homomers to their natural state, namely their structures in solution. NMR-derived structural data serves us for that purpose. We find that symmetry deviations of proteins are by far higher in solution, compared to the crystalline state; that much of the symmetry distortion is due to amino acids along the interface between the subunits; that the distortions are mainly due to hydrophilic amino acids; and that distortive oligomerization processes such as the swap-domain mechanism can be identified by the symmetry analysis. Most of the analyses were carried out on distorted C2-symmetry dimers, but C3 and D2 cases were analyzed as well. Our NMR analysis supports the idea that the crystallographic B-factor represents non-classical crystals, in which different conformers pack in the crystal, perhaps from the conformers which the NMR analysis provides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maayan Bonjack
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - David Avnir
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel.
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22
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Mueller A, Dekan Z, Kaas Q, Agwa AJ, Starobova H, Alewood PF, Schroeder CI, Mobli M, Deuis JR, Vetter I. Mapping the Molecular Surface of the Analgesic Na V1.7-Selective Peptide Pn3a Reveals Residues Essential for Membrane and Channel Interactions. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2020; 3:535-546. [PMID: 32566918 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.0c00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Compelling human genetic studies have identified the voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.7 as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of pain. The analgesic spider-venom-derived peptide μ-theraphotoxin-Pn3a is an exceptionally potent and selective inhibitor of NaV1.7; however, little is known about the structure-activity relationships or channel interactions that define this activity. We rationally designed 17 Pn3a analogues and determined their activity at hNaV1.7 using patch-clamp electrophysiology. The positively charged amino acids K22 and K24 were identified as crucial for Pn3a activity, with molecular modeling identifying interactions of these residues with the S3-S4 loop of domain II of hNaV1.7. Removal of hydrophobic residues Y4, Y27, and W30 led to a loss of potency (>250-fold), while replacement of negatively charged D1 and D8 residues with a positively charged lysine led to increased potencies (>13-fold), likely through alterations in membrane lipid interactions. Mutating D8 to an asparagine led to the greatest improvement in Pn3a potency at NaV1.7 (20-fold), while maintaining >100-fold selectivity over the major off-targets NaV1.4, NaV1.5, and NaV1.6. The Pn3a[D8N] mutant retained analgesic activity in vivo, significantly attenuating mechanical allodynia in a clinically relevant mouse model of postsurgical pain at doses 3-fold lower than those with wild-type Pn3a, without causing motor-adverse effects. Results from this study will facilitate future rational design of potent and selective peptidic NaV1.7 inhibitors for the development of more efficacious and safer analgesics as well as to further investigate the involvement of NaV1.7 in pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Mueller
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Zoltan Dekan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Akello J Agwa
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Hana Starobova
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Paul F Alewood
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Christina I Schroeder
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Mehdi Mobli
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Jennifer R Deuis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia.,School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
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23
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Li S, Lu G, Fang X, Ramelot TA, Kennedy MA, Zhou X, Gong P, Zhang X, Liu M, Zhu J, Yang Y. Structural insight into the length-dependent binding of ssDNA by SP_0782 from Streptococcus pneumoniae, reveals a divergence in the DNA-binding interface of PC4-like proteins. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:432-444. [PMID: 31713614 PMCID: PMC7145681 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz1045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
SP_0782 from Streptococcus pneumoniae is a dimeric protein that potentially binds with single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) in a manner similar to human PC4, the prototype of PC4-like proteins, which plays roles in transcription and maintenance of genome stability. In a previous NMR study, SP_0782 exhibited an ssDNA-binding property different from YdbC, a prokaryotic PC4-like protein from Lactococcus lactis, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we show that although SP_0782 adopts an overall fold similar to those of PC4 and YdbC, the ssDNA length occupied by SP_0782 is shorter than those occupied by PC4 and YdbC. SP_0782 exhibits varied binding patterns for different lengths of ssDNA, and tends to form large complexes with ssDNA in a potential high-density binding manner. The structures of SP_0782 complexed with different ssDNAs reveal that the varied binding patterns are associated with distinct capture of nucleotides in two major DNA-binding regions of SP_0782. Moreover, a comparison of known structures of PC4-like proteins complexed with ssDNA reveals a divergence in the binding interface between prokaryotic and eukaryotic PC4-like proteins. This study provides insights into the ssDNA-binding mechanism of PC4-like proteins, and benefits further study regarding the biological function of SP_0782, probably in DNA protection and natural transformation.
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MESH Headings
- Bacterial Proteins/chemistry
- Bacterial Proteins/genetics
- Bacterial Proteins/metabolism
- Binding Sites
- Crystallography, X-Ray
- DNA, Bacterial/chemistry
- DNA, Bacterial/genetics
- DNA, Bacterial/metabolism
- DNA, Single-Stranded/chemistry
- DNA, Single-Stranded/genetics
- DNA, Single-Stranded/metabolism
- DNA-Binding Proteins/chemistry
- DNA-Binding Proteins/genetics
- DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism
- Humans
- Kinetics
- Lactococcus lactis/genetics
- Lactococcus lactis/metabolism
- Models, Molecular
- Nucleic Acid Conformation
- Protein Binding
- Protein Conformation, alpha-Helical
- Protein Conformation, beta-Strand
- Protein Folding
- Protein Interaction Domains and Motifs
- Streptococcus pneumoniae/genetics
- Streptococcus pneumoniae/metabolism
- Thermodynamics
- Transcription Factors/chemistry
- Transcription Factors/genetics
- Transcription Factors/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangli Li
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guoliang Lu
- Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiang Fang
- Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Theresa A Ramelot
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and the Northeast Structural Genomics Consortium, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Michael A Kennedy
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and the Northeast Structural Genomics Consortium, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Xin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Peng Gong
- Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Maili Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Jiang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yunhuang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China
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24
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Escobedo A, Chiesa G, Salvatella X. Recombinant Production of Monomeric Isotope-Enriched Aggregation-Prone Peptides: Polyglutamine Tracts and Beyond. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2141:211-231. [PMID: 32696359 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0524-0_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
High solvent exposure of certain sequences located in intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) may eventually lead to aggregation, as is the case for some low-complexity regions (LCRs) and short linear motifs (SLiMs). In particular, polyglutamine (polyQ) tracts are LCRs of variable length highly enriched in glutamine residues. They are common in transcription factors, and their length can have an impact on transcriptional activity. In nine proteins, polyQ tract expansions beyond specific thresholds cause nine neurodegenerative diseases, and aggregates formed by the protein harboring the polyQ tract can be detected in affected individuals. A structural characterization of polyQ proteins in their monomeric form is key to understand how their expansion can affect their aggregation propensity. In this regard, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy can provide high-resolution structural information. Here, we present a protocol to prepare monomeric samples of isotope-enriched short helical polyQ peptides based on the sequence of the androgen receptor (AR) suitable for NMR characterization and suggest different ways to adapt it for the production and monomerization of other relatively short IDR sequences and SLiMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Escobedo
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Joint BSC-IRB Research Programme in Computational Biology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giulio Chiesa
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Joint BSC-IRB Research Programme in Computational Biology, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xavier Salvatella
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.
- Joint BSC-IRB Research Programme in Computational Biology, Barcelona, Spain.
- ICREA, Barcelona, Spain.
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25
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Ball SR, Pham CLL, Lo V, Morris VK, Kwan AH, Sunde M. Formation of Amphipathic Amyloid Monolayers from Fungal Hydrophobin Proteins. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2073:55-72. [PMID: 31612436 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9869-2_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The fungal hydrophobins are small proteins that are able to self-assemble spontaneously into amphipathic monolayers at hydrophobic:hydrophilic interfaces. These protein monolayers can reverse the wettability of a surface, making them suitable for increasing the biocompatibility of many hydrophobic nanomaterials. One subgroup of this family, the class I hydrophobins, forms monolayers that are composed of extremely robust amyloid-like fibrils, called rodlets. Here, we describe the protocols for the production and purification of recombinant hydrophobins and oxidative refolding to a biologically active, soluble, monomeric form. We describe methods to trigger the self-assembly into the fibrillar rodlet state and techniques to characterize the physicochemical properties of the polymeric forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R Ball
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Sydney Nano, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chi L L Pham
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Sydney Nano, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Victor Lo
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Sydney Nano, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Vanessa K Morris
- School of Biological Science, University of Canterbury, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - Ann H Kwan
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences and Sydney Nano, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Margaret Sunde
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Sydney Nano, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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De Simone A, Naldi M, Tedesco D, Bartolini M, Davani L, Andrisano V. Advanced analytical methodologies in Alzheimer’s disease drug discovery. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2020; 178:112899. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2019.112899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Aliakbari A, Ehsani A, Vaez Torshizi R, Løvendahl P, Esfandyari H, Jensen J, Sarup P. Genetic variance of metabolomic features and their relationship with body weight and body weight gain in Holstein cattle1. J Anim Sci 2019; 97:3832-3844. [PMID: 31278866 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skz228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, metabolomics has been used to clarify the biology underlying biological samples. In the field of animal breeding, investigating the magnitude of genetic control on the metabolomic profiles of animals and their relationships with quantitative traits adds valuable information to animal improvement schemes. In this study, we analyzed metabolomic features (MFs) extracted from the metabolomic profiles of 843 male Holstein calves. The metabolomic profiles were obtained using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. We investigated 2 alternative methods to control for peak shifts in the NMR spectra, binning and aligning, to determine which approach was the most efficient for assessing genetic variance. Series of univariate analyses were implemented to elucidate the heritability of each MF. Furthermore, records on BW and ADG from 154 to 294 d of age (ADG154-294), 294 to 336 d of age (ADG294-336), and 154 to 336 d of age (ADG154-336) were used in a series of bivariate analyses to establish the genetic and phenotypic correlations with MFs. Bivariate analyses were only performed for MFs that had a heritability significantly different from zero. The heritabilities obtained in the univariate analyses for the MFs in the binned data set were low (<0.2). In contrast, in the aligned data set, we obtained moderate heritability (0.2 to 0.5) for 3.5% of MFs and high heritability (more than 0.5) for 1% of MFs. The bivariate analyses showed that ~12%, ~3%, ~9%, and ~9% of MFs had significant additive genetic correlations with BW, ADG154-294, ADG294-336, and ADG154-336, respectively. In all of the bivariate analyses, the percentage of significant additive genetic correlations was higher than the percentage of significant phenotypic correlations of the corresponding trait. Our results provided insights into the influence of the underlying genetic mechanisms on MFs. Further investigations in this field are needed for better understanding of the genetic relationship among the MFs and quantitative traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Aliakbari
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Ehsani
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasoul Vaez Torshizi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peter Løvendahl
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Aarhus University, Tjele, Denmark
| | - Hadi Esfandyari
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Aarhus University, Tjele, Denmark
| | - Just Jensen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Aarhus University, Tjele, Denmark
| | - Pernille Sarup
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Aarhus University, Tjele, Denmark
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Nikolaev Y, Ripin N, Soste M, Picotti P, Iber D, Allain FHT. Systems NMR: single-sample quantification of RNA, proteins and metabolites for biomolecular network analysis. Nat Methods 2019; 16:743-749. [PMID: 31363225 PMCID: PMC6837886 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-019-0495-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cellular behavior is controlled by the interplay of diverse biomolecules. Most
experimental methods, however, can monitor only a single molecule class or
reaction type at a time. We developed an in vitro Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
spectroscopy (NMR) approach, which permitted dynamic quantification of an entire
“heterotypic” network – simultaneously monitoring three
distinct molecule classes (metabolites, proteins, RNA) and all elementary
reaction types (bimolecular interactions, catalysis, unimolecular changes).
Focusing on an 8-reaction co-transcriptional RNA folding network, in a single
sample we recorded over 35 time-points with over 170 observables each, and
accurately determined 5 core reaction constants in multiplex. This
reconstruction revealed unexpected cross-talk between the different reactions.
We further observed dynamic phase-separation in a system of five distinct RNA
binding domains in the course of the RNA transcription reaction. Our Systems NMR
approach provides a deeper understanding of biological network dynamics by
combining the dynamic resolution of biochemical assays and the multiplexing
ability of “omics”.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaroslav Nikolaev
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Biology & Biophysics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Nina Ripin
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Biology & Biophysics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Soste
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Paola Picotti
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dagmar Iber
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Frédéric H-T Allain
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Biology & Biophysics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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29
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Xiong P, Hu X, Huang B, Zhang J, Chen Q, Liu H. Increasing the efficiency and accuracy of the ABACUS protein sequence design method. Bioinformatics 2019; 36:136-144. [DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/btz515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Motivation
The ABACUS (a backbone-based amino acid usage survey) method uses unique statistical energy functions to carry out protein sequence design. Although some of its results have been experimentally verified, its accuracy remains improvable because several important components of the method have not been specifically optimized for sequence design or in contexts of other parts of the method. The computational efficiency also needs to be improved to support interactive online applications or the consideration of a large number of alternative backbone structures.
Results
We derived a model to measure solvent accessibility with larger mutual information with residue types than previous models, optimized a set of rotamers which can approximate the sidechain atomic positions more accurately, and devised an empirical function to treat inter-atomic packing with parameters fitted to native structures and optimized in consistence with the rotamer set. Energy calculations have been accelerated by interpolation between pre-determined representative points in high-dimensional structural feature spaces. Sidechain repacking tests showed that ABACUS2 can accurately reproduce the conformation of native sidechains. In sequence design tests, the native residue type recovery rate reached 37.7%, exceeding the value of 32.7% for ABACUS1. Applying ABACUS2 to designed sequences on three native backbones produced proteins shown to be well-folded by experiments.
Availability and implementation
The ABACUS2 sequence design server can be visited at http://biocomp.ustc.edu.cn/servers/abacus-design.php.
Supplementary information
Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Xiong
- School of Life Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Xiuhong Hu
- School of Life Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Bin Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Jiahai Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Quan Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Haiyan Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
- School of Data Science, University of Sciences and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
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30
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Zamoon J, Madhu D, Ahmed I. Dynamic oligomerization of hRAGE's transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains within SDS micelles. Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 130:10-18. [PMID: 30794903 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.02.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The human Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (hRAGE) is a pattern recognition receptor implicated in inflammation and adhesion. It is involved in both innate and adaptive immunity. Its aberrant signaling is tied to the pathogenesis of diabetic complications, neurodegenerative disorders, and chronic inflammatory responses. Previous structural studies have focused on its extracellular domains with their canonical constant and variable Ig folds, and to a much lesser extent, the intrinsically disorder cytoplasmic domain. No experimental data are reported on the transmembrane domain, which is integral to signaling. We have constructed, expressed and purified the transmembrane domain attached to the cytoplasmic domain of hRAGE in E. coli. Multiple self-associated forms of these domains were observed in vitro. This pattern of mixed oligomers resembled previously reported in vivo forms of the complete receptor. The self-association of these two domains was further characterized using: SDS-PAGE, intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence and heteronuclear NMR spectroscopy. NMR conditions were assessed across time and temperature within micelles. Our data show that the transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains of hRAGE undergo dynamic oligomerizations that can occur in the absence of its extracellular domains or ligand binding. And, such associations are only partially disrupted even with prolonged incubation in strong detergents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamillah Zamoon
- Department of Biological Sciences (Biochemistry Program), Faculty of Science, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 5969, 13060, Kuwait.
| | - Dhanya Madhu
- Department of Biological Sciences (Biochemistry Program), Faculty of Science, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 5969, 13060, Kuwait
| | - Ikhlas Ahmed
- Department of Biological Sciences (Biochemistry Program), Faculty of Science, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 5969, 13060, Kuwait
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31
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Mureddu L, Vuister GW. Simple high-resolution NMR spectroscopy as a tool in molecular biology. FEBS J 2019; 286:2035-2042. [PMID: 30706658 PMCID: PMC6563160 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
NMR is one of the major techniques for investigating the structure, dynamics and interactions between biomolecules. However, non-experts often experience NMR experimentation and data analysis as intimidating. We discuss a simple yet powerful NMR technique, the so-called chemical shift perturbation (CSP) analysis, as a tool to elucidate macromolecular interactions in small- and medium-sized complexes, including protein-protein, protein-drug, and protein-DNA/RNA interactions. We discuss current software packages for NMR data analysis and present a new interactive graphical tool implemented in CcpNmr AnalysisAssign version-3, which can drastically reduce the time required for the CSP analysis. Lastly, we illustrate the usefulness of a protein three-dimensional structure for interpretation of the CSP data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Mureddu
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Leicester Institute of Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, UK
| | - Geerten W Vuister
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Leicester Institute of Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, UK
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32
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Selective Na V1.1 activation rescues Dravet syndrome mice from seizures and premature death. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E8077-E8085. [PMID: 30076230 PMCID: PMC6112713 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1804764115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Spider venom is a rich source of peptides, many targeting ion channels. We assessed a venom peptide, Hm1a, as a potential targeted therapy for Dravet syndrome, the genetic epilepsy linked to a mutation in the gene encoding the sodium channel alpha subunit NaV1.1. Cell-based assays showed Hm1a was selective for hNaV1.1 over other sodium and potassium channels. Utilizing a mouse model of Dravet syndrome, Hm1a restored inhibitory neuron function and significantly reduced seizures and mortality in heterozygote mice. Evidence from the structure of Hm1a and modeling suggest Hm1a interacts with NaV1.1 inactivation domains, providing a structural correlate of the functional mechanisms. This proof-of-concept study provides a promising strategy for future drug development in genetic epilepsy and other neurogenetic disorders. Dravet syndrome is a catastrophic, pharmacoresistant epileptic encephalopathy. Disease onset occurs in the first year of life, followed by developmental delay with cognitive and behavioral dysfunction and substantially elevated risk of premature death. The majority of affected individuals harbor a loss-of-function mutation in one allele of SCN1A, which encodes the voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.1. Brain NaV1.1 is primarily localized to fast-spiking inhibitory interneurons; thus the mechanism of epileptogenesis in Dravet syndrome is hypothesized to be reduced inhibitory neurotransmission leading to brain hyperexcitability. We show that selective activation of NaV1.1 by venom peptide Hm1a restores the function of inhibitory interneurons from Dravet syndrome mice without affecting the firing of excitatory neurons. Intracerebroventricular infusion of Hm1a rescues Dravet syndrome mice from seizures and premature death. This precision medicine approach, which specifically targets the molecular deficit in Dravet syndrome, presents an opportunity for treatment of this intractable epilepsy.
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Abstract
Lanthipeptides are ribosomally synthesized and posttranslationally modified peptides containing thioether cross-links formed through addition of a cysteine to a dehydroalanine (to form lanthionine) or to a dehydrobutyrine (to form 3-methyllanthionine). Genome sequencing of marine cyanobacteria lead to the discovery of 1.6 million open reading frames encoding lanthipeptides. In many cases, a genome encodes a single lanthipeptide synthetase, but a large number of substrates. The enzymatic modification process in Prochlorococcus MIT9313 has been reconstituted in vitro, and a variety of experimental approaches have been used to try and understand how one enzyme is capable of modifying 30 different substrates. The methods used to characterize this system will be described along with a brief genomic description of the lanthipeptide landscape found in Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus.
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34
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Raznikov VV, Raznikova MO, Pridatchenko ML. Disentangling of Information About the Structure of Biomolecules Based on the Decomposition and Separation of Two-Dimentional Charge Distributions of Ions. JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY 2018. [DOI: 10.1134/s106193481713007x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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35
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McWhinnie FS, Sepp K, Wilson C, Kunath T, Hupp TR, Baker TS, Houston DR, Hulme AN. Mono-Substituted Hydrocarbon Diastereomer Combinations Reveal Stapled Peptides with High Structural Fidelity. Chemistry 2018; 24:2094-2097. [DOI: 10.1002/chem.201705983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fergus S. McWhinnie
- EaStChem School of Chemistry; University of Edinburgh; David Brewster Road Edinburgh EH9 3FJ UK
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, ISCR; University of Edinburgh; Edinburgh EH16 4UU UK
| | - Kristel Sepp
- EaStChem School of Chemistry; University of Edinburgh; David Brewster Road Edinburgh EH9 3FJ UK
| | - Charlotte Wilson
- EaStChem School of Chemistry; University of Edinburgh; David Brewster Road Edinburgh EH9 3FJ UK
| | - Tilo Kunath
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, ISCR; University of Edinburgh; Edinburgh EH16 4UU UK
| | - Ted R. Hupp
- Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine; University of Edinburgh; Edinburgh EH4 2XR UK
| | | | - Douglas R. Houston
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, Biochemistry and Biotechnology; University of Edinburgh; Edinburgh EH9 3BF UK
| | - Alison N. Hulme
- EaStChem School of Chemistry; University of Edinburgh; David Brewster Road Edinburgh EH9 3FJ UK
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36
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Pawar AD, Verma D, Sankeshi V, Raman R, Sharma Y. Strategizing for the purification of a multiple Big domain-containing protein in native conformation is worth it! Protein Expr Purif 2017; 145:25-31. [PMID: 29287899 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2017.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The reliability and accuracy of conformational or functional studies of any novel multidomain protein rely on the quality of protein. The bottleneck in structural studies with the complete Big_2 domain containing proteins like LigA, LigB or MpIBP is usually their large molecular size owing to their multidomain (>10-12 domains) architectures. Interestingly, a soil bacterium Paenarthrobacter aurescens TC1, harbours a gene that encodes a protein comprising of four predicted Big_2 domains. We report here the expression and purification of this novel, multiple Big_2 domains containing protein, Arig of P. aurescens TC1. During overexpression, recombinant Arig formed inclusion bodies and hence was purified by on-column refolding. The refolded Arig revealed a β-sheet conformation and a well-resolved near-UV CD spectra but did not exhibit a well-dispersed 2D [1H-15N]-HSQC NMR spectrum, as expected for a well-folded β-sheet native conformation. We, therefore, further optimized Arig overexpression in the soluble fraction by including osmolytes. CD spectroscopic and 2D [1H-15N]-HSQC analyses consolidate that Arig purified alternatively has a well-folded native conformation. While we describe different strategies for purification of Arig, we also present the spectral properties of this novel all-β-sheet protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmita D Pawar
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India.
| | - Deepshikha Verma
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, 1, Homi Bhabha Road, Colaba, Mumbai, 400005, India
| | - Venu Sankeshi
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India
| | - Rajeev Raman
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India
| | - Yogendra Sharma
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), New Delhi, India
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37
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Chaudhary B, Mazumder S, Mohanty S. Production and biophysical characterization of a mini-membrane protein, Ost4V23D: A functionally important mutant of yeast oligosaccharyltransferase subunit Ost4p. Protein Expr Purif 2017; 139:43-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2017.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 07/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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38
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Ghosh A, Bhattacharyya D, Bhunia A. Structural insights of a self-assembling 9-residue peptide from the C-terminal tail of the SARS corona virus E-protein in DPC and SDS micelles: A combined high and low resolution spectroscopic study. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1860:335-346. [PMID: 29038024 PMCID: PMC7094419 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, several studies based on the interaction of self-assembling short peptides derived from viroporins with model membranes, have improved our understanding of the molecular mechanism of corona virus (CoV) infection under physiological conditions. In this study, we have characterized the mechanism of membrane interaction of a short, 9-residue peptide TK9 (T55VYVYSRVK63) that had been derived from the carboxyl terminal of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) corona virus (SARS CoV) envelope (E) protein. The peptide has been studied for its physical changes in the presence of both zwitterionic DPC and negatively charged SDS model membrane micelles, respectively, with the help of a battery of biophysical techniques including two-dimensional solution state NMR spectroscopy. Interestingly, in both micellar environments, TK9 adopted an alpha helical conformation; however, the helical propensities were much higher in the case of DPC compared to those of SDS micelle, suggesting that TK9 has more specificity towards eukaryotic cell membrane than the bacterial cell membrane. The orientation of the peptide TK9 also varies in the different micellar environments. The peptide's affinity was further manifested by its pronounced membrane disruption ability towards the mammalian compared to the bacterial membrane mimic. Collectively, the in-depth structural information on the interaction of TK9 with different membrane environments explains the host specificity and membrane orientation owing to subsequent membrane disruption implicated in the viral pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Ghosh
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), Kolkata 700054, India
| | - Dipita Bhattacharyya
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), Kolkata 700054, India
| | - Anirban Bhunia
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), Kolkata 700054, India.
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39
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Fong JC, Rogers A, Michael AK, Parsley NC, Cornell WC, Lin YC, Singh PK, Hartmann R, Drescher K, Vinogradov E, Dietrich LE, Partch CL, Yildiz FH. Structural dynamics of RbmA governs plasticity of Vibrio cholerae biofilms. eLife 2017; 6:26163. [PMID: 28762945 PMCID: PMC5605196 DOI: 10.7554/elife.26163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Biofilm formation is critical for the infection cycle of Vibrio cholerae. Vibrio exopolysaccharides (VPS) and the matrix proteins RbmA, Bap1 and RbmC are required for the development of biofilm architecture. We demonstrate that RbmA binds VPS directly and uses a binary structural switch within its first fibronectin type III (FnIII-1) domain to control RbmA structural dynamics and the formation of VPS-dependent higher-order structures. The structural switch in FnIII-1 regulates interactions in trans with the FnIII-2 domain, leading to open (monomeric) or closed (dimeric) interfaces. The ability of RbmA to switch between open and closed states is important for V. cholerae biofilm formation, as RbmA variants with switches that are locked in either of the two states lead to biofilms with altered architecture and structural integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiunn Cn Fong
- Department of Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, United States
| | - Andrew Rogers
- Department of Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, United States
| | - Alicia K Michael
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, United States
| | - Nicole C Parsley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, United States
| | | | - Yu-Cheng Lin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, United States
| | - Praveen K Singh
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Raimo Hartmann
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Knut Drescher
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Lars Ep Dietrich
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, United States
| | - Carrie L Partch
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, United States
| | - Fitnat H Yildiz
- Department of Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, United States
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40
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A novel expression system for lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases. Carbohydr Res 2017; 448:212-219. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carres.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Agwa AJ, Henriques ST, Schroeder CI. Gating modifier toxin interactions with ion channels and lipid bilayers: Is the trimolecular complex real? Neuropharmacology 2017; 127:32-45. [PMID: 28400258 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Revised: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Spider peptide toxins have attracted attention because of their ability to target voltage-gated ion channels, which are involved in several pathologies including chronic pain and some cardiovascular conditions. A class of these peptides acts by modulating the gating mechanism of voltage-gated ion channels and are thus called gating modifier toxins (GMTs). In addition to their interactions with voltage-gated ion channels, some GMTs have affinity for lipid bilayers. This review discusses the potential importance of the cell membrane on the mode of action of GMTs. We propose that peptide-membrane interactions can anchor GMTs at the cell surface, thereby increasing GMT concentration in the vicinity of the channel binding site. We also propose that modulating peptide-membrane interactions might be useful for increasing the therapeutic potential of spider toxins. Furthermore, we explore the advantages and limitations of the methodologies currently used to examine peptide-membrane interactions. Although GMT-lipid membrane binding does not appear to be a requirement for the activity of all GMTs, it is an important feature, and future studies with GMTs should consider the trimolecular peptide-lipid membrane-channel complex. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Venom-derived Peptides as Pharmacological Tools.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Akello J Agwa
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Sónia T Henriques
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.
| | - Christina I Schroeder
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.
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42
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Karas JA, Sani MA, Separovic F. Chemical Synthesis and Characterization of an Equinatoxin II(1-85) Analogue. Molecules 2017; 22:E559. [PMID: 28358312 PMCID: PMC6153748 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22040559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Revised: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The chemical synthesis of an 85 residue analogue of the pore-forming protein, Equinatoxin II (EqtII), was achieved. Peptide precursors with over 40 residues were assembled by solid phase synthesis. The EqtII(1-46) fragment was modified to the reactive C-terminal thioester and native chemical ligation was performed with the A47C mutated EqtII(47-85) peptide to form the EqtII(1-85) analogue. Circular dichroism spectroscopy indicated that the N-terminal domain of EqtII(1-46) and EqtII(1-85) maintains predominantly an α-helical structure in solution and also in the presence of lipid micelles. This demonstrates the feasibility of assembling the full 179 residue protein EqtII via chemical means. Site-specific isotopic labels could be incorporated for structural studies in membranes by solid-state NMR spectroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Karas
- School of Chemistry, Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Marc-Antoine Sani
- School of Chemistry, Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Frances Separovic
- School of Chemistry, Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
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43
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Sun Z, Yan YN, Yang M, Zhang JZH. Interaction entropy for protein-protein binding. J Chem Phys 2017; 146:124124. [DOI: 10.1063/1.4978893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxi Sun
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Yu N. Yan
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Maoyou Yang
- School of Science, Qilu University of Technology, Jinan, Shandong 250353, China
| | - John Z. H. Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
- NYU-ECNU Center for Computational Chemistry at NYU Shanghai, Shanghai 200062, China
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York 10003, USA
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44
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Integrated structural biology to unravel molecular mechanisms of protein-RNA recognition. Methods 2017; 118-119:119-136. [PMID: 28315749 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2017.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Revised: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in RNA sequencing technologies have greatly expanded our knowledge of the RNA landscape in cells, often with spatiotemporal resolution. These techniques identified many new (often non-coding) RNA molecules. Large-scale studies have also discovered novel RNA binding proteins (RBPs), which exhibit single or multiple RNA binding domains (RBDs) for recognition of specific sequence or structured motifs in RNA. Starting from these large-scale approaches it is crucial to unravel the molecular principles of protein-RNA recognition in ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNPs) to understand the underlying mechanisms of gene regulation. Structural biology and biophysical studies at highest possible resolution are key to elucidate molecular mechanisms of RNA recognition by RBPs and how conformational dynamics, weak interactions and cooperative binding contribute to the formation of specific, context-dependent RNPs. While large compact RNPs can be well studied by X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM, analysis of dynamics and weak interaction necessitates the use of solution methods to capture these properties. Here, we illustrate methods to study the structure and conformational dynamics of protein-RNA complexes in solution starting from the identification of interaction partners in a given RNP. Biophysical and biochemical techniques support the characterization of a protein-RNA complex and identify regions relevant in structural analysis. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is a powerful tool to gain information on folding, stability and dynamics of RNAs and characterize RNPs in solution. It provides crucial information that is complementary to the static pictures derived from other techniques. NMR can be readily combined with other solution techniques, such as small angle X-ray and/or neutron scattering (SAXS/SANS), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), which provide information about overall shapes, internal domain arrangements and dynamics. Principles of protein-RNA recognition and current approaches are reviewed and illustrated with recent studies.
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45
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Mackay JP, Landsberg MJ, Whitten AE, Bond CS. Whaddaya Know: A Guide to Uncertainty and Subjectivity in Structural Biology. Trends Biochem Sci 2017; 42:155-167. [PMID: 28089412 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2016.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2016] [Revised: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The methods of structural biology, while powerful, are technically complex. Although the Protein Data Bank (PDB) provides a repository that allows anyone to download any structure, many users would not appreciate the caveats that should be considered when examining a structure. Here, we describe several key uncertainties associated with the application of X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, single-particle electron microscopy (SPEM), and small-angle scattering (SAS) to biological macromolecules. The take-home message is that structures are not absolute truths - they are models that fit the experimental data and therefore have uncertainty and subjectivity associated with them. These uncertainties must be appreciated - careful reading of the associated paper, and any validation report provided by the structure database, is highly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel P Mackay
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Michael J Landsberg
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, QLD, Australia
| | - Andrew E Whitten
- Australian Centre for Neutron Science, ANSTO, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Charles S Bond
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6014, Australia
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Potocnakova L, Bhide M, Pulzova LB. An Introduction to B-Cell Epitope Mapping and In Silico Epitope Prediction. J Immunol Res 2016; 2016:6760830. [PMID: 28127568 PMCID: PMC5227168 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6760830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Revised: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Identification of B-cell epitopes is a fundamental step for development of epitope-based vaccines, therapeutic antibodies, and diagnostic tools. Epitope-based antibodies are currently the most promising class of biopharmaceuticals. In the last decade, in-depth in silico analysis and categorization of the experimentally identified epitopes stimulated development of algorithms for epitope prediction. Recently, various in silico tools are employed in attempts to predict B-cell epitopes based on sequence and/or structural data. The main objective of epitope identification is to replace an antigen in the immunization, antibody production, and serodiagnosis. The accurate identification of B-cell epitopes still presents major challenges for immunologists. Advances in B-cell epitope mapping and computational prediction have yielded molecular insights into the process of biorecognition and formation of antigen-antibody complex, which may help to localize B-cell epitopes more precisely. In this paper, we have comprehensively reviewed state-of-the-art experimental methods for B-cell epitope identification, existing databases for epitopes, and novel in silico resources and prediction tools available online. We have also elaborated new trends in the antibody-based epitope prediction. The aim of this review is to assist researchers in identification of B-cell epitopes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Potocnakova
- Laboratory of Biomedical Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Kosice, 041 81 Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Mangesh Bhide
- Laboratory of Biomedical Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Kosice, 041 81 Kosice, Slovakia
- Institute of Neuroimmunology of Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 10 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Lucia Borszekova Pulzova
- Laboratory of Biomedical Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Kosice, 041 81 Kosice, Slovakia
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47
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Current and Future Perspectives on the Structural Identification of Small Molecules in Biological Systems. Metabolites 2016; 6:metabo6040046. [PMID: 27983674 PMCID: PMC5192452 DOI: 10.3390/metabo6040046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2016] [Revised: 12/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Although significant advances have been made in recent years, the structural elucidation of small molecules continues to remain a challenging issue for metabolite profiling. Many metabolomic studies feature unknown compounds; sometimes even in the list of features identified as "statistically significant" in the study. Such metabolic "dark matter" means that much of the potential information collected by metabolomics studies is lost. Accurate structure elucidation allows researchers to identify these compounds. This in turn, facilitates downstream metabolite pathway analysis, and a better understanding of the underlying biology of the system under investigation. This review covers a range of methods for the structural elucidation of individual compounds, including those based on gas and liquid chromatography hyphenated to mass spectrometry, single and multi-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and high-resolution mass spectrometry and includes discussion of data standardization. Future perspectives in structure elucidation are also discussed; with a focus on the potential development of instruments and techniques, in both nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry that, may help solve some of the current issues that are hampering the complete identification of metabolite structure and function.
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48
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Protein-RNA interactions: structural biology and computational modeling techniques. Biophys Rev 2016; 8:359-367. [PMID: 28510023 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-016-0223-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins are functionally diverse within cells, being involved in RNA-metabolism, translation, DNA damage repair, and gene regulation at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Much has been learnt about their interactions with RNAs through structure determination techniques and computational modeling. This review gives an overview of the structural data currently available for protein-RNA complexes, and discusses the technical issues facing structural biologists working to solve their structures. The review focuses on three techniques used to solve the 3-dimensional structure of protein-RNA complexes at atomic resolution, namely X-ray crystallography, solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). The review then focuses on the main computational modeling techniques that use these atomic resolution data: discussing the prediction of RNA-binding sites on unbound proteins, docking proteins, and RNAs, and modeling the molecular dynamics of the systems. In conclusion, the review looks at the future directions this field of research might take.
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Touchard A, Brust A, Cardoso FC, Chin YKY, Herzig V, Jin AH, Dejean A, Alewood PF, King GF, Orivel J, Escoubas P. Isolation and characterization of a structurally unique β-hairpin venom peptide from the predatory ant Anochetus emarginatus. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2016; 1860:2553-2562. [PMID: 27474999 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2016.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 06/24/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most ant venoms consist predominantly of small linear peptides, although some contain disulfide-linked peptides as minor components. However, in striking contrast to other ant species, some Anochetus venoms are composed primarily of disulfide-rich peptides. In this study, we investigated the venom of the ant Anochetus emarginatus with the aim of exploring these novel disulfide-rich peptides. METHODS The venom peptidome was initially investigated using a combination of reversed-phase HPLC and mass spectrometry, then the amino acid sequences of the major peptides were determined using a combination of Edman degradation and de novo MS/MS sequencing. We focused on one of these peptides, U1-PONTX-Ae1a (Ae1a), because of its novel sequence, which we predicted would form a novel 3D fold. Ae1a was chemically synthesized using Fmoc chemistry and its 3D structure was elucidated using NMR spectroscopy. The peptide was then tested for insecticidal activity and its effect on a range of human ion channels. RESULTS Seven peptides named poneritoxins (PONTXs) were isolated and sequenced. The three-dimensional structure of synthetic Ae1a revealed a novel, compact scaffold in which a C-terminal β-hairpin is connected to the N-terminal region via two disulfide bonds. Synthetic Ae1a reversibly paralyzed blowflies and inhibited human L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (CaV1). CONCLUSIONS Poneritoxins from Anochetus emarginatus venom are a novel class of toxins that are structurally unique among animal venoms. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE This study demonstrates that Anochetus ant venoms are a rich source of novel ion channel modulating peptides, some of which might be useful leads for the development of biopesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Touchard
- CNRS, UMR Ecologie des forêts de Guyane (AgroParisTech, CIRAD, CNRS, INRA, Université de Guyane, Université des Antilles), Campus Agronomique, BP 316, 97379 Kourou, France.
| | - Andreas Brust
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Fernanda Caldas Cardoso
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Yanni K-Y Chin
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Volker Herzig
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Ai-Hua Jin
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Alain Dejean
- CNRS, UMR Ecologie des forêts de Guyane (AgroParisTech, CIRAD, CNRS, INRA, Université de Guyane, Université des Antilles), Campus Agronomique, BP 316, 97379 Kourou, France; CNRS, UMR 5245, Laboratoire Écologie Fonctionnelle et Environnement, 118 route de Narbonne, 31062 Toulouse, France; Université de Toulouse, UPS, INP, Ecolab, Toulouse, France
| | - Paul F Alewood
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Jérôme Orivel
- CNRS, UMR Ecologie des forêts de Guyane (AgroParisTech, CIRAD, CNRS, INRA, Université de Guyane, Université des Antilles), Campus Agronomique, BP 316, 97379 Kourou, France
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50
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Mendes LFS, Garcia AF, Kumagai PS, de Morais FR, Melo FA, Kmetzsch L, Vainstein MH, Rodrigues ML, Costa-Filho AJ. New structural insights into Golgi Reassembly and Stacking Protein (GRASP) in solution. Sci Rep 2016; 6:29976. [PMID: 27436376 PMCID: PMC4951691 DOI: 10.1038/srep29976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Among all proteins localized in the Golgi apparatus, a two-PDZ (PSD95/DlgA/Zo-1) domain protein plays an important role in the assembly of the cisternae. This Golgi Reassembly and Stacking Protein (GRASP) has puzzled researchers due to its large array of functions and relevance in Golgi functionality. We report here a biochemical and biophysical study of the GRASP55/65 homologue in Cryptococcus neoformans (CnGRASP). Bioinformatic analysis, static fluorescence and circular dichroism spectroscopies, calorimetry, small angle X-ray scattering, solution nuclear magnetic resonance, size exclusion chromatography and proteolysis assays were used to unravel structural features of the full-length CnGRASP. We detected the coexistence of regular secondary structures and large amounts of disordered regions. The overall structure is less compact than a regular globular protein and the high structural flexibility makes its hydrophobic core more accessible to solvent. Our results indicate an unusual behavior of CnGRASP in solution, closely resembling a class of intrinsically disordered proteins called molten globule proteins. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first structural characterization of a full-length GRASP and observation of a molten globule-like behavior in the GRASP family. The possible implications of this and how it could explain the multiple facets of this intriguing class of proteins are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís F. S. Mendes
- Laboratório de Biofísica Molecular, Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Filosofia Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Assuero F. Garcia
- Laboratório de Biofísica Molecular, Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Filosofia Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Patricia S. Kumagai
- Departamento de Física e Informática, Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Fabio R. de Morais
- Departamento de Física, Centro Multiusuário de Inovação Biomolecular, Instituto de Biociências, Letras e Ciências Exatas, Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio Mesquita, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Fernando A. Melo
- Departamento de Física, Centro Multiusuário de Inovação Biomolecular, Instituto de Biociências, Letras e Ciências Exatas, Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio Mesquita, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Livia Kmetzsch
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Marilene H. Vainstein
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Marcio L. Rodrigues
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - Fiocruz, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Saúde (CDTS), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Antonio J. Costa-Filho
- Laboratório de Biofísica Molecular, Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Filosofia Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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