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Cha M, Kim JK, Lee WH, Song H, Lee TG, Kim SK, Kim SJ. Metabolic engineering of Caldicellulosiruptor bescii for hydrogen production. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:65. [PMID: 38194138 PMCID: PMC10776719 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12974-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogen is an alternative fuel for transportation vehicles because it is clean, sustainable, and highly flammable. However, the production of hydrogen from lignocellulosic biomass by microorganisms presents challenges. This microbial process involves multiple complex steps, including thermal, chemical, and mechanical treatment of biomass to remove hemicellulose and lignin, as well as enzymatic hydrolysis to solubilize the plant cell walls. These steps not only incur costs but also result in the production of toxic hydrolysates, which inhibit microbial growth. A hyper-thermophilic bacterium of Caldicellulosiruptor bescii can produce hydrogen by decomposing and fermenting plant biomass without the need for conventional pretreatment. It is considered as a consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) microorganism. This review summarizes the basic scientific knowledge and hydrogen-producing capacity of C. bescii. Its genetic system and metabolic engineering strategies to improve hydrogen production are also discussed. KEY POINTS: • Hydrogen is an alternative and eco-friendly fuel. • Caldicellulosiruptor bescii produces hydrogen with a high yield in nature. • Metabolic engineering can make C. bescii to improve hydrogen production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minseok Cha
- Research Center for Biological Cybernetics, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Kon Kim
- Department of Animal Environment, National Institute of Animal Science, Wanju, 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Heong Lee
- Department of Integrative Food, Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Tae-Gi Lee
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Chung-Ang University, Gyeonggi, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Ki Kim
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Chung-Ang University, Gyeonggi, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Jung Kim
- Research Center for Biological Cybernetics, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Integrative Food, Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Recalde A, Abdul-Nabi J, Junker P, van der Does C, Elsässer J, van Wolferen M, Albers SV. The use of thermostable fluorescent proteins for live imaging in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1445186. [PMID: 39314874 PMCID: PMC11416942 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1445186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Among hyperthermophilic organisms, in vivo protein localization is challenging due to the high growth temperatures that can disrupt proper folding and function of mostly mesophilic-derived fluorescent proteins. While protein localization in the thermophilic model archaeon S. acidocaldarius has been achieved using antibodies with fluorescent probes in fixed cells, the use of thermostable fluorescent proteins for live imaging in thermophilic archaea has so far been unsuccessful. Given the significance of live protein localization in the field of archaeal cell biology, we aimed to identify fluorescent proteins for use in S. acidocaldarius. Methods We expressed various previously published and optimized thermostable fluorescent proteins along with fusion proteins of interest and analyzed the cells using flow cytometry and (thermo-) fluorescent microscopy. Results Of the tested proteins, thermal green protein (TGP) exhibited the brightest fluorescence when expressed in Sulfolobus cells. By optimizing the linker between TGP and a protein of interest, we could additionally successfully fuse proteins with minimal loss of fluorescence. TGP-CdvB and TGP-PCNA1 fusions displayed localization patterns consistent with previous immunolocalization experiments. Discussion These initial results in live protein localization in S. acidocaldarius at high temperatures, combined with recent advancements in thermomicroscopy, open new avenues in the field of archaeal cell biology. This progress finally enables localization experiments in thermophilic archaea, which have so far been limited to mesophilic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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3
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Willard DJ, H. Manesh MJ, Bing RG, Alexander BH, Kelly RM. Phenotype-driven assessment of the ancestral trajectory of sulfur biooxidation in the thermoacidophilic archaea Sulfolobaceae. mBio 2024; 15:e0103324. [PMID: 38953360 PMCID: PMC11323534 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01033-24] [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: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Certain members of the family Sulfolobaceae represent the only archaea known to oxidize elemental sulfur, and their evolutionary history provides a framework to understand the development of chemolithotrophic growth by sulfur oxidation. Here, we evaluate the sulfur oxidation phenotype of Sulfolobaceae species and leverage comparative genomic and transcriptomic analysis to identify the key genes linked to sulfur oxidation. Metabolic engineering of the obligate heterotroph Sulfolobus acidocaldarius revealed that the known cytoplasmic components of sulfur oxidation alone are not sufficient to drive prolific sulfur oxidation. Imaging analysis showed that Sulfolobaceae species maintain proximity to the sulfur surface but do not necessarily contact the substrate directly. This indicates that a soluble form of sulfur must be transported to initiate cytoplasmic sulfur oxidation. Conservation patterns and transcriptomic response implicate an extracellular tetrathionate hydrolase and putative thiosulfate transporter in a newly proposed mechanism of sulfur acquisition in the Sulfolobaceae.IMPORTANCESulfur is one of the most abundant elements on earth (2.9% by mass), so it makes sense that the earliest biology found a way to use sulfur to create and sustain life. However, beyond evolutionary significance, sulfur and the molecules it comprises have important technological significance, not only in chemicals such as sulfuric acid and in pyritic ores containing critical metals but also as a waste product from oil and gas production. The thermoacidophilic Sulfolobaceae are unique among the archaea as sulfur oxidizers. The trajectory for how sulfur biooxidation arose and evolved can be traced using experimental and bioinformatic analyses of the available genomic data set. Such analysis can also inform the process by which extracellular sulfur is acquired and transported by thermoacidophilic archaea, a phenomenon that is critical to these microorganisms but has yet to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Willard
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mohamad J. H. Manesh
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ryan G. Bing
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Benjamin H. Alexander
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robert M. Kelly
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
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4
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Sedlmayr VL, Luger M, Pittenauer E, Marchetti-Deschmann M, Kronlachner L, Limbeck A, Raunjak P, Quehenberger J, Spadiut O. Development of a defined medium for the heterotrophic cultivation of Metallosphaera sedula. Extremophiles 2024; 28:36. [PMID: 39060419 PMCID: PMC11282131 DOI: 10.1007/s00792-024-01348-0] [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: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
The heterotrophic cultivation of extremophilic archaea still heavily relies on complex media. However, complex media are associated with unknown composition, high batch-to-batch variability, potential inhibiting and interfering components, as well as regulatory challenges, hampering advancements of extremophilic archaea in genetic engineering and bioprocessing. For Metallosphaera sedula, a widely studied organism for biomining and bioremediation and a potential production host for archaeal ether lipids, efforts to find defined cultivation conditions have still been unsuccessful. This study describes the development of a novel chemically defined growth medium for M. sedula. Initial experiments with commonly used complex casein-derived media sources deciphered Casamino Acids as the most suitable foundation for further development. The imitation of the amino acid composition of Casamino Acids in basal Brock medium delivered the first chemically defined medium. We could further simplify the medium to 5 amino acids based on the respective specific substrate uptake rates. This first defined cultivation medium for M. sedula allows advanced genetic engineering and more controlled bioprocess development approaches for this highly interesting archaeon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Laurin Sedlmayr
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maximilian Luger
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ernst Pittenauer
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Laura Kronlachner
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Limbeck
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp Raunjak
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julian Quehenberger
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Oliver Spadiut
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, 1060, Vienna, Austria.
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5
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Li Y, Yu T, Feng X, Zhao B, Chen H, Yang H, Chen X, Zhang XH, Anderson HR, Burns NZ, Zeng F, Tao L, Zeng Z. Biosynthesis of GMGT lipids by a radical SAM enzyme associated with anaerobic archaea and oxygen-deficient environments. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5256. [PMID: 38898040 PMCID: PMC11186832 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49650-x] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Archaea possess characteristic membrane-spanning lipids that are thought to contribute to the adaptation to extreme environments. However, the biosynthesis of these lipids is poorly understood. Here, we identify a radical S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) enzyme that synthesizes glycerol monoalkyl glycerol tetraethers (GMGTs). The enzyme, which we name GMGT synthase (Gms), catalyzes the formation of a C(sp3)-C(sp3) linkage between the two isoprenoid chains of glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (GDGTs). This conclusion is supported by heterologous expression of gene gms from a GMGT-producing species in a methanogen, as well as demonstration of in vitro activity using purified Gms enzyme. Additionally, we show that genes encoding putative Gms homologs are present in obligate anaerobic archaea and in metagenomes obtained from oxygen-deficient environments, and appear to be absent in metagenomes from oxic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Li
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Chemistry, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ting Yu
- Department of Systems Biology and Institute for Biological Electron Microscopy, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xi Feng
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bo Zhao
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huahui Chen
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Xing Chen
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao-Hua Zhang
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | | | - Noah Z Burns
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, USA
| | - Fuxing Zeng
- Department of Systems Biology and Institute for Biological Electron Microscopy, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Lizhi Tao
- Department of Chemistry, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Zhirui Zeng
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China.
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6
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Charles-Orszag A, van Wolferen M, Lord SJ, Albers SV, Mullins RD. Adhesion pilus retraction powers twitching motility in the thermoacidophilic crenarchaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5051. [PMID: 38877024 PMCID: PMC11178785 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49101-7] [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: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Type IV pili are filamentous appendages found in most bacteria and archaea, where they can support functions such as surface adhesion, DNA uptake, aggregation, and motility. In most bacteria, PilT-family ATPases disassemble adhesion pili, causing them to rapidly retract and produce twitching motility, important for surface colonization. As archaea do not possess PilT homologs, it was thought that archaeal pili cannot retract and that archaea do not exhibit twitching motility. Here, we use live-cell imaging, automated cell tracking, fluorescence imaging, and genetic manipulation to show that the hyperthermophilic archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius exhibits twitching motility, driven by retractable adhesion (Aap) pili, under physiologically relevant conditions (75 °C, pH 2). Aap pili are thus capable of retraction in the absence of a PilT homolog, suggesting that the ancestral type IV pili in the last universal common ancestor (LUCA) were capable of retraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Charles-Orszag
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, US
| | - Marleen van Wolferen
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Samuel J Lord
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, US
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
- Signalling Research Centre BIOSS and CIBBS, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - R Dyche Mullins
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, US.
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7
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Cowan DA, Albers SV, Antranikian G, Atomi H, Averhoff B, Basen M, Driessen AJM, Jebbar M, Kelman Z, Kerou M, Littlechild J, Müller V, Schönheit P, Siebers B, Vorgias K. Extremophiles in a changing world. Extremophiles 2024; 28:26. [PMID: 38683238 PMCID: PMC11058618 DOI: 10.1007/s00792-024-01341-7] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Extremophiles and their products have been a major focus of research interest for over 40 years. Through this period, studies of these organisms have contributed hugely to many aspects of the fundamental and applied sciences, and to wider and more philosophical issues such as the origins of life and astrobiology. Our understanding of the cellular adaptations to extreme conditions (such as acid, temperature, pressure and more), of the mechanisms underpinning the stability of macromolecules, and of the subtleties, complexities and limits of fundamental biochemical processes has been informed by research on extremophiles. Extremophiles have also contributed numerous products and processes to the many fields of biotechnology, from diagnostics to bioremediation. Yet, after 40 years of dedicated research, there remains much to be discovered in this field. Fortunately, extremophiles remain an active and vibrant area of research. In the third decade of the twenty-first century, with decreasing global resources and a steadily increasing human population, the world's attention has turned with increasing urgency to issues of sustainability. These global concerns were encapsulated and formalized by the United Nations with the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the presentation of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015. In the run-up to 2030, we consider the contributions that extremophiles have made, and will in the future make, to the SDGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Cowan
- Centre for Microbial Ecology and Genomics, Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa.
| | - S V Albers
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - G Antranikian
- Institute of Technical Biocatalysis, Hamburg University of Technology, 21073, Hamburg, Germany
| | - H Atomi
- Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - B Averhoff
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - M Basen
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - A J M Driessen
- Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - M Jebbar
- Univ. Brest, CNRS, Ifremer, Laboratoire de Biologie Et d'Écologie Des Écosystèmes Marins Profonds (BEEP), IUEM, Rue Dumont d'Urville, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Z Kelman
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research and the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - M Kerou
- Department of Functional and Evolutionary Ecology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - J Littlechild
- Henry Wellcome Building for Biocatalysis, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - V Müller
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - P Schönheit
- Institute of General Microbiology, Christian Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - B Siebers
- Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry (MEB), Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology (EMB), Centre for Water and Environmental Research (CWE), University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117, Essen, Germany
| | - K Vorgias
- Biology Department and RI-Bio3, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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8
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Tittes C, Nijland J, Schoentag AMC, Hackl T, Di Cianni N, Marchfelder A, Quax TEF. Development of a genetic system for Haloferax gibbonsii LR2-5, model host for haloarchaeal viruses. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0012924. [PMID: 38470030 PMCID: PMC11022537 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00129-24] [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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Archaeal viruses are among the most enigmatic members of the virosphere, and their diverse morphologies raise many questions about their infection mechanisms. The study of molecular mechanisms underlying virus-host interactions hinges upon robust model organisms with a system for gene expression and deletion. Currently, there are only a limited number of archaea that have associated viruses and have a well-developed genetic system. Here, we report the development of a genetic system for the euryarchaeon Haloferax gibbonsii LR2-5. This strain can be infected by multiple viruses and is a model for the study of virus-host interactions. We created a Hfx. gibbonsii LR2-5 ∆pyrE strain, resulting in uracil auxotrophy, which could be used as a selection marker. An expression plasmid carrying a pyrE gene from the well-established Haloferax volcanii system was tested for functionality. Expression of a GFP-MinD fusion under a tryptophan inducible promoter was fully functional and showed similar cellular localization as in Hfx. volcanii. Thus, the plasmids of the Hfx. volcanii system can be used directly for the Hfx. gibbonsii LR2-5 genetic system, facilitating the transfer of tools between the two. Finally, we tested for the functionality of gene deletions by knocking out two genes of the archaeal motility structure, the archaellum. These deletion mutants were as expected non-motile and the phenotype of one deletion could be rescued by the expression of the deleted archaellum gene from a plasmid. Thus, we developed a functional genetic toolbox for the euryarchaeal virus host Hfx. gibbonsii LR2-5, which will propel future studies on archaeal viruses. IMPORTANCE Species from all domains of life are infected by viruses. In some environments, viruses outnumber their microbial hosts by a factor of 10, and viruses are the most important predators of microorganisms. While much has been discovered about the infection mechanisms of bacterial and eukaryotic viruses, archaeal viruses remain understudied. Good model systems are needed to study their virus-host interactions in detail. The salt-loving archaeon Haloferax gibbonsii LR2-5 has been shown to be infected by a variety of different viruses and, thus, is an excellent model to study archaeal viruses. By establishing a genetic system, we have significantly expanded the toolbox for this model organism, which will fuel our understanding of infection strategies of the underexplored archaeal viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin Tittes
- Biology of Archaea and Viruses, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Nijland
- Biology of Archaea and Viruses, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Anna M. C. Schoentag
- Biology of Archaea and Viruses, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas Hackl
- Microbial Ecology Cluster, Groningen Institute of Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Tessa E. F. Quax
- Biology of Archaea and Viruses, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
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9
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Zhao P, Bi X, Wang X, Feng X, Shen Y, Yuan G, She Q. Rational design of unrestricted pRN1 derivatives and their application in the construction of a dual plasmid vector system for Saccharolobus islandicus. MLIFE 2024; 3:119-128. [PMID: 38827506 PMCID: PMC11139203 DOI: 10.1002/mlf2.12107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Saccharolobus islandicus REY15A represents one of the very few archaeal models with versatile genetic tools, which include efficient genome editing, gene silencing, and robust protein expression systems. However, plasmid vectors constructed for this crenarchaeon thus far are based solely on the pRN2 cryptic plasmid. Although this plasmid coexists with pRN1 in its original host, early attempts to test pRN1-based vectors consistently failed to yield any stable host-vector system for Sa. islandicus. We hypothesized that this failure could be due to the occurrence of CRISPR immunity against pRN1 in this archaeon. We identified a putative target sequence in orf904 encoding a putative replicase on pRN1 (target N1). Mutated targets (N1a, N1b, and N1c) were then designed and tested for their capability to escape the host CRISPR immunity by using a plasmid interference assay. The results revealed that the original target triggered CRISPR immunity in this archaeon, whereas all three mutated targets did not, indicating that all the designed target mutations evaded host immunity. These mutated targets were then incorporated into orf904 individually, yielding corresponding mutated pRN1 backbones with which shuttle plasmids were constructed (pN1aSD, pN1bSD, and pN1cSD). Sa. islandicus transformation revealed that pN1aSD and pN1bSD were functional shuttle vectors, but pN1cSD lost the capability for replication. These results indicate that the missense mutations in the conserved helicase domain in pN1c inactivated the replicase. We further showed that pRN1-based and pRN2-based vectors were stably maintained in the archaeal cells either alone or in combination, and this yielded a dual plasmid system for genetic study with this important archaeal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengpeng Zhao
- CRISPR and Archaea Biology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology and Microbial Technology InstituteShandong UniversityQingdaoChina
| | - Xiaonan Bi
- CRISPR and Archaea Biology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology and Microbial Technology InstituteShandong UniversityQingdaoChina
| | - Xiaoning Wang
- CRISPR and Archaea Biology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology and Microbial Technology InstituteShandong UniversityQingdaoChina
| | - Xu Feng
- CRISPR and Archaea Biology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology and Microbial Technology InstituteShandong UniversityQingdaoChina
| | - Yulong Shen
- CRISPR and Archaea Biology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology and Microbial Technology InstituteShandong UniversityQingdaoChina
| | - Guanhua Yuan
- CRISPR and Archaea Biology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology and Microbial Technology InstituteShandong UniversityQingdaoChina
| | - Qunxin She
- CRISPR and Archaea Biology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology and Microbial Technology InstituteShandong UniversityQingdaoChina
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10
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Manesh MJH, Willard DJ, Lewis AM, Kelly RM. Extremely thermoacidophilic archaea for metal bioleaching: What do their genomes tell Us? BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 391:129988. [PMID: 37949149 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2023.129988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Elevated temperatures favor bioleaching processes through faster kinetics, more favorable mineral chemistry, lower cooling requirements, and less surface passivation. Extremely thermoacidophilic archaea from the order Sulfolobales exhibit novel mechanisms for bioleaching metals from ores and have great potential. Genome sequences of many extreme thermoacidophiles are now available and provide new insights into their biochemistry, metabolism, physiology and ecology as these relate to metal mobilization from ores. Although there are some molecular genetic tools available for extreme thermoacidophiles, further development of these is sorely needed to advance the study and application of these archaea for bioleaching applications. The evolving landscape for bioleaching technologies at high temperatures merits a closer look through a genomic lens at what is currently possible and what lies ahead in terms of new developments and emerging opportunities. The need for critical metals and the diminishing primary deposits for copper should provide incentives for high temperature bioleaching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad J H Manesh
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - Daniel J Willard
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - April M Lewis
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - Robert M Kelly
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA.
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11
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Korf L, Ye X, Vogt MS, Steinchen W, Watad M, van der Does C, Tourte M, Sivabalasarma S, Albers SV, Essen LO. Archaeal GPN-loop GTPases involve a lock-switch-rock mechanism for GTP hydrolysis. mBio 2023; 14:e0085923. [PMID: 37962382 PMCID: PMC10746158 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00859-23] [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: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE GPN-loop GTPases have been found to be crucial for eukaryotic RNA polymerase II assembly and nuclear trafficking. Despite their ubiquitous occurrence in eukaryotes and archaea, the mechanism by which these GTPases mediate their function is unknown. Our study on an archaeal representative from Sulfolobus acidocaldarius showed that these dimeric GTPases undergo large-scale conformational changes upon GTP hydrolysis, which can be summarized as a lock-switch-rock mechanism. The observed requirement of SaGPN for motility appears to be due to its large footprint on the archaeal proteome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Korf
- Department of Chemistry, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Xing Ye
- University of Freiburg, Institute of Biology, Molecular Biology of Archaea, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marian S. Vogt
- Department of Chemistry, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Wieland Steinchen
- Department of Chemistry, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
- Center for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO), Karl-von-Frisch-Strasse, Marburg, Germany
| | - Mohamed Watad
- Department of Chemistry, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Chris van der Does
- University of Freiburg, Institute of Biology, Molecular Biology of Archaea, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maxime Tourte
- University of Freiburg, Institute of Biology, Molecular Biology of Archaea, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Shamphavi Sivabalasarma
- University of Freiburg, Institute of Biology, Molecular Biology of Archaea, Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- University of Freiburg, Institute of Biology, Molecular Biology of Archaea, Freiburg, Germany
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12
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Gomes-Filho JV, Breuer R, Morales-Filloy HG, Pozhydaieva N, Borst A, Paczia N, Soppa J, Höfer K, Jäschke A, Randau L. Identification of NAD-RNA species and ADPR-RNA decapping in Archaea. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7597. [PMID: 37989750 PMCID: PMC10663502 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43377-x] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
NAD is a coenzyme central to metabolism that also serves as a 5'-terminal cap for bacterial and eukaryotic transcripts. Thermal degradation of NAD can generate nicotinamide and ADP-ribose (ADPR). Here, we use LC-MS/MS and NAD captureSeq to detect and identify NAD-RNAs in the thermophilic model archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius and in the halophilic mesophile Haloferax volcanii. None of the four Nudix proteins of S. acidocaldarius catalyze NAD-RNA decapping in vitro, but one of the proteins (Saci_NudT5) promotes ADPR-RNA decapping. NAD-RNAs are converted into ADPR-RNAs, which we detect in S. acidocaldarius total RNA. Deletion of the gene encoding the 5'-3' exonuclease Saci-aCPSF2 leads to a 4.5-fold increase in NAD-RNA levels. We propose that the incorporation of NAD into RNA acts as a degradation marker for Saci-aCPSF2. In contrast, ADPR-RNA is processed by Saci_NudT5 into 5'-p-RNAs, providing another layer of regulation for RNA turnover in archaeal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruth Breuer
- Faculty of Biology, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Andreas Borst
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, Biocentre, Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Nicole Paczia
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jörg Soppa
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, Biocentre, Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Katharina Höfer
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
- SYNMIKRO, Center for Synthetic Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Andres Jäschke
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology (IPMB), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lennart Randau
- Faculty of Biology, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
- SYNMIKRO, Center for Synthetic Microbiology, Marburg, Germany.
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13
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Bost J, Recalde A, Waßmer B, Wagner A, Siebers B, Albers SV. Application of the endogenous CRISPR-Cas type I-D system for genetic engineering in the thermoacidophilic archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1254891. [PMID: 37849926 PMCID: PMC10577407 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1254891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)-Cas systems are widely distributed among bacteria and archaea. In this study, we demonstrate the successful utilization of the type I-D CRISPR-Cas system for genetic engineering in the thermoacidophilic archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Given its extreme growth conditions characterized by a temperature of 75°C and pH 3, an uracil auxotrophic selection system was previously established, providing a basis for our investigations. We developed a novel plasmid specifically designed for genome editing, which incorporates a mini-CRISPR array that can be induced using xylose, resulting in targeted DNA cleavage. Additionally, we integrated a gene encoding the β-galactosidase of Saccharolobus solfataricus into the plasmid, enabling blue-white screening and facilitating the mutant screening process. Through the introduction of donor DNA containing genomic modifications into the plasmid, we successfully generated deletion mutants and point mutations in the genome of S. acidocaldarius. Exploiting the PAM (protospacer adjacent motif) dependence of type I systems, we experimentally confirmed the functionality of three different PAMs (CCA, GTA, and TCA) through a self-targeting assessment assay and the gene deletion of upsE. Our findings elucidate the application of the endogenous Type I-D CRISPR-Cas system for genetic engineering in S. acidocaldarius, thus expanding its genetic toolbox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Bost
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Alejandra Recalde
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bianca Waßmer
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Wagner
- Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry (MEB), Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology (EMB), Centre for Water and Environmental Research (CWE), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Bettina Siebers
- Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry (MEB), Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology (EMB), Centre for Water and Environmental Research (CWE), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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14
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Rastädter K, Wurm DJ, Spadiut O, Quehenberger J. k La based scale-up cultivation of the extremophilic archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius: from benchtop to pilot scale. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1160012. [PMID: 37609112 PMCID: PMC10441222 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1160012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The two major scale-up criteria in continuously stirred bioreactors are 1) constant aerated power input per volume (Pg/Vl), and 2) the volumetric O2 mass transfer coefficient (kla). However, Pg/Vl is only influenced by the stirrer geometry, stirrer speed, aeration and working volume, while the kla is additionally affected by physiochemical properties of the medium (temperature, pH, salt content, etc.), sparging of gas and also by the bioreactor design. The extremophilic archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, thriving at 75°C and pH 3.0, has the potential for many biotechnological applications. However, previous studies imply that the family Sulfolobaceae might be affected by higher oxygen concentration in the headspace (>26%). Hence, adequate oxygen supply without being toxic has to be ensured throughout the different scales. In this study, the scale-up criteria Pg/Vl and kla were analyzed and compared in a 2 L chemostat cultivation of S. acidocaldarius on a defined growth medium at 75°C and a pH value of 3.0, using two different types of spargers at the same aerated power input. The scale-up criterion kLa, ensuring a high specific growth rate as well as viability, was then used for scaleup to 20 L and 200 L. By maintaining a constant kla comparable dry cell weight, specific growth rate, specific substrate uptake rates and viability were observed between all investigated scales. This procedure harbors the potential for further scale-up to industrial size bioreactors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Rastädter
- Research Division Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Oliver Spadiut
- Research Division Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julian Quehenberger
- Research Division Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
- NovoArc GmbH, Vienna, Austria
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15
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Charles-Orszag A, van Wolferen M, Lord SJ, Albers SV, Mullins RD. Sulfolobus acidocaldarius adhesion pili power twitching motility in the absence of a dedicated retraction ATPase. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.04.552066. [PMID: 37577505 PMCID: PMC10418518 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.04.552066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Type IV pili are ancient and widespread filamentous organelles found in most bacterial and archaeal phyla where they support a wide range of functions, including substrate adhesion, DNA uptake, self aggregation, and cell motility. In most bacteria, PilT-family ATPases disassemble adhesion pili, causing them to rapidly retract and produce twitching motility, important for surface colonization. As archaea do not possess homologs of PilT, it was thought that archaeal pili cannot retract. Here, we employ live-cell imaging under native conditions (75°C and pH 2), together with automated single-cell tracking, high-temperature fluorescence imaging, and genetic manipulation to demonstrate that S. acidocaldarius exhibits bona fide twitching motility, and that this behavior depends specifically on retractable adhesion pili. Our results demonstrate that archaeal adhesion pili are capable of retraction in the absence of a PilT retraction ATPase and suggests that the ancestral type IV pilus machinery in the last universal common ancestor (LUCA) relied on such a bifunctional ATPase for both extension and retraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Charles-Orszag
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Marleen van Wolferen
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Samuel J Lord
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBBS, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - R Dyche Mullins
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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16
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Breuer R, Gomes-Filho JV, Yuan J, Randau L. Transcriptome profiling of Nudix hydrolase gene deletions in the thermoacidophilic archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1197877. [PMID: 37396357 PMCID: PMC10311068 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1197877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Nudix hydrolases comprise a large and ubiquitous protein superfamily that catalyzes the hydrolysis of a nucleoside diphosphate linked to another moiety X (Nudix). Sulfolobus acidocaldarius possesses four Nudix domain-containing proteins (SACI_RS00730/Saci_0153, SACI_RS02625/Saci_0550, SACI_RS00060/Saci_0013/Saci_NudT5, and SACI_RS00575/Saci_0121). Deletion strains were generated for the four individual Nudix genes and for both Nudix genes annotated to encode ADP-ribose pyrophosphatases (SACI_RS00730, SACI_RS00060) and did not reveal a distinct phenotype compared to the wild-type strain under standard growth conditions, nutrient stress or heat stress conditions. We employed RNA-seq to establish the transcriptome profiles of the Nudix deletion strains, revealing a large number of differentially regulated genes, most notably in the ΔSACI_RS00730/SACI_RS00060 double knock-out strain and the ΔSACI_RS00575 single deletion strain. The absence of Nudix hydrolases is suggested to impact transcription via differentially regulated transcriptional regulators. We observed downregulation of the lysine biosynthesis and the archaellum formation iModulons in stationary phase cells, as well as upregulation of two genes involved in the de novo NAD+ biosynthesis pathway. Furthermore, the deletion strains exhibited upregulation of two thermosome subunits (α, β) and the toxin-antitoxin system VapBC, which are implicated in the archaeal heat shock response. These results uncover a defined set of pathways that involve archaeal Nudix protein activities and assist in their functional characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Breuer
- Prokaryotic RNA Biology, Department of Biology, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Jing Yuan
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
- SYNMIKRO, Center for Synthetic Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Lennart Randau
- Prokaryotic RNA Biology, Department of Biology, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- SYNMIKRO, Center for Synthetic Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
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17
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Sivabalasarma S, de Sousa Machado JN, Albers SV, Jarrell KF. Archaella Isolation. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2646:183-195. [PMID: 36842116 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3060-0_16] [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: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Swimming archaea are propelled by a filamentous structure called the archaellum. The first step for the structural characterization of this filament is its isolation. Here we provide various methods that allow for the isolation of archaella filaments from well-studied archaeal model organisms. Archaella filaments have been successfully extracted from organisms belonging to different archaeal phyla, e.g., euryarchaeal methanogens such as Methanococcus voltae, and crenarchaeal hyperthermoacidophiles like Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. The filament isolation protocols that we provide in this chapter follow one of two strategies: either the filaments are sheared or extracted from whole cells by detergent extraction, prior to further final purification by centrifugation methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamphavi Sivabalasarma
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - João N de Sousa Machado
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Ken F Jarrell
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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18
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Yang W, Chen H, Chen Y, Chen A, Feng X, Zhao B, Zheng F, Fang H, Zhang C, Zeng Z. Thermophilic archaeon orchestrates temporal expression of GDGT ring synthases in response to temperature and acidity stress. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:575-587. [PMID: 36495168 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Glycerol dibiphytanyl glycerol tetraethers (GDGTs) are unique archaeal membrane-spanning lipids with 0-8 cyclopentane rings on the biphytanyl chains. The cyclization pattern of GDGTs is affected by many environmental factors, such as temperature and pH, but the underlying molecular mechanism remains elusive. Here, we find that the expression regulation of GDGT ring synthase genes grsA and grsB in thermophilic archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius is temperature- and pH-dependent. Moreover, the presence of functional GrsA protein, or more likely its products cyclic GDGTs rather than the accumulation of GrsA protein itself, is required to induce grsB expression, resulting in temporal regulation of grsA and grsB expression. Our findings establish a molecular model of GDGT cyclization regulated by environment factors in a thermophilic ecosystem, which could be also relevant to that in mesophilic marine archaea. Our study will help better understand the biological basis for GDGT-based paleoclimate proxies. Archaea inhabit a wide range of terrestrial and marine environments. In response to environment fluctuations, archaea modulate their unique membrane GDGTs lipid composition with different strategies, in particular GDGTs cyclization significantly alters membrane permeability. However, the regulation details of archaeal GDGTs cyclization in response to different environmental factor changes remain unknown. We demonstrated, for the first time, thermophilic archaea orchestrate the temporal expression of GDGT ring synthases, leading to delicate control of GDGTs cyclization to respond environmental temperature and acidity stress. Our study provides insight into the regulation of archaea membrane plasticity, and the survival strategy of archaea in fluctuating environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yang
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huahui Chen
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yufei Chen
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Aiping Chen
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Feng
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bo Zhao
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fengfeng Zheng
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongwei Fang
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Changyi Zhang
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Zhirui Zeng
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, China
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19
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The archaeal Cdv cell division system. Trends Microbiol 2023; 31:601-615. [PMID: 36658033 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2022.12.006] [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: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The Cdv system is the protein machinery that performs cell division and other membrane-deforming processes in a subset of archaea. Evolutionarily, the system is closely related to the eukaryotic ESCRT machinery, with which it shares many structural and functional similarities. Since its first description 15 years ago, the understanding of the Cdv system progressed rather slowly, but recent discoveries sparked renewed interest and insights. The emerging physical picture appears to be that CdvA acts as a membrane anchor, CdvB as a scaffold that localizes division to the mid-cell position, CdvB1 and CvdB2 as the actual constriction machinery, and CdvC as the ATPase that detaches Cdv proteins from the membrane. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the research done on Cdv and explains how this relatively understudied machinery acts to perform its cell-division function. Understanding of the Cdv system helps to better grasp the biophysics and evolution of archaea, and furthermore provides new opportunities for the bottom-up building of a divisome for synthetic cells.
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20
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Gaines MC, Isupov MN, Sivabalasarma S, Haque RU, McLaren M, Mollat CL, Tripp P, Neuhaus A, Gold VAM, Albers SV, Daum B. Electron cryo-microscopy reveals the structure of the archaeal thread filament. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7411. [PMID: 36456543 PMCID: PMC9715654 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34652-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Pili are filamentous surface extensions that play roles in bacterial and archaeal cellular processes such as adhesion, biofilm formation, motility, cell-cell communication, DNA uptake and horizontal gene transfer. The model archaeaon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius assembles three filaments of the type-IV pilus superfamily (archaella, archaeal adhesion pili and UV-inducible pili), as well as a so-far uncharacterised fourth filament, named "thread". Here, we report on the cryo-EM structure of the archaeal thread. The filament is highly glycosylated and consists of subunits of the protein Saci_0406, arranged in a head-to-tail manner. Saci_0406 displays structural similarity, but low sequence homology, to bacterial type-I pilins. Thread subunits are interconnected via donor strand complementation, a feature reminiscent of bacterial chaperone-usher pili. However, despite these similarities in overall architecture, archaeal threads appear to have evolved independently and are likely assembled by a distinct mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Gaines
- Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK
| | - Michail N Isupov
- Henry Wellcome Building for Biocatalysis, Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK
| | - Shamphavi Sivabalasarma
- Institute of Biology II, Molecular Biology of Archaea, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Risat Ul Haque
- Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK
| | - Mathew McLaren
- Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK
| | - Clara L Mollat
- Institute of Biology II, Molecular Biology of Archaea, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Patrick Tripp
- Institute of Biology II, Molecular Biology of Archaea, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Neuhaus
- Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK
| | - Vicki A M Gold
- Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Institute of Biology II, Molecular Biology of Archaea, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBBS, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bertram Daum
- Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK.
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK.
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21
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van Wolferen M, Pulschen AA, Baum B, Gribaldo S, Albers SV. The cell biology of archaea. Nat Microbiol 2022; 7:1744-1755. [PMID: 36253512 PMCID: PMC7613921 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-022-01215-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The past decade has revealed the diversity and ubiquity of archaea in nature, with a growing number of studies highlighting their importance in ecology, biotechnology and even human health. Myriad lineages have been discovered, which expanded the phylogenetic breadth of archaea and revealed their central role in the evolutionary origins of eukaryotes. These discoveries, coupled with advances that enable the culturing and live imaging of archaeal cells under extreme environments, have underpinned a better understanding of their biology. In this Review we focus on the shape, internal organization and surface structures that are characteristic of archaeal cells as well as membrane remodelling, cell growth and division. We also highlight some of the technical challenges faced and discuss how new and improved technologies will help address many of the key unanswered questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marleen van Wolferen
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Buzz Baum
- Division of Cell Biology, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Simonetta Gribaldo
- Evolutionary Biology of the Microbial Cell Unit, CNRS UMR2001, Department of Microbiology, Institute Pasteur, Paris, France.
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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22
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Kuschmierz L, Meyer M, Bräsen C, Wingender J, Schmitz OJ, Siebers B. Exopolysaccharide composition and size in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius biofilms. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:982745. [PMID: 36225367 PMCID: PMC9549778 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.982745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) comprise mainly carbohydrates, proteins and extracellular DNA (eDNA) in biofilms formed by the thermoacidophilic Crenarchaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. However, detailed information on the carbohydrates in the S. acidocaldarius biofilm EPS, i.e., the exopolysaccharides (PS), in terms of identity, composition and size were missing. In this study, a set of methods was developed and applied to study the PS in S. acidocaldarius biofilms. It was initially shown that addition of sugars, most significantly of glucose, to the basal N-Z-amine-based growth medium enhanced biofilm formation. For the generation of sufficient amounts of biomass suitable for chemical analyses, biofilm growth was established and optimized on the surface of membrane filters. EPS were isolated and the contents of carbohydrates, proteins and eDNA were determined. PS purification was achieved by enzymatic digestion of other EPS components (nucleic acids and proteins). After trifluoroacetic acid-mediated hydrolysis of the PS fraction, the monosaccharide composition was analyzed by reversed-phase liquid chromatography (RP-LC) coupled to mass spectrometry (MS). Main sugar constituents detected were mannose, glucose and ribose, as well as minor proportions of rhamnose, N-acetylglucosamine, glucosamine and galactosamine. Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) revealed the presence of one single PS fraction with a molecular mass of 4-9 × 104 Da. This study provides detailed information on the PS composition and size of S. acidocaldarius MW001 biofilms and methodological tools for future studies on PS biosynthesis and secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Kuschmierz
- Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, Centre for Water and Environmental Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Meyer
- Applied Analytical Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Teaching and Research Center for Separation, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Christopher Bräsen
- Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, Centre for Water and Environmental Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jost Wingender
- Aquatic Microbiology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, Centre for Water and Environmental Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Oliver J. Schmitz
- Applied Analytical Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Teaching and Research Center for Separation, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Oliver J. Schmitz,
| | - Bettina Siebers
- Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, Centre for Water and Environmental Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Bettina Siebers,
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23
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Rastädter K, Tramontano A, Wurm DJ, Spadiut O, Quehenberger J. Flow cytometry-based viability staining: an at-line tool for bioprocess monitoring of Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. AMB Express 2022; 12:107. [PMID: 35947320 PMCID: PMC9365904 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-022-01447-1] [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: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Determination of the viability, ratio of dead and live cell populations, of Sulfolobus acidocaldarius is still being done by tedious and material-intensive plating assays that can only provide time-lagged results. Although S. acidocaldarius, an extremophilic Archaeon thriving at 75 °C and pH 3.0, and related species harbor great potential for the exploitation as production hosts and biocatalysts in biotechnological applications, no industrial processes have been established yet. One hindrance is that during development and scaling of industrial bioprocesses timely monitoring of the impact of process parameters on the cultivated organism is crucial—a task that cannot be fulfilled by traditional plating assays. As alternative, flow cytometry (FCM) promises a fast and reliable method for viability assessment via the use of fluorescent dyes. In this study, commercially available fluorescent dyes applicable in S. acidocaldarius were identified. The dyes, fluorescein diacetate and concanavalin A conjugated with rhodamine, were discovered to be suitable for viability determination via FCM. For showing the applicability of the developed at-line tool for bioprocess monitoring, a chemostat cultivation on a defined growth medium at 75 °C, pH 3.0 was conducted. Over the timeframe of 800 h, this developed FCM method was compared to the plating assay by monitoring the change in viability upon controlled pH shifts. Both methods detected an impact on the viability at pH values of 2.0 and 1.5 when compared to pH 3.0. A logarithmic relationship between the viability observed via plating assay and via FCM was observed. Development of a flow cytometry (FCM) method for viability determination of S. acidocaldarius using the fluorescent dyes fluorescein diacetate and concanavalin A conjugated with rhodamine. Applicability of the developed method was shown via viability monitoring during a continuous cultivation with triggered pH shifts. A logarithmic trend was observed between the developed FCM method and the state-of-the-art method, plating assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Rastädter
- Research Division Biochemical Engineering, Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, TU Wien, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andrea Tramontano
- Department of Functional and Evolutionary Ecology, Archaea Biology and Ecogenomics Unit, University of Vienna, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Oliver Spadiut
- Research Division Biochemical Engineering, Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, TU Wien, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julian Quehenberger
- Research Division Biochemical Engineering, Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, TU Wien, 1060, Vienna, Austria.
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24
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The Viral Susceptibility of the Haloferax Species. Viruses 2022; 14:v14061344. [PMID: 35746816 PMCID: PMC9229481 DOI: 10.3390/v14061344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses can infect members of all three domains of life. However, little is known about viruses infecting archaea and the mechanisms that determine their host interactions are poorly understood. Investigations of molecular mechanisms of viral infection rely on genetically accessible virus–host model systems. Euryarchaea belonging to the genus Haloferax are interesting models, as a reliable genetic system and versatile microscopy methods are available. However, only one virus infecting the Haloferax species is currently available. In this study, we tested ~100 haloarchaeal virus isolates for their infectivity on 14 Haloferax strains. From this, we identified 10 virus isolates in total capable of infecting Haloferax strains, which represented myovirus or siphovirus morphotypes. Surprisingly, the only susceptible strain of all 14 tested was Haloferax gibbonsii LR2-5, which serves as an auspicious host for all of these 10 viruses. By applying comparative genomics, we shed light on factors determining the host range of haloarchaeal viruses on Haloferax. We anticipate our study to be a starting point in the study of haloarchaeal virus–host interactions.
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25
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Lee A, Jin H, Cha J. Engineering of Sulfolobus acidocaldarius for Hemicellulosic Biomass Utilization. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 32:663-671. [PMID: 35283427 PMCID: PMC9628888 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2202.02016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The saccharification of cellulose and hemicellulose is essential for utilizing lignocellulosic biomass as a biofuel. While cellulose is composed of glucose only, hemicelluloses are composed of diverse sugars such as xylose, arabinose, glucose, and galactose. Sulfolobus acidocaldarius is a good potential candidate for biofuel production using hemicellulose as this archaeon simultaneously utilizes various sugars. However, S. acidocaldarius has to be manipulated because the enzyme that breaks down hemicellulose is not present in this species. Here, we engineered S. acidocaldarius to utilize xylan as a carbon source by introducing xylanase and β-xylosidase. Heterologous expression of β-xylosidase enhanced the organism's degradability and utilization of xylooligosaccharides (XOS), but the mutant still failed to grow when xylan was provided as a carbon source. S. acidocaldarius exhibited the ability to degrade xylan into XOS when xylanase was introduced, but no further degradation proceeded after this sole reaction. Following cell growth and enzyme reaction, S. acidocaldarius successfully utilized xylan in the synergy between xylanase and β-xylosidase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areum Lee
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeju Jin
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaeho Cha
- Department of Microbiology, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea,Microbiological Resource Research Institute, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea,Corresponding author Phone: +82-51-510-2196 Fax: +82-51-514-1778 E-mail:
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26
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Wang W, Zhou H, Peng L, Yu F, Xu Q, Wang Q, He J, Liu X. Translesion synthesis of apurinic/apyrimidic site analogues by Y-family DNA polymerase Dbh from Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2022; 54:637-646. [PMID: 35920197 PMCID: PMC9828665 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2022045] [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] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Apurinic/apyrimidic (AP) sites are severe DNA damages and strongly block DNA extension by major DNA polymerases. Y-family DNA polymerases possess a strong ability to bypass AP sites and continue the DNA synthesis reaction, which is called translesion synthesis (TLS) activity. To investigate the effect of the molecular structure of the AP site on the TLS efficiency of Dbh, a Y-family DNA polymerase from Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, a series of different AP site analogues (various spacers) are used to characterize the bypass efficiency. We find that not only the molecular structure and atomic composition but also the number and position of AP site analogues determine the TLS efficiency of Dbh. Increasing the spacer length decreases TLS activity. The TLS efficiency also decreases when more than one spacer exists on the DNA template. The position of the AP site analogues is also an important factor for TLS. When the spacer is opposite to the first incorporated dNTPs, the TLS efficiency is the lowest, suggesting that AP sites are largely harmful for the formation of hydrogen bonds. These results deepen our understanding of the TLS activity of Y-family DNA polymerases and provide a biochemical basis for elucidating the TLS mechanism in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Applied PhysicsChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai201800China,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Huan Zhou
- Shanghai Institute of Applied PhysicsChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai201800China,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Li Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial MetabolismSchool of Life Sciences and BiotechnologyShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200240China
| | - Feng Yu
- Shanghai Institute of Applied PhysicsChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai201800China,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Qin Xu
- Shanghai Institute of Applied PhysicsChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai201800China,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Qisheng Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Applied PhysicsChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai201800China,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China,Correspondence address. Tel: +86-21-34204378; E-mail: (X.L.) / Tel: +86-21-33933192; E-mail: (Q.W.) /Tel: +86-21-33933186; E-mail: (J.H.)@
| | - Jianhua He
- Shanghai Institute of Applied PhysicsChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai201800China,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China,Correspondence address. Tel: +86-21-34204378; E-mail: (X.L.) / Tel: +86-21-33933192; E-mail: (Q.W.) /Tel: +86-21-33933186; E-mail: (J.H.)@
| | - Xipeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial MetabolismSchool of Life Sciences and BiotechnologyShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200240China,Correspondence address. Tel: +86-21-34204378; E-mail: (X.L.) / Tel: +86-21-33933192; E-mail: (Q.W.) /Tel: +86-21-33933186; E-mail: (J.H.)@
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27
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Meyer BH, Adam PS, Wagstaff BA, Kolyfetis GE, Probst AJ, Albers SV, Dorfmueller HC. Agl24 is an ancient archaeal homolog of the eukaryotic N-glycan chitobiose synthesis enzymes. eLife 2022; 11:e67448. [PMID: 35394422 PMCID: PMC8993221 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein N-glycosylation is a post-translational modification found in organisms of all domains of life. The crenarchaeal N-glycosylation begins with the synthesis of a lipid-linked chitobiose core structure, identical to that in Eukaryotes, although the enzyme catalyzing this reaction remains unknown. Here, we report the identification of a thermostable archaeal β-1,4-N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase, named archaeal glycosylation enzyme 24 (Agl24), responsible for the synthesis of the N-glycan chitobiose core. Biochemical characterization confirmed its function as an inverting β-D-GlcNAc-(1→4)-α-D-GlcNAc-diphosphodolichol glycosyltransferase. Substitution of a conserved histidine residue, found also in the eukaryotic and bacterial homologs, demonstrated its functional importance for Agl24. Furthermore, bioinformatics and structural modeling revealed similarities of Agl24 to the eukaryotic Alg14/13 and a distant relation to the bacterial MurG, which are catalyzing the same or a similar reaction, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis of Alg14/13 homologs indicates that they are ancient in Eukaryotes, either as a lateral transfer or inherited through eukaryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin H Meyer
- Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology (EMB), Aquatic Microbial Ecology, University of Duisburg-EssenEssenGermany
- Division of Molecular Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, University of DundeeDundeeUnited Kingdom
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, University of FreiburgFreiburgGermany
| | - Panagiotis S Adam
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry University Duisburg-EssenEssenGermany
| | - Ben A Wagstaff
- Division of Molecular Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, University of DundeeDundeeUnited Kingdom
| | - George E Kolyfetis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Alexander J Probst
- Centre of Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), University of Duisburg-EssenEssenGermany
| | - Sonja V Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, University of FreiburgFreiburgGermany
| | - Helge C Dorfmueller
- Division of Molecular Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, University of DundeeDundeeUnited Kingdom
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28
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DNA-Binding Properties of a Novel Crenarchaeal Chromatin-Organizing Protein in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12040524. [PMID: 35454113 PMCID: PMC9025068 DOI: 10.3390/biom12040524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In archaeal microorganisms, the compaction and organization of the chromosome into a dynamic but condensed structure is mediated by diverse chromatin-organizing proteins in a lineage-specific manner. While many archaea employ eukaryotic-type histones for nucleoid organization, this is not the case for the crenarchaeal model species Sulfolobus acidocaldarius and related species in Sulfolobales, in which the organization appears to be mostly reliant on the action of small basic DNA-binding proteins. There is still a lack of a full understanding of the involved proteins and their functioning. Here, a combination of in vitro and in vivo methodologies is used to study the DNA-binding properties of Sul12a, an uncharacterized small basic protein conserved in several Sulfolobales species displaying a winged helix–turn–helix structural motif and annotated as a transcription factor. Genome-wide chromatin immunoprecipitation and target-specific electrophoretic mobility shift assays demonstrate that Sul12a of S. acidocaldarius interacts with DNA in a non-sequence specific manner, while atomic force microscopy imaging of Sul12a–DNA complexes indicate that the protein induces structural effects on the DNA template. Based on these results, and a contrario to its initial annotation, it can be concluded that Sul12a is a novel chromatin-organizing protein.
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29
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Identification of a protein responsible for the synthesis of archaeal membrane-spanning GDGT lipids. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1545. [PMID: 35318330 PMCID: PMC8941075 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29264-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Glycerol dibiphytanyl glycerol tetraethers (GDGTs) are archaeal monolayer membrane lipids that can provide a competitive advantage in extreme environments. Here, we identify a radical SAM protein, tetraether synthase (Tes), that participates in the synthesis of GDGTs. Attempts to generate a tes-deleted mutant in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius were unsuccessful, suggesting that the gene is essential in this organism. Heterologous expression of tes homologues leads to production of GDGT and structurally related lipids in the methanogen Methanococcus maripaludis (which otherwise does not synthesize GDGTs and lacks a tes homolog, but produces a putative GDGT precursor, archaeol). Tes homologues are encoded in the genomes of many archaea, as well as in some bacteria, in which they might be involved in the synthesis of bacterial branched glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers.
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30
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Ithurbide S, Gribaldo S, Albers SV, Pende N. Spotlight on FtsZ-based cell division in Archaea. Trends Microbiol 2022; 30:665-678. [PMID: 35246355 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Compared with the extensive knowledge on cell division in model eukaryotes and bacteria, little is known about how archaea divide. Interestingly, both endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT)-based and FtsZ-based cell division systems are found in members of the Archaea. In the past couple of years, several studies have started to shed light on FtsZ-based cell division processes in members of the Euryarchaeota. In this review we highlight recent findings in this emerging field of research. We present current knowledge of the cell division machinery of halophiles which relies on two FtsZ proteins, and we compare it with that of methanobacteria, which relies on only one FtsZ. Finally, we discuss how these differences relate to the distinct cell envelopes of these two archaeal model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solenne Ithurbide
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Simonetta Gribaldo
- Evolutionary Biology of the Microbial Cell Unit, CNRS UMR2001, Department of Microbiology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Nika Pende
- Evolutionary Biology of the Microbial Cell Unit, CNRS UMR2001, Department of Microbiology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
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31
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Wimmer E, Zink IA, Schleper C. Reprogramming CRISPR-Mediated RNA Interference for Silencing of Essential Genes in Sulfolobales. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2522:177-201. [PMID: 36125750 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2445-6_11] [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: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The manipulation of gene expression levels in vivo is often key to elucidating gene function and regulatory network interactions, especially when it comes to the investigation of essential genes that cannot be deleted from the model organism's genome. Several techniques have been developed for prokaryotes that allow to interfere with transcription initiation of specific genes by blocking or modifying promoter regions. However, a tool functionally similar to RNAi used in eukaryotes to efficiently degrade mRNA posttranscriptionally did not exist until recently. Type III CRISPR-Cas systems use small RNAs (crRNAs) that guide effector complexes (encoded by cas genes) which act as site-specific RNA endonuclease and can thus be harnessed for targeted posttranscriptional gene silencing. Guide RNAs complementary to the desired target mRNA that, in addition, exhibit complementarity to repeat sequences found in the CRISPR arrays, effectively suppress unspecific DNA and RNA activities of the CRISPR-Cas complexes. Here we describe the use of endogenous type III CRISPR-Cas systems in two model organisms of Crenarchaeota, Saccharolobus solfataricus and Sulfolobus acidocaldarius.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Wimmer
- Department of Functional and Evolutionary Ecology, Archaea Biology and Ecogenomics Unit, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Isabelle Anna Zink
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Christa Schleper
- Department of Functional and Evolutionary Ecology, Archaea Biology and Ecogenomics Unit, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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32
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van Wolferen M, Albers SV. Progress and Challenges in Archaeal Cell Biology. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2522:365-371. [PMID: 36125763 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2445-6_24] [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: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decades there has been a growing interest in the domain of archaea. In this chapter we highlight the recent advances that have been made in studying the cell biology of archaea. We particularly focus on methods for genetic manipulation and imaging of different archaeal species and discuss the technical limitations at the often-extreme growth conditions. Several ongoing developments will help us overcoming these limitations, thereby facilitating future studies in the existing field of archaeal cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marleen van Wolferen
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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33
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Zhang C, Taluja SM, Hallett EN, Whitaker RJ. A Rapid Targeted Gene Inactivation Approach in Sulfolobus islandicus. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2522:145-162. [PMID: 36125748 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2445-6_9] [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: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Homologous recombination-based gene targeting is a powerful and classic reverse genetics approach to precisely elucidate in vivo gene functions in the organisms across all three domains of life. Gene function studies in Archaea, particularly for those flourishing in inhospitable natural environments that are anaerobic, usually hot, and acidic, have been a great challenge; however, this situation was recently overturned with the increasing availability of genetic manipulation systems in several cultivable archaeal species. In the present chapter, we describe a detailed procedure to rapidly generate gene disruption mutants in the hyperthermophilic crenarchaeon Sulfolobus islandicus via a recently developed Microhomology-Mediated Gene Inactivation (MMGI) approach. We highlight crucial experimental details required to be carefully considered when using the MMGI approach for genetic manipulations. We hope this highly reproducible procedure can supplement existing genetic tools for studying the biology of archaeal order Sulfolobales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changyi Zhang
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA.
| | - Serina M Taluja
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
- Department of Microbiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
- New Beasley Laboratory, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Emily N Hallett
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
- Department of Microbiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique-Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Rachel J Whitaker
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
- Department of Microbiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
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34
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Ye X, Recalde A, Albers SV, van Wolferen M. Methods for Markerless Gene Deletion and Plasmid-Based Expression in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2522:135-144. [PMID: 36125747 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2445-6_8] [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: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
A well-functioning genetic system, which is important for studying gene functions in vivo, requires a transformation method, a vector system and a selection system. Sulfolobus acidocaldarius is a crenarchaeal model organism that grows optimally at 75 °C and a pH of 3. These extreme growth conditions cause some difficulties in developing a genetic system. With continuous efforts, versatile genetic tools have been developed for different species from the order of Sulfolobales. In this chapter, we describe the methods for the available genetic tools in S. acidocaldarius including a (1) transformation method, (2) pop in/pop out strategy to generate markerless deletion mutants and (3) a plasmid-based expression system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Ye
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Alejandra Recalde
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Marleen van Wolferen
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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35
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Abstract
Archaea inhabit a wide variety of habitats and are well-placed to provide insights into the origins of eukaryotes. In this primer, we examine the available model archaeal genetic systems. We consider the limitations and barriers involved in genetically modifying different archaeal species, the techniques and breakthroughs that have contributed to their tractability, and potential areas for future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Harrison
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Thorsten Allers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK.
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36
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Chauhan SM, Poudel S, Rychel K, Lamoureux C, Yoo R, Al Bulushi T, Yuan Y, Palsson BO, Sastry AV. Machine Learning Uncovers a Data-Driven Transcriptional Regulatory Network for the Crenarchaeal Thermoacidophile Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:753521. [PMID: 34777307 PMCID: PMC8578740 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.753521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Dynamic cellular responses to environmental constraints are coordinated by the transcriptional regulatory network (TRN), which modulates gene expression. This network controls most fundamental cellular responses, including metabolism, motility, and stress responses. Here, we apply independent component analysis, an unsupervised machine learning approach, to 95 high-quality Sulfolobus acidocaldarius RNA-seq datasets and extract 45 independently modulated gene sets, or iModulons. Together, these iModulons contain 755 genes (32% of the genes identified on the genome) and explain over 70% of the variance in the expression compendium. We show that five modules represent the effects of known transcriptional regulators, and hypothesize that most of the remaining modules represent the effects of uncharacterized regulators. Further analysis of these gene sets results in: (1) the prediction of a DNA export system composed of five uncharacterized genes, (2) expansion of the LysM regulon, and (3) evidence for an as-yet-undiscovered global regulon. Our approach allows for a mechanistic, systems-level elucidation of an extremophile's responses to biological perturbations, which could inform research on gene-regulator interactions and facilitate regulator discovery in S. acidocaldarius. We also provide the first global TRN for S. acidocaldarius. Collectively, these results provide a roadmap toward regulatory network discovery in archaea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddharth M. Chauhan
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Saugat Poudel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Kevin Rychel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Cameron Lamoureux
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Reo Yoo
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Tahani Al Bulushi
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Bernhard O. Palsson
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Anand V. Sastry
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
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37
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de Kok NAW, Exterkate M, Andringa RLH, Minnaard AJ, Driessen AJM. A versatile method to separate complex lipid mixtures using 1-butanol as eluent in a reverse-phase UHPLC-ESI-MS system. Chem Phys Lipids 2021; 240:105125. [PMID: 34453926 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2021.105125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Simple, robust and versatile LC-MS based methods add to the rapid assessment of the lipidome of biological cells. Here we present a versatile RP-UHPLC-MS method using 1-butanol as the eluent, specifically designed to separate different highly hydrophobic lipids. This method is capable of separating different lipid classes of glycerophospholipid standards, in addition to phospholipids of the same class with a different acyl chain composition. The versatility of this method was demonstrated through analysis of lipid extracts of the bacterium Escherichia coli and the archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. In contrast to 2-propanol-based methods, the 1-butanol-based mobile phase is capable of eluting highly hydrophobic analytes such as cardiolipins, tetraether lipids and mycolic acids during the gradient instead of the isocratic purge phase, resulting in an enhanced separation of cardiolipins and extending the analytical range for RPLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels A W de Kok
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.
| | - Marten Exterkate
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.
| | - Ruben L H Andringa
- Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.
| | - Adriaan J Minnaard
- Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.
| | - Arnold J M Driessen
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.
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38
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Lewis AM, Recalde A, Bräsen C, Counts JA, Nussbaum P, Bost J, Schocke L, Shen L, Willard DJ, Quax TEF, Peeters E, Siebers B, Albers SV, Kelly RM. The biology of thermoacidophilic archaea from the order Sulfolobales. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2021; 45:fuaa063. [PMID: 33476388 PMCID: PMC8557808 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuaa063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thermoacidophilic archaea belonging to the order Sulfolobales thrive in extreme biotopes, such as sulfuric hot springs and ore deposits. These microorganisms have been model systems for understanding life in extreme environments, as well as for probing the evolution of both molecular genetic processes and central metabolic pathways. Thermoacidophiles, such as the Sulfolobales, use typical microbial responses to persist in hot acid (e.g. motility, stress response, biofilm formation), albeit with some unusual twists. They also exhibit unique physiological features, including iron and sulfur chemolithoautotrophy, that differentiate them from much of the microbial world. Although first discovered >50 years ago, it was not until recently that genome sequence data and facile genetic tools have been developed for species in the Sulfolobales. These advances have not only opened up ways to further probe novel features of these microbes but also paved the way for their potential biotechnological applications. Discussed here are the nuances of the thermoacidophilic lifestyle of the Sulfolobales, including their evolutionary placement, cell biology, survival strategies, genetic tools, metabolic processes and physiological attributes together with how these characteristics make thermoacidophiles ideal platforms for specialized industrial processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- April M Lewis
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University. Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Alejandra Recalde
- Institute for Biology, Molecular Biology of Archaea, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christopher Bräsen
- Department of Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, and Centre for Water and Environmental Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117 Essen, Germany
| | - James A Counts
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University. Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Phillip Nussbaum
- Institute for Biology, Molecular Biology of Archaea, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jan Bost
- Institute for Biology, Molecular Biology of Archaea, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Larissa Schocke
- Department of Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, and Centre for Water and Environmental Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117 Essen, Germany
| | - Lu Shen
- Department of Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, and Centre for Water and Environmental Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117 Essen, Germany
| | - Daniel J Willard
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University. Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Tessa E F Quax
- Archaeal Virus–Host Interactions, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eveline Peeters
- Research Group of Microbiology, Department of Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bettina Siebers
- Department of Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, and Centre for Water and Environmental Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117 Essen, Germany
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Institute for Biology, Molecular Biology of Archaea, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Robert M Kelly
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University. Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
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39
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Charles-Orszag A, Lord SJ, Mullins RD. High-Temperature Live-Cell Imaging of Cytokinesis, Cell Motility, and Cell-Cell Interactions in the Thermoacidophilic Crenarchaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:707124. [PMID: 34447359 PMCID: PMC8383144 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.707124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Significant technical challenges have limited the study of extremophile cell biology. Here we describe a system for imaging samples at 75°C using high numerical aperture, oil-immersion lenses. With this system we observed and quantified the dynamics of cell division in the model thermoacidophilic crenarchaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius with unprecedented resolution. In addition, we observed previously undescribed dynamic cell shape changes, cell motility, and cell-cell interactions, shedding significant new light on the high-temperature lifestyle of this organism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - R. Dyche Mullins
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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40
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Counts JA, Willard DJ, Kelly RM. Life in hot acid: a genome-based reassessment of the archaeal order Sulfolobales. Environ Microbiol 2021; 23:3568-3584. [PMID: 32776389 PMCID: PMC10560490 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.15189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The order Sulfolobales was one of the first named Archaeal lineages, with globally distributed members from terrestrial thermal acid springs (pH < 4; T > 65°C). The Sulfolobales represent broad metabolic capabilities, ranging from lithotrophy, based on inorganic iron and sulfur biotransformations, to autotrophy, to chemoheterotrophy in less acidophilic species. Components of the 3-hydroxypropionate/4-hydroxybutyrate carbon fixation cycle, as well as sulfur oxidation, are nearly universally conserved, although dissimilatory sulfur reduction and disproportionation (Acidianus, Stygiolobus and Sulfurisphaera) and iron oxidation (Acidianus, Metallosphaera, Sulfurisphaera, Sulfuracidifex and Sulfodiicoccus) are limited to fewer lineages. Lithotrophic marker genes appear more often in highly acidophilic lineages. Despite the presence of facultative anaerobes and one confirmed obligate anaerobe, oxidase complexes (fox, sox, dox and a new putative cytochrome bd) are prevalent in many species (even facultative/obligate anaerobes), suggesting a key role for oxygen among the Sulfolobales. The presence of fox genes tracks with a putative antioxidant OsmC family peroxiredoxin, an indicator of oxidative stress derived from mixing reactive metals and oxygen. Extreme acidophily appears to track inversely with heterotrophy but directly with lithotrophy. Recent phylogenetic re-organization efforts are supported by the comparative genomics here, although several changes are proposed, including the expansion of the genus Saccharolobus.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A. Counts
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA
| | - Daniel J. Willard
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA
| | - Robert M. Kelly
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA
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41
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Knüppel R, Fenk M, Jüttner M, Ferreira-Cerca S. In Vivo RNA Chemical Footprinting Analysis in Archaea. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2106:193-208. [PMID: 31889259 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0231-7_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
RNA structural conformation and dynamics govern the functional properties of all RNA/RNP. Accordingly, defining changes of RNA structure and dynamics in various conditions may provide detailed insight into how RNA structural properties regulate the function of RNA/RNP. Traditional chemical footprinting analysis using chemical modifiers allows to sample the dynamics and conformation landscape of diverse RNA/RNP. However, many chemical modifiers are limited in their capacity to provide unbiased information reflecting the in vivo RNA/RNP structural landscape. In the recent years, the development of selective-2'-hydroxyl acylation analyzed by primer extension (SHAPE) methodology that uses powerful new chemical modifiers has significantly improved in vitro and in vivo structural probing of secondary and tertiary interactions of diverse RNA species at the single nucleotide level.Although the original discovery of Archaea as an independent domain of life is intimately linked to the technological development of RNA analysis, our understanding of in vivo RNA structural conformation and dynamics in this domain of life remains scarce.This protocol describes the in vivo use of SHAPE chemistry in two evolutionary divergent model Archaea, Sulfolobus acidocaldarius and Haloferax volcanii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Knüppel
- Department of Biochemistry III, Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Martin Fenk
- Department of Biochemistry III, Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Michael Jüttner
- Department of Biochemistry III, Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sébastien Ferreira-Cerca
- Department of Biochemistry III, Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
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42
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Willard DJ, Kelly RM. Intersection of Biotic and Abiotic Sulfur Chemistry Supporting Extreme Microbial Life in Hot Acid. J Phys Chem B 2021; 125:5243-5257. [PMID: 33979170 PMCID: PMC10562994 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.1c02102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Microbial life on Earth exists within wide ranges of temperature, pressure, pH, salinity, radiation, and water activity. Extreme thermoacidophiles, in particular, are microbes found in hot, acidic biotopes laden with heavy metals and reduced inorganic sulfur species. As chemolithoautotrophs, they thrive in the absence of organic carbon, instead using sulfur and metal oxidation to fuel their bioenergetic needs, while incorporating CO2 as a carbon source. Metal oxidation by these microbes takes place extracellularly, mediated by membrane-associated oxidase complexes. In contrast, sulfur oxidation involves extracellular, membrane-associated, and cytoplasmic biotransformations, which intersect with abiotic sulfur chemistry. This novel lifestyle has been examined in the context of early aerobic life on this planet, but it is also interesting when considering the prospects of life, now or previously, on other solar bodies. Here, extreme thermoacidophily (growth at pH below 4.0, temperature above 55 °C), a characteristic of species in the archaeal order Sulfolobales, is considered from the perspective of sulfur chemistry, both biotic and abiotic, as it relates to microbial bioenergetics. Current understanding of the mechanisms involved are reviewed which are further expanded through recent experimental results focused on imparting sulfur oxidation capacity on a natively nonsulfur oxidizing extremely thermoacidophilic archaeon, Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, through metabolic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Willard
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Robert M. Kelly
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
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43
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Physiological Characterization of Sulfolobus acidocaldarius in a Controlled Bioreactor Environment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115532. [PMID: 34064179 PMCID: PMC8196767 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The crenarchaeal model organism Sulfolobus acidocaldarius is typically cultivated in shake flasks. Although shake flasks represent the state-of-the-art for the cultivation of this microorganism, in these systems crucial process parameters, like pH or substrate availability, are only set initially, but cannot be controlled during the cultivation process. As a result, a thorough characterization of growth parameters under controlled conditions is still missing for S. acidocaldarius. In this study, we conducted chemostat cultivations at 75 °C using a growth medium containing L-glutamate and D-glucose as main carbon sources. Different pH values and dilution rates were applied with the goal to physiologically characterize the organism in a controlled bioreactor environment. Under these controlled conditions a pH optimum of 3.0 was determined. Washout of the cells occurred at a dilution rate of 0.097 h−1 and the optimal productivity of biomass was observed at a dilution rate of 0.062 h−1. While both carbon sources were taken up by S. acidocaldarius concomitantly, a 6.6-fold higher affinity for L-glutamate was shown. When exposed to suboptimal growth conditions, S. acidocaldarius reacted with a change in the respiratory behavior and an increased trehalose production rate in addition to a decreased growth rate.
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44
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Lee A, Bae E, Park J, Choi KH, Cha J. Identification of the Genes Related to the Glycogen Metabolism in Hyperthermophilic Archaeon, Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:661053. [PMID: 34054761 PMCID: PMC8158581 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.661053] [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: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycogen is a polysaccharide that comprises α-1,4-linked glucose backbone and α-1,6-linked glucose polymers at the branching points. It is widely found in organisms ranging from bacteria to eukaryotes. The physiological role of glycogen is not confined to being an energy reservoir and carbon source but varies depending on organisms. Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, a thermoacidophilic archaeon, was observed to accumulate granular glycogen in the cell. However, the role of glycogen and genes that are responsible for glycogen metabolism in S. acidocaldarius has not been identified clearly. The objective of this study is to identify the gene cluster, which is composed of enzymes that are predicted to be involved in the glycogen metabolism, and confirm the role of each of these genes by constructing deletion mutants. This study also compares the glycogen content of mutant and wild type and elucidates the role of glycogen in this archaeon. The glycogen content of S. acidocaldarius MR31, which is used as a parent strain for constructing the deletion mutant in this study, was increased in the early and middle exponential growth phases and decreased during the late exponential and stationary growth phases. The pattern of the accumulated glycogen was independent to the type of supplemented sugar. In the comparison of the glycogen content between the gene deletion mutant and MR31, glycogen synthase (GlgA) and α-amylase (AmyA) were shown to be responsible for the synthesis of glycogen, whereas glycogen debranching enzyme (GlgX) and glucoamylase (Gaa) appeared to affect the degradation of glycogen. The expressions of glgC-gaa-glgX and amyA-glgA were detected by the promoter assay. This result suggests that the gradual decrease of glycogen content in the late exponential and stationary phases occurs due to the increase in the gene expression of glgC-gaa-glgX. When the death rate in nutrient limited condition was compared among the wild type strain, the glycogen deficient strain and the strain with increased glycogen content, the death rate of the glycogen deficient strain was found to be higher than any other strain, thereby suggesting that the glycogen in S. acidocaldarius supports cell maintenance in harsh conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areum Lee
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea
| | - Eunji Bae
- Research Development Institute, Cowellmedi, Busan, South Korea
| | - Jihee Park
- Department of Southern Area Crop Science, Upland Crop Breeding Research Division, National Institute of Crop Science, Rural Development Administration, Miryang, South Korea
| | - Kyoung-Hwa Choi
- Department of Microbiology, Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea
| | - Jaeho Cha
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea
- Department of Microbiology, Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea
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45
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Cobban A, Zhang Y, Zhou A, Weber Y, Elling FJ, Pearson A, Leavitt WD. Multiple environmental parameters impact lipid cyclization in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Environ Microbiol 2021; 22:4046-4056. [PMID: 32783317 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.15194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Adaptation of lipid membrane composition is an important component of archaeal homeostatic response. Historically, the number of cyclopentyl and cyclohexyl rings in the glycerol dibiphytanyl glycerol tetraether (GDGT) Archaeal lipids has been linked to variation in environmental temperature. However, recent work with GDGT-making archaea highlight the roles of other factors, such as pH or energy availability, in influencing the degree of GDGT cyclization. To better understand the role of multiple variables in a consistent experimental framework and organism, we cultivated the model Crenarchaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius DSM639 at different combinations of temperature, pH, oxygen flux, or agitation speed. We quantified responses in growth rate, biomass yield, and core lipid compositions, specifically the degree of core GDGT cyclization. The degree of GDGT cyclization correlated with growth rate under most conditions. The results suggest the degree of cyclization in archaeal lipids records a universal response to energy availability at the cellular level, both in thermoacidophiles, and in other recent findings in the mesoneutrophilic Thaumarchaea. Although we isolated the effects of key individual parameters, there remains a need for multi-factor experiments (e.g., pH + temperature + redox) in order to more robustly establish a framework to better understand homeostatic membrane responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alec Cobban
- Department of Earth Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Yujiao Zhang
- Department of Earth Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA.,State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Alice Zhou
- Department of Earth Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA.,Department of Earth Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yuki Weber
- Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA.,Greenlight Biosciences Inc., Medford, MA, USA
| | - Felix J Elling
- Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Ann Pearson
- Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - William D Leavitt
- Department of Earth Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA.,Department of Chemistry, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
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46
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Zink IA, Fouqueau T, Tarrason Risa G, Werner F, Baum B, Bläsi U, Schleper C. Comparative CRISPR type III-based knockdown of essential genes in hyperthermophilic Sulfolobales and the evasion of lethal gene silencing. RNA Biol 2021; 18:421-434. [PMID: 32957821 PMCID: PMC7951960 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2020.1813411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
CRISPR type III systems, which are abundantly found in archaea, recognize and degrade RNA in their specific response to invading nucleic acids. Therefore, these systems can be harnessed for gene knockdown technologies even in hyperthermophilic archaea to study essential genes. We show here the broader usability of this posttranscriptional silencing technology by expanding the application to further essential genes and systematically analysing and comparing silencing thresholds and escape mutants. Synthetic guide RNAs expressed from miniCRISPR cassettes were used to silence genes involved in cell division (cdvA), transcription (rpo8), and RNA metabolism (smAP2) of the two crenarchaeal model organisms Saccharolobus solfataricus and Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Results were systematically analysed together with those obtained from earlier experiments of cell wall biogenesis (slaB) and translation (aif5A). Comparison of over 100 individual transformants revealed gene-specific silencing maxima ranging between 40 and 75%, which induced specific knockdown phenotypes leading to growth retardation. Exceedance of this threshold by strong miniCRISPR constructs was not tolerated and led to specific mutation of the silencing miniCRISPR array and phenotypical reversion of cultures. In two thirds of sequenced reverted cultures, the targeting spacers were found to be precisely excised from the miniCRISPR array, indicating a still hypothetical, but highly active recombination system acting on the dynamics of CRISPR spacer arrays. Our results indicate that CRISPR type III - based silencing is a broadly applicable tool to study in vivo functions of essential genes in Sulfolobales which underlies a specific mechanism to avoid malignant silencing overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Anna Zink
- Department of Functional and Evolutionary Ecology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Fouqueau
- RNAP Lab, Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Gabriel Tarrason Risa
- Medical Research Council Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Finn Werner
- RNAP Lab, Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Buzz Baum
- Medical Research Council Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Udo Bläsi
- Max Perutz Laboratories, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christa Schleper
- Department of Functional and Evolutionary Ecology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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47
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Knüppel R, Trahan C, Kern M, Wagner A, Grünberger F, Hausner W, Quax TEF, Albers SV, Oeffinger M, Ferreira-Cerca S. Insights into synthesis and function of KsgA/Dim1-dependent rRNA modifications in archaea. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:1662-1687. [PMID: 33434266 PMCID: PMC7897474 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa1268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribosomes are intricate molecular machines ensuring proper protein synthesis in every cell. Ribosome biogenesis is a complex process which has been intensively analyzed in bacteria and eukaryotes. In contrast, our understanding of the in vivo archaeal ribosome biogenesis pathway remains less characterized. Here, we have analyzed the in vivo role of the almost universally conserved ribosomal RNA dimethyltransferase KsgA/Dim1 homolog in archaea. Our study reveals that KsgA/Dim1-dependent 16S rRNA dimethylation is dispensable for the cellular growth of phylogenetically distant archaea. However, proteomics and functional analyses suggest that archaeal KsgA/Dim1 and its rRNA modification activity (i) influence the expression of a subset of proteins and (ii) contribute to archaeal cellular fitness and adaptation. In addition, our study reveals an unexpected KsgA/Dim1-dependent variability of rRNA modifications within the archaeal phylum. Combining structure-based functional studies across evolutionary divergent organisms, we provide evidence on how rRNA structure sequence variability (re-)shapes the KsgA/Dim1-dependent rRNA modification status. Finally, our results suggest an uncoupling between the KsgA/Dim1-dependent rRNA modification completion and its release from the nascent small ribosomal subunit. Collectively, our study provides additional understandings into principles of molecular functional adaptation, and further evolutionary and mechanistic insights into an almost universally conserved step of ribosome synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Knüppel
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry, Biochemistry III – Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christian Trahan
- Institut de Recherches Cliniques de Montréal, 110 Avenue des Pins Ouest, Montréal, Québec H2W 1R7, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec H3A 1A3, Canada
- Département de Biochimie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Michael Kern
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry, Biochemistry III – Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Wagner
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, Microbiology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Felix Grünberger
- Chair of Microbiology – Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Winfried Hausner
- Chair of Microbiology – Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Tessa E F Quax
- Archaeal Virus-Host Interactions, Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, Microbiology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, Microbiology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marlene Oeffinger
- Institut de Recherches Cliniques de Montréal, 110 Avenue des Pins Ouest, Montréal, Québec H2W 1R7, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec H3A 1A3, Canada
- Département de Biochimie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Sébastien Ferreira-Cerca
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry, Biochemistry III – Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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The Role of Polyphosphate in Motility, Adhesion, and Biofilm Formation in Sulfolobales. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9010193. [PMID: 33477546 PMCID: PMC7831078 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9010193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyphosphates (polyP) are polymers of orthophosphate residues linked by high-energy phosphoanhydride bonds that are important in all domains of life and function in many different processes, including biofilm development. To study the effect of polyP in archaeal biofilm formation, our previously described Sa. solfataricus polyP (−) strain and a new polyP (−) S. acidocaldarius strain generated in this report were used. These two strains lack the polymer due to the overexpression of their respective exopolyphosphatase gene (ppx). Both strains showed a reduction in biofilm formation, decreased motility on semi-solid plates and a diminished adherence to glass surfaces as seen by DAPI (4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) staining using fluorescence microscopy. Even though arlB (encoding the archaellum subunit) was highly upregulated in S. acidocardarius polyP (−), no archaellated cells were observed. These results suggest that polyP might be involved in the regulation of the expression of archaellum components and their assembly, possibly by affecting energy availability, phosphorylation or other phenomena. This is the first evidence indicating polyP affects biofilm formation and other related processes in archaea.
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Salt Stress Response of Sulfolobus acidocaldarius Involves Complex Trehalose Metabolism Utilizing a Novel Trehalose-6-Phosphate Synthase (TPS)/Trehalose-6-Phosphate Phosphatase (TPP) Pathway. Appl Environ Microbiol 2020; 86:AEM.01565-20. [PMID: 33008820 PMCID: PMC7688234 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01565-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The crenarchaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius has been described to synthesize trehalose via the maltooligosyltrehalose synthase (TreY) and maltooligosyltrehalose trehalohydrolase (TreZ) pathway, and the trehalose glycosyltransferring synthase (TreT) pathway has been predicted. Deletion mutant analysis of strains with single and double deletions of ΔtreY and ΔtreT in S. acidocaldarius revealed that in addition to these two pathways, a third, novel trehalose biosynthesis pathway is operative in vivo: the trehalose-6-phosphate (T6P) synthase/T6P phosphatase (TPS/TPP) pathway. In contrast to known TPS proteins, which belong to the GT20 family, the S. acidocaldarius TPS belongs to the GT4 family, establishing a new function within this group of enzymes. This novel GT4-like TPS was found to be present mainly in the Sulfolobales The ΔtreY ΔtreT Δtps triple mutant of S. acidocaldarius, which lacks the ability to synthesize trehalose, showed no altered phenotype under standard conditions or heat stress but was unable to grow under salt stress. Accordingly, in the wild-type strain, a significant increase of intracellular trehalose formation was observed under salt stress. Quantitative real-time PCR showed a salt stress-mediated induction of all three trehalose-synthesizing pathways. This demonstrates that in Archaea, trehalose plays an essential role for growth under high-salt conditions.IMPORTANCE The metabolism and function of trehalose as a compatible solute in Archaea was not well understood. This combined genetic and enzymatic approach at the interface of microbiology, physiology, and microbial ecology gives important insights into survival under stress, adaptation to extreme environments, and the role of compatible solutes in Archaea Here, we unraveled the complexity of trehalose metabolism, and we present a comprehensive study on trehalose function in stress response in S. acidocaldarius This sheds light on the general microbiology and the fascinating metabolic repertoire of Archaea, involving many novel biocatalysts, such as glycosyltransferases, with great potential in biotechnology.
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Ye X, van der Does C, Albers SV. SaUspA, the Universal Stress Protein of Sulfolobus acidocaldarius Stimulates the Activity of the PP2A Phosphatase and Is Involved in Growth at High Salinity. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:598821. [PMID: 33304342 PMCID: PMC7693658 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.598821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, the protein phosphatase PP2A plays important regulatory roles in many cellular processes, including cell growth, cell shape and synthesis of the archaellum. A conserved prokaryotic protein, designated as SaUspA, was identified as an interaction partner of the phosphatase PP2A. SaUspA belongs to the universal stress protein (USP) superfamily, members of which are found in bacteria, archaea, plants and invertebrates. Biochemical analysis showed that SaUspA is a homodimeric ATP-binding protein, which also in vitro binds to PP2A. SaUspA did not hydrolyze ATP, but stimulated the phosphatase activity of PP2A and might in this manner affect many other processes. Interestingly, binding of ATP further enhanced SaUspA's interaction with PP2A. In contrast to bacterial usp genes, environmental stress conditions including stationary phase, starvation stress, high salinity stress and UV stress did not stimulate expression of saUspA. Deletion of saUspA led to premature production of the archaellin FlaB in S. acidocaldarius although motility was not affected. The ΔsaUspA mutant showed a significant growth defect under high salinity stress and complementation of ATP-binding deficient mutant SaUspAG97A failed to restore this growth defect. Compared with the wild type strain, its growth or survival was not affected under heavy metal stress and UV stress. To date, this is the first study in which the physiological role of USP homologs in archaea have been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Ye
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Chris van der Does
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biology II, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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