1
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Leppert A, Feng J, Railaite V, Bohn Pessatti T, Cerrato CP, Mörman C, Osterholz H, Lane DP, Maia FRNC, Linder MB, Rising A, Landreh M. Controlling Drug Partitioning in Individual Protein Condensates through Laser-Induced Microscale Phase Transitions. J Am Chem Soc 2024. [PMID: 38963823 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c06688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Gelation of protein condensates formed by liquid-liquid phase separation occurs in a wide range of biological contexts, from the assembly of biomaterials to the formation of fibrillar aggregates, and is therefore of interest for biomedical applications. Soluble-to-gel (sol-gel) transitions are controlled through macroscopic processes such as changes in temperature or buffer composition, resulting in bulk conversion of liquid droplets into microgels within minutes to hours. Using microscopy and mass spectrometry, we show that condensates of an engineered mini-spidroin (NT2repCTYF) undergo a spontaneous sol-gel transition resulting in the loss of exchange of proteins between the soluble and the condensed phase. This feature enables us to specifically trap a silk-domain-tagged target protein in the spidroin microgels. Surprisingly, laser pulses trigger near-instant gelation. By loading the condensates with fluorescent dyes or drugs, we can control the wavelength at which gelation is triggered. Fluorescence microscopy reveals that laser-induced gelation significantly further increases the partitioning of the fluorescent molecules into the condensates. In summary, our findings demonstrate direct control of phase transitions in individual condensates, opening new avenues for functional and structural characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Leppert
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, S-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Solna, Sweden
| | - Jianhui Feng
- Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, Fi-00076 Aalto, Espoo, Finland
| | - Vaida Railaite
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Solna, Sweden
| | - Tomas Bohn Pessatti
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, S-75007 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Carmine P Cerrato
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Solna, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Mörman
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, S-14157 Huddinge, Sweden
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villingen, Switzerland
| | - Hannah Osterholz
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, S-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - David P Lane
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Solna, Sweden
| | - Filipe R N C Maia
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, S-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Markus B Linder
- Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, Fi-00076 Aalto, Espoo, Finland
| | - Anna Rising
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, S-75007 Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, S-14157 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Michael Landreh
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, S-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Solna, Sweden
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2
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Monti A, Scognamiglio PL, Ruvo M, Vitagliano L, Doti N. The Characterization of Multifaceted PREP1 Peptides Provides Insights into Correlations between Spectroscopic and Structural Properties of Amyloid-like Assemblies. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202400846. [PMID: 38682403 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202400846] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The widespread ability of proteins and peptides to self-assemble by forming cross-β structure is one of the most significant discoveries in structural biology. Intriguingly, the cross-β association of proteins/peptides may generate intricate supramolecular architectures with uncommon spectroscopic properties. We have recently characterized self-assembled peptides extracted from the PREP1 protein that are endowed with interesting structural/spectroscopic properties. We here demonstrate that the green fluorescence emission of the peptide PREP1[117-132] (λem ~520 nm), can be induced by excitation with UV radiation. The associated unusually large Stokes shift (Δλ ~150 nm) represents, to the best of our knowledge, the first evidence of an internal resonance energy transfer in amyloid-like structures, where the blue emission of some assemblies becomes the excitation radiation for others. Moreover, the characterization of PREP1[117-132] variants provides insights into the sequence/structure and structure/spectroscopic properties relationships. Our data suggests that the green fluorescence is plausibly associated with antiparallel β-sheet states of the peptide whereas parallel β-sheet assemblies are only endowed with blue fluorescence. Notably, the different PREP1[117-132] variants also form assemblies characterized by distinct morphologies. Indeed, the parent peptide and single mutants form compact but structured aggregates whereas most of the double mutants exhibit elongated and highly extended fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Monti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB)-CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Pasqualina Liana Scognamiglio
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Macchia Romana Campus 10, Viale dell'Ateneo Lucano, 85100, Potenza, Italy
| | - Menotti Ruvo
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB)-CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Luigi Vitagliano
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB)-CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Nunzianna Doti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB)-CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131, Napoli, Italy
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3
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Maru K, Singh A, Jangir R, Jangir KK. Amyloid detection in neurodegenerative diseases using MOFs. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:4553-4573. [PMID: 38646795 DOI: 10.1039/d4tb00373j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (amyloid diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's), stemming from protein misfolding and aggregation, encompass a spectrum of disorders with severe systemic implications. Timely detection is pivotal in managing these diseases owing to their significant impact on organ function and high mortality rates. The diverse array of amyloid disorders, spanning localized and systemic manifestations, underscores the complexity of these conditions and highlights the need for advanced detection methods. Traditional approaches have focused on identifying biomarkers using imaging techniques (PET and MRI) or invasive procedures. However, recent efforts have focused on the use of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), a versatile class of materials known for their unique properties, in revolutionizing amyloid disease detection. The high porosity, customizable structures, and biocompatibility of MOFs enable their integration with biomolecules, laying the groundwork for highly sensitive and specific biosensors. These sensors have been employed using electrochemical and photophysical techniques that target amyloid species under neurodegenerative conditions. The adaptability of MOFs allows for the precise detection and quantification of amyloid proteins, offering potential advancements in early diagnosis and disease management. This review article delves into how MOFs contribute to detecting amyloid diseases by categorizing their uses based on different sensing methods, such as electrochemical (EC), electrochemiluminescence (ECL), fluorescence, Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), up-conversion luminescence resonance energy transfer (ULRET), and photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensing. The drawbacks of MOF biosensors and the challenges encountered in the field are also briefly explored from our perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ketan Maru
- Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Ichchanath, Surat-395 007, Gujarat, India.
| | - Amarendra Singh
- Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Ichchanath, Surat-395 007, Gujarat, India.
| | - Ritambhara Jangir
- Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Ichchanath, Surat-395 007, Gujarat, India.
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4
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Deng Y, Guo Y, Zhang Y. Aggregation of gold nanoclusters in amyloid fibers: a luminescence assay for amyloid fibrillation detection and inhibitor screening. Analyst 2024; 149:870-875. [PMID: 38170814 DOI: 10.1039/d3an01789c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Amyloid fibrillation is associated with a great variety of human diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Huntington's diseases. A fluorescence assay for amyloid fibrillation detection and inhibitor screening was developed based on the fact that the fluorescence emission of gold nanoclusters (Au NCs) is largely enhanced upon adding amyloids, such as lysozyme amyloid fibers. A good linear relationship exists between the enhanced fluorescence intensity of Au NCs and lysozyme fiber within the concentration range of 0-0.05 mg mL-1. This ultra-sensitive method can detect the protein fiber earlier than thioflavin T (THT), allowing more time for disease treatment. Furthermore, Au NCs have many advantages over the classical probe (i.e., THT), such as large Stokes shifts and low toxicity. We selected ascorbic acid as a representative inhibitor and used this method to screen inhibitors. If inhibitors are added when incubating lysozyme, the lysozyme fibrosis process will be crimped, decreasing the amount of lysozyme fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Deng
- Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science of Shaanxi Province, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Changan West Road 620, 710119, Xi'an, China.
| | - Ying Guo
- Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science of Shaanxi Province, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Changan West Road 620, 710119, Xi'an, China.
| | - Yaodong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science of Shaanxi Province, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Changan West Road 620, 710119, Xi'an, China.
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5
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Barhum H, Kolchanov DS, Attrash M, Unis R, Alnis J, Salgals T, Yehia I, Ginzburg P. Thin-film conformal fluorescent SU8-phenylenediamine. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:17544-17554. [PMID: 37870398 PMCID: PMC10634436 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr02744a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The SU8 polymer is a negative photoresist widely used to produce high-quality coatings, with controllable thicknesses ranging from nanometers to millimeters, depending on fabrication protocols. Apart from conventional use cases in microelectronics and fluidics, SU8 is quite an attractive platform in nanophotonics. This material, being straightforwardly processed by ultraviolet lithography, is transparent to wavelengths longer than 500 nm. However, introducing fluorescent agents within the SU8 matrix remains a challenge owing to its high hydrophobicity. Here, we develop a process, where colorful quantum dots co-participate in the polymerization process by epoxide amination and become a part of a new fluorescent material - SU8-phenylenediamine. Through comprehensive characterization methods, including XPS and 1H-NMR analyses, we demonstrate that m-PD covalently binds to SU8 epoxy sites with its molecular amine, virtually forming a new material and not just a mixture of two compounds. After characterizing the new strongly fluorescent platform, thin 300 nm films were created on several surfaces, including a conformal coverage of a nanofluidic capillary. This new process provides opportunities to incorporate various functional molecules into optoelectronic devices without the need for multistep deposition and surface functionalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani Barhum
- Triangle Regional Research and Development Center, Kfar Qara' 3007500, Israel.
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Light-Matter Interaction Centre, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Denis S Kolchanov
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Light-Matter Interaction Centre, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Mohammad Attrash
- Andrew and Erna Viterbi Department of Electrical Engineering, Technion, Haifa, Israel
| | - Razan Unis
- Triangle Regional Research and Development Center, Kfar Qara' 3007500, Israel.
- Department of Environmental Studies, Porter School of Environment and Earth Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Janis Alnis
- Institute of Atomic Physics and Spectroscopy, University of Latvia, Jelgavas Street 3, 1004 Riga, Latvia
| | - Toms Salgals
- Institute of Telecommunications, Riga Technical University, 12 Azenes Street, 1048 Riga, Latvia
| | - Ibrahim Yehia
- Triangle Regional Research and Development Center, Kfar Qara' 3007500, Israel.
| | - Pavel Ginzburg
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Light-Matter Interaction Centre, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
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6
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Muñoz-Gutiérrez C, Adasme-Carreño F, Alzate-Morales J, Ireta J. Effect of strand register in the stability and reactivity of crystals from peptides forming amyloid fibrils. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:23885-23893. [PMID: 37642522 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp01762a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Amyloids are cytotoxic protein aggregates that deposit in human tissues, leading to several health disorders. Their aggregates can also exhibit catalytic properties, and they have been used as candidates for the development of functional biomaterials. Despite being polymorphic, amyloids often assemble as cross-β fibrils formed by in-register β sheet layers. Recent studies of some amyloidogenic protein segments revealed that they crystallize as antiparallel out-of-register β sheets. Such arrangement has been proposed to be responsible for the cytotoxicity in amyloid diseases, however, there is still no consensus on the molecular mechanism. Interestingly, two amyloidogenic peptide segments, NFGAILS and FGAILSS, arrange into out-of-register and in-register β sheets, respectively, even though they solely differ by one aminoacid residue at both termini. In this work, we used density functional theory (DFT) to address how the strand register contributes into the packing and molecular properties of the NFGAILS and FGAILSS crystals. Our results show that the out-of-register structure is substantially more stable, at 0 K, than the in-register one due to stronger inter-strand contacts. Based on an analysis of the electrostatic potential of the crystal slabs, it is suggested that the out-of-register may potentially interact with negatively charged groups, like those found in cell membranes. Moreover, calculated reactivity descriptors indicate a similar outcome, where only the out-of-register peptide exhibits intrinsic reactive surface sites at the exposed amine and carboxylic groups. It is therefore suggested that the out-of-register arrangement may indeed be crucial for amyloid cytotoxicity. The findings presented here could help to further our understanding of amyloid aggregation, function, and toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Muñoz-Gutiérrez
- Centro de Bioinformática, Simulación y Modelado (CBSM), Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Talca, Campus Talca, 1 Poniente No. 1141, Box 721, Talca, Chile
| | - Francisco Adasme-Carreño
- Centro de Investigación de Estudios Avanzados del Maule (CIEAM), Vicerrectoría de Investigación y Postgrado, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca 3480112, Chile
- Laboratorio de Bioinformática y Química Computacional (LBQC), Departamento de Medicina Traslacional, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca 3480112, Chile
| | - Jans Alzate-Morales
- Centro de Bioinformática, Simulación y Modelado (CBSM), Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Talca, Campus Talca, 1 Poniente No. 1141, Box 721, Talca, Chile
| | - Joel Ireta
- Departamento de Química, División de Ciencias Básicas e Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, A.P. 55-534, Ciudad de México 09340, Mexico.
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7
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Balasco N, Diaferia C, Rosa E, Monti A, Ruvo M, Doti N, Vitagliano L. A Comprehensive Analysis of the Intrinsic Visible Fluorescence Emitted by Peptide/Protein Amyloid-like Assemblies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098372. [PMID: 37176084 PMCID: PMC10178990 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloid aggregation is a widespread process that involves proteins and peptides with different molecular complexity and amino acid composition. The structural motif (cross-β) underlying this supramolecular organization generates aggregates endowed with special mechanical and spectroscopic properties with huge implications in biomedical and technological fields, including emerging precision medicine. The puzzling ability of these assemblies to emit intrinsic and label-free fluorescence in regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, such as visible and even infrared, usually considered to be forbidden in the polypeptide chain, has attracted interest for its many implications in both basic and applied science. Despite the interest in this phenomenon, the physical basis of its origin is still poorly understood. To gain a global view of the available information on this phenomenon, we here provide an exhaustive survey of the current literature in which original data on this fluorescence have been reported. The emitting systems have been classified in terms of their molecular complexity, amino acid composition, and physical state. Information about the wavelength of the radiation used for the excitation as well as the emission range/peak has also been retrieved. The data collected here provide a picture of the complexity of this multifaceted phenomenon that could be helpful for future studies aimed at defining its structural and electronic basis and/or stimulating new applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Balasco
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council (CNR), Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Sapienza, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Diaferia
- Department of Pharmacy and CIRPeB, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides "Carlo Pedone", University of Naples "Federico II", Via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Rosa
- Department of Pharmacy and CIRPeB, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides "Carlo Pedone", University of Naples "Federico II", Via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Monti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Menotti Ruvo
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Nunzianna Doti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Luigi Vitagliano
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Napoli, Italy
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8
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Domena JB, Celebic E, Ferreira BCLB, Zhou Y, Zhang W, Chen J, Bartoli M, Tagliaferro A, Johnson Q, Chauhan BPS, Paulino V, Olivier JH, Leblanc RM. Investigation into Red Emission and Its Applications: Solvatochromic N-Doped Red Emissive Carbon Dots with Solvent Polarity Sensing and Solid-State Fluorescent Nanocomposite Thin Films. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28041755. [PMID: 36838742 PMCID: PMC9960500 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28041755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In this work, a NIR emitting dye, p-toluenesulfonate (IR-813) was explored as a model precursor to develop red emissive carbon dots (813-CD) with solvatochromic behavior with a red-shift observed with increasing solvent polarity. The 813-CDs produced had emission peaks at 610 and 698 nm, respectively, in water with blue shifts of emission as solvent polarity decreased. Subsequently, 813-CD was synthesized with increasing nitrogen content with polyethyleneimine (PEI) to elucidate the change in band gap energy. With increased nitrogen content, the CDs produced emissions as far as 776 nm. Additionally, a CD nanocomposite polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) film was synthesized to assess the phenomenon of solid-state fluorescence. Furthermore, the CDs were found to have electrochemical properties to be used as an additive doping agent for PVP film coatings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin B. Domena
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Ermin Celebic
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | | | - Yiqun Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Jiuyan Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - M. Bartoli
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, 10129 Torino, Italy
| | - A. Tagliaferro
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, 10129 Torino, Italy
| | - Qiaxian Johnson
- Department of Chemistry, William Paterson University of New Jersey, 300 Pompton Rd, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Bhanu P. S. Chauhan
- Department of Chemistry, William Paterson University of New Jersey, 300 Pompton Rd, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Victor Paulino
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | | | - Roger M. Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
- Correspondence:
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9
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Rosa E, Gallo E, Sibillano T, Giannini C, Rizzuti S, Gianolio E, Scognamiglio PL, Morelli G, Accardo A, Diaferia C. Incorporation of PEG Diacrylates (PEGDA) Generates Hybrid Fmoc-FF Hydrogel Matrices. Gels 2022; 8:gels8120831. [PMID: 36547355 PMCID: PMC9778368 DOI: 10.3390/gels8120831] [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: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Generated by a hierarchical and multiscale self-assembling phenomenon, peptide-based hydrogels (HGs) are soft materials useful for a variety of applications. Short and ultra-short peptides are intriguing building blocks for hydrogel fabrication. These matrices can also be obtained by mixing low-molecular-weight peptides with other chemical entities (e.g., polymers, other peptides). The combination of two or more constituents opens the door to the development of hybrid systems with tunable mechanical properties and unexpected biofunctionalities or morphologies. For this scope, the formulation, the multiscale analysis, and the supramolecular characterization of novel hybrid peptide-polymer hydrogels are herein described. The proposed matrices contain the Fmoc-FF (Nα-fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl diphenylalanine) hydrogelator at a concentration of 0.5 wt% (5.0 mg/mL) and a diacrylate α-/ω-substituted polyethylene-glycol derivative (PEGDA). Two PEGDA derivatives, PEGDA 1 and PEGDA2 (mean molecular weights of 575 and 250 Da, respectively), are mixed with Fmoc-FF at different ratios (Fmoc-FF/PEGDA at 1/1, 1/2, 1/5, 1/10 mol/mol). All the multicomponent hybrid peptide-polymer hydrogels are scrutinized with a large panel of analytical techniques (including proton relaxometry, FTIR, WAXS, rheometry, and scanning electronic microscopy). The matrices were found to be able to generate mechanical responses in the 2-8 kPa range, producing a panel of tunable materials with the same chemical composition. The release of a model drug (Naphthol Yellow S) is reported too. The tunable features, the different topologies, and the versatility of the proposed materials open the door to the development of tools for different applicative areas, including diagnostics, liquid biopsies and responsive materials. The incorporation of a diacrylate function also suggests the possible development of interpenetrating networks upon cross-linking reactions. All the collected data allow a mutual comparison between the different matrices, thus confirming the significance of the hybrid peptide/polymer-based methodology as a strategy for the design of innovative materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Rosa
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB), University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Enrico Gallo
- IRCCS Synlab SDN, Via E. Gianturco 113, 80143 Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Sibillano
- Institute of Crystallography (IC), CNR, Via Amendola 122, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Cinzia Giannini
- Institute of Crystallography (IC), CNR, Via Amendola 122, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Serena Rizzuti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnologies and Health Science, University of Turin, Via Nizza 52, 10125 Turin, Italy
| | - Eliana Gianolio
- Department of Molecular Biotechnologies and Health Science, University of Turin, Via Nizza 52, 10125 Turin, Italy
| | | | - Giancarlo Morelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB), University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Accardo
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB), University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Diaferia
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB), University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0812-534-526
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10
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Kell DB, Laubscher GJ, Pretorius E. A central role for amyloid fibrin microclots in long COVID/PASC: origins and therapeutic implications. Biochem J 2022; 479:537-559. [PMID: 35195253 PMCID: PMC8883497 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20220016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Post-acute sequelae of COVID (PASC), usually referred to as 'Long COVID' (a phenotype of COVID-19), is a relatively frequent consequence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, in which symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, 'brain fog', tissue damage, inflammation, and coagulopathies (dysfunctions of the blood coagulation system) persist long after the initial infection. It bears similarities to other post-viral syndromes, and to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Many regulatory health bodies still do not recognize this syndrome as a separate disease entity, and refer to it under the broad terminology of 'COVID', although its demographics are quite different from those of acute COVID-19. A few years ago, we discovered that fibrinogen in blood can clot into an anomalous 'amyloid' form of fibrin that (like other β-rich amyloids and prions) is relatively resistant to proteolysis (fibrinolysis). The result, as is strongly manifested in platelet-poor plasma (PPP) of individuals with Long COVID, is extensive fibrin amyloid microclots that can persist, can entrap other proteins, and that may lead to the production of various autoantibodies. These microclots are more-or-less easily measured in PPP with the stain thioflavin T and a simple fluorescence microscope. Although the symptoms of Long COVID are multifarious, we here argue that the ability of these fibrin amyloid microclots (fibrinaloids) to block up capillaries, and thus to limit the passage of red blood cells and hence O2 exchange, can actually underpin the majority of these symptoms. Consistent with this, in a preliminary report, it has been shown that suitable and closely monitored 'triple' anticoagulant therapy that leads to the removal of the microclots also removes the other symptoms. Fibrin amyloid microclots represent a novel and potentially important target for both the understanding and treatment of Long COVID and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas B. Kell
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, U.K
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 200, 2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch Private Bag X1 Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | | | - Etheresia Pretorius
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch Private Bag X1 Matieland, 7602, South Africa
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Ji YM, Zhang WY, Zhang JD, Li XF, Yu FD, Li CY, Liu GJ, Xing GW. Dual Functional Amphiphilic Sugar-Coated AIE-Active Fluorescent Organic Nanoparticles for the Monitoring and Inhibition of Insulin Amyloid Fibrillation Based on Carbohydrate-Protein Interactions. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:5602-5611. [DOI: 10.1039/d2tb01070d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Amyloid-related diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, are all considered to be related to the deposition of amyloid fibrils in the body. Insulin is a protein hormone that easily undergoes aggregation...
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Amplified spontaneous emission and gain in highly concentrated Rhodamine-doped peptide derivative. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17609. [PMID: 34475484 PMCID: PMC8413385 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96982-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Bioinspired fluorescence, being widely explored for imaging purposes, faces challenges in delivering bright biocompatible sources. While quite a few techniques have been developed to reach this goal, encapsulation of high-quantum yield fluorescent dyes in natural biological forms suggest achieving superior light-emitting characteristics, approaching amplified spontaneous emission and even lasing. Here we compare gain capabilities of highly concentrated Rhodamine B solutions with a newly synthesized biocompatible peptide derivative hybrid polymer/peptide material, RhoB-PEG1300-F6, which contains the fluorescent covalently bound dye. While concentration quenching effects limit the maximal achievable gain of dissolved Rhodamine B, biocompatible conjugation allows elevating amplification coefficients towards moderately high values. In particular, Rhodamine B, anchored to the peptide derivative material, demonstrates gain of 22–23 cm−1 for a 10−2 M solution, while a pure dye solution possesses 25% smaller values at the same concentration. New biocompatible fluorescent agents pave ways to demonstrate lasing in living organisms and can be further introduced to therapeutic applications, if proper solvents are found.
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Rozhin P, Charitidis C, Marchesan S. Self-Assembling Peptides and Carbon Nanomaterials Join Forces for Innovative Biomedical Applications. Molecules 2021; 26:4084. [PMID: 34279424 PMCID: PMC8271590 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26134084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-assembling peptides and carbon nanomaterials have attracted great interest for their respective potential to bring innovation in the biomedical field. Combination of these two types of building blocks is not trivial in light of their very different physico-chemical properties, yet great progress has been made over the years at the interface between these two research areas. This concise review will analyze the latest developments at the forefront of research that combines self-assembling peptides with carbon nanostructures for biological use. Applications span from tissue regeneration, to biosensing and imaging, and bioelectronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petr Rozhin
- Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Costas Charitidis
- School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Iroon Polytechneiou 9, Zografou, 157 80 Athens, Greece;
| | - Silvia Marchesan
- Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy;
- INSTM, Unit of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
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Balasco N, Diaferia C, Morelli G, Vitagliano L, Accardo A. Amyloid-Like Aggregation in Diseases and Biomaterials: Osmosis of Structural Information. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:641372. [PMID: 33748087 PMCID: PMC7966729 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.641372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery that the polypeptide chain has a remarkable and intrinsic propensity to form amyloid-like aggregates endowed with an extraordinary stability is one of the most relevant breakthroughs of the last decades in both protein/peptide chemistry and structural biology. This observation has fundamental implications, as the formation of these assemblies is systematically associated with the insurgence of severe neurodegenerative diseases. Although the ability of proteins to form aggregates rich in cross-β structure has been highlighted by recent studies of structural biology, the determination of the underlying atomic models has required immense efforts and inventiveness. Interestingly, the progressive molecular and structural characterization of these assemblies has opened new perspectives in apparently unrelated fields. Indeed, the self-assembling through the cross-β structure has been exploited to generate innovative biomaterials endowed with promising mechanical and spectroscopic properties. Therefore, this structural motif has become the fil rouge connecting these diversified research areas. In the present review, we report a chronological recapitulation, also performing a survey of the structural content of the Protein Data Bank, of the milestones achieved over the years in the characterization of cross-β assemblies involved in the insurgence of neurodegenerative diseases. A particular emphasis is given to the very recent successful elucidation of amyloid-like aggregates characterized by remarkable molecular and structural complexities. We also review the state of the art of the structural characterization of cross-β based biomaterials by highlighting the benefits of the osmosis of information between these two research areas. Finally, we underline the new promising perspectives that recent successful characterizations of disease-related amyloid-like assemblies can open in the biomaterial field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Balasco
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Diaferia
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB), University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Morelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB), University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Vitagliano
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Accardo
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB), University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
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