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Feng H, Jander G. Serine proteinase inhibitors from Nicotiana benthamiana, a nonpreferred host plant, inhibit the growth of Myzus persicae (green peach aphid). PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:4470-4481. [PMID: 38666388 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) is a severe agricultural crop pest that has developed resistance to most current control methods, requiring the urgent development of novel strategies. Plant proteinase inhibitors (PINs) are small proteins that protect plants against pathogens and/or herbivores, likely by preventing efficient protein digestion. RESULTS We identified 67 protease genes in the transcriptomes of three M. persicae lineages (USDA-Red, G002 and G006). Comparison of gene expression levels in aphid guts and whole aphids showed that several proteases, including a highly expressed serine protease, are significantly overexpressed in the guts. Furthermore, we identified three genes encoding serine protease inhibitors (SerPIN-II1, 2 and 3) in Nicotiana benthamiana, which is a nonpreferred host for M. persicae. Using virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) with a tobacco rattle virus (TRV) vector and overexpression with a turnip mosaic virus (TuMV) vector, we demonstrated that N. benthamiana SerPIN-II1 and SerPIN-II2 cause reduced survival and growth, but do not affect aphid protein content. Likewise, SerPIN-II3 overexpression reduced survival and growth, and serpin-II3 knockout mutations, which we generated using CRISPR/Cas9, increased survival and growth. Protein content was significantly increased in aphids fed on SerPIN-II3 overexpressing plants, yet it was decreased in aphids fed on serpin-II3 mutants. CONCLUSION Our results show that three PIN-IIs from N. benthamiana, a nonpreferred host plant, effectively inhibit M. persicae survival and growth, thereby representing a new resource for the development of aphid-resistant crop plants. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Shao S, Liu K, Du J, Yin C, Wang M, Wang Y. Functional characterization of serine proteinase inhibitor Kazal-Type in the red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 148:109525. [PMID: 38537926 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2024.109525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Serine protease inhibitors Kazal type (SPINKs) function in physiological and immunological processes across multicellular organisms. In the present study, we identified a SPINK gene, designated as CqSPINK, in the red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus, which is the ortholog of human SPINK5. The deduced CqSPINK contains two Kazal domains consisting of 45 amino acid residues with a typical signature motif C-X3-C-X5-PVCG-X5-Y-X3-C-X6-C-X12-14-C. Each Kazal domain contains six conserved cysteine residues forming three pairs of disulfide bonds, segmenting the structure into three rings. Phylogenetic analysis revealed CqSPINK as a homolog of human SPINK5. CqSPINK expression was detected exclusively in hepatopancreas and epithelium, with rapid up-regulation in hepatopancreas upon Vibrio parahaemolyticus E1 challenge. Recombinant CqSPINK protein (rCqSPINK) was heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli and purified for further study. Proteinase inhibition assays demonstrated that rCqSPINK could potently inhibit proteinase K and subtilisin A, weakly inhibit α-chymotrypsin and elastase, but extremely weak inhibit trypsin. Furthermore, CqSPINK inhibited bacterial secretory proteinase activity from Bacillus subtilis, E. coli, and Staphylococcus aureus, and inhibited B. subtilis growth. These findings suggest CqSPINK's involvement in antibacterial immunity through direct inhibition of bacterial proteases, contributing to resistance against pathogen invasion.
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Jin C, Cheng K, Jiang R, Zhang Y, Luo W. A Novel Kunitz-Type Serine Protease Inhibitor (HcKuSPI) is Involved in Antibacterial Defense in Innate Immunity and Participates in Shell Formation of Hyriopsis cumingii. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 26:37-49. [PMID: 38117374 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-023-10275-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Serine protease inhibitors (SPIs) are abundantly reported for its inhibition against specific proteases involved in the immune responses, but SPI data related to calcareous shells are scarce. Previously, our research group has reported the proteome analysis of non-nucleated pearl powder, and a candidate matrix protein containing two Kunitz domains in the acid soluble fraction caught our attention. In the present study, the full-length cDNA sequence of HcKuSPI was obtained from Hyriopsis cumingii. HcKuSPI was specifically expressed in the mantle, with hybridization signals mainly concentrated to dorsal epithelial cells at the mantle edge and weak signals at the mantle pallium, suggesting HcKuSPI was involved in shell formation. HcKuSPI expression in the mantle was upregulated after Aeromonas hydrophila and Staphylococcus aureus challenge to extrapallial fluids (EPFs). A glutathione S transferase (GST)-HcKuSPI recombinant protein showed strong inhibitory activity against the proteases, trypsin and chymotrypsin. Moreover, HcKuSPI expression in an experimental group was significantly higher when compared with a control group during pellicle growth and crystal deposition in shell regeneration processes, while the organic shell framework of newborn prisms and nacre tablets was completely destroyed after HcKuSPI RNA interference (RNAi). Therefore, HcKuSPI secreted by the mantle may effectively neutralize excess proteases and bacterial proteases in the EPF during bacterial infection and could prevent matrix protein extracellular degradation by suppressing protease proteolytic activity, thereby ensuring a smooth shell biomineralization. In addition, GST-HcKuSPI was also crucial for crystal morphology regulation. These results have important implications for our understanding of the potential roles of SPIs during shell biomineralization.
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Zhen JB, Wang RB, Zhang YH, Sun F, Lin LH, Li ZX, Han Y, Lu YX. Effects of Trichinella spiralis and its serine protease inhibitors on autophagy of host small intestinal cells. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0010323. [PMID: 37874164 PMCID: PMC10652968 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00103-23] [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: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In eukaryotes, autophagy is induced as an innate defense mechanism against pathogenic microorganisms by self-degradation. Although trichinellosis is a foodborne zoonotic disease, there are few reports on the interplay between Trichinella spiralissurvival strategies and autophagy-mediated host defense. Therefore, this study focused on the association between T. spiralis and autophagy of host small intestinal cells. In this study, the autophagy-related indexes of host small intestinal cells after T. spiralis infection were detected using transmission electron microscopy, hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blotting. The results showed that autophagosomes and autolysosomes were formed in small intestinal cells, intestinal villi appeared edema, epithelial compactness was decreased, microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3B (LC3B) was expressed in lamina propria stromal cells of small intestine, and the expression of autophagy-related genes and proteins was changed significantly, indicating that T. spiralis induced autophagy of host small intestinal cells. Then, the effect of T. spiralis on autophagy-related pathways was explored by Western blotting. The results showed that the expression of autophagy-related pathway proteins was changed, indicating that T. spiralis regulated autophagy by affecting autophagy-related pathways. Finally, the roles of T. spiralis serine protease inhibitors (TsSPIs), such as T. spiralis Kazal-type SPI (TsKaSPI) and T. spiralis Serpin-type SPI (TsAdSPI), were further discussed in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results revealed that TsSPIs induced autophagy by influencing autophagy-related pathways, and TsAdSPI has more advantages. Overall, our results indicated that T. spiralis induced autophagy of host small intestinal cells, and its TsSPIs play an important role in enhancing autophagy flux by affecting autophagy-related pathways. These findings lay a foundation for further exploring the pathogenesis of intestinal dysfunction of host after T. spiralis infection, and also provide some experimental and theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of trichinellosis.
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Wu Q, Xing L, Du M, Huang C, Liu B, Zhou H, Liu W, Wan F, Qian W. A Genome-Wide Analysis of Serine Protease Inhibitors in Cydia pomonella Provides Insights into Their Evolution and Expression Pattern. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16349. [PMID: 38003538 PMCID: PMC10671500 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216349] [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: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Serine protease inhibitors (serpins) appear to be ubiquitous in almost all living organisms, with a conserved structure and varying functions. Serpins can modulate immune responses by negatively regulating serine protease activities strictly and precisely. The codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.), a major invasive pest in China, can cause serious economic losses. However, knowledge of serpin genes in this insect remain largely unknown. In this study, we performed a systematic analysis of the serpin genes in C. pomonella, obtaining 26 serpins from the C. pomonella genome. Subsequently, their sequence features, evolutionary relationship, and expression pattern were characterized. Comparative analysis revealed the evolution of a number of serpin genes in Lepidoptera. Importantly, the evolutionary relationship and putative roles of serpin genes in C. pomonella were revealed. Additionally, selective pressure analysis found amino acid sites with strong evidence of positive selection. Interestingly, the serpin1 gene possessed at least six splicing isoforms with distinct reactive-center loops, and these isoforms were experimentally validated. Furthermore, we observed a subclade expansion of serpins, and these genes showed high expression in multiple tissues, suggesting their important roles in C. pomonella. Overall, this study will enrich our knowledge of the immunity of C. pomonella and help to elucidate the role of serpins in the immune response.
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Li GY, Yang L, Xiao KR, Song QS, Stanley D, Wei SJ, Zhu JY. Characterization and expression profiling of serine protease inhibitors in the yellow mealworm Tenebrio molitor. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 111:e21948. [PMID: 35749627 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Serine protease inhibitors (SPIs) act in diverse biological processes in insects such as immunity, development, and digestion by preventing the unwanted proteolysis. So far, the repertoire of genes encoding SPIs has been identified from few insect species. In this study, 62 SPI genes were identified from the genome of the yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor. According to their modes of action, they were classified into three families, serpin (26), canonical SPI (31), and α-macroglobulins (A2M) (5). These SPIs feature eight domains including serpin, Kazal, TIL, Kunitz, WAP, Antistasin, pacifastin, and A2M. In total, 39 SPIs contain a single SPI domain, while the others encode at least two inhibitor units. Based on the amino acids in the cleaved reactive sites, the abilities of these SPIs to inhibit trypsin, chymotrypsin, or elastase-like enzymes are predicted. The expression profiling based on the RNA-seq data showed that these genes displayed stage-specific expression patterns during development, suggesting to us their significance in development. Some of the SPI genes were exclusively expressed in particular tissues such as hemocyte, fat body, gut, ovary, and testis, which may be involved in biological processes specific to the indicated tissues. These findings provide necessary information for further investigation of insect SPIs.
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Kim BY, Kim YH, Park MJ, Yoon HJ, Lee KY, Kim HK, Lee KS, Jin BR. Dual function of a bumblebee (Bombus ignitus) serine protease inhibitor that acts as a microbicidal peptide and anti-fibrinolytic venom toxin. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 135:104478. [PMID: 35716829 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2022.104478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
In bee venoms, low-molecular-weight peptides, including serine protease inhibitors (SPIs), exhibit multifunctional activities. Although SPIs in bee venoms are relatively well known, those that function in both the body and secreted venom of bees are not well-characterized. In this study, we identified a bumblebee (Bombus ignitus) SPI (BiSPI) that displays microbicidal and anti-fibrinolytic activities. BiSPI was found to consist of a trypsin inhibitor-like domain containing a P1 site and ten cysteine residues. We observed that the BiSPI gene was ubiquitously transcribed in the body, including the venom glands. In correlation, the BiSPI protein was detected both in the body and secreted venom by using an antibody against a recombinant BiSPI peptide produced in baculovirus-infected insect cells. Recombinant BiSPI exhibited inhibitory activity against trypsin but not chymotrypsin and inhibited microbial serine proteases and plasmin but not elastase or thrombin. Moreover, recombinant BiSPI recognized carbohydrates and bound to fungi and gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Consistent with these properties, recombinant BiSPI exhibited microbicidal activities against bacteria and fungi through induction of structural damage by binding to the microbial surfaces. Additionally, recombinant BiSPI inhibited the plasmin-mediated degradation of human fibrin and was thus concluded to exhibit anti-fibrinolytic activity. Moreover, the peptide showed no effect on hemolysis. These findings demonstrate the dual function of BiSPI, which acts as a microbicidal peptide and anti-fibrinolytic venom toxin.
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Xu J, Pang Z, Zhang J, Xia S, Wang R, Zhang Y, Zhen J, Song X, Lin L, Sun F, Xuan X, Lu Y. Regulatory effects of Trichinella spiralis and a serine protease inhibitor on the endoplasmic reticulum stress response of intestinal epithelial cells. Vet Res 2022; 53:18. [PMID: 35241168 PMCID: PMC8892742 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-022-01036-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum can cause an endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) response. If ERS continues or cannot be alleviated, it will cause the production of proapoptotic factors and eventually lead to apoptosis. Therefore, this study mainly explored whether Trichinella spiralis Kazal-type serine protease inhibitor (TsKaSPI) contributed to the invasion of intestinal epithelial cells during the infectious stage of T. spiralis by regulating ERS. First, in the T. spiralis infection model, H&E staining was used to analyse the damage to jejunum tissue, a TUNEL assay was used to examine cell apoptosis, and the expression of ERS-related and apoptosis-related molecules was also measured. The results showed that ERS occurred during the intestinal phase of T. spiralis infection, while remission began during the cyclic phase. Then, we selected TsKaSPI, one of the important components of T. spiralis ES antigens, for in vitro experiments. The results showed that TsKaSPI could induce apoptosis in a porcine small intestinal epithelial cell line (IPEC cells) by activating ERS and promote activation of the NF-κB signalling pathway. Inhibition experiments confirmed that the occurrence of ERS was accompanied by the activation of NF-κB, and the two processes regulated each other. Finally, we conducted in vivo experiments and administered TsKaSPI to mice. The results confirmed that TsKaSPI could activate ERS and lead to apoptosis in intestinal epithelial cells. In conclusion, T. spiralis infection and TsKaSPI can promote cell apoptosis by activating the ERS response in intestinal epithelial cells and activate the NF-κB signalling pathway to promote the occurrence and development of inflammation.
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Oliveira C, Valois MV, Ottaiano TF, Miranda A, Hansen D, Sampaio MU, Oliva MLV, de Abreu Maffei FH. The recombinant plant Bauhinia bauhinioides elastase inhibitor reduces rat thrombus without alterations in hemostatic parameters. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13475. [PMID: 34188079 PMCID: PMC8241853 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92745-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The anti-inflammatory effects of the plant protease inhibitor BbCI (Bauhinia bauhinioides cruzipain inhibitor), which blocks elastase, cathepsin G, and L, and proteinase 3 has been demonstrated. Here, we investigated the recombinant rBbCI-His(6) (containing a histidine tail) in an experimental venous thrombosis model of vena cava (VC) ligature in rats, comparing to heparin. We evaluate the effects of the inhibitors (native or recombinant) or heparin on the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT) in human and rat plasmas. The rats undergoing treatment received a saline solution or increasing concentrations of rBbCI-His(6), heparin, or a mixture of both. After 4 h of ligature VC, thrombus, if present was removed and weighed. aPTT, PT, and cytokines were measured in blood collected by cardiac puncture. aPTT, PT, and bleeding time (BT) were also measured at the time of VC (vena cava) ligature. rBbCI-His(6) (0.45 or 1.40 mg/kg) does not alter aPTT, PT or BT. No differences in coagulation parameters were detected in rBbCI-His(6) treated rats at the time of VC ligature or when the thrombus was removed. There was a significant decrease in the weight of thrombus in the animals of the groups treated with the rBbCI-His(6) (1.40 mg/kg), with the rBbCI-His(6) mixture (1.40 mg/kg) + heparin (50 IU/kg) and heparin (100 IU/kg) in relation to control group (saline). The growth-related oncogene/keratinocyte chemoattractant (GRO/KC) serum levels in rats treated with rBbCI-His(6) (1.40 mg/kg) or heparin (200 IU/kg) were reduced. In the experimental model used, rBbCI-His(6) alone had an antithrombotic effect, not altering blood clotting or bleeding time.
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Yadav NK, Saikhedkar NS, Giri AP. PINIR: a comprehensive information resource for Pin-II type protease inhibitors. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2021; 21:267. [PMID: 34107869 PMCID: PMC8188708 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-021-03027-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serine protease inhibitors belonging to the Potato type-II Inhibitor family Protease Inhibitors (Pin-II type PIs) are essential plant defense molecules. They are characterized by multiple inhibitory repeat domains, conserved disulfide bond pattern, and a tripeptide reactive center loop. These features of Pin-II type PIs make them potential molecules for protein engineering and designing inhibitors for agricultural and therapeutic applications. However, the diversity in these PIs remains unexplored due to the lack of annotated protein sequences and their functional attributes in the available databases. RESULTS We have developed a database, PINIR (Pin-II type PIs Information Resource), by systematic collection and manual annotation of 415 Pin-II type PI protein sequences. For each PI, the number and position for signature sequences are specified: 695 domains, 75 linkers, 63 reactive center loops, and 10 disulfide bond patterns are identified and mapped. Database analysis revealed novel subcategories of PIs, species-correlated occurrence of inhibitory domains, reactive center loops, and disulfide bond patterns. By analyzing linker regions, we predict that alternative processing at linker regions could generate PI variants in the Solanaceae family. CONCLUSION PINIR ( https://pinir.ncl.res.in ) provides a web interface for browsing and analyzing the protein sequences of Pin-II type PIs. Information about signature sequences, spatio-temporal expression, biochemical properties, gene sequences, and literature references are provided. Analysis of PINIR depicts conserved species-specific features of Pin-II type PI protein sequences. Diversity in the sequence of inhibitory domains and reactive loops directs potential applications to engineer Pin-II type PIs. The PINIR database will serve as a comprehensive information resource for further research into Pin-II type PIs.
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Levy DJ, Goundry A, Laires RSS, Costa TFR, Novo CM, Grab DJ, Mottram JC, Lima APCA. Role of the inhibitor of serine peptidase 2 (ISP2) of Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense in parasite virulence and modulation of the inflammatory responses of the host. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009526. [PMID: 34153047 PMCID: PMC8248637 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense is one of the causative agents of Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), known as sleeping sickness. The parasite invades the central nervous system and causes severe encephalitis that is fatal if left untreated. We have previously identified ecotin-like inhibitors of serine peptidases, named ISPs, in trypanosomatid parasitic protozoa. Here, we investigated the role of ISP2 in bloodstream form T. b. rhodesiense. We generated gene-deficient mutants lacking ISP2 (Δisp2), which displayed a growth profile in vitro similar to that of wild-type (WT) parasites. C57BL/6 mice infected with Δisp2 displayed lower blood parasitemia, a delayed hind leg pathological phenotype and survived longer. The immune response was examined at two time-points that corresponded with two peaks of parasitemia. At 4 days, the spleens of Δisp2-infected mice had a greater percentage of NOS2+ myeloid cells, IFN-γ+-NK cells and increased TNF-α compared to those infected with WT and parasites re-expressing ISP2 (Δisp2:ISP2). By 13 days the increased NOS2+ population was sustained in Δisp2-infected mice, along with increased percentages of monocyte-derived dendritic cells, as well as CD19+ B lymphocytes, and CD8+ and CD4+ T lymphocytes. Taken together, these findings indicate that ISP2 contributes to T. b. rhodesiense virulence in mice and attenuates the inflammatory response during early infection.
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Eszterbauer E, Szegő D, Ursu K, Sipos D, Gellért Á. Serine protease inhibitors of the whirling disease parasite Myxobolus cerebralis (Cnidaria, Myxozoa): Expression profiling and functional predictions. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249266. [PMID: 33780500 PMCID: PMC8007001 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we studied the expression pattern and putative function of four, previously identified serine protease inhibitors (serpins) of Myxobolus cerebralis, a pathogenic myxozoan species (Cnidaria: Myxozoa) causing whirling disease of salmonid fishes. The relative expression profiles of serpins were determined at different developmental stages both in fish and in annelid hosts using serpin-specific qPCR assays. The expression of serpin Mc-S1 was similar throughout the life cycle, whereas a significant decrease was detected in the relative expression of Mc-S3 and Mc-S5 during the development in fish, and then in the sporogonic stage in the worm host. A decreasing tendency could also be observed in the expression of Mc-S4 in fish, which was, however, upregulated in the worm host. For the first time, we predicted the function of M. cerebralis serpins by the use of several bioinformatics-based applications. Mc-S1 is putatively a chymotrypsin-like inhibitor that locates extracellularly and is capable of heparin binding. The other three serpins are caspase-like inhibitors, and they are probably involved in protease and cell degradation processes during the early stage of fish invasion.
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Iwama RE, Tessler M, Siddall ME, Kvist S. The Origin and Evolution of Antistasin-like Proteins in Leeches (Hirudinida, Clitellata). Genome Biol Evol 2021; 13:evaa242. [PMID: 33527140 PMCID: PMC7851590 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evaa242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Bloodfeeding is employed by many parasitic animals and requires specific innovations for efficient feeding. Some of these innovations are molecular features that are related to the inhibition of hemostasis. For example, bloodfeeding insects, bats, and leeches release proteins with anticoagulatory activity through their salivary secretions. The antistasin-like protein family, composed of serine protease inhibitors with one or more antistasin-like domains, is tightly linked to inhibition of hemostasis in leeches. However, this protein family has been recorded also in non-bloodfeeding invertebrates, such as cnidarians, mollusks, polychaetes, and oligochaetes. The present study aims to 1) root the antistasin-like gene tree and delimit the major orthologous groups, 2) identify potential independent origins of salivary proteins secreted by leeches, and 3) identify major changes in domain and/or motif structure within each orthologous group. Five clades containing leech antistasin-like proteins are distinguishable through rigorous phylogenetic analyses based on nine new transcriptomes and a diverse set of comparative data: the trypsin + leukocyte elastase inhibitors clade, the antistasin clade, the therostasin clade, and two additional, unnamed clades. The antistasin-like gene tree supports multiple origins of leech antistasin-like proteins due to the presence of both leech and non-leech sequences in one of the unnamed clades, but a single origin of factor Xa and trypsin + leukocyte elastase inhibitors. This is further supported by three sequence motifs that are exclusive to antistasins, the trypsin + leukocyte elastase inhibitor clade, and the therostasin clade, respectively. We discuss the implications of our findings for the evolution of this diverse family of leech anticoagulants.
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Wang Y, Wang B, Liu M, Jiang K, Wang M, Wang L. Characterization and function analysis of a Kazal-type serine proteinase inhibitor in the red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 114:103871. [PMID: 32946920 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2020.103871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Kazal-type serine proteinase inhibitors (KPIs) function in physiological and immunological processes requiring proteinase action. In the present study, the first Cherax quadricarinatus KPI gene (designated CqKPI) was identified and characterized. The open reading frame of CqKPI contains 405 nucleotides and encodes a protein of 134 amino acids. CqKPI has two Kazal domains comprising 44 amino acid residues with the conserved amino acid sequence C-X3-C-X7-C-X6-Y-X3-C-X6-C-X12-C. Each Kazal domain has six conserved cysteine residues, which can form a structural conformation of three pairs of disulfide bonds stabilizing the Kazal domain. CqKPI exhibited high similarity with previously identified KPIs from crayfish hemocytes. The results of tissue distribution showed that CqKPI had the highest expression level in hemocytes, and this was in agreement with phylogenic relationships. Recombinant CqKPI (rCqKPI) was heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli and purified for further study. The proteinase inhibition assays suggested that rCqKPI could potently inhibit elastase and weakly inhibit trypsin, subtilisin A, and proteinase K, but not α-chymotrypsin. It can firmly bind to Bacillus hwajinpoensis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus, with weak binding to Candida albicans. In addition, CqKPI inhibited bacterial secretory proteinase activity and inhibited the growth of B. hwajinpoensis and C. albicans. These data suggest that CqKPI might be involved in anti-bacterial immunity, acting as an inhibitor of the proteinase cascade in the resistance to invasion of pathogens.
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Thomas C, Nothaft H, Yadav R, Fodor C, Alemka A, Oni O, Bell M, Rada B, Szymanski CM. Characterization of ecotin homologs from Campylobacter rectus and Campylobacter showae. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0244031. [PMID: 33378351 PMCID: PMC7773321 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ecotin, first described in Escherichia coli, is a potent
inhibitor of a broad range of serine proteases including those typically
released by the innate immune system such as neutrophil elastase (NE). Here we
describe the identification of ecotin orthologs in various
Campylobacter species, including Campylobacter
rectus and Campylobacter showae residing in the
oral cavity and implicated in the development and progression of periodontal
disease in humans. To investigate the function of these ecotins in
vitro, the orthologs from C.
rectus and C. showae were
recombinantly expressed and purified from E.
coli. Using CmeA degradation/protection assays,
fluorescence resonance energy transfer and NE activity assays, we found that
ecotins from C. rectus and C.
showae inhibit NE, factor Xa and trypsin, but not the
Campylobacter jejuni serine protease HtrA or its ortholog
in E. coli, DegP. To further evaluate ecotin
function in vivo, an E. coli
ecotin-deficient mutant was complemented with the C.
rectus and C. showae
homologs. Using a neutrophil killing assay, we demonstrate that the low survival
rate of the E. coli ecotin-deficient mutant
can be rescued upon expression of ecotins from C.
rectus and C. showae. In
addition, the C. rectus and
C. showae ecotins partially compensate for
loss of N-glycosylation and increased protease susceptibility in the related
pathogen, Campylobacter jejuni, thus implicating a similar role
for these proteins in the native host to cope with the protease-rich environment
of the oral cavity.
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Wang G, Na S, Qin L. Truncated reactive center loop decrease the inhibitory activity of Antheraea pernyi serine protease inhibitor 6. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 105:e21727. [PMID: 32677094 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Here, we assessed the effect of a systematic change in reactive center loop (RCL) length, N-terminal to the reactive center, on the inhibitory activity of the recombinant Apserpin-6. The domain prediction results indicated that the RCL is located between the amino acid numbered 359-379 at the C-terminal of Apserpin-6. The N-terminal variable region for amino acid positions P7-P1 of the RCL of Apserpin-6 was truncated or extended by residue deletion or insertion using site-directed mutagenesis. The recombinant Apserpin-6 with one or two residues insertion in RCL had no effect on prophenoloxidase (proPO) activity, whereas deletion of one or two residues in RCL lowered the efficiency of inhibition of Apserpin-6. The results of this study will facilitate the understanding of inhibition mechanism of RCL on proPO activity.
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17
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Shi Y, Shao Y, Lv Z, Li C. Serpin-type serine protease inhibitor mediates coelomocyte apoptosis in Apostichopus japonicus. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 104:410-418. [PMID: 32569714 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2020.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Serine protease inhibitors (SPIs, serpins) are a protein superfamily involved in almost all physiological processes in all organisms. In this study, a novel serpin was identified from Apostichopus japonicus (Ajserpin) by using high-throughput sequencing and RACE approaches. The full-length cDNA of Ajserpin was 1893 bp with a 5'-untranslated region (UTR) of 130 bp, a 3'-UTR of 587 bp, and an open reading frame of 1176 bp encoding a polypeptide of 391 amino acids with a deduced molecular weight of 43.8 kDa. Ajserpin shares the standard structure of SPI, including three β-sheets and eight α-helices. The deduced amino acid sequences of Ajserpin had no nuclear location signal and signal peptide structure. The phylogenetic tree and immunofluorescence showed that Ajserpin belonged to the clade B subfamily and was mainly located in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Sequence comparison and protein inhibition experiments showed that the active site (P1-P1' site) of Ajserpin was Arginine and Serine, which displayed inhibitory activity toward trypsin in a dose-dependent manner. Tissue distribution analysis showed that Ajserpin transcripts were constitutively expressed in all examined tissues with the peak in the body wall. Ajserpin mRNA transcripts could be induced in Vibrio splendidus-challenged sea cucumber or lipopolysaccharide-exposed coelomocytes. Furthermore, Ajserpin knockdown by small interfering RNAs could inhibit coelomocytes apoptosis. All our results revealed that Ajserpin might serve as an immune regulator in sea cucumber.
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18
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Apitanyasai K, Chang CC, Ng TH, Ng YS, Liou JH, Lo CF, Lin SS, Wang HC. Penaeus vannamei serine proteinase inhibitor 7 (LvSerpin7) acts as an immune brake by regulating the proPO system in AHPND-affected shrimp. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 106:103600. [PMID: 31927270 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.103600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) is a recently emerged disease in aqua cultured shrimp that is caused by virulent strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VP). Our previous study used transcriptomics to identify key pathogenic factors in the stomach of AHPND-infected shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei), and here we used a different subset of the same data to construct a gene-to-gene expression correlation network to identify immune-responsive genes. LvSerpin7 was found to have the highest number of correlations after infection, and it also showed a significant increase in mRNA expression. LvSerpin7 is expressed in all tissues but its expression levels are highest in hemocytes. After successfully silencing LvSerpin7 transcript prior to AHPND challenge, mortality was significantly increased relative to the controls and reached 100% within 36 h post infection. Compared to the controls, the phenoloxidase (PO) activity also increased in both hemolymph and stomach. Recombinant LvSerpin7 inhibited shrimp PO activity in vitro, and we also found that rLvSerpin7 inhibited the growth of AHPND-causing bacteria. These results suggest that LvSerpin7 might reduce the toxic effects that result from unregulated activation of the PO defense system by AHPND-causing bacteria.
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Malefo MB, Mathibela EO, Crampton BG, Makgopa ME. Investigating the role of Bowman-Birk serine protease inhibitor in Arabidopsis plants under drought stress. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2020; 149:286-293. [PMID: 32097847 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2020.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Revised: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Serine protease inhibitors (SPIs) play an important role in cell survival, development and host defense. In plants, serine protease inhibitors such as the Kunitz-type inhibitor (KTI) and the Bowman-Birk inhibitor (BBI) have been shown to be induced in response to abiotic stress such as salinity and drought resulting in tolerance to these stresses. In this study, Arabidopsis thaliana (T3) plants overexpressing the BBI gene from maize were generated and subjected to drought stress in order to study the role of BBI protease inhibitor in drought tolerance. Drought treatment of four-week-old Arabidopsis plants was performed by withholding water from plants for nine days and harvested plant material was used for physiological and biochemical analysis. The transgenic lines exhibited normal growth after nine days of drought as compared to the wild-type. The results also showed a higher leaf relative water content (RWC) in transgenic lines when compared to the wild-type (WT), with line 2 having the highest RWC of 72% and the WT having the lowest RWC of 32%. Trypsin-inhibitor activity indicated that the total protein of the positive transgenic plants had stronger protease inhibitory activity than the wild-type. Transgenic lines overexpressing BBI also showed reduced lipid peroxidation (MDA content) as well as enhanced activity of antioxidants glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). These results suggest that BBI protease inhibitor leads to drought tolerance associated with reduction in drought-induced oxidative stress.
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20
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Tinyou A, Chaimon S, Phuphisut O, Kobpornchai P, Malaithong P, Poodeepiyasawat A, Ieamsuwan I, Ruangsittichai J, Pumirat P, Dekumyoy P, Reamtong O, Adisakwattana P. Molecular cloning and characterization of serine protease inhibitor from food-borne nematode, Gnathostoma spinigerum. Acta Trop 2020; 204:105288. [PMID: 31811864 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gnathostoma spinigerum is a causative agent of human gnathostomiasis and infects people residing in endemic areas as well as travelers. Cutaneous and visceral larval migrants cause clinical manifestations, resulting in severe morbidity and mortality. To survive in hosts, these parasites have evolved various immune evasion mechanisms, including the release of regulatory molecules. Serine protease inhibitors (serpins) that are present in many parasitic helminths are proteins suspected of suppressing host serine protease-related digestion and immune responses. In this study, the serpin secreted by G. spinigerum (GsSerp) was characterized using bioinformatics and molecular biology techniques. The bioinformatics revealed that GsSerp contains 9 helices, 3 β-sheets, and a reactive central loop, which are conserved structures of the serpin superfamily. Recombinant GsSerp (rGsSerp) was expressed in E. coli (molecular weight, 39 kDa) and could inhibit chymotrypsin. Mouse polyclonal antibody against GsSerp could detect the native GsSerp in crude worm antigen but not the excretory-secretory product (ES) of infective-stage larva (aL3Gs). Moreover, the expression of GsSerp in the aL3Gs tissue was located in the hemolymph and intestinal tissue, indicating its role in parasite homeostasis. Our findings may help develop effective strategies for preventing and controlling gnathostomiasis.
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21
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Çinar RK. Neuroserpin in Bipolar Disorder. Curr Top Med Chem 2020; 20:518-523. [PMID: 32003693 DOI: 10.2174/1568026620666200131125526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neuroserpin is a serine protease inhibitor predominantly expressed in the nervous system functioning mainly in neuronal migration and axonal growth. Neuroprotective effects of neuroserpin were shown in animal models of stroke, brain, and spinal cord injury. Postmortem studies confirmed the involvement of neuroserpin in Alzheimer's disease. Since altered adult neurogenesis was postulated as an aetiological mechanism for bipolar disorder, the possible effect of neuroserpin gene expression in the disorder was evaluated. METHODS Neuroserpin mRNA expression levels were examined in the peripheral blood of bipolar disorder type I manic and euthymic patients and healthy controls using the polymerase chain reaction method. The sample comprised of 60 physically healthy, middle-aged men as participants who had no substance use disorder. RESULTS The gene expression levels of neuroserpin were found lower in the bipolar disorder patients than the healthy controls (p=0.000). The neuroserpin levels did not differ between mania and euthymia (both 96% down-regulated compared to the controls). CONCLUSION Since we detected differences between the patients and the controls, not the disease states, the dysregulation in the neuroserpin gene could be interpreted as a result of the disease itself.
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22
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Zhang X, Guo K, Dong Z, Chen Z, Zhu H, Zhang Y, Xia Q, Zhao P. Kunitz-type protease inhibitor BmSPI51 plays an antifungal role in the silkworm cocoon. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 116:103258. [PMID: 31678582 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2019.103258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The protease inhibitors found in silkworm cocoons can be divided into several families, a majority of which contain serpin, TIL, or Kunitz domains. Previously, it has been reported that TIL-type protease inhibitors have antimicrobial activity. To date, however, it has not been determined whether the Kunitz-type protease inhibitor BmSPI51, the most abundant of cocoon protease inhibitors, plays an antimicrobial role. Thus, in this study, we sought to determine the biological role of BmSPI51 in silkworm cocoons. Our results obtained from real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR and immunofluorescence analyses indicate that BmSPI51 is expressed exclusively in the silk glands during the larval fifth instar stage and is subsequently secreted into cocoon silk. Moreover, at a molar ratio of 1:1, BmSPI51 produced via prokaryotic expression exhibited inhibitory activity against trypsin and also proved to be highly stable over wide ranges of temperature and pH values. The expression of BmSPI51 was also found to be significantly upregulated in the larval fat body after infection with three species of fungi, namely, Candida albicans, Beauveria bassiana, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In vitro inhibition tests revealed that BmSPI51 significantly inhibited the sporular growth of all three of these fungal species. Further, results obtained from a binding assay showed that BmSPI51 binds to β-d-glucan and mannan on the surface of fungal cells. In this study, we, thus, revealed the antimicrobial activity of BmSPI51 and its underlying mechanism in silkworm, thereby contributing to our present understanding of defense mechanisms in silkworm cocoons.
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23
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Savić J, Nikolić R, Banjac N, Zdravković-Korać S, Stupar S, Cingel A, Ćosić T, Raspor M, Smigocki A, Ninković S. Beneficial implications of sugar beet proteinase inhibitor BvSTI on plant architecture and salt stress tolerance in Lotus corniculatus L. JOURNAL OF PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 243:153055. [PMID: 31639537 DOI: 10.1016/j.jplph.2019.153055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Food demands of increasing human population dictate intensification of livestock production, however, environmental stresses could jeopardize producers' efforts. Forage legumes suffer from yield losses and poor nutritional status due to salinity increase of agricultural soils. As tools aimed to reduce negative impacts of biotic or abiotic stresses, proteinase inhibitors (PIs) have been promoted for biotechnological improvements. In order to increase tolerance of Lotus corniculatus L. to salt stress, serine PI, BvSTI, was introduced into this legume using Agrobacterium rhizogenes, with final transformation efficiency of 4.57%. PCR, DNA gel-blot, RT-PCR and in-gel protein activity assays confirmed the presence and activity of BvSTI products in transformed lines. Plants from three selected transgenic lines (21, 73 and 109) showed significant alterations in overall phenotypic appearance, corresponding to differences in BvSTI accumulation. Lines 73 and 109 showed up to 7.3-fold higher number of tillers and massive, up to 5.8-fold heavier roots than in nontransformed controls (NTC). Line 21 was phenotypically similar to NTC, accumulated less BvSTI transcripts and did not exhibit an additional band of recombinant trypsin inhibitor as seen in lines 73 and 109. Exposure of the transgenic lines to NaCl revealed different levels of salt stress susceptibility. The NaCl sensitivity index, based on morphological appearance and chlorophyll concentrations showed that lines 73 and 109 were significantly less affected by salinity than NTC or line 21. High level of BvSTI altered morphology and delayed salt stress related senescence, implicating BvSTI gene as a promising tool for salinity tolerance improvement trials in L. corniculatus.
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24
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Hernández-Goenaga J, López-Abán J, Protasio AV, Vicente Santiago B, del Olmo E, Vanegas M, Fernández-Soto P, Patarroyo MA, Muro A. Peptides Derived of Kunitz-Type Serine Protease Inhibitor as Potential Vaccine Against Experimental Schistosomiasis. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2498. [PMID: 31736947 PMCID: PMC6838133 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a significant public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa, China, Southeast Asia, and regions of South and Central America affecting about 189 million people. Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors have been identified as important players in the interaction of other flatworm parasites with their mammalian hosts. They are involved in host blood coagulation, fibrinolysis, inflammation, and ion channel blocking, all of them critical biological processes, which make them interesting targets to develop a vaccine. Here, we evaluate the protective efficacy of chemically synthesized T- and B-cell peptide epitopes derived from a kunitz protein from Schistosoma mansoni. Putative kunitz-type protease inhibitor proteins were identified in the S. mansoni genome, and their expression was analyzed by RNA-seq. Gene expression analyses showed that the kunitz protein Smp_147730 (Syn. Smp_311670) was dramatically and significantly up-regulated in schistosomula and adult worms when compared to the invading cercariae. T- and B-cell epitopes were predicted using bioinformatics tools, chemically synthesized, and formulated in the Adjuvant Adaptation (ADAD) vaccination system. BALB/c mice were vaccinated and challenged with S. mansoni cercariae. Kunitz peptides were highly protective in vaccinated BALB/c mice showing significant reductions in recovery of adult females (89-91%) and in the numbers of eggs trapped in the livers (77-81%) and guts (57-77%) of mice. Moreover, liver lesions were significantly reduced in vaccinated mice (64-65%) compared to infected control mice. The vaccination regime was well-tolerated with both peptides. We propose the use of these peptides, alone or in combination, as reliable candidates for vaccination against schistosomiasis.
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25
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Liu R, Mendez-Rios JD, Peng C, Xiao W, Weisberg AS, Wyatt LS, Moss B. SPI-1 is a missing host-range factor required for replication of the attenuated modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vaccine vector in human cells. PLoS Pathog 2019; 15:e1007710. [PMID: 31145755 PMCID: PMC6542542 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) is the leading poxvirus vector for development of vaccines against diverse infectious diseases. This distinction is based on high expression of proteins and good immunogenicity despite an inability to assemble infectious progeny in human cells, which together promote efficacy and safety. Nevertheless, the basis for the host-range restriction is unknown despite past systematic attempts to identify the relevant missing viral gene(s). The search for host-range factors is exacerbated by the large number of deletions, truncations and mutations that occurred during the long passage history of MVA in chicken embryo fibroblasts. By whole genome sequencing of a panel of recombinant host-range extended (HRE) MVAs generated by marker rescue with 40 kbp segments of vaccinia virus DNA, we identified serine protease inhibitor 1 (SPI-1) as one of several candidate host-range factors present in those viruses that gained the ability to replicate in human cells. Electron microscopy revealed that the interruption of morphogenesis in human cells infected with MVA occurred at a similar stage as that of a vaccinia virus strain WR SPI-1 deletion mutant. Moreover, the introduction of the SPI-1 gene into the MVA genome led to more than a 2-log enhancement of virus spread in human diploid MRC-5 cells, whereas deletion of the gene diminished the spread of HRE viruses by similar extents. Furthermore, MRC-5 cells stably expressing SPI-1 also enhanced replication of MVA. A role for additional host range genes was suggested by the restoration of MVA replication to a lower level relative to HRE viruses, particularly in other human cell lines. Although multiple sequence alignments revealed genetic changes in addition to SPI-1 common to the HRE MVAs, no evidence for their host-range function was found by analysis thus far. Our finding that SPI-1 is host range factor for MVA should simplify use of high throughput RNAi or CRISPR/Cas single gene methods to identify additional viral and human restriction elements. Poxvirus vectors have outstanding properties for development of vaccines against a myriad of infectious agents due to their ability to retain long segments of foreign DNA and high-level gene expression. Safety concerns led to a preference for attenuated poxviruses that lost the ability to produce infectious progeny in human cells. The most widely used poxvirus vector is modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA), which exhibits an extreme host-range restriction in most mammalian cells. MVA was attenuated by passaging more than 500 times in chicken embryo fibroblasts during which large deletions and numerous additional genetic changes occurred. Despite ongoing clinical testing of MVA-vectored vaccines, the basis for its host-range restriction remained unknown. Here we show that re-introduction of the SPI-1 gene into MVA or host cells increased virus spread by more than 100-fold in a human diploid cell line, providing an important insight into the mechanism responsible for the host-range restriction. This information could help design improved vectors and develop non-avian cell lines for propagation of candidate MVA vaccines.
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