Biochemical and structural studies on the high affinity of Hsp70 for ADP

The dual-function of HSP70 in immune response and tumor immunity: from molecular regulation to therapeutic innovations

Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) is a highly conserved molecular chaperone that plays a core role in assisting protein folding and maintaining cellular homeostasis. In recent years, studies have revealed that HSP70 has dual functions in immune regulation: on the one hand, it enhances immune responses by activating non-specific immunity (such as Toll-like receptor 2/4 (TLR2/4) signaling pathways) and specific immunity (such as cross-presentation of antigens, T helper 1 (Th1)/T helper 17 (Th17) differentiation); on the other hand, it inhibits excessive immune reactions by inducing the differentiation of regulatory T cells (Treg) and promoting the secretion of anti-inflammatory factors [such as interleukin-10 (IL-10)]. In cancer, the duality of HSP70 is also very prominent: it can drive tumor progression through pathways such as inhibiting apoptosis, promoting angiogenesis, and tumor metastasis, and it can also inhibit tumor growth by activating immunogenic cell death (ICD), enhancing antigen presentation, and natural killer (NK) cell activity. This review aims to systematically analyze the immune regulatory functions of HSP70, focusing on its dual regulatory mechanisms and the "double-edged sword" nature of HSP70 in tumor immunotherapy and the innovative nature of targeted strategies, as well as providing a theoretical basis and research directions for precision medicine in the treatment strategies of related diseases.

Absolute and Relative Binding Free Energy Calculations of Nucleotides to Multiple Protein Classes

Polyphosphate nucleotides, such as ATP, ADP, GTP, and GDP, play a crucial role in modulating protein functions through binding and/or catalytically activating proteins (enzymes). However, accurately calculating the binding free energies for these charged and flexible ligands poses challenges due to slow conformational relaxation and the limitations of force fields. In this study, we examine the accuracy and reliability of alchemical free energy simulations with fixed-charge force fields for the binding of four nucleotides to nine proteins of various classes, including kinases, ATPases, and GTPases. Our results indicate that the alchemical simulations effectively reproduce experimental binding free energies for all proteins that do not undergo significant conformational changes between their triphosphate nucleotide-bound and diphosphate nucleotide-bound states, with 87.5% (7 out of 8) of the absolute binding free energy results for 4 proteins within ±2 kcal/mol of experimental values and 88.9% (8 out of 9) of the relative binding free energy results for 9 proteins within ±3 kcal/mol of experimental values. However, our calculations show significant inaccuracies when divalent ions are included, suggesting that nonpolarizable force fields may not accurately capture interactions involving these ions. Additionally, the presence of highly charged and flexible ligands necessitates extensive conformational sampling to account for the long relaxation times associated with long-range electrostatic interactions. The simulation strategy presented here, along with its demonstrated accuracy across multiple protein classes, will be valuable for predicting the binding of nucleotides or their analogs to protein targets.

Preferential binding of ADP-bound mitochondrial HSP70 to the nucleotide exchange factor GRPEL1 over GRPEL2

Human nucleotide exchange factors GRPEL1 and GRPEL2 play pivotal roles in the ADP-ATP exchange within the protein folding cycle of mitochondrial HSP70 (mtHSP70), a crucial chaperone facilitating protein import into the mitochondrial matrix. Studies in human cells and mice have indicated that while GRPEL1 serves as an essential co-chaperone for mtHSP70, GRPEL2 has a role regulated by stress. However, the precise structural and biochemical mechanisms underlying the distinct functions of the GRPEL proteins have remained elusive. In our study, we present evidence revealing that ADP-bound mtHSP70 exhibits remarkably higher affinity for GRPEL1 compared to GRPEL2, with the latter experiencing a notable decrease in affinity upon ADP binding. Additionally, Pi assay showed that GRPEL1, but not GRPEL2, enhanced the ATPase activity of mtHSP70. Utilizing Alphafold modeling, we propose that the interaction between GRPEL1 and mtHSP70 can induce the opening of the nucleotide binding cleft of the chaperone, thereby facilitating the release of ADP, whereas GRPEL2 lacks this capability. Additionally, our findings suggest that the redox-regulated Cys87 residue in GRPEL2 does not play a role in dimerization but rather reduces its affinity for mtHSP70. Our findings on the structural and functional disparities between GRPEL1 and GRPEL2 may have implications for mitochondrial protein folding and import processes under varying cellular conditions.

Cleavage of Hsp70.1 causes lysosomal cell death under stress conditions

Autophagy mediates the degradation of intracellular macromolecules and organelles within lysosomes. There are three types of autophagy: macroautophagy, microautophagy, and chaperone-mediated autophagy. Heat shock protein 70.1 (Hsp70.1) exhibits dual functions as a chaperone protein and a lysosomal membrane stabilizer. Since chaperone-mediated autophagy participates in the recycling of ∼30% cytosolic proteins, its disorder causes cell susceptibility to stress conditions. Cargo proteins destined for degradation such as amyloid precursor protein and tau protein are trafficked by Hsp70.1 from the cytosol into lysosomes. Hsp70.1 is composed of an N-terminal nucleotide-binding domain (NBD) and a C-terminal domain that binds to cargo proteins, termed the substrate-binding domain (SBD). The NBD and SBD are connected by the interdomain linker LL1, which modulates the allosteric structure of Hsp70.1 in response to ADP/ATP binding. After the passage of the Hsp70.1-cargo complex through the lysosomal limiting membrane, high-affinity binding of the positive-charged SBD with negative-charged bis(monoacylglycero)phosphate (BMP) at the internal vesicular membranes activates acid sphingomyelinase to generate ceramide for stabilizing lysosomal membranes. As the integrity of the lysosomal limiting membrane is critical to ensure cargo protein degradation within the acidic lumen, the disintegration of the lysosomal limiting membrane is lethal to cells. After the intake of high-fat diets, however, β-oxidation of fatty acids in the mitochondria generates reactive oxygen species, which enhance the oxidation of membrane linoleic acids to produce 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE). In addition, 4-HNE is produced during the heating of linoleic acid-rich vegetable oils and incorporated into the body via deep-fried foods. This endogenous and exogenous 4-HNE synergically causes an increase in its serum and organ levels to induce carbonylation of Hsp70.1 at Arg469, which facilitates its conformational change and access of activated μ-calpain to LL1. Therefore, the cleavage of Hsp70.1 occurs prior to its influx into the lysosomal lumen, which leads to lysosomal membrane permeabilization/rupture. The resultant leakage of cathepsins is responsible for lysosomal cell death, which would be one of the causative factors of lifestyle-related diseases.

Combined In-Solution Fragment Screening and Crystallographic Binding-Mode Analysis with a Two-Domain Hsp70 Construct

Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) isoforms are key players in the regulation of protein homeostasis and cell death pathways and are therefore attractive targets in cancer research. Developing nucleotide-competitive inhibitors or allosteric modulators, however, has turned out to be very challenging for this protein family, and no Hsp70-directed therapeutics have so far become available. As the field could profit from alternative starting points for inhibitor development, we present the results of a fragment-based screening approach on a two-domain Hsp70 construct using in-solution NMR methods, together with X-ray-crystallographic investigations and mixed-solvent molecular dynamics simulations. The screening protocol resulted in hits on both domains. In particular, fragment binding in a deeply buried pocket at the substrate-binding domain could be detected. The corresponding site is known to be important for communication between the nucleotide-binding and substrate-binding domains of Hsp70 proteins. The main fragment identified at this position also offers an interesting starting point for the development of a dual Hsp70/Hsp90 inhibitor.

Heat shock proteins and metal ions - Reaction or interaction?

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are part of the cell's molecular chaperone system responsible for the proper folding (or refolding) of proteins. They are expressed in cells of a wide variety of organisms, from bacteria and fungi to humans. While some HSPs require metal ions for proper functioning, others are expressed as a response of the organism to either essential or toxic metal ions. Their presence can influence the occurrence of cellular processes, even those as significant as programmed cell death. The development of research methods and structural modeling has enabled increasingly accurate recognition of new HSP functions, including their role in maintaining metal ion homeostasis. Current investigations on the expression of HSPs in response to heavy metal ions include not only the direct effect of these ions on the cell but also analysis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the increased production of HSPs with increasing ROS concentration. This minireview contains information about the direct and indirect interactions of heat shock proteins with metal ions, both those of biological importance and heavy metals.

HSP70 Family in Cancer: Signaling Mechanisms and Therapeutic Advances

The 70 kDa heat shock proteins (HSP70s) are a group of highly conserved and inducible heat shock proteins. One of the main functions of HSP70s is to act as molecular chaperones that are involved in a large variety of cellular protein folding and remodeling processes. HSP70s are found to be over-expressed and may serve as prognostic markers in many types of cancers. HSP70s are also involved in most of the molecular processes of cancer hallmarks as well as the growth and survival of cancer cells. In fact, many effects of HSP70s on cancer cells are not only related to their chaperone activities but rather to their roles in regulating cancer cell signaling. Therefore, a number of drugs directly or indirectly targeting HSP70s, and their co-chaperones have been developed aiming to treat cancer. In this review, we summarized HSP70-related cancer signaling pathways and corresponding key proteins regulated by the family of HSP70s. In addition, we also summarized various treatment approaches and progress of anti-tumor therapy based on targeting HSP70 family proteins.

Nucleotide Exchange Factors for Hsp70 Molecular Chaperones: GrpE, Hsp110/Grp170, HspBP1/Sil1, and BAG Domain Proteins

Molecular chaperones of the Hsp70 family are key components of the cellular protein-folding machinery. Substrate folding is accomplished by iterative cycles of ATP binding, hydrolysis, and release. The ATPase activity of Hsp70 is regulated by two main classes of cochaperones: J-domain proteins stimulate ATPase hydrolysis by Hsp70, while nucleotide exchange factors (NEFs) facilitate the conversion from the ADP-bound to the ATP-bound state, thus closing the chaperone folding cycle. NEF function can additionally be antagonized by ADP dissociation inhibitors. Beginning with the discovery of the prototypical bacterial NEF, GrpE, a large diversity of nucleotide exchange factors for Hsp70 have been identified, connecting it to a multitude of cellular processes in the eukaryotic cell. Here we review recent advances toward structure and function of nucleotide exchange factors from the Hsp110/Grp170, HspBP1/Sil1, and BAG domain protein families and discuss how these cochaperones connect protein folding with cellular quality control and degradation pathways.

Neutron crystallographic analysis of the nucleotide-binding domain of Hsp72 in complex with ADP

The 70 kDa heat-shock proteins (Hsp70s) are ATP-dependent molecular chaperones that contain an N-terminal nucleotide-binding domain (NBD) and a C-terminal substrate-binding domain. Hsp70s bind to misfolded/unfolded proteins and thereby prevent their aggregation. The ATP hydrolysis reaction in the NBD plays a key role in allosteric control of the binding of substrate proteins. In the present study, the neutron crystal structure of the NBD of Hsp72, a heat-inducible Hsp70 family member, was solved in complex with ADP in order to study the structure-function relationship with a focus on hydrogens. ADP bound to Hsp72 was fully deprotonated, and the catalytically important residues, including Asp10, Asp199 and Asp206, are also deprotonated. Neutron analysis also enabled the characterization of the water clusters in the NBD. Enzymatic assays and X-ray crystallographic analysis revealed that the Y149A mutation exhibited a higher ATPase activity and caused disruption of the water cluster and incorporation of an additional magnesium ion. Tyr149 was suggested to contribute to the low intrinsic ATPase activity and to stabilize the water cluster. Collectively, these structural studies will help to elucidate the molecular basis of the function of Hsp72.

Advances towards Understanding the Mechanism of Action of the Hsp90 Complex

Hsp90 (Heat Shock Protein 90) is an ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) molecular chaperone responsible for the activation and maturation of client proteins. The mechanism by which Hsp90 achieves such activation, involving structurally diverse client proteins, has remained enigmatic. However, recent advances using structural techniques, together with advances in biochemical studies, have not only defined the chaperone cycle but have shed light on its mechanism of action. Hsp90 hydrolysis of ATP by each protomer may not be simultaneous and may be dependent on the specific client protein and co-chaperone complex involved. Surprisingly, Hsp90 appears to remodel client proteins, acting as a means by which the structure of the client protein is modified to allow its subsequent refolding to an active state, in the case of kinases, or by making the client protein competent for hormone binding, as in the case of the GR (glucocorticoid receptor). This review looks at selected examples of client proteins, such as CDK4 (cyclin-dependent kinase 4) and GR, which are activated according to the so-called ‘remodelling hypothesis’ for their activation. A detailed description of these activation mechanisms is paramount to understanding how Hsp90-associated diseases develop.

Structure of Hsp90-Hsp70-Hop-GR reveals the Hsp90 client-loading mechanism

Maintaining a healthy proteome is fundamental for the survival of all organisms¹. Integral to this are Hsp90 and Hsp70, molecular chaperones that together facilitate the folding, remodelling and maturation of the many 'client proteins' of Hsp90². The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is a model client protein that is strictly dependent on Hsp90 and Hsp70 for activity^3-7. Chaperoning GR involves a cycle of inactivation by Hsp70; formation of an inactive GR-Hsp90-Hsp70-Hop 'loading' complex; conversion to an active GR-Hsp90-p23 'maturation' complex; and subsequent GR release⁸. However, to our knowledge, a molecular understanding of this intricate chaperone cycle is lacking for any client protein. Here we report the cryo-electron microscopy structure of the GR-loading complex, in which Hsp70 loads GR onto Hsp90, uncovering the molecular basis of direct coordination by Hsp90 and Hsp70. The structure reveals two Hsp70 proteins, one of which delivers GR and the other scaffolds the Hop cochaperone. Hop interacts with all components of the complex, including GR, and poises Hsp90 for subsequent ATP hydrolysis. GR is partially unfolded and recognized through an extended binding pocket composed of Hsp90, Hsp70 and Hop, revealing the mechanism of GR loading and inactivation. Together with the GR-maturation complex structure⁹, we present a complete molecular mechanism of chaperone-dependent client remodelling, and establish general principles of client recognition, inhibition, transfer and activation.

Physics-based modeling provides predictive understanding of selectively promiscuous substrate binding by Hsp70 chaperones

To help cells cope with protein misfolding and aggregation, Hsp70 molecular chaperones selectively bind a variety of sequences ("selective promiscuity"). Statistical analyses from substrate-derived peptide arrays reveal that DnaK, the E. coli Hsp70, binds to sequences containing three to five branched hydrophobic residues, although otherwise the specific amino acids can vary considerably. Several high-resolution structures of the substrate -binding domain (SBD) of DnaK bound to peptides reveal a highly conserved configuration of the bound substrate and further suggest that the substrate-binding cleft consists of five largely independent sites for interaction with five consecutive substrate residues. Importantly, both substrate backbone orientations (N- to C- and C- to N-) allow essentially the same backbone hydrogen-bonding and side-chain interactions with the chaperone. In order to rationalize these observations, we performed atomistic molecular dynamics simulations to sample the interactions of all 20 amino acid side chains in each of the five sites of the chaperone in the context of the conserved substrate backbone configurations. The resulting interaction energetics provide the basis set for deriving a predictive model that we call Paladin (Physics-based model of DnaK-Substrate Binding). Trained using available peptide array data, Paladin can distinguish binders and nonbinders of DnaK with accuracy comparable to existing predictors and further predicts the detailed configuration of the bound sequence. Tested using existing DnaK-peptide structures, Paladin correctly predicted the binding register in 10 out of 13 substrate sequences that bind in the N- to C- orientation, and the binding orientation in 16 out of 22 sequences. The physical basis of the Paladin model provides insight into the origins of how Hsp70s bind substrates with a balance of selectivity and promiscuity. The approach described here can be extended to other Hsp70s where extensive peptide array data is not available.

Structural, thermodynamic and functional studies of human 71 kDa heat shock cognate protein (HSPA8/hHsc70)

Human 71 kDa heat shock cognate protein (HSPA8, also known as Hsc70, Hsp70-8, Hsc71, Hsp71 or Hsp73) is a constitutively expressed chaperone that is critical for cell proteostasis. In the cytosol, HSPA8 plays a pivotal role in folding and refolding, facilitates protein trafficking across membranes and targets proteins for degradation, among other functions. Here, we report an in solution study of recombinant HSPA8 (rHSPA8) using a variety of biophysical and biochemical approaches. rHSPA8 shares several structural and functional similarities with others human Hsp70s. It has two domains with different stabilities and interacts with adenosine nucleotides with dissociation constants in the low micromolar range, which were higher in the presence of Mg²⁺. rHSPA8 showed lower ATPase activity than its homolog HSPA5/hGrp78/hBiP, but it was 4-fold greater than that of recombinant HSPA1A/hHsp70-1A, with which it is 86% identical. Small angle X-ray scattering indicated that rHSPA8 behaved as an elongated monomeric protein in solution with dimensions similar to those observed for HSPA1A. In addition, rHSPA8 showed structural flexibility between its compacted and extended conformations. The data also indicated that HSPA8 has capacity in preventing the aggregation of model client proteins. The present study expands the understanding of the structure and activity of this chaperone and aligns with the idea that human homologous Hsp70s have divergent functions.

The ER Chaperones BiP and Grp94 Regulate the Formation of Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2 (IGF2) Oligomers

While cytosolic Hsp90 chaperones have been extensively studied, less is known about how the ER Hsp90 paralog Grp94 recognizes clients and influences client folding. Here, we examine how Grp94 and the ER Hsp70 paralog, BiP, influence the folding of insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2), an established client protein of Grp94. ProIGF2 is composed of a disulfide-bonded insulin-like hormone and a C-terminal E-peptide that has sequence characteristics of an intrinsically disordered region. BiP and Grp94 have a minimal influence on folding whereby both chaperones slow proIGF2 folding and do not substantially alter the disulfide-bonded folding intermediates, suggesting that BiP and Grp94 may have an additional influence unrelated to proIGF2 folding. Indeed, we made the unexpected discovery that the E-peptide region allows proIGF2 to form dynamic oligomers. ProIGF2 oligomers can transition from a dynamic state that is capable of exchanging monomers to an irreversibly aggregated state, providing a plausible role for BiP and Grp94 in regulating proIGF2 oligomerization. In contrast to the modest influence on folding, BiP and Grp94 have a stronger influence on proIGF2 oligomerization and these chaperones exert counteracting effects. BiP suppresses proIGF2 oligomerization while Grp94 can enhance proIGF2 oligomerization in a nucleotide-dependent manner. We propose that BiP and Grp94 regulate the assembly and dynamic behavior of proIGF2 oligomers, although the biological role of proIGF2 oligomerization is not yet known.

Molecular chaperone function of stress inducible Hsp70 is critical for intracellular multiplication of Toxoplasma gondii

Intracellular pathogens like Toxoplasma gondii often target proteins and pathways critical for host cell survival and stress response. Molecular chaperones encoded by the evolutionary conserved Heat shock proteins (Hsps) maintain proteostasis and are vital to cell survival following exposure to any form of stress. A key protein of this family is Hsp70, an ATP-driven molecular chaperone, which is stress inducible and often indiscernible in normal cells. Role of this protein with respect to intracellular survival and multiplication of protozoan parasite like T. gondii remains to be examined. We find that T. gondii infection upregulates expression of host Hsp70. Hsp70 selective inhibitor 2-phenylethynesulfonamide (PES) attenuates intracellular T. gondii multiplication. Biotinylated PES confirms selective interaction of this small molecule inhibitor with Hsp70. We show that PES acts by disrupting Hsp70 chaperone function which leads to dysregulation of host autophagy. Silencing of host Hsp70 underscores its importance for intracellular multiplication of T. gondii, however, attenuation achieved using PES is not completely attributable to host Hsp70 indicating the presence of other intracellular targets of PES in infected host cells. We find that PES is also able to target T. gondii Hsp70 homologue which was shown using PES binding assay. Detailed molecular docking analysis substantiates PES targeting of TgHsp70 in addition to host Hsp70. While establishing the importance of protein quality control in infection, this study brings to the fore a unique opportunity of dual targeting of host and parasite Hsp70 demonstrating how structural conservation of these proteins may be exploited for therapeutic design.

Functional diversity between HSP70 paralogs caused by variable interactions with specific co-chaperones

Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) chaperones play a central role in protein quality control and are crucial for many cellular processes, including protein folding, degradation, and disaggregation. Human HSP70s compose a family of 13 members that carry out their functions with the aid of even larger families of co-chaperones. A delicate interplay between HSP70s and co-chaperone recruitment is thought to determine substrate fate, yet it has been generally assumed that all Hsp70 paralogs have similar activities and are largely functionally redundant. However, here we found that when expressed in human cells, two highly homologous HSP70s, HSPA1A and HSPA1L, have opposing effects on cellular handling of various substrates. For example, HSPA1A reduced aggregation of the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-associated protein variant superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1)-A4V, whereas HSPA1L enhanced its aggregation. Intriguingly, variations in the substrate-binding domain of these HSP70s did not play a role in this difference. Instead, we observed that substrate fate is determined by differential interactions of the HSP70s with co-chaperones. Whereas most co-chaperones bound equally well to these two HSP70s, Hsp70/Hsp90-organizing protein (HOP) preferentially bound to HSPA1L, and the Hsp110 nucleotide-exchange factor HSPH2 preferred HSPA1A. The role of HSPH2 was especially crucial for the HSPA1A-mediated reduction in SOD1-A4V aggregation. These findings reveal a remarkable functional diversity at the level of the cellular HSP70s and indicate that this diversity is defined by their affinities for specific co-chaperones such as HSPH2.

HSP70 Multi-Functionality in Cancer

The 70-kDa heat shock proteins (HSP70s) are abundantly present in cancer, providing malignant cells selective advantage by suppressing multiple apoptotic pathways, regulating necrosis, bypassing cellular senescence program, interfering with tumor immunity, promoting angiogenesis and supporting metastasis. This direct involvement of HSP70 in most of the cancer hallmarks explains the phenomenon of cancer "addiction" to HSP70, tightly linking tumor survival and growth to the HSP70 expression. HSP70 operates in different states through its catalytic cycle, suggesting that it can multi-function in malignant cells in any of these states. Clinically, tumor cells intensively release HSP70 in extracellular microenvironment, resulting in diverse outcomes for patient survival. Given its clinical significance, small molecule inhibitors were developed to target different sites of the HSP70 machinery. Furthermore, several HSP70-based immunotherapy approaches were assessed in clinical trials. This review will explore different roles of HSP70 on cancer progression and emphasize the importance of understanding the flexibility of HSP70 nature for future development of anti-cancer therapies.

HSPA1A conformational mutants reveal a conserved structural unit in Hsp70 proteins

BACKGROUND

The Hsp70 proteins maintain proteome integrity through the capacity of their nucleotide- and substrate-binding domains (NBD and SBD) to allosterically regulate substrate affinity in a nucleotide-dependent manner. Crystallographic studies showed that Hsp70 allostery relies on formation of contacts between ATP-bound NBD and an interdomain linker, accompanied by SBD subdomains docking onto distinct sites of the NBD leading to substrate release. However, the mechanics of ATP-induced SBD subdomains detachment is largely unknown.

METHODS

Here, we investigated the structural and allosteric properties of human HSPA1A using hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry, ATPase assays, surface plasmon resonance and fluorescence polarization-based substrate binding assays.

RESULTS

Analysis of HSPA1A proteins bearing mutations at the interface of SBD subdomains close to the interdomain linker (amino acids L399, L510, I515, and D529) revealed that this region forms a folding unit stabilizing the structure of both SBD subdomains in the nucleotide-free state. The introduced mutations modulate HSPA1A allostery as they localize to the NBD-SBD interfaces in the ATP-bound protein.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings show that residues forming the hydrophobic structural unit stabilizing the SBD structure are relocated during ATP-activated detachment of the SBD subdomains to different NBD-SBD docking interfaces enabling HSPA1A allostery.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

Mutation-induced perturbations tuned HSPA1A sensitivity to peptide/protein substrates and to Hsp40 in a way that is common for other Hsp70 proteins. Our results provide an insight into structural rearrangements in the SBD of Hsp70 proteins and highlight HSPA1A-specific allostery features, which is a prerequisite for selective targeting in Hsp-related pathologies.

Comparative structure-function features of Hsp70s of Plasmodium falciparum and human origins

The heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) family of molecular chaperones are crucial for the survival and pathogenicity of the main agent of malaria, Plasmodium falciparum. Hsp70 is central to cellular proteostasis and some of its isoforms are essential for survival of the malaria parasite. In addition, they are also implicated in the development of antimalarial drug resistance. For these reasons, they are thought to be potential drug targets, especially in antimalarial combination therapies. However, their high sequence conservation across species presents a hurdle with respect to their selective targeting. The human genome encodes 17 Hsp70 isoforms while P. falciparum encodes for only 6. The structural architecture of Hsp70s is typically characterized by a highly conserved N-terminal nucleotide-binding domain (NBD) and a less conserved C-terminal substrate-binding domain (SBD). The two domains are connected by a highly conserved linker. In spite of their fairly high sequence conservation, Hsp70s from various species possess unique signature motifs that appear to uniquely influence their function. In addition, their cooperation with co-chaperones further regulates their functional specificity. In the current review, bioinformatics tools were used to identify conserved and unique signature motifs in Hsp70s of P. falciparum versus their human counterparts. We discuss the common and distinctive structure-function features of these proteins. This information is important towards elucidating the prospects of selective targeting of parasite heat shock proteins as part of antimalarial design efforts.

Biophysical Consequences of EVEN-PLUS Syndrome Mutations for the Function of Mortalin

HSPA9, the gene coding for the mitochondrial chaperone mortalin, is involved in various cellular roles such as mitochondrial protein import, folding, degradation, Fe-S cluster biogenesis, mitochondrial homeostasis, and regulation of the antiapoptotic protein p53. Mutations in the HSPA9 gene, particularly within the region coding for the nucleotide-binding domain (NBD), cause the autosomal disorder known as EVEN-PLUS syndrome. The resulting mutants R126W and Y128C are located on the surface of the mortalin-NBD near the binding interface with the interdomain linker (IDL). We used differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF), biolayer interferometry, X-ray crystallography, ATP hydrolysis assays, and Rosetta docking simulations to study the structural and functional consequences of the EVEN-PLUS syndrome-associated R126W and Y128C mutations within the mortalin-NBD. These results indicate that the surface mutations R126W and Y128C have far-reaching effects that disrupt ATP hydrolysis, interdomain linker binding, and thermostability and increase the propensity for aggregation. The structural differences observed provide insight into how the conformations of mortalin differ from other heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) homologues. Combined, our biophysical and structural studies contribute to the understanding of the molecular basis for how disease-associated mortalin mutations affect mortalin functionality and the pathogenesis of EVEN-PLUS syndrome.

Synthesis and evaluation of esterified Hsp70 agonists in cellular models of protein aggregation and folding

Over-expression of the Hsp70 molecular chaperone prevents protein aggregation and ameliorates neurodegenerative disease phenotypes in model systems. We identified an Hsp70 activator, MAL1-271, that reduces α-synuclein aggregation in a Parkinson's Disease model. We now report that MAL1-271 directly increases the ATPase activity of a eukaryotic Hsp70. Next, twelve MAL1-271 derivatives were synthesized and examined in a refined α-synuclein aggregation model as well as in an assay that monitors maturation of a disease-causing Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) mutant, which is also linked to Hsp70 function. Compared to the control, MAL1-271 significantly increased the number of cells lacking α-synuclein inclusions and increased the steady-state levels of the CFTR mutant. We also found that a nitrile-containing MAL1-271 analog exhibited similar effects in both assays. None of the derivatives exhibited cellular toxicity at concentrations up to 100 μm, nor were cellular stress response pathways induced. These data serve as a gateway for the continued development of a new class of Hsp70 agonists with efficacy in these and potentially other disease models.

Using steered molecular dynamics to study the interaction between ADP and the nucleotide-binding domain of yeast Hsp70 protein Ssa1

Genetics experiments have identified six mutations located in the subdomain IA (A17V, R23H, G32D, G32S, R34K, V372I) of Ssa1 that influence propagation of the yeast [PSI⁺] prion. However, the underlining molecular mechanisms of these mutations are still unclear. The six mutation sites are present in the IA subdomain of the nucleotide-binding domain (NBD). The ATPase subdomain IA is a critical mediator of inter-domain allostery in Hsp70 molecular chaperones, so the mutation and changes in this subdomain may influence the function of the substrate-binding domain. In addition, ADP release is a rate-limiting step of the ATPase cycle and dysregulation of the ATPase cycle influences the propagation of the yeast [PSI⁺] prion. In this work, steered molecular dynamics (SMD) simulations were performed to explore the interaction between ADP and NBD. Results suggest that during the SMD simulations, hydrophobic interactions are predominant and variations in the binding state of ADP within the mutants is a potential reason for in vivo effects on yeast [PSI⁺] prion propagation. Additionally, we identify the primary residues in the ATPase domain that directly constitute the main hydrophobic interaction network and directly influence the ADP interaction state with the NBD of Ssa1. Furthermore, this in silico analysis reaffirms the importance of previously experimentally-determined residues in the Hsp70 ATPase domain involved in ADP binding and also identifies new residues potentially involved in this process.

Mitotic phosphorylation regulates Hsp72 spindle localization by uncoupling ATP binding from substrate release

Hsp72 is a member of the 70-kDa heat shock family of molecular chaperones (Hsp70s) that comprise a nucleotide-binding domain (NBD) and a substrate-binding domain (SBD) connected by a linker that couples the exchange of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) for adenosine triphosphate (ATP) with the release of the protein substrate. Mitotic phosphorylation of Hsp72 by the kinase NEK6 at Thr⁶⁶ located in the NBD promotes the localization of Hsp72 to the mitotic spindle and is required for efficient spindle assembly and chromosome congression and segregation. We determined the crystal structure of the Hsp72 NBD containing a genetically encoded phosphoserine at position 66. This revealed structural changes that stabilized interactions between subdomains within the NBD. ATP binding to the NBD of unmodified Hsp72 resulted in the release of substrate from the SBD, but phosphorylated Hsp72 retained substrate in the presence of ATP. Mutations that prevented phosphorylation-dependent subdomain interactions restored the connection between ATP binding and substrate release. Thus, phosphorylation of Thr⁶⁶ is a reversible mechanism that decouples the allosteric connection between nucleotide binding and substrate release, providing further insight into the regulation of the Hsp70 family. We propose that phosphorylation of Hsp72 on Thr⁶⁶ by NEK6 during mitosis promotes its localization to the spindle by stabilizing its interactions with components of the mitotic spindle.

The crystallization additive hexatungstotellurate promotes the crystallization of the HSP70 nucleotide binding domain into two different crystal forms

The use of the tellurium-centered Anderson-Evans polyoxotungstate [TeW6O24]6- (TEW) as a crystallization additive has been described. Here, we present the use of TEW as an additive in the crystallization screening of the nucleotide binding domain (NBD) of HSP70. Crystallization screening of the HSP70 NBD in the absence of TEW using a standard commercial screen resulted in a single crystal form. An identical crystallization screen of the HSP70 NBD in the presence of TEW resulted in both the "TEW free" crystal form and an additional crystal form with a different crystal packing. TEW binding was observed in both crystal forms, either as a well-defined molecule or in overlapping alternate positions suggesting translational disorder. The structures were solved by both molecular replacement and single wavelength anomalous diffraction (SAD) using the anomalous signal of a single bound molecule of TEW. This study adds one more example of TEW binding to a protein and influencing its crystallization behavior.

A folding nucleus and minimal ATP binding domain of Hsp70 identified by single-molecule force spectroscopy

The folding pathways of large proteins are complex, with many of them requiring the aid of chaperones and others folding spontaneously. Along the folding pathways, partially folded intermediates are frequently populated; their role in the driving of the folding process is unclear. The structures of these intermediates are generally not amenable to high-resolution structural techniques because of their transient nature. Here we employed single-molecule force measurements to scrutinize the hierarchy of intermediate structures along the folding pathway of the nucleotide binding domain (NBD) of Escherichia coli Hsp70 DnaK. DnaK-NBD is a member of the sugar kinase superfamily that includes Hsp70s and the cytoskeletal protein actin. Using optical tweezers, a stable nucleotide-binding competent en route folding intermediate comprising lobe II residues (183-383) was identified as a critical checkpoint for productive folding. We obtained a structural snapshot of this folding intermediate that shows native-like conformation. To assess the fundamental role of folded lobe II for efficient folding, we turned our attention to yeast mitochondrial NBD, which does not fold without a dedicated chaperone. After replacing the yeast lobe II residues with stable E. coli lobe II, the obtained chimeric protein showed native-like ATPase activity and robust folding into the native state, even in the absence of chaperone. In summary, lobe II is a stable nucleotide-binding competent folding nucleus that is the key to time-efficient folding and possibly resembles a common ancestor domain. Our findings provide a conceptual framework for the folding pathways of other members of this protein superfamily.

Targeting secondary protein complexes in drug discovery: studying the druggability and chemical biology of the HSP70/BAG1 complex

A non-nucleotide FP-probe was designed to study the mechanism of action and druggability of the secondary HSP70/BAG1 complex.

Proteins typically carry out their biological functions as multi-protein complexes, which can significantly affect the affinity of small-molecule inhibitors. HSP70 is an important target in oncology, so to study its chemical biology and the drug discovery potential of the HSP70/BAG1 complex, we designed a high-affinity non-nucleotide fluorescence polarisation probe.

Disrupted Hydrogen-Bond Network and Impaired ATPase Activity in an Hsc70 Cysteine Mutant

The ATPase domain of members of the 70 kDa heat shock protein (Hsp70) family shows a high degree of sequence, structural, and functional homology across species. A broadly conserved residue within the Hsp70 ATPase domain that captured our attention is an unpaired cysteine, positioned proximal to the site of nucleotide binding. Prior studies of several Hsp70 family members show this cysteine is not required for Hsp70 ATPase activity, yet select amino acid replacements of the cysteine can dramatically alter ATP hydrolysis. Moreover, post-translational modification of the cysteine has been reported to limit ATP hydrolysis for several Hsp70s. To better understand the underlying mechanism for how perturbation of this noncatalytic residue modulates Hsp70 function, we determined the structure for a cysteine-to-tryptophan mutation in the constitutively expressed, mammalian Hsp70 family member Hsc70. Our work reveals that the steric hindrance produced by a cysteine-to-tryptophan mutation disrupts the hydrogen-bond network within the active site, resulting in a loss of proper catalytic magnesium coordination. We propose that a similarly altered active site is likely observed upon post-translational oxidation. We speculate that the subtle changes we detect in the hydrogen-bonding network may relate to the previously reported observation that cysteine oxidation can influence Hsp70 interdomain communication.

Peptide fragments of Hsp70 modulate its chaperone activity and sensitize tumor cells to anti-cancer drugs

Most Hsp70 chaperone inhibitors exert anti-cancer effects; however, their high cytotoxicity proposed the use of peptide fragments of the chaperone as safer modulators of its activity and as complements to customary drugs. One such peptide, ICit-2, was found to inhibit substrate-binding and refolding activities of the chaperone. Using various approaches, we established that ICit-2 binds Hsp70, which may explain its inhibitory action. ICit-2 penetrates A-431 cancer cells and, in combination with doxorubicin (Dox), enhances the cytotoxicity and growth inhibitory effect of the drug. Similarly, using the B16 mouse melanoma model, we found that ICit-2 inhibits the rate of tumor growth by 48% compared to Dox alone, confirming that the peptide can be employed to sensitize resistant tumors to cytostatic medicines.

Organoiridium Photosensitizers Induce Specific Oxidative Attack on Proteins within Cancer Cells

Strongly luminescent iridium(III) complexes, [Ir(C,N)2 (S,S)]+ (1) and [Ir(C,N)2 (O,O)] (2), containing C,N (phenylquinoline), O,O (diketonate), or S,S (dithione) chelating ligands, have been characterized by X-ray crystallography and DFT calculations. Their long phosphorescence lifetimes in living cancer cells give rise to high quantum yields for the generation of 1 O2 , with large 2-photon absorption cross-sections. 2 is nontoxic to cells, but potently cytotoxic to cancer cells upon brief irradiation with low doses of visible light, and potent at sub-micromolar doses towards 3D multicellular tumor spheroids with 2-photon red light. Photoactivation causes oxidative damage to specific histidine residues in the key proteins in aldose reductase and heat-shock protein-70 within living cancer cells. The oxidative stress induced by iridium photosensitizers during photoactivation can increase the levels of enzymes involved in the glycolytic pathway.

Large-scale crystallization and neutron crystallographic analysis of HSP70 in complex with ADP

HSP70 belongs to the heat-shock protein family and binds to unfolded proteins, driven by ATP hydrolysis, in order to prevent aggregation. Previous X-ray crystallographic analyses of HSP70 have shown that HSP70 binds to ADP with internal water molecules. In order to elucidate the role of the water molecules, including their H/D atoms, a neutron diffraction study of the human HSP70 ATPase domain was initiated. Deuterated large crystals of the HSP-ADP complex (1.2-1.8 mm3) were successfully grown by large-scale crystallization, and a neutron diffraction experiment at BIODIFF resulted in diffraction to a maximum resolution of 2.2 Å. After data reduction, the overall completeness, Rmeas and average I/σ(I) were 90.4%, 11.7% and 8.1, respectively, indicating that the data set was sufficient to visualize H and D atoms.

Biophysical analysis of the effect of chemical modification by 4-oxononenal on the structure, stability, and function of binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP)

Binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP) is a molecular chaperone important for the folding of numerous proteins, which include millions of immunoglobulins in human body. It also plays a key role in the unfolded protein response (UPR) in the endoplasmic reticulum. Free radical generation is a common phenomenon that occurs in cells under healthy as well as under stress conditions such as ageing, inflammation, alcohol consumption, and smoking. These free radicals attack the cell membranes and generate highly reactive lipid peroxidation products such as 4-oxononenal (4-ONE). BiP is a key protein that is modified by 4-ONE. In this study, we probed how such chemical modification affects the biophysical properties of BiP. Upon modification, BiP shows significant tertiary structural changes with no changes in its secondary structure. The protein loses its thermodynamic stability, particularly, that of the nucleotide binding domain (NBD) where ATP binds. In terms of function, the modified BiP completely loses its ATPase activity with decreased ATP binding affinity. However, modified BiP retains its immunoglobulin binding function and its chaperone activity of suppressing non-specific protein aggregation. These results indicate that 4-ONE modification can significantly affect the structure-function of key proteins such as BiP involved in cellular pathways, and provide a molecular basis for how chemical modifications can result in the failure of quality control mechanisms inside the cell.

Key features of an Hsp70 chaperone allosteric landscape revealed by ion-mobility native mass spectrometry and double electron-electron resonance

Proteins are dynamic entities that populate conformational ensembles, and most functions of proteins depend on their dynamic character. Allostery, in particular, relies on ligand-modulated shifts in these conformational ensembles. Hsp70s are allosteric molecular chaperones with conformational landscapes that involve large rearrangements of their two domains (viz. the nucleotide-binding domain and substrate-binding domain) in response to adenine nucleotides and substrates. However, it remains unclear how the Hsp70 conformational ensemble is populated at each point of the allosteric cycle and how ligands control these populations. We have mapped the conformational species present under different ligand-binding conditions throughout the allosteric cycle of the Escherichia coli Hsp70 DnaK by two complementary methods, ion-mobility mass spectrometry and double electron-electron resonance. Our results obtained under biologically relevant ligand-bound conditions confirm the current picture derived from NMR and crystallographic data of domain docking upon ATP binding and undocking in response to ADP and substrate. Additionally, we find that the helical lid of DnaK is a highly dynamic unit of the structure in all ligand-bound states. Importantly, we demonstrate that DnaK populates a partially docked state in the presence of ATP and substrate and that this state represents an energy minimum on the DnaK allosteric landscape. Because Hsp70s are emerging as potential drug targets for many diseases, fully mapping an allosteric landscape of a molecular chaperone like DnaK will facilitate the development of small molecules that modulate Hsp70 function via allosteric mechanisms.

Exploiting Protein Conformational Change to Optimize Adenosine-Derived Inhibitors of HSP70

HSP70 is a molecular chaperone and a key component of the heat-shock response. Because of its proposed importance in oncology, this protein has become a popular target for drug discovery, efforts which have as yet brought little success. This study demonstrates that adenosine-derived HSP70 inhibitors potentially bind to the protein with a novel mechanism of action, the stabilization by desolvation of an intramolecular salt-bridge which induces a conformational change in the protein, leading to high affinity ligands. We also demonstrate that through the application of this mechanism, adenosine-derived HSP70 inhibitors can be optimized in a rational manner.

The human HSP70 family of chaperones: where do we stand?

The 70-kDa heat shock protein (HSP70) family of molecular chaperones represents one of the most ubiquitous classes of chaperones and is highly conserved in all organisms. Members of the HSP70 family control all aspects of cellular proteostasis such as nascent protein chain folding, protein import into organelles, recovering of proteins from aggregation, and assembly of multi-protein complexes. These chaperones augment organismal survival and longevity in the face of proteotoxic stress by enhancing cell viability and facilitating protein damage repair. Extracellular HSP70s have a number of cytoprotective and immunomodulatory functions, the latter either in the context of facilitating the cross-presentation of immunogenic peptides via major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens or in the context of acting as "chaperokines" or stimulators of innate immune responses. Studies have linked the expression of HSP70s to several types of carcinoma, with Hsp70 expression being associated with therapeutic resistance, metastasis, and poor clinical outcome. In malignantly transformed cells, HSP70s protect cells from the proteotoxic stress associated with abnormally rapid proliferation, suppress cellular senescence, and confer resistance to stress-induced apoptosis including protection against cytostatic drugs and radiation therapy. All of the cellular activities of HSP70s depend on their adenosine-5'-triphosphate (ATP)-regulated ability to interact with exposed hydrophobic surfaces of proteins. ATP hydrolysis and adenosine diphosphate (ADP)/ATP exchange are key events for substrate binding and Hsp70 release during folding of nascent polypeptides. Several proteins that bind to distinct subdomains of Hsp70 and consequently modulate the activity of the chaperone have been identified as HSP70 co-chaperones. This review focuses on the regulation, function, and relevance of the molecular Hsp70 chaperone machinery to disease and its potential as a therapeutic target.

Novel Entropically Driven Conformation-specific Interactions with Tomm34 Protein Modulate Hsp70 Protein Folding and ATPase Activities

Co-chaperones containing tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) domains enable cooperation between Hsp70 and Hsp90 to maintain cellular proteostasis. Although the details of the molecular interactions between some TPR domains and heat shock proteins are known, we describe a novel mechanism by which Tomm34 interacts with and coordinates Hsp70 activities. In contrast to the previously defined Hsp70/Hsp90-organizing protein (Hop), Tomm34 interaction is dependent on the Hsp70 chaperone cycle. Tomm34 binds Hsp70 in a complex process; anchorage of the Hsp70 C terminus by the TPR1 domain is accompanied by additional contacts formed exclusively in the ATP-bound state of Hsp70 resulting in a high affinity entropically driven interaction. Tomm34 induces structural changes in determinants within the Hsp70-lid subdomain and modulates Hsp70/Hsp40-mediated refolding and Hsp40-stimulated Hsp70 ATPase activity. Because Tomm34 recruits Hsp90 through its TPR2 domain, we propose a model in which Tomm34 enables Hsp70/Hsp90 scaffolding and influences the Hsp70 chaperone cycle, providing an additional role for co-chaperones that contain multiple TPR domains in regulating protein homeostasis.

Biochemical characterization of the interaction between HspA1A and phospholipids

Seventy-kilodalton heat shock proteins (Hsp70s) are molecular chaperones essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis. Apart from their indispensable roles in protein homeostasis, specific Hsp70s localize at the plasma membrane and bind to specific lipids. The interaction of Hsp70s with lipids has direct physiological outcomes including lysosomal rescue, microautophagy, and promotion of cell apoptosis. Despite these essential functions, the Hsp70-lipid interactions remain largely uncharacterized. In this study, we characterized the interaction of HspA1A, an inducible Hsp70, with five phospholipids. We first used high concentrations of potassium and established that HspA1A embeds in membranes when bound to all anionic lipids tested. Furthermore, we found that protein insertion is enhanced by increasing the saturation level of the lipids. Next, we determined that the nucleotide-binding domain (NBD) of the protein binds to lipids quantitatively more than the substrate-binding domain (SBD). However, for all lipids tested, the full-length protein is necessary for embedding. We also used calcium and reaction buffers equilibrated at different pH values and determined that electrostatic interactions alone may not fully explain the association of HspA1A with lipids. We then determined that lipid binding is inhibited by nucleotide-binding, but it is unaffected by protein-substrate binding. These results suggest that the HspA1A lipid-association is specific, depends on the physicochemical properties of the lipid, and is mediated by multiple molecular forces. These mechanistic details of the Hsp70-lipid interactions establish a framework of possible physiological functions as they relate to chaperone regulation and localization.

GrpE, Hsp110/Grp170, HspBP1/Sil1 and BAG domain proteins: nucleotide exchange factors for Hsp70 molecular chaperones

Molecular chaperones of the Hsp70 family are key components of the cellular protein folding machinery. Substrate folding is accomplished by iterative cycles of ATP binding, hydrolysis and release. The ATPase activity of Hsp70 is regulated by two main classes of cochaperones: J-domain proteins stimulate ATPase hydrolysis by Hsp70, while nucleotide exchange factors (NEF) facilitate its conversion from the ADP-bound to the ATP-bound state, thus closing the chaperone folding cycle. Beginning with the discovery of the prototypical bacterial NEF GrpE, a large diversity of Hsp70 nucleotide exchange factors has been identified, connecting Hsp70 to a multitude of cellular processes in the eukaryotic cell. Here we review recent advances towards structure and function of nucleotide exchange factors from the Hsp110/Grp170, HspBP1/Sil1 and BAG domain protein families and discuss how these cochaperones connect protein folding with quality control and degradation pathways.

The nucleotide exchange factors of Hsp70 molecular chaperones

Molecular chaperones of the Hsp70 family form an important hub in the cellular protein folding networks in bacteria and eukaryotes, connecting translation with the downstream machineries of protein folding and degradation. The Hsp70 folding cycle is driven by two types of cochaperones: J-domain proteins stimulate ATP hydrolysis by Hsp70, while nucleotide exchange factors (NEFs) promote replacement of Hsp70-bound ADP with ATP. Bacteria and organelles of bacterial origin have only one known NEF type for Hsp70, GrpE. In contrast, a large diversity of Hsp70 NEFs has been discovered in the eukaryotic cell. These NEFs belong to the Hsp110/Grp170, HspBP1/Sil1, and BAG domain protein families. In this short review we compare the structures and molecular mechanisms of nucleotide exchange factors for Hsp70 and discuss how these cochaperones contribute to protein folding and quality control in the cell.

Mitochondrial biology, targets, and drug delivery

In recent years, mitochondrial medicine has emerged as a new discipline resting at the intersection of mitochondrial biology, pathology, and pharmaceutics. The central role of mitochondria in critical cellular processes such as metabolism and apoptosis has placed mitochondria at the forefront of cell science. Advances in mitochondrial biology have revealed that these organelles continually undergo fusion and fission while functioning independently and in complex cellular networks, establishing direct membrane contacts with each other and with other organelles. Understanding the diverse cellular functions of mitochondria has contributed to understanding mitochondrial dysfunction in disease states. Polyplasmy and heteroplasmy contribute to mitochondrial phenotypes and associated dysfunction. Residing at the center of cell biology, cellular functions, and disease pathology and being laden with receptors and targets, mitochondria are beacons for pharmaceutical modification. This review presents the current state of mitochondrial medicine with a focus on mitochondrial function, dysfunction, and common disease; mitochondrial receptors, targets, and substrates; and mitochondrial drug design and drug delivery with a focus on the application of nanotechnology to mitochondrial medicine. Mitochondrial medicine is at the precipice of clinical translation; the objective of this review is to aid in the advancement of mitochondrial medicine from infancy to application.

Inverse relationships between biomarkers and beef tenderness according to contractile and metabolic properties of the muscle

Previous proteomic analyses established a list of proteins biomarkers of beef tenderness. The present study quantified the relative abundance of 21 of these proteins by dot-blot technique in the Longissimus thoracis and Semitendinosus muscles of 71 young bulls from three breeds: Aberdeen Angus (AA), Limousin (LI), and Blond d'Aquitaine (BA). For both muscles overall tenderness was estimated by sensory analysis; shear force was measured with a Warner-Bratzler instrument, and an index combining sensory and mechanical measurements was calculated. Multiple regressions based on relative abundances of these proteins were used to propose equations of prediction of the three evaluations of tenderness. Hsp70-1B appeared to be a good biomarker of low tenderness in the three breeds and in the two muscles. Proteins such as lactate dehydrogenase-B, myosin heavy chain IIx, and small heat shock proteins (Hsp27, Hsp20, and αB-crystallin) were related to tenderness but inversely according to the muscle and breed. The results demonstrate that prediction of tenderness must take into account muscle characteristics and animal type.

Protein folding, misfolding and quality control: the role of molecular chaperones

Cells have to cope with stressful conditions and adapt to changing environments. Heat stress, heavy metal ions or UV stress induce damage to cellular proteins and disturb the balanced status of the proteome. The adjusted balance between folded and folding proteins, called protein homoeostasis, is required for every aspect of cellular functionality. Protective proteins called chaperones are expressed under extreme conditions in order to prevent aggregation of cellular proteins and safeguard protein quality. These chaperones co-operate during de novo folding, refolding and disaggregation of damaged proteins and in many cases refold them to their functional state. Even under physiological conditions these machines support protein homoeostasis and maintain the balance between de novo folding and degradation. Mutations generating unstable proteins, which are observed in numerous human diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and cystic fibrosis, also challenge the protein quality control system. A better knowledge of how the protein homoeostasis system is regulated will lead to an improved understanding of these diseases and provide potential targets for therapy.

Crystal structure of the stress-inducible human heat shock protein 70 substrate-binding domain in complex with peptide substrate

The HSP70 family of molecular chaperones function to maintain protein quality control and homeostasis. The major stress-induced form, HSP70 (also called HSP72 or HSPA1A) is considered an important anti-cancer drug target because it is constitutively overexpressed in a number of human cancers and promotes cancer cell survival. All HSP70 family members contain two functional domains: an N-terminal nucleotide binding domain (NBD) and a C-terminal protein substrate-binding domain (SBD); the latter is subdivided into SBDα and SBDβ subdomains. The NBD and SBD structures of the bacterial ortholog, DnaK, have been characterized, but only the isolated NBD and SBDα segments of eukaryotic HSP70 proteins have been determined. Here we report the crystal structure of the substrate-bound human HSP70-SBD to 2 angstrom resolution. The overall fold of this SBD is similar to the corresponding domain in the substrate-bound DnaK structures, confirming a similar overall architecture of the orthologous bacterial and human HSP70 proteins. However, conformational differences are observed in the peptide-HSP70-SBD complex, particularly in the loop L_{α, β} that bridges SBDα to SBDβ, and the loop L_L,1 that connects the SBD and NBD. The interaction between the SBDα and SBDβ subdomains and the mode of substrate recognition is also different between DnaK and HSP70. This suggests that differences may exist in how different HSP70 proteins recognize their respective substrates. The high-resolution structure of the substrate-bound-HSP70-SBD complex provides a molecular platform for the rational design of small molecule compounds that preferentially target this C-terminal domain, in order to modulate human HSP70 function.

ATPase subdomain IA is a mediator of interdomain allostery in Hsp70 molecular chaperones

The versatile functions of the heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) family of molecular chaperones rely on allosteric interactions between their nucleotide-binding and substrate-binding domains, NBD and SBD. Understanding the mechanism of interdomain allostery is essential to rational design of Hsp70 modulators. Yet, despite significant progress in recent years, how the two Hsp70 domains regulate each other's activity remains elusive. Covariance data from experiments and computations emerged in recent years as valuable sources of information towards gaining insights into the molecular events that mediate allostery. In the present study, conservation and covariance properties derived from both sequence and structural dynamics data are integrated with results from Perturbation Response Scanning and in vivo functional assays, so as to establish the dynamical basis of interdomain signal transduction in Hsp70s. Our study highlights the critical roles of SBD residues D481 and T417 in mediating the coupled motions of the two domains, as well as that of G506 in enabling the movements of the α-helical lid with respect to the β-sandwich. It also draws attention to the distinctive role of the NBD subdomains: Subdomain IA acts as a key mediator of signal transduction between the ATP- and substrate-binding sites, this function being achieved by a cascade of interactions predominantly involving conserved residues such as V139, D148, R167 and K155. Subdomain IIA, on the other hand, is distinguished by strong coevolutionary signals (with the SBD) exhibited by a series of residues (D211, E217, L219, T383) implicated in DnaJ recognition. The occurrence of coevolving residues at the DnaJ recognition region parallels the behavior recently observed at the nucleotide-exchange-factor recognition region of subdomain IIB. These findings suggest that Hsp70 tends to adapt to co-chaperone recognition and activity via coevolving residues, whereas interdomain allostery, critical to chaperoning, is robustly enabled by conserved interactions.

Crystal structure of the nucleotide-binding domain of mortalin, the mitochondrial Hsp70 chaperone

Mortalin, a member of the Hsp70-family of molecular chaperones, functions in a variety of processes including mitochondrial protein import and quality control, Fe-S cluster protein biogenesis, mitochondrial homeostasis, and regulation of p53. Mortalin is implicated in regulation of apoptosis, cell stress response, neurodegeneration, and cancer and is a target of the antitumor compound MKT-077. Like other Hsp70-family members, Mortalin consists of a nucleotide-binding domain (NBD) and a substrate-binding domain. We determined the crystal structure of the NBD of human Mortalin at 2.8 Å resolution. Although the Mortalin nucleotide-binding pocket is highly conserved relative to other Hsp70 family members, we find that its nucleotide affinity is weaker than that of Hsc70. A Parkinson's disease-associated mutation is located on the Mortalin-NBD surface and may contribute to Mortalin aggregation. We present structure-based models for how the Mortalin-NBD may interact with the nucleotide exchange factor GrpEL1, with p53, and with MKT-077. Our structure may contribute to the understanding of disease-associated Mortalin mutations and to improved Mortalin-targeting antitumor compounds.