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Cordeiro Y, Freire MHO, Wiecikowski AF, do Amaral MJ. (Dys)functional insights into nucleic acids and RNA-binding proteins modulation of the prion protein and α-synuclein phase separation. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:577-589. [PMID: 37681103 PMCID: PMC10480379 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01067-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are prototype of infectious diseases transmitted by a protein, the prion protein (PrP), and are still not understandable at the molecular level. Heterogenous species of aggregated PrP can be generated from its monomer. α-synuclein (αSyn), related to Parkinson's disease, has also shown a prion-like pathogenic character, and likewise PrP interacts with nucleic acids (NAs), which in turn modulate their aggregation. Recently, our group and others have characterized that NAs and/or RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) modulate recombinant PrP and/or αSyn condensates formation, and uncontrolled condensation might precede pathological aggregation. Tackling abnormal phase separation of neurodegenerative disease-related proteins has been proposed as a promising therapeutic target. Therefore, understanding the mechanism by which polyanions, like NAs, modulate phase transitions intracellularly, is key to assess their role on toxicity promotion and neuronal death. Herein we discuss data on the nucleic acids binding properties and phase separation ability of PrP and αSyn with a special focus on their modulation by NAs and RBPs. Furthermore, we provide insights into condensation of PrP and/or αSyn in the light of non-trivial subcellular locations such as the nuclear and cytosolic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yraima Cordeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av Carlos Chagas Filho 373, bloco B, subsolo Sala 36, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Maria Heloisa O. Freire
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av Carlos Chagas Filho 373, bloco B, subsolo Sala 36, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Adalgisa Felippe Wiecikowski
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av Carlos Chagas Filho 373, bloco B, subsolo Sala 36, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Mariana Juliani do Amaral
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av Carlos Chagas Filho 373, bloco B, subsolo Sala 36, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902 Brazil
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2
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Kim YC, Jeong BH. Transcriptomic analysis identifies novel potential biomarkers and highlights cilium-related biological processes in the early stages of prion disease in mice. Prion 2022; 16:84-90. [PMID: 35786398 PMCID: PMC9255203 DOI: 10.1080/19336896.2022.2095186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are fatal and irreversible neurodegenerative diseases induced by the pathogenic form of the prion protein (PrPSc), which is converted from the benign form of the prion protein (PrPC). These diseases are characterized by an extended asymptomatic incubation period accompanied by continuous conversion of PrPC to PrPSc. However, to date, the mechanism governing the conversion to PrPSc in the initial stages of prion disease has not been fully elucidated. We collected transcriptome data from the hippocampus of wild-type mice and prion-infected mice at 8 weeks post injection from the Gene Expression Omnibus and analysed differentially expressed genes and related signalling biological process using bioinformatic tools. We identified a total of 36 differentially expressed genes, including 22 upregulated genes and 14 downregulated genes. In addition, we identified that the cilium-related biological process was enriched in the early stages of prion disease. Furthermore, up- and down-regulated genes were associated with cilium-related cellular components and synapse-related cellular components, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, our study was the first to observe the upregulation of cilium-related genes in the early stages of prion disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Chan Kim
- Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, Republic of Korea,Department of Bioactive Material Sciences and Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Hoon Jeong
- Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, Republic of Korea,Department of Bioactive Material Sciences and Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea,CONTACT Byung-Hoon Jeong Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, 820-120, Hana-ro, Iksan, Jeonbuk54531, Republic of Korea
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3
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Kim YC, Kim HH, Kim AD, Jeong BH. Novel insertion/deletion polymorphisms and genetic features of the shadow of prion protein gene (SPRN) in dogs, a prion-resistant animal. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:942289. [PMID: 35982928 PMCID: PMC9378991 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.942289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are fatal infectious neurodegenerative disorders that are induced by misfolded prion protein (PrPSc). Previous studies have reported that the shadow of prion protein (Sho) encoded by the shadow of prion protein gene (SPRN) plays a critical role in stimulating the conversion process of normal PrP (PrPC) into PrPSc, and genetic polymorphisms of the SPRN gene are significantly related to susceptibility to prion diseases. Recent studies have reported that dogs show prion resistance, and there have been several attempts to identify resistance factors to prion diseases in dogs. However, there has been no study of the canine SPRN gene thus far. We investigated genetic polymorphisms of the canine SPRN gene in 201 dogs using amplicon sequencing and compared the number of SPRN polymorphisms among prion-related species. In addition, we performed multiple sequence alignments of the amino acid sequences of Sho among prion-related species by ClustalW and analyzed the 3D structure of Sho using AlphaFold. Furthermore, we assessed the protein–protein interaction of canine PrP with canine Sho carrying wild-type and mutant alleles using HawkDock. We found four novel insertion/deletion polymorphisms of the SPRN gene in 201 dogs and identified a significant difference in the number of SPRN polymorphisms between prion-susceptible and prion-resistant animals. In addition, Sho has two α-helixes linked with the coil. Furthermore, we found different binding complexes and binding free energies between canine Sho and PrP according to SPRN polymorphisms. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of canine SPRN polymorphisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Chan Kim
- Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, South Korea
- Department of Bioactive Material Sciences and Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Hyeon-Ho Kim
- Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, South Korea
- Department of Bioactive Material Sciences and Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - An-Dang Kim
- Cool-Pet Animal Hospital, Anyang, Gyeonggi, South Korea
| | - Byung-Hoon Jeong
- Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, South Korea
- Department of Bioactive Material Sciences and Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Byung-Hoon Jeong
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Shmookler Reis RJ, Atluri R, Balasubramaniam M, Johnson J, Ganne A, Ayyadevara S. "Protein aggregates" contain RNA and DNA, entrapped by misfolded proteins but largely rescued by slowing translational elongation. Aging Cell 2021; 20:e13326. [PMID: 33788386 PMCID: PMC8135009 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
All neurodegenerative diseases feature aggregates, which usually contain disease-specific diagnostic proteins; non-protein constituents, however, have rarely been explored. Aggregates from SY5Y-APPSw neuroblastoma, a cell model of familial Alzheimer's disease, were crosslinked and sequences of linked peptides identified. We constructed a normalized "contactome" comprising 11 subnetworks, centered on 24 high-connectivity hubs. Remarkably, all 24 are nucleic acid-binding proteins. This led us to isolate and sequence RNA and DNA from Alzheimer's and control aggregates. RNA fragments were mapped to the human genome by RNA-seq and DNA by ChIP-seq. Nearly all aggregate RNA sequences mapped to specific genes, whereas DNA fragments were predominantly intergenic. These nucleic acid mappings are all significantly nonrandom, making an artifactual origin extremely unlikely. RNA (mostly cytoplasmic) exceeded DNA (chiefly nuclear) by twofold to fivefold. RNA fragments recovered from AD tissue were ~1.5-to 2.5-fold more abundant than those recovered from control tissue, similar to the increase in protein. Aggregate abundances of specific RNA sequences were strikingly differential between cultured SY5Y-APPSw glioblastoma cells expressing APOE3 vs. APOE4, consistent with APOE4 competition for E-box/CLEAR motifs. We identified many G-quadruplex and viral sequences within RNA and DNA of aggregates, suggesting that sequestration of viral genomes may have driven the evolution of disordered nucleic acid-binding proteins. After RNA-interference knockdown of the translational-procession factor EEF2 to suppress translation in SY5Y-APPSw cells, the RNA content of aggregates declined by >90%, while reducing protein content by only 30% and altering DNA content by ≤10%. This implies that cotranslational misfolding of nascent proteins may ensnare polysomes into aggregates, accounting for most of their RNA content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Shmookler Reis
- Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System Little Rock AR USA
- Department of Geriatrics University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
- BioInformatics Program University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock AR USA
| | - Ramani Atluri
- Department of Geriatrics University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
| | | | - Jay Johnson
- BioInformatics Program University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock AR USA
| | - Akshatha Ganne
- BioInformatics Program University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock AR USA
| | - Srinivas Ayyadevara
- Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System Little Rock AR USA
- Department of Geriatrics University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
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Pang Y, Kovachev P, Sanyal S. Ribosomal RNA Modulates Aggregation of the Podospora Prion Protein HET-s. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176340. [PMID: 32882892 PMCID: PMC7504336 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of the nucleic acids in prion aggregation/disaggregation is becoming more and more evident. Here, using HET-s prion from fungi Podospora anserina (P. anserina) as a model system, we studied the role of RNA, particularly of different domains of the ribosomal RNA (rRNA), in its aggregation process. Our results using Rayleigh light scattering, Thioflavin T (ThT) binding, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and cross-seeding assay show that rRNA, in particular the domain V of the major rRNA from the large subunit of the ribosome, substantially prevents insoluble amyloid and amorphous aggregation of the HET-s prion in a concentration-dependent manner. Instead, it facilitates the formation of the soluble oligomeric “seeds”, which are capable of promoting de novo HET-s aggregation. The sites of interactions of the HET-s prion protein on domain V rRNA were identified by primer extension analysis followed by UV-crosslinking, which overlap with the sites previously identified for the protein-folding activity of the ribosome (PFAR). This study clarifies a missing link between the rRNA-based PFAR and the mode of propagation of the fungal prions.
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Modulation of p53 and prion protein aggregation by RNA. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2019; 1867:933-940. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2019.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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7
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Bera A, Biring S. A quantitative characterization of interaction between prion protein with nucleic acids. Biochem Biophys Rep 2018; 14:114-124. [PMID: 29872743 PMCID: PMC5986701 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2018.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Binding of recombinant prion protein with small highly structured RNAs, prokaryotic and eukaryotic prion protein mRNA pseudoknots, tRNA and polyA has been studied by the change in fluorescence anisotropy of the intrinsic tryptophan groups of the protein. The affinities of these RNAs to the prion protein and the number of sites where the protein binds to the nucleic acids do not vary appreciably although the RNAs have very different compositions and structures. The binding parameters do not depend upon pH of the solution and show a poor co-operativity. The reactants form larger nucleoprotein complexes at pH 5 compared to that at neutral pH. The electrostatic force between the protein and nucleic acids dominates the binding interaction at neutral pH. In contrast, nucleic acid interaction with the incipient nonpolar groups exposed from the structured region of the prion protein dominates the reaction at pH 5. Prion protein of a particular species forms larger complexes with prion protein mRNA pseudoknots of the same species. The structure of the pseudoknots and not their base sequences probably dominates their interaction with prion protein. Possibilities of the conversion of the prion protein to its infectious form in the cytoplasm by nucleic acids have been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alakesh Bera
- Infectiologie Animale et Santé Publique, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Sajal Biring
- Department of Electronic Engineering and Organic Electronics Research Center, Ming-Chi University of Technology, 84 Gungjuan Rd., Taishan Dist., New Taipei City 24301, Taiwan
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8
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Batlle C, Iglesias V, Navarro S, Ventura S. Prion-like proteins and their computational identification in proteomes. Expert Rev Proteomics 2017; 14:335-350. [DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2017.1304214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Batlle
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina and Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Valentin Iglesias
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina and Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susanna Navarro
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina and Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Salvador Ventura
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina and Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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9
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Silva JL, Cordeiro Y. The "Jekyll and Hyde" Actions of Nucleic Acids on the Prion-like Aggregation of Proteins. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:15482-90. [PMID: 27288413 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.r116.733428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein misfolding results in devastating degenerative diseases and cancer. Among the culprits involved in these illnesses are prions and prion-like proteins, which can propagate by converting normal proteins to the wrong conformation. For spongiform encephalopathies, a real prion can be transmitted among individuals. In other disorders, the bona fide prion characteristics are still under investigation. Besides inducing misfolding of native proteins, prions bind nucleic acids and other polyanions. Here, we discuss how nucleic acid binding might influence protein misfolding for both disease-related and benign, functional prions and why the line between bad and good amyloids might be more subtle than previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerson L Silva
- From the Programa de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Centro Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear Jiri Jonas, and
| | - Yraima Cordeiro
- the Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brazil
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10
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Yang H, Hu HY. Sequestration of cellular interacting partners by protein aggregates: implication in a loss-of-function pathology. FEBS J 2016; 283:3705-3717. [PMID: 27016044 DOI: 10.1111/febs.13722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Revised: 03/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Protein misfolding and aggregation are a hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). However, how protein aggregation leads to cytotoxicity and neurodegeneration is still controversial. Emerging evidence demonstrates that sequestration of cellular-interacting partners by protein aggregates contributes to the pathogenesis of these diseases. Here, we review current research on sequestration of cellular proteins by protein aggregates and its relation to proteinopathies. Based on different interaction modes, we classify these protein sequestrations into four types: protein coaggregation, domain/motif-mediated sequestration, RNA-assisted sequestration, and sequestration of molecular chaperones. Thus, the cellular essential proteins and/or RNA hijacked by protein aggregates may lose their biological functions, consequently resulting in cytotoxicity and neurodegeneration. We have proposed a hijacking model recapitulating the sequestration process and the loss-of-function pathology of ND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Yu Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
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11
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Wang X, McGovern G, Zhang Y, Wang F, Zha L, Jeffrey M, Ma J. Intraperitoneal Infection of Wild-Type Mice with Synthetically Generated Mammalian Prion. PLoS Pathog 2015; 11:e1004958. [PMID: 26136122 PMCID: PMC4489884 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1004958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The prion hypothesis postulates that the infectious agent in transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) is an unorthodox protein conformation based agent. Recent successes in generating mammalian prions in vitro with bacterially expressed recombinant prion protein provide strong support for the hypothesis. However, whether the pathogenic properties of synthetically generated prion (rec-Prion) recapitulate those of naturally occurring prions remains unresolved. Using end-point titration assay, we showed that the in vitro prepared rec-Prions have infectious titers of around 104 LD50 / μg. In addition, intraperitoneal (i.p.) inoculation of wild-type mice with rec-Prion caused prion disease with an average survival time of 210 – 220 days post inoculation. Detailed pathological analyses revealed that the nature of rec-Prion induced lesions, including spongiform change, disease specific prion protein accumulation (PrP-d) and the PrP-d dissemination amongst lymphoid and peripheral nervous system tissues, the route and mechanisms of neuroinvasion were all typical of classical rodent prions. Our results revealed that, similar to naturally occurring prions, the rec-Prion has a titratable infectivity and is capable of causing prion disease via routes other than direct intra-cerebral challenge. More importantly, our results established that the rec-Prion caused disease is pathogenically and pathologically identical to naturally occurring contagious TSEs, supporting the concept that a conformationally altered protein agent is responsible for the infectivity in TSEs. The transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are a group of infectious neurodegenerative diseases affecting both humans and animals. The prion hypothesis postulates that prions are protein conformation based infectious agents responsible for TSE infectivity. Prions have been synthetically generated in vitro, but it remains unclear whether the properties of synthetically generated prion are the same as those of TSE agents and whether the disease caused by synthetically generated prion is identical to naturally occurring TSEs. In this study, we demonstrated that similar to the classical TSE agents, the synthetically generated prion has a titratable infectivity and is able to cause prion disease in wild-type mice via routes other than direct intra-cerebral inoculation. More importantly, we showed that the synthetically generated prion induced pathological changes, including the dissemination of disease-specific prion protein accumulation and the route and mechanism of neuroinvasion, were all typical of classical TSEs. These results demonstrate the similarity of synthetically generated prion to the infectious agent in TSEs, providing strong evidence supporting the prion hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhe Wang
- Center for Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Gillian McGovern
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Lasswade Laboratory, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik, Midlothian, Scotland
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics (East China Normal University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics (East China Normal University), School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Center for Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Liang Zha
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Martin Jeffrey
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Lasswade Laboratory, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik, Midlothian, Scotland
| | - Jiyan Ma
- Center for Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics (East China Normal University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics (East China Normal University), School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail:
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de Moraes MC, Santos JB, Dos Anjos DM, Rangel LP, Vieira TCRG, Moaddel R, da Silva JL. Prion protein-coated magnetic beads: synthesis, characterization and development of a new ligands screening method. J Chromatogr A 2014; 1379:1-8. [PMID: 25576041 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2014.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2014] [Revised: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Prion diseases are characterized by protein aggregation and neurodegeneration. Conversion of the native prion protein (PrP(C)) into the abnormal scrapie PrP isoform (PrP(Sc)), which undergoes aggregation and can eventually form amyloid fibrils, is a critical step leading to the characteristic path morphological hallmark of these diseases. However, the mechanism of conversion remains unclear. It is known that ligands can act as cofactors or inhibitors in the conversion mechanism of PrP(C) into PrP(Sc). Within this context, herein, we describe the immobilization of PrP(C) onto the surface of magnetic beads and the morphological characterization of PrP(C)-coated beads by fluorescence confocal microscopy. PrP(C)-coated magnetic beads were used to identify ligands from a mixture of compounds, which were monitored by UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS. This affinity-based method allowed the isolation of the anti-prion compound quinacrine, an inhibitor of PrP aggregation. The results indicate that this approach can be applied to not only "fish" for anti-prion compounds from complex matrixes, but also to screening for and identify possible cellular cofactors involved in the deflagration of prion diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Cristina de Moraes
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Química, Departamento de Química Orgânica, 24210-141 Niterói, RJ, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Juliana Bosco Santos
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Daniel Meira Dos Anjos
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Luciana Pereira Rangel
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Faculdade de Farmácia, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Tuane Cristine Ramos Gonçalves Vieira
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ruin Moaddel
- Biomedical Research Center, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Jerson Lima da Silva
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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13
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Bera A, Nandi PK. Nucleic acid induced unfolding of recombinant prion protein globular fragment is pH dependent. Protein Sci 2014; 23:1780-8. [PMID: 25271002 DOI: 10.1002/pro.2573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid can catalyze the conversion of α-helical cellular prion protein to β-sheet rich Proteinase K resistant prion protein oligomers and amyloid polymers in vitro and in solution. Because unfolding of a protein molecule from its ordered α-helical structure is considered to be a necessary step for the structural conversion to its β-sheet rich isoform, we have studied the unfolding of the α-helical globular 121-231 fragment of mouse recombinant prion protein in the presence of different nucleic acids at neutral and acid pH. Nucleic acids, either single or double stranded, do not have any significant effect on the secondary structure of the protein fragment at neutral pH; however the protein secondary structure is modified by the nucleic acids at pH 5. Nucleic acids do not show any significant effect on the temperature induced unfolding of the globular prion protein domain at neutral pH which, however, undergoes a gross conformational change at pH 5 as evidenced from the lowering of the midpoint of thermal denaturation temperatures, Tm, of the protein. The extent of Tm decrease shows a dependence on the nature of nucleic acid. The interaction of nucleic acid with the nonpolar groups exposed from the protein interior at pH 5 probably contributes substantially to the unfolding process of the protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alakesh Bera
- Infectiologie Animale et Santé Publique, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, 37380, Nouzilly, France
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14
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Banerjee D, Sanyal S. Protein folding activity of the ribosome (PFAR) -- a target for antiprion compounds. Viruses 2014; 6:3907-24. [PMID: 25341659 PMCID: PMC4213570 DOI: 10.3390/v6103907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2014] [Revised: 10/13/2014] [Accepted: 10/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are fatal neurodegenerative diseases affecting mammals. Prions are misfolded amyloid aggregates of the prion protein (PrP), which form when the alpha helical, soluble form of PrP converts to an aggregation-prone, beta sheet form. Thus, prions originate as protein folding problems. The discovery of yeast prion(s) and the development of a red-/white-colony based assay facilitated safe and high-throughput screening of antiprion compounds. With this assay three antiprion compounds; 6-aminophenanthridine (6AP), guanabenz acetate (GA), and imiquimod (IQ) have been identified. Biochemical and genetic studies reveal that these compounds target ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and inhibit specifically the protein folding activity of the ribosome (PFAR). The domain V of the 23S/25S/28S rRNA of the large ribosomal subunit constitutes the active site for PFAR. 6AP and GA inhibit PFAR by competition with the protein substrates for the common binding sites on the domain V rRNA. PFAR inhibition by these antiprion compounds opens up new possibilities for understanding prion formation, propagation and the role of the ribosome therein. In this review, we summarize and analyze the correlation between PFAR and prion processes using the antiprion compounds as tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debapriya Banerjee
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Box-596, BMC, Uppsala SE-75124, Sweden.
| | - Suparna Sanyal
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Box-596, BMC, Uppsala SE-75124, Sweden.
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15
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Olsthoorn RCL. G-quadruplexes within prion mRNA: the missing link in prion disease? Nucleic Acids Res 2014; 42:9327-33. [PMID: 25030900 PMCID: PMC4132711 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gku559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular ribonucleic acid (RNA) plays a crucial role in the initial conversion of cellular prion protein PrP(C) to infectious PrP(Sc) or scrapie. The nature of this RNA remains elusive. Previously, RNA aptamers against PrP(C) have been isolated and found to form G-quadruplexes (G4s). PrP(C) binding to G4 RNAs destabilizes its structure and is thought to trigger its conversion to PrP(Sc). Here it is shown that PrP messenger RNA (mRNA) itself contains several G4 motifs, located in the octarepeat region. Investigation of the RNA structure in one of these repeats by circular dichroism, nuclear magnetic resonance and ultraviolet melting studies shows evidence of G4 formation. In vitro translation of full-length PrP mRNA, naturally harboring five consecutive G4 motifs, was specifically affected by G4-binding ligands, lending support to G4 formation in PrP mRNA. A possible role of PrP binding to its own mRNA and the role of anti-prion drugs, many of which are G4-binding ligands, in prion disease are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- René C L Olsthoorn
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Gorlaeus Laboratories, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC Leiden, The Netherlands
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16
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Silva JL, Oliveira AC, Vieira TCRG, de Oliveira GAP, Suarez MC, Foguel D. High-Pressure Chemical Biology and Biotechnology. Chem Rev 2014; 114:7239-67. [DOI: 10.1021/cr400204z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jerson L. Silva
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto
Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem,
Centro Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear Jiri
Jonas, and ‡Polo Xerém, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Andrea C. Oliveira
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto
Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem,
Centro Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear Jiri
Jonas, and ‡Polo Xerém, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Tuane C. R. G. Vieira
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto
Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem,
Centro Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear Jiri
Jonas, and ‡Polo Xerém, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Guilherme A. P. de Oliveira
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto
Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem,
Centro Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear Jiri
Jonas, and ‡Polo Xerém, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Marisa C. Suarez
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto
Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem,
Centro Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear Jiri
Jonas, and ‡Polo Xerém, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Debora Foguel
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Instituto
Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem,
Centro Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear Jiri
Jonas, and ‡Polo Xerém, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
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17
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Pathological implications of nucleic acid interactions with proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Biophys Rev 2014; 6:97-110. [PMID: 28509960 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-013-0132-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein misfolding disorders (PMDs) refer to a group of diseases related to the misfolding of particular proteins that aggregate and deposit in the cells and tissues of humans and other mammals. The mechanisms that trigger protein misfolding and aggregation are still not fully understood. Increasing experimental evidence indicates that abnormal interactions between PMD-related proteins and nucleic acids (NAs) can induce conformational changes. Here, we discuss these protein-NA interactions and address the role of deoxyribonucleic (DNA) and ribonucleic (RNA) acid molecules in the conformational conversion of different proteins that aggregate in PMDs, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and prion diseases. Studies on the affinity, stability, and specificity of proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases and NAs are specifically addressed. A landscape of reciprocal effects resulting from the binding of prion proteins, amyloid-β peptides, tau proteins, huntingtin, and α-synuclein are presented here to clarify the possible role of NAs, not only as encoders of genetic information but also in triggering PMDs.
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18
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Pressure–temperature folding landscape in proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Biophys Chem 2013; 183:9-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2013.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2013] [Revised: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 06/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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19
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Expanding the prion concept to cancer biology: dominant-negative effect of aggregates of mutant p53 tumour suppressor. Biosci Rep 2013; 33:BSR20130065. [PMID: 24003888 PMCID: PMC3728989 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20130065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
p53 is a key protein that participates in cell-cycle control, and its malfunction can lead to cancer. This tumour suppressor protein has three main domains; the N-terminal transactivation domain, the CTD (C-terminal domain) and the core domain (p53C) that constitutes the sequence-specific DBD (DNA-binding region). Most p53 mutations related to cancer development are found in the DBD. Aggregation of p53 into amyloid oligomers and fibrils has been shown. Moreover, amyloid aggregates of both the mutant and WT (wild-type) forms of p53 were detected in tumour tissues. We propose that if p53 aggregation occurred, it would be a crucial aspect of cancer development, as p53 would lose its WT functions in an aggregated state. Mutant p53 can also exert a dominant-negative regulatory effect on WT p53. Herein, we discuss the dominant-negative effect in light of p53 aggregation and the fact that amyloid-like mutant p53 can convert WT p53 into more aggregated species, leading into gain of function in addition to the loss of tumour suppressor function. In summary, the results obtained in the last decade indicate that cancer may have characteristics in common with amyloidogenic and prion diseases.
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20
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Zhou Z, Xiao G. Conformational conversion of prion protein in prion diseases. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2013; 45:465-76. [PMID: 23580591 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmt027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are a group of infectious fatal neurodegenerative diseases. The conformational conversion of a cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) into an abnormal misfolded isoform (PrP(Sc)) is the key event in prion diseases pathology. Under normal conditions, the high-energy barrier separates PrP(C) from PrP(Sc) isoform. However, pathogenic mutations, modifications as well as some cofactors, such as glycosaminoglycans, nucleic acids, and lipids, could modulate the conformational conversion process. Understanding the mechanism of conformational conversion of prion protein is essential for the biomedical research and the treatment of prion diseases. Particularly, the characterization of cofactors interacting with prion protein might provide new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
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21
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Pang Y, Kurella S, Voisset C, Samanta D, Banerjee D, Schabe A, Das Gupta C, Galons H, Blondel M, Sanyal S. The antiprion compound 6-aminophenanthridine inhibits the protein folding activity of the ribosome by direct competition. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:19081-9. [PMID: 23673663 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.466748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Domain V of the 23S/25S/28S rRNA of the large ribosomal subunit constitutes the active center for the protein folding activity of the ribosome (PFAR). Using in vitro transcribed domain V rRNAs from Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae as the folding modulators and human carbonic anhydrase as a model protein, we demonstrate that PFAR is conserved from prokaryotes to eukaryotes. It was shown previously that 6-aminophenanthridine (6AP), an antiprion compound, inhibits PFAR. Here, using UV cross-linking followed by primer extension, we show that the protein substrates and 6AP interact with a common set of nucleotides on domain V of 23S rRNA. Mutations at the interaction sites decreased PFAR and resulted in loss or change of the binding pattern for both the protein substrates and 6AP. Moreover, kinetic analysis of human carbonic anhydrase refolding showed that 6AP decreased the yield of the refolded protein but did not affect the rate of refolding. Thus, we conclude that 6AP competitively occludes the protein substrates from binding to rRNA and thereby inhibits PFAR. Finally, we propose a scheme clarifying the mechanism by which 6AP inhibits PFAR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Pang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden
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22
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Oelschlegel AM, Weissmann C. Acquisition of drug resistance and dependence by prions. PLoS Pathog 2013; 9:e1003158. [PMID: 23408888 PMCID: PMC3567182 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1003158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2012] [Accepted: 10/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We have reported that properties of prion strains may change when propagated in different environments. For example, when swainsonine-sensitive 22L prions were propagated in PK1 cells in the presence of swainsonine, drug-resistant variants emerged. We proposed that prions constitute quasi- populations comprising a range of variants with different properties, from which the fittest are selected in a particular environment. Prion populations developed heterogeneity even after biological cloning, indicating that during propagation mutation-like processes occur at the conformational level. Because brain-derived 22L prions are naturally swainsonine resistant, it was not too surprising that prions which had become swa sensitive after propagation in cells could revert to drug resistance. Because RML prions, both after propagation in brain or in PK1 cells, are swainsonine sensitive, we investigated whether it was nonetheless possible to select swainsonine-resistant variants by propagation in the presence of the drug. Interestingly, this was not possible with the standard line of PK1 cells, but in certain PK1 sublines not only swainsonine-resistant, but even swainsonine-dependent populations (i.e. that propagated more rapidly in the presence of the drug) could be isolated. Once established, they could be passaged indefinitely in PK1 cells, even in the absence of the drug, without losing swainsonine dependence. The misfolded prion protein (PrP(Sc)) associated with a swainsonine-dependent variant was less rapidly cleared in PK1 cells than that associated with its drug-sensitive counterpart, indicating that likely structural differences of the misfolded PrP underlie the properties of the prions. In summary, propagation of prions in the presence of an inhibitory drug may not only cause the selection of drug-resistant prions but even of stable variants that propagate more efficiently in the presence of the drug. These adaptations are most likely due to conformational changes of the abnormal prion protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja M. Oelschlegel
- Department of Infectology, Scripps Florida, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience, Scripps Florida, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
| | - Charles Weissmann
- Department of Infectology, Scripps Florida, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
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23
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Kaiser DM, Acharya M, Leighton PLA, Wang H, Daude N, Wohlgemuth S, Shi B, Allison WT. Amyloid beta precursor protein and prion protein have a conserved interaction affecting cell adhesion and CNS development. PLoS One 2012; 7:e51305. [PMID: 23236467 PMCID: PMC3517466 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0051305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 10/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic and biochemical mechanisms linking onset or progression of Alzheimer Disease and prion diseases have been lacking and/or controversial, and their etiologies are often considered independent. Here we document a novel, conserved and specific genetic interaction between the proteins that underlie these diseases, amyloid-β precursor protein and prion protein, APP and PRP, respectively. Knockdown of APP and/or PRNP homologs in the zebrafish (appa, appb, prp1, and prp2) produces a dose-dependent phenotype characterized by systemic morphological defects, reduced cell adhesion and CNS cell death. This genetic interaction is surprisingly exclusive in that prp1 genetically interacts with zebrafish appa, but not with appb, and the zebrafish paralog prp2 fails to interact with appa. Intriguingly, appa & appb are largely redundant in early zebrafish development yet their abilities to rescue CNS cell death are differentially contingent on prp1 abundance. Delivery of human APP or mouse Prnp mRNAs rescue the phenotypes observed in app-prp-depleted zebrafish, highlighting the conserved nature of this interaction. Immunoprecipitation revealed that human APP and PrP(C) proteins can have a physical interaction. Our study reports a unique in vivo interdependence between APP and PRP loss-of-function, detailing a biochemical interaction that considerably expands the hypothesized roles of PRP in Alzheimer Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darcy M. Kaiser
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Moulinath Acharya
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Patricia L. A. Leighton
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Nathalie Daude
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Serene Wohlgemuth
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Beipei Shi
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - W. Ted Allison
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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24
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Cavaliere P, Pagano B, Granata V, Prigent S, Rezaei H, Giancola C, Zagari A. Cross-talk between prion protein and quadruplex-forming nucleic acids: a dynamic complex formation. Nucleic Acids Res 2012; 41:327-39. [PMID: 23104426 PMCID: PMC3592392 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gks970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion protein (PrP) is involved in lethal neurodegenerative diseases, and many issues remain unclear about its physio-pathological role. Quadruplex-forming nucleic acids (NAs) have been found to specifically bind to both PrP cellular and pathological isoforms. To clarify the relevance of these interactions, thermodynamic, kinetic and structural studies have been performed, using isothermal titration calorimetry, surface plasmon resonance and circular dichroism methodologies. Three quadruplex-forming sequences, d(TGGGGT), r(GGAGGAGGAGGA), d(GGAGGAGGAGGA), and various forms of PrP were selected for this study. Our results showed that these quadruplexes exhibit a high affinity and specificity toward PrP, with KD values within the range 62÷630 nM, and a weaker affinity toward a PrP-β oligomer, which mimics the pathological isoform. We demonstrated that the NA quadruplex architecture is the structural determinant for the recognition by both PrP isoforms. Furthermore, we spotted both PrP N-terminal and C-terminal domains as the binding regions involved in the interaction with DNA/RNAs, using several PrP truncated forms. Interestingly, a reciprocally induced structure loss was observed upon PrP–NA interaction. Our results allowed to surmise a quadruplex unwinding-activity of PrP, that may have a feedback in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Cavaliere
- Dipartimento delle Scienze Biologiche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples 80134, Italy
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