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Bharat TAM, von Kügelgen A, Alva V. Molecular Logic of Prokaryotic Surface Layer Structures. Trends Microbiol 2020; 29:405-415. [PMID: 33121898 PMCID: PMC8559796 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2020.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Most prokaryotic cells are encased in a surface layer (S-layer) consisting of a paracrystalline array of repeating lattice-forming proteins. S-layer proteins populate a vast and diverse sequence space, performing disparate functions in prokaryotic cells, including cellular defense, cell-shape maintenance, and regulation of import and export of materials. This article highlights recent advances in the understanding of S-layer structure and assembly, made possible by rapidly evolving structural and cell biology methods. We underscore shared assembly principles revealed by recent work and discuss a common molecular framework that may be used to understand the structural organization of S-layer proteins across bacteria and archaea. Despite enormous sequence diversity in surface (S)-layer proteins, structural diversity is much lower than previously thought. S-layer proteins have a bipartite arrangement with a lattice-forming and an anchoring segment. Novel structural biology methods are revealing the architectures of S-layers in situ. S-layer assembly across prokaryotes is tightly coupled to the cell cycle, including the cell division machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanmay A M Bharat
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK; Central Oxford Structural Microscopy and Imaging Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK.
| | - Andriko von Kügelgen
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK; Central Oxford Structural Microscopy and Imaging Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Vikram Alva
- Department of Protein Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Max-Planck-Ring 5, Tübingen 72076, Germany.
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Truncation Derivatives of the S-Layer Protein of Sporosarcina ureae ATCC 13881 (SslA): Towards Elucidation of the Protein Domain Responsible for Self-Assembly. Molecules 2016; 21:molecules21091117. [PMID: 27563868 PMCID: PMC6272907 DOI: 10.3390/molecules21091117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The cell surface of Sporosarcina ureae ATCC 13881 is covered by an S-layer (SslA) consisting of identical protein subunits that assemble into lattices exhibiting square symmetry. In this work the self-assembly properties of the recombinant SslA were characterised with an emphasis on the identification of protein regions responsible for self-assembly. To this end, recombinant mature SslA (aa 31-1097) and three SslA truncation derivatives (one N-terminal, one C-terminal and one CN-terminal) were produced in a heterologous expression system, isolated, purified and their properties analysed by in vitro recrystallisation experiments on a functionalised silicon wafer. As a result, recombinant mature SslA self-assembled into crystalline monolayers with lattices resembling the one of the wild-type SslA. The study identifies the central protein domain consisting of amino acids 341-925 self-sufficient for self-assembly. Neither the first 341 amino acids nor the last 172 amino acids of the protein sequence are required to self-assemble into lattices.
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Abstract
The outer surface of many archaea and bacteria is coated with a proteinaceous surface layer (known as an S-layer), which is formed by the self-assembly of monomeric proteins into a regularly spaced, two-dimensional array. Bacteria possess dedicated pathways for the secretion and anchoring of the S-layer to the cell wall, and some Gram-positive species have large S-layer-associated gene families. S-layers have important roles in growth and survival, and their many functions include the maintenance of cell integrity, enzyme display and, in pathogens and commensals, interaction with the host and its immune system. In this Review, we discuss our current knowledge of S-layer and related proteins, including their structures, mechanisms of secretion and anchoring and their diverse functions.
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McNeil BA, Simon DM, Zimmerly S. Alternative splicing of a group II intron in a surface layer protein gene in Clostridium tetani. Nucleic Acids Res 2013; 42:1959-69. [PMID: 24214997 PMCID: PMC3919590 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkt1053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Group II introns are ribozymes and retroelements found in bacteria, and are thought to have been the ancestors of nuclear pre-mRNA introns. Whereas nuclear introns undergo prolific alternative splicing in some species, group II introns are not known to carry out equivalent reactions. Here we report a group II intron in the human pathogen Clostridium tetani, which undergoes four alternative splicing reactions in vivo. Together with unspliced transcript, five mRNAs are produced, each encoding a distinct surface layer protein isoform. Correct fusion of exon reading frames requires a shifted 5′ splice site located 8 nt upstream of the canonical boundary motif. The shifted junction is accomplished by an altered IBS1-EBS1 pairing between the intron and 5′ exon. Growth of C. tetani under a variety of conditions did not result in large changes in alternative splicing levels, raising the possibility that alternative splicing is constitutive. This work demonstrates a novel type of gene organization and regulation in bacteria, and provides an additional parallel between group II and nuclear pre-mRNA introns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie A McNeil
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada
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Pleschberger M, Hildner F, Rünzler D, Gelbmann N, Mayer HF, Sleytr UB, Egelseer EM. Identification of a novel gene cluster in the upstream region of the S-layer gene sbpA involved in cell wall metabolism of Lysinibacillus sphaericus CCM 2177 and characterization of the recombinantly produced autolysin and pyruvyl transferase. Arch Microbiol 2013; 195:323-37. [PMID: 23443476 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-013-0876-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2012] [Revised: 02/06/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The S-layer protein SbpA of Lysinibacillus sphaericus CCM 2177 assembles into a square (p4) lattice structure and recognizes a pyruvylated secondary cell wall polymer (SCWP) as the proper anchoring structure to the rigid cell wall layer. Sequencing of 8,004 bp in the 5'-upstream region of the S-layer gene sbpA led to five ORFs-encoding proteins involved in cell wall metabolism. After cloning and heterologous expression of ORF1 and ORF5 in Escherichia coli, the recombinant autolysin rAbpA and the recombinant pyruvyl transferase rCsaB were isolated, purified, and correct folding was confirmed by circular dichroism. Although rAbpA encoded by ORF1 showed amidase activity, it could attack whole cells of Ly. sphaericus CCM 2177 only after complete extraction of the S-layer lattice. Despite the presence of three S-layer-homology motifs on the N-terminal part, rAbpA did not show detectable affinity to peptidoglycan-containing sacculi, nor to isolated SCWP. As the molecular mass of the autolysin lies above the molecular exclusion limit of the S-layer, AbpA is obviously trapped within the rigid cell wall layer by the isoporous protein lattice. Immunogold-labeling of ultrathin-sectioned whole cells of Ly. sphaericus CCM 2177 with a polyclonal rabbit antiserum raised against rCsaB encoded by ORF5, and cell fractionation experiments demonstrated that the pyruvyl transferase was located in the cytoplasm, but not associated with cell envelope components including the plasma membrane. In enzymatic assays, rCsaB clearly showed pyruvyl transferase activity. By using RT-PCR, specific transcripts for each ORF could be detected. Cotranscription could be confirmed for ORF2 and ORF3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Pleschberger
- Department of NanoBiotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, 1190 Vienna, Austria
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Korkmaz N, Börrnert F, Köhler D, Mendes RG, Bachmatiuk A, Rümmeli MH, Büchner B, Eng LM, Rödel G. Metallization and investigation of electrical properties of in vitro recrystallized mSbsC-eGFP assemblies. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2011; 22:375606. [PMID: 21857099 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/22/37/375606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Surface layer (SL) proteins are self-assembling nanosized arrays which can be recrystallized in solution or on surfaces. In this paper, we investigate the metallization, contact potential difference and conductivity of in vitro recrystallized mSbsC-eGFP tube-like assemblies for possible applications in nanobiotechnology. Treatment of mSbsC-eGFP tube-like structures with 150 mM Pt salt solution resulted in the formation of metallized SL assemblies decorated with Pt nanoparticles (∅ > 3 nm) which were closely packed and aggregated into metal clusters. Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) measurements revealed that metallized and unmetallized SL templates showed different surface potential behaviours, demonstrating that the metal coating changes the electrostatic surface characteristics of SL assemblies. In situ conductivity measurements showed that unmetallized SL assemblies were not conductive. Metallized samples showed linear I-V dependence between - 1 and + 1 V with a conductivity of ∼ 10(3) S m( - 1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuriye Korkmaz
- Institut für Genetik, Technische Universität Dresden, 01217 Dresden, Germany. nuriye
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Korkmaz N, Ostermann K, Rödel G. Calcium dependent formation of tubular assemblies by recombinant S-layer proteins in vivo and in vitro. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2011; 22:095601. [PMID: 21258149 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/22/9/095601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Surface layer proteins have the appealing property to self-assemble in nanosized arrays in solution and on solid substrates. In this work, we characterize the formation of assembly structures of the recombinant surface layer protein SbsC of Geobacillus stearothermophilus ATTC 12980, which was tagged with enhanced green fluorescent protein and expressed in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The tubular structures formed by the protein in vivo are retained upon bursting the cells by osmotic shock; however, their average length is decreased. During dialysis, monomers obtained by treatment with chaotropic chemicals recrystallize again to form tube-like structures. This process is strictly dependent on calcium (Ca(2+)) ions, with an optimal concentration of 10 mM. Further increase of the Ca(2+) concentration results in multiple non-productive nucleation points. We further show that the lengths of the S-layer assemblies increase with time and can be controlled by pH. After 48 h, the average length at pH 9.0 is 4.13 µm compared to 2.69 µm at pH 5.5. Successful chemical deposition of platinum indicates the potential of recrystallized mSbsC-eGFP structures for nanobiotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuriye Korkmaz
- Institut für Genetik, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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Sleytr UB, Schuster B, Egelseer EM, Pum D, Horejs CM, Tscheliessnig R, Ilk N. Nanobiotechnology with S-layer proteins as building blocks. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2011; 103:277-352. [PMID: 21999999 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-415906-8.00003-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
One of the key challenges in nanobiotechnology is the utilization of self- assembly systems, wherein molecules spontaneously associate into reproducible aggregates and supramolecular structures. In this contribution, we describe the basic principles of crystalline bacterial surface layers (S-layers) and their use as patterning elements. The broad application potential of S-layers in nanobiotechnology is based on the specific intrinsic features of the monomolecular arrays composed of identical protein or glycoprotein subunits. Most important, physicochemical properties and functional groups on the protein lattice are arranged in well-defined positions and orientations. Many applications of S-layers depend on the capability of isolated subunits to recrystallize into monomolecular arrays in suspension or on suitable surfaces (e.g., polymers, metals, silicon wafers) or interfaces (e.g., lipid films, liposomes, emulsomes). S-layers also represent a unique structural basis and patterning element for generating more complex supramolecular structures involving all major classes of biological molecules (e.g., proteins, lipids, glycans, nucleic acids, or combinations of these). Thus, S-layers fulfill key requirements as building blocks for the production of new supramolecular materials and nanoscale devices as required in molecular nanotechnology, nanobiotechnology, biomimetics, and synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe B Sleytr
- Department of NanoBiotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
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The Structure of Bacterial S-Layer Proteins. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2011; 103:73-130. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-415906-8.00004-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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10
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The s-layer glycome-adding to the sugar coat of bacteria. Int J Microbiol 2010; 2011. [PMID: 20871840 PMCID: PMC2943079 DOI: 10.1155/2011/127870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2010] [Accepted: 06/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The amazing repertoire of glycoconjugates present on bacterial cell surfaces includes lipopolysaccharides, capsular polysaccharides, lipooligosaccharides, exopolysaccharides, and glycoproteins. While the former are constituents of Gram-negative cells, we review here the cell surface S-layer glycoproteins of Gram-positive bacteria. S-layer glycoproteins have the unique feature of self-assembling into 2D lattices providing a display matrix for glycans with periodicity at the nanometer scale. Typically, bacterial S-layer glycans are O-glycosidically linked to serine, threonine, or tyrosine residues, and they rely on a much wider variety of constituents, glycosidic linkage types, and structures than their eukaryotic counterparts. As the S-layer glycome of several bacteria is unravelling, a picture of how S-layer glycoproteins are biosynthesized is evolving. X-ray crystallography experiments allowed first insights into the catalysis mechanism of selected enzymes. In the future, it will be exciting to fully exploit the S-layer glycome for glycoengineering purposes and to link it to the bacterial interactome.
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Korkmaz N, Ostermann K, Rödel G. Expression and Assembly of Recombinant Surface Layer Proteins in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Curr Microbiol 2010; 62:366-73. [DOI: 10.1007/s00284-010-9715-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2010] [Accepted: 07/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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12
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Ferner-Ortner-Bleckmann J, Huber-Gries C, Pavkov T, Keller W, Mader C, Ilk N, Sleytr UB, Egelseer EM. The high-molecular-mass amylase (HMMA) of Geobacillus stearothermophilus ATCC 12980 interacts with the cell wall components by virtue of three specific binding regions. Mol Microbiol 2009; 72:1448-61. [PMID: 19460092 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2958.2009.06734.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The complete nucleotide sequence encoding the high-molecular-mass amylase (HMMA) of Geobacillus stearothermophilus ATCC 12980 was established by PCR techniques. Based on the hmma gene sequence, the full-length rHMMA, four N- or C-terminal rHMMA truncations as well as three C-terminal rHMMA fragments were cloned and heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli. Purified rHMMA forms were used either for affinity studies with the recombinant (r) S-layer protein SbsC (rSbsC), peptidoglycan-containing sacculi (PGS) and pure peptidoglycan (PG) devoid of the secondary cell wall polymer (SCWP), or for surface plasmon resonance (SPR) studies using rSbsC and isolated SCWP. In the C-terminal part of the HMMA, three specific binding regions, one for each cell wall component (rSbsC, SCWP and PG), could be identified. The functionality of the PG-binding domain could be confirmed by replacing the main part of the SCWP-binding domain of an S-layer protein by the PG-binding domain of the HMMA. The present work describes a completely new and highly economic strategy for cell adhesion of an exoenzyme.
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13
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Pavkov T, Egelseer EM, Tesarz M, Svergun DI, Sleytr UB, Keller W. The structure and binding behavior of the bacterial cell surface layer protein SbsC. Structure 2008; 16:1226-37. [PMID: 18682224 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2008.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2008] [Revised: 04/30/2008] [Accepted: 05/01/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Surface layers (S-layers) comprise the outermost cell envelope component of most archaea and many bacteria. Here we present the structure of the bacterial S-layer protein SbsC from Geobacillus stearothermophilus, showing a very elongated and flexible molecule, with strong and specific binding to the secondary cell wall polymer (SCWP). The crystal structure of rSbsC((31-844)) revealed a novel fold, consisting of six separate domains, which are connected by short flexible linkers. The N-terminal domain exhibits positively charged residues regularly spaced along the putative ligand binding site matching the distance of the negative charges on the extended SCWP. Upon SCWP binding, a considerable stabilization of the N-terminal domain occurs. These findings provide insight into the processes of S-layer attachment to the underlying cell wall and self-assembly, and also accommodate the observed mechanical strength, the polarity of the S-layer, and the pronounced requirement for surface flexibility inherent to cell growth and division.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tea Pavkov
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Structural Biology, University of Graz, Humboldtsrasse 50/3, 8010 Graz, Austria
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14
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Petersen BO, Sára M, Mader C, Mayer HF, Sleytr UB, Pabst M, Puchberger M, Krause E, Hofinger A, Duus JØ, Kosma P. Structural characterization of the acid-degraded secondary cell wall polymer of Geobacillus stearothermophilus PV72/p2. Carbohydr Res 2008; 343:1346-58. [PMID: 18420185 DOI: 10.1016/j.carres.2008.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2008] [Revised: 03/18/2008] [Accepted: 03/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The secondary cell wall polymer (SCWP) from Geobacillus stearothermophilus PV72/p2, which is involved in the anchoring of the surface-layer protein to the bacterial cell wall layer, is composed of 2-amino-2-deoxy- and 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-glucose, 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-mannose, and 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-mannuronic acid. The primary structure of the acid-degraded polysaccharide--liberated by HF-treatment from the cell wall--was determined by high-field NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry using N-acetylated and hydrolyzed polysaccharide derivatives as well as Smith-degradation. The polysaccharide was shown to consist of a tetrasaccharide repeating unit containing a pyruvic acid acetal at a side-chain 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl residue. Substoichiometric substitutions of the repeating unit were observed concerning the degree of N-acetylation of glucosamine residues and the presence of side-chain linked 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-beta-D-glucopyranosyl units: [Formula: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Bent O Petersen
- Department of Chemistry, Carlsberg Laboratory, Valby, Denmark
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15
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Ferner-Ortner J, Mader C, Ilk N, Sleytr UB, Egelseer EM. High-affinity interaction between the S-layer protein SbsC and the secondary cell wall polymer of Geobacillus stearothermophilus ATCC 12980 determined by surface plasmon resonance technology. J Bacteriol 2007; 189:7154-8. [PMID: 17644609 PMCID: PMC2045234 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00294-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Surface plasmon resonance studies using C-terminal truncation forms of the S-layer protein SbsC (recombinant SbsC consisting of amino acids 31 to 270 [rSbsC(31-270)] and rSbsC(31-443)) and the secondary cell wall polymer (SCWP) isolated from Geobacillus stearothermophilus ATCC 12980 confirmed the exclusive responsibility of the N-terminal region comprising amino acids 31 to 270 for SCWP binding. Quantitative analyses indicated binding behavior demonstrating low, medium, and high affinities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Ferner-Ortner
- Center for NanoBiotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Gregor Mendel-Strasse 33, A-1180 Vienna, Austria
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Pollmann K, Matys S. Construction of an S-layer protein exhibiting modified self-assembling properties and enhanced metal binding capacities. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2007; 75:1079-85. [PMID: 17437097 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-007-0937-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2007] [Revised: 03/09/2007] [Accepted: 03/10/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The functional S-layer protein gene slfB of the uranium mining waste pile isolate Bacillus sphaericus JG-A12 was cloned as a polymerase chain reaction product into the expression vector pET Lic/Ek 30 and heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli Bl21(DE3). The addition of His tags to the N and C termini enabled the purification of the recombinant protein by Ni-chelating chromatography. The Ni binding capacity of the His-tagged recombinant S-layer protein was compared with that of the wild-type S layer. The inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analyses demonstrate a significantly enhanced Ni binding capability of the recombinant protein. In addition, the self-assembling properties of the purified modified S-layer proteins were studied by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Whereas the wild-type S-layer proteins re-assembled into regular cylindric structures, the recombinant S-layer proteins reassembled into regular sheets that formed globular agglomerating structures. The nanoporous structure of the protein meshwork, together with its enhanced Ni binding capacity, makes the recombinant S-layer attractive as a novel self-assembling biological template for the fabrication of metal nanoclusters and construction of nanomaterials that are of technical interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Pollmann
- Institute of Radiochemistry, Forschungszentrum Dresden-Rossendorf e.V., 01314, Dresden, Germany.
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Claus H, Akça E, Debaerdemaeker T, Evrard C, Declercq JP, Harris JR, Schlott B, König H. Molecular organization of selected prokaryotic S-layer proteins. Can J Microbiol 2006; 51:731-43. [PMID: 16391651 DOI: 10.1139/w05-093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Regular crystalline surface layers (S-layers) are widespread among prokaryotes and probably represent the earliest cell wall structures. S-layer genes have been found in approximately 400 different species of the prokaryotic domains bacteria and archaea. S-layers usually consist of a single (glyco-)protein species with molecular masses ranging from about 40 to 200 kDa that form lattices of oblique, tetragonal, or hexagonal architecture. The primary sequences of hyperthermophilic archaeal species exhibit some characteristic signatures. Further adaptations to their specific environments occur by various post-translational modifications, such as linkage of glycans, lipids, phosphate, and sulfate groups to the protein or by proteolytic processing. Specific domains direct the anchoring of the S-layer to the underlying cell wall components and transport across the cytoplasma membrane. In addition to their presumptive original role as protective coats in archaea and bacteria, they have adapted new functions, e.g., as molecular sieves, attachment sites for extracellular enzymes, and virulence factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Claus
- Institut für Mikrobiologie und Weinforschung, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Germany
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19
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Schäffer C, Messner P. The structure of secondary cell wall polymers: how Gram-positive bacteria stick their cell walls together. MICROBIOLOGY-SGM 2005; 151:643-651. [PMID: 15758211 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.27749-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The cell wall of Gram-positive bacteria has been a subject of detailed chemical study over the past five decades. Outside the cytoplasmic membrane of these organisms the fundamental polymer is peptidoglycan (PG), which is responsible for the maintenance of cell shape and osmotic stability. In addition, typical essential cell wall polymers such as teichoic or teichuronic acids are linked to some of the peptidoglycan chains. In this review these compounds are considered as 'classical' cell wall polymers. In the course of recent investigations of bacterial cell surface layers (S-layers) a different class of 'non-classical' secondary cell wall polymers (SCWPs) has been identified, which is involved in anchoring of S-layers to the bacterial cell surface. Comparative analyses have shown considerable differences in chemical composition, overall structure and charge behaviour of these SCWPs. This review discusses the progress that has been made in understanding the structural principles of SCWPs, which may have useful applications in S-layer-based 'supramolecular construction kits' in nanobiotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Schäffer
- Zentrum für NanoBiotechnologie, Universität für Bodenkultur Wien, A-1180 Wien, Austria
| | - Paul Messner
- Zentrum für NanoBiotechnologie, Universität für Bodenkultur Wien, A-1180 Wien, Austria
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Novotny R, Schäffer C, Strauss J, Messner P. S-layer glycan-specific loci on the chromosome of Geobacillus stearothermophilus NRS 2004/3a and dTDP-L-rhamnose biosynthesis potential of G. stearothermophilus strains. MICROBIOLOGY-SGM 2004; 150:953-965. [PMID: 15073305 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.26672-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The approximately 16.5 kb surface layer (S-layer) glycan biosynthesis (slg) gene cluster of the Gram-positive thermophile Geobacillus stearothermophilus NRS 2004/3a has been sequenced. The cluster is located immediately downstream of the S-layer structural gene sgsE and consists of 13 ORFs that have been identified by database sequence comparisons. The cluster encodes dTDP-L-rhamnose biosynthesis (rml operon), required for building up the polyrhamnan S-layer glycan, as well as for assembly and export of the elongated glycan chain, and its transfer to the S-layer protein. This is the first report of a gene cluster likely to be involved in the glycosylation of an S-layer protein. There is evidence that this cluster is transcribed as a polycistronic unit, whereas sgsE is transcribed monocistronically. To get insights into the regulatory mechanisms underlying glycosylation of the S-layer protein, the influence of growth temperature on the S-layer was investigated in seven closely related G. stearothermophilus strains, of which only strain NRS 2004/3a possessed a glycosylated S-layer. Chromosomal DNA preparations of these strains were screened for the presence of the rml operon, because L-rhamnose is a frequent constituent of S-layer glycans. From rml-positive strains, flanking regions of the operon were sequenced. Comparison with the slg gene cluster of G. stearothermophilus NRS 2004/3a revealed sequence homologies between adjacent genes. The temperature inducibility of S-layer protein glycosylation was investigated in those strains by raising the growth temperature from 55 degrees C to 67 degrees C; no change of either the protein banding pattern or the glycan staining behaviour was observed on SDS-PAGE gels, although the sgsE transcript was several-fold more abundant at 67 degrees C. Cell-free extracts of the strains were capable of converting dTDP-D-glucose to dtdp-L-rhamnose. Taken together, the results indicate that the rml locus is highly conserved among G. stearothermophilus strains, and that in the investigated rml-containing strains, dTDP-L-rhamnose is actively synthesized in vitro. However, in contrast to previous reports for G. stearothermophilus wild-type strains, an increase in growth temperature did not switch an S-layer protein phenotype to an S-layer glycoprotein phenotype, via the de novo generation of a new S-layer gene sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Novotny
- Center for NanoBiotechnology, University of Applied Life Sciences and Natural Resources, A-1180 Wien, Austria
| | - Christina Schäffer
- Center for NanoBiotechnology, University of Applied Life Sciences and Natural Resources, A-1180 Wien, Austria
| | - Joseph Strauss
- Center of Applied Genetics, University of Applied Life Sciences and Natural Resources, A-1190 Wien, Austria
| | - Paul Messner
- Center for NanoBiotechnology, University of Applied Life Sciences and Natural Resources, A-1180 Wien, Austria
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Sleytr UB, Schuster B, Pum D. Nanotechnology and biomimetics with 2-D protein crystals. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY MAGAZINE : THE QUARTERLY MAGAZINE OF THE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY SOCIETY 2003; 22:140-50. [PMID: 12845830 DOI: 10.1109/memb.2003.1213637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- U B Sleytr
- Center for Ultrastructure Research, Ludwig Boltzmann-Institute for Molecular Nanotechnology, Universität für Bodenkultur Wien, Gregor Mendelstr. 33, A-1180 Vienna, Austria.
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Messner P, Schäffer C. Prokaryotic glycoproteins. FORTSCHRITTE DER CHEMIE ORGANISCHER NATURSTOFFE = PROGRESS IN THE CHEMISTRY OF ORGANIC NATURAL PRODUCTS. PROGRES DANS LA CHIMIE DES SUBSTANCES ORGANIQUES NATURELLES 2003; 85:51-124. [PMID: 12602037 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-7091-6051-0_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P Messner
- Zentrum für Ultrastrukturforschung, Ludwig-Boltzmann-Institut für Molekulare Nanotechnologie, Universität für Bodenkultur Wien, Austria
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Claus H, Akça E, Debaerdemaeker T, Evrard C, Declercq JP, König H. Primary structure of selected archaeal mesophilic and extremely thermophilic outer surface layer proteins. Syst Appl Microbiol 2002; 25:3-12. [PMID: 12086185 DOI: 10.1078/0723-2020-00100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The archaea are recognized as a separate third domain of life together with the bacteria and eucarya. The archaea include the methanogens, extreme halophiles, thermoplasmas, sulfate reducers and sulfur metabolizing thermophiles, which thrive in different habitats such as anaerobic niches, salt lakes, and marine hydrothermals systems and continental solfataras. Many of these habitats represent extreme environments in respect to temperature, osmotic pressure and pH-values and remind on the conditions of the early earth. The cell envelope structures were one of the first biochemical characteristics of archaea studied in detail. The most common archaeal cell envelope is composed of a single crystalline protein or glycoprotein surface layer (S-layer), which is associated with the outside of the cytoplasmic membrane. The S-layers are directly exposed to the extreme environment and can not be stabilized by cellular components. Therefore, from comparative studies of mesophilic and extremely thermophilic S-layer proteins hints can be obtained about the molecular mechanisms of protein stabilization at high temperatures. First crystallization experiments of surface layer proteins under microgravity conditions were successful. Here, we report on the biochemical features of selected mesophilic and extremely archaeal S-layer (glyco-) proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Claus
- Institut für Mikrobiologie und Weinforschung, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, Mainz, Germany
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