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Jia J, Fan H, Wan X, Fang Y, Li Z, Tang Y, Zhang Y, Huang J, Fang D. FUS reads histone H3K36me3 to regulate alternative polyadenylation. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:5549-5571. [PMID: 38499486 PMCID: PMC11162772 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Complex organisms generate differential gene expression through the same set of DNA sequences in distinct cells. The communication between chromatin and RNA regulates cellular behavior in tissues. However, little is known about how chromatin, especially histone modifications, regulates RNA polyadenylation. In this study, we found that FUS was recruited to chromatin by H3K36me3 at gene bodies. The H3K36me3 recognition of FUS was mediated by the proline residues in the ZNF domain. After these proline residues were mutated or H3K36me3 was abolished, FUS dissociated from chromatin and bound more to RNA, resulting in an increase in polyadenylation sites far from stop codons genome-wide. A proline mutation corresponding to a mutation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis contributed to the hyperactivation of mitochondria and hyperdifferentiation in mouse embryonic stem cells. These findings reveal that FUS is an H3K36me3 reader protein that links chromatin-mediated alternative polyadenylation to human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqi Jia
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Haonan Fan
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Xinyi Wan
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Zhuoning Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Yin Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Yanjun Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Jun Huang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Dong Fang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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2
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Kumar M, Tyagi N, Faruq M. The molecular mechanisms of spinocerebellar ataxias for DNA repeat expansion in disease. Emerg Top Life Sci 2023; 7:289-312. [PMID: 37668011 DOI: 10.1042/etls20230013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are a heterogenous group of neurodegenerative disorders which commonly inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. They cause muscle incoordination due to degeneration of the cerebellum and other parts of nervous system. Out of all the characterized (>50) SCAs, 14 SCAs are caused due to microsatellite repeat expansion mutations. Repeat expansions can result in toxic protein gain-of-function, protein loss-of-function, and/or RNA gain-of-function effects. The location and the nature of mutation modulate the underlying disease pathophysiology resulting in varying disease manifestations. Potential toxic effects of these mutations likely affect key major cellular processes such as transcriptional regulation, mitochondrial functioning, ion channel dysfunction and synaptic transmission. Involvement of several common pathways suggests interlinked function of genes implicated in the disease pathogenesis. A better understanding of the shared and distinct molecular pathogenic mechanisms in these diseases is required to develop targeted therapeutic tools and interventions for disease management. The prime focus of this review is to elaborate on how expanded 'CAG' repeats contribute to the common modes of neurotoxicity and their possible therapeutic targets in management of such devastating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Kumar
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Mall Road, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Nishu Tyagi
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Mall Road, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Mohammed Faruq
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Mall Road, Delhi 110007, India
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3
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Balasubramanian S, Maharana S, Srivastava A. "Boundary residues" between the folded RNA recognition motif and disordered RGG domains are critical for FUS-RNA binding. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105392. [PMID: 37890778 PMCID: PMC10687056 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fused in sarcoma (FUS) is an abundant RNA-binding protein, which drives phase separation of cellular condensates and plays multiple roles in RNA regulation. The RNA-binding ability of FUS protein is crucial to its cellular function. Here, our molecular simulation study on the FUS-RNA complex provides atomic resolution insights into the observations from biochemical studies and also illuminates our understanding of molecular driving forces that mediate the structure, stability, and interaction of the RNA recognition motif (RRM) and RGG domains of FUS with a stem-loop junction RNA. We observe clear cooperativity and division of labor among the ordered (RRM) and disordered domains (RGG1 and RGG2) of FUS that leads to an organized and tighter RNA binding. Irrespective of the length of RGG2, the RGG2-RNA interaction is confined to the stem-loop junction and the proximal stem regions. On the other hand, the RGG1 interactions are primarily with the longer RNA stem. We find that the C terminus of RRM, which make up the "boundary residues" that connect the folded RRM with the long disordered RGG2 stretch of the protein, plays a critical role in FUS-RNA binding. Our study provides high-resolution molecular insights into the FUS-RNA interactions and forms the basis for understanding the molecular origins of full-length FUS interaction with RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shovamayee Maharana
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science Bangalore, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Anand Srivastava
- Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science Bangalore, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
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4
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Blazquez S, Sanchez‐Burgos I, Ramirez J, Higginbotham T, Conde MM, Collepardo‐Guevara R, Tejedor AR, Espinosa JR. Location and Concentration of Aromatic-Rich Segments Dictates the Percolating Inter-Molecular Network and Viscoelastic Properties of Ageing Condensates. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2207742. [PMID: 37386790 PMCID: PMC10477902 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202207742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Maturation of functional liquid-like biomolecular condensates into solid-like aggregates has been linked to the onset of several neurodegenerative disorders. Low-complexity aromatic-rich kinked segments (LARKS) contained in numerous RNA-binding proteins can promote aggregation by forming inter-protein β-sheet fibrils that accumulate over time and ultimately drive the liquid-to-solid transition of the condensates. Here, atomistic molecular dynamics simulations are combined with sequence-dependent coarse-grained models of various resolutions to investigate the role of LARKS abundance and position within the amino acid sequence in the maturation of condensates. Remarkably, proteins with tail-located LARKS display much higher viscosity over time than those in which the LARKS are placed toward the center. Yet, at very long timescales, proteins with a single LARKS-independently of its location-can still relax and form high viscous liquid condensates. However, phase-separated condensates of proteins containing two or more LARKS become kinetically trapped due to the formation of percolated β-sheet networks that display gel-like behavior. Furthermore, as a work case example, they demonstrate how shifting the location of the LARKS-containing low-complexity domain of FUS protein toward its center effectively precludes the accumulation of β-sheet fibrils in FUS-RNA condensates, maintaining functional liquid-like behavior without ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Blazquez
- Department of Physical‐ChemistryUniversidad Complutense de MadridAv. Complutense s/nMadrid28040Spain
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish LaboratoryDepartment of PhysicsUniversity of CambridgeJ J Thomson AvenueCambridgeCB3 0HEUK
| | - Ignacio Sanchez‐Burgos
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish LaboratoryDepartment of PhysicsUniversity of CambridgeJ J Thomson AvenueCambridgeCB3 0HEUK
| | - Jorge Ramirez
- Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversidad Politécnica de MadridJosé Gutiérrez Abascal 2Madrid28006Spain
| | - Tim Higginbotham
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish LaboratoryDepartment of PhysicsUniversity of CambridgeJ J Thomson AvenueCambridgeCB3 0HEUK
| | - Maria M. Conde
- Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversidad Politécnica de MadridJosé Gutiérrez Abascal 2Madrid28006Spain
| | - Rosana Collepardo‐Guevara
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish LaboratoryDepartment of PhysicsUniversity of CambridgeJ J Thomson AvenueCambridgeCB3 0HEUK
- Yusuf Hamied Department of ChemistryUniversity of CambridgeLensfield RoadCambridgeCB2 1EWUK
- Department of GeneticsUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 3EH, UK
| | - Andres R. Tejedor
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish LaboratoryDepartment of PhysicsUniversity of CambridgeJ J Thomson AvenueCambridgeCB3 0HEUK
- Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversidad Politécnica de MadridJosé Gutiérrez Abascal 2Madrid28006Spain
| | - Jorge R. Espinosa
- Department of Physical‐ChemistryUniversidad Complutense de MadridAv. Complutense s/nMadrid28040Spain
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish LaboratoryDepartment of PhysicsUniversity of CambridgeJ J Thomson AvenueCambridgeCB3 0HEUK
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5
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Duan G, Li Y, Ye M, Liu H, Wang N, Luo S. The Regulatory Mechanism of Transthyretin Irreversible Aggregation through Liquid-to-Solid Phase Transition. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043729. [PMID: 36835140 PMCID: PMC9960511 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Transthyretin (TTR) aggregation and amyloid formation are associated with several ATTR diseases, such as senile systemic amyloidosis (SSA) and familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP). However, the mechanism that triggers the initial pathologic aggregation process of TTR remains largely elusive. Lately, increasing evidence has suggested that many proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) and subsequent liquid-to-solid phase transition before the formation of amyloid fibrils. Here, we demonstrate that electrostatic interactions mediate LLPS of TTR, followed by a liquid-solid phase transition, and eventually the formation of amyloid fibrils under a mildly acidic pH in vitro. Furthermore, pathogenic mutations (V30M, R34T, and K35T) of TTR and heparin promote the process of phase transition and facilitate the formation of fibrillar aggregates. In addition, S-cysteinylation, which is a kind of post-translational modification of TTR, reduces the kinetic stability of TTR and increases the propensity for aggregation, while another modification, S-sulfonation, stabilizes the TTR tetramer and reduces the aggregation rate. Once TTR was S-cysteinylated or S-sulfonated, they dramatically underwent the process of phase transition, providing a foundation for post-translational modifications that could modulate TTR LLPS in the context of pathological interactions. These novel findings reveal molecular insights into the mechanism of TTR from initial LLPS and subsequent liquid-to-solid phase transition to amyloid fibrils, providing a new dimension for ATTR therapy.
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6
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Erkamp NA, Qi R, Welsh TJ, Knowles TPJ. Microfluidics for multiscale studies of biomolecular condensates. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 23:9-24. [PMID: 36269080 PMCID: PMC9764808 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00622g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Membraneless organelles formed through condensation of biomolecules in living cells have become the focus of sustained efforts to elucidate their mechanisms of formation and function. These condensates perform a range of vital functions in cells and are closely connected to key processes in functional and aberrant biology. Since these systems occupy a size scale intermediate between single proteins and conventional protein complexes on the one hand, and cellular length scales on the other hand, they have proved challenging to probe using conventional approaches from either protein science or cell biology. Additionally, condensate can form, solidify and perform functions on various time-scales. From a physical point of view, biomolecular condensates are colloidal soft matter systems, and microfluidic approaches, which originated in soft condensed matter research, have successfully been used to study biomolecular condensates. This review explores how microfluidics have aided condensate research into the thermodynamics, kinetics and other properties of condensates, by offering high-throughput and novel experimental setups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia A Erkamp
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, Centre for Misfolding Diseases, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Runzhang Qi
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, Centre for Misfolding Diseases, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Timothy J Welsh
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, Centre for Misfolding Diseases, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Tuomas P J Knowles
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, Centre for Misfolding Diseases, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
- Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Ave, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK
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7
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Tejedor AR, Sanchez-Burgos I, Estevez-Espinosa M, Garaizar A, Collepardo-Guevara R, Ramirez J, Espinosa JR. Protein structural transitions critically transform the network connectivity and viscoelasticity of RNA-binding protein condensates but RNA can prevent it. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5717. [PMID: 36175408 PMCID: PMC9522849 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32874-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates, some of which are liquid-like during health, can age over time becoming gel-like pathological systems. One potential source of loss of liquid-like properties during ageing of RNA-binding protein condensates is the progressive formation of inter-protein β-sheets. To bridge microscopic understanding between accumulation of inter-protein β-sheets over time and the modulation of FUS and hnRNPA1 condensate viscoelasticity, we develop a multiscale simulation approach. Our method integrates atomistic simulations with sequence-dependent coarse-grained modelling of condensates that exhibit accumulation of inter-protein β-sheets over time. We reveal that inter-protein β-sheets notably increase condensate viscosity but does not transform the phase diagrams. Strikingly, the network of molecular connections within condensates is drastically altered, culminating in gelation when the network of strong β-sheets fully percolates. However, high concentrations of RNA decelerate the emergence of inter-protein β-sheets. Our study uncovers molecular and kinetic factors explaining how the accumulation of inter-protein β-sheets can trigger liquid-to-solid transitions in condensates, and suggests a potential mechanism to slow such transitions down. In this work the authors propose a multiscale computational approach, integrating atomistic and coarse-grained models simulations, to study the thermodynamic and kinetic factors playing a major role in the liquid-to-solid transition of biomolecular condensates. It is revealed how the gradual accumulation of inter-protein β-sheets increases the viscosity of functional liquid-like condensates, transforming them into gel-like pathological aggregates, and it is also shown how high concentrations of RNA can decelerate such transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres R Tejedor
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, José Gutiérrez Abascal 2, 28006, Madrid, Spain.,Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK
| | - Ignacio Sanchez-Burgos
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK
| | - Maria Estevez-Espinosa
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK.,Department of Biochemistry, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Adiran Garaizar
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK
| | - Rosana Collepardo-Guevara
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK.,Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.,Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
| | - Jorge Ramirez
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, José Gutiérrez Abascal 2, 28006, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Jorge R Espinosa
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK.
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8
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Biological colloids: Unique properties of membranelles organelles in the cell. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 310:102777. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2022.102777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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9
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Aida H, Shigeta Y, Harada R. The role of ATP in solubilizing RNA-binding protein fused in sarcoma. Proteins 2022; 90:1606-1612. [PMID: 35297101 DOI: 10.1002/prot.26335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Intrinsically disordered protein (IDP) plays an important role in liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). RNA-binding protein fused in sarcoma (FUS) is a well-studied IDP that induces LLPS since its low-complexity core region (FUS-LC-core) is essential for droplet formation through contacts between FUS-LC-cores. Several experimental studies have reported that adenosine triphosphate (ATP) concentrations modulate LLPS-driven droplet formation through the dissolution of FUS. To elucidate the role of ATP in this dissolution, microsecond-order all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed for a crowded system of FUS-LC-cores in the presence of multiple ATP molecules. Our analysis revealed that the adenine group of ATP frequently contacted the FUS-LC-core, and the phosphoric acid group of ATP was exposed to the external solvent, which promoted both hydration and solubilization of FUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayato Aida
- College of Biological Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yasuteru Shigeta
- Center for Computational Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Ryuhei Harada
- Center for Computational Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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10
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Garaizar A, Espinosa JR, Joseph JA, Krainer G, Shen Y, Knowles TP, Collepardo-Guevara R. Aging can transform single-component protein condensates into multiphase architectures. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2119800119. [PMID: 35727989 PMCID: PMC9245653 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2119800119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Phase-separated biomolecular condensates that contain multiple coexisting phases are widespread in vitro and in cells. Multiphase condensates emerge readily within multicomponent mixtures of biomolecules (e.g., proteins and nucleic acids) when the different components present sufficient physicochemical diversity (e.g., in intermolecular forces, structure, and chemical composition) to sustain separate coexisting phases. Because such diversity is highly coupled to the solution conditions (e.g., temperature, pH, salt, composition), it can manifest itself immediately from the nucleation and growth stages of condensate formation, develop spontaneously due to external stimuli or emerge progressively as the condensates age. Here, we investigate thermodynamic factors that can explain the progressive intrinsic transformation of single-component condensates into multiphase architectures during the nonequilibrium process of aging. We develop a multiscale model that integrates atomistic simulations of proteins, sequence-dependent coarse-grained simulations of condensates, and a minimal model of dynamically aging condensates with nonconservative intermolecular forces. Our nonequilibrium simulations of condensate aging predict that single-component condensates that are initially homogeneous and liquid like can transform into gel-core/liquid-shell or liquid-core/gel-shell multiphase condensates as they age due to gradual and irreversible enhancement of interprotein interactions. The type of multiphase architecture is determined by the aging mechanism, the molecular organization of the gel and liquid phases, and the chemical makeup of the protein. Notably, we predict that interprotein disorder to order transitions within the prion-like domains of intracellular proteins can lead to the required nonconservative enhancement of intermolecular interactions. Our study, therefore, predicts a potential mechanism by which the nonequilibrium process of aging results in single-component multiphase condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adiran Garaizar
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0HE, United Kingdom
| | - Jorge R. Espinosa
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0HE, United Kingdom
| | - Jerelle A. Joseph
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0HE, United Kingdom
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, United Kingdom
| | - Georg Krainer
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Yi Shen
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Tuomas P.J. Knowles
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0HE, United Kingdom
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Rosana Collepardo-Guevara
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0HE, United Kingdom
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, United Kingdom
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11
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Seim I, Posey AE, Snead WT, Stormo BM, Klotsa D, Pappu RV, Gladfelter AS. Dilute phase oligomerization can oppose phase separation and modulate material properties of a ribonucleoprotein condensate. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2120799119. [PMID: 35333653 PMCID: PMC9060498 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2120799119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
SignificanceA large subclass of biomolecular condensates are linked to RNA regulation and are known as ribonucleoprotein (RNP) bodies. While extensive work has identified driving forces for biomolecular condensate formation, relatively little is known about forces that oppose assembly. Here, using a fungal RNP protein, Whi3, we show that a portion of its intrinsically disordered, glutamine-rich region modulates phase separation by forming transient alpha helical structures that promote the assembly of dilute phase oligomers. These oligomers detour Whi3 proteins from condensates, thereby impacting the driving forces for phase separation, the protein-to-RNA ratio in condensates, and the material properties of condensates. Our findings show how nanoscale conformational and oligomerization equilibria can influence mesoscale phase equilibria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Seim
- Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
- Department of Applied Physical Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Ammon E. Posey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Science & Engineering of Living Systems, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Wilton T. Snead
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Benjamin M. Stormo
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Daphne Klotsa
- Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
- Department of Applied Physical Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Rohit V. Pappu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Science & Engineering of Living Systems, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Amy S. Gladfelter
- Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
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12
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Garaizar A, Espinosa JR, Joseph JA, Collepardo-Guevara R. Kinetic interplay between droplet maturation and coalescence modulates shape of aged protein condensates. Sci Rep 2022; 12:4390. [PMID: 35293386 PMCID: PMC8924231 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-08130-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates formed by the process of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) play diverse roles inside cells, from spatiotemporal compartmentalisation to speeding up chemical reactions. Upon maturation, the liquid-like properties of condensates, which underpin their functions, are gradually lost, eventually giving rise to solid-like states with potential pathological implications. Enhancement of inter-protein interactions is one of the main mechanisms suggested to trigger the formation of solid-like condensates. To gain a molecular-level understanding of how the accumulation of stronger interactions among proteins inside condensates affect the kinetic and thermodynamic properties of biomolecular condensates, and their shapes over time, we develop a tailored coarse-grained model of proteins that transition from establishing weak to stronger inter-protein interactions inside condensates. Our simulations reveal that the fast accumulation of strongly binding proteins during the nucleation and growth stages of condensate formation results in aspherical solid-like condensates. In contrast, when strong inter-protein interactions appear only after the equilibrium condensate has been formed, or when they accumulate slowly over time with respect to the time needed for droplets to fuse and grow, spherical solid-like droplets emerge. By conducting atomistic potential-of-mean-force simulations of NUP-98 peptides-prone to forming inter-protein [Formula: see text]-sheets-we observe that formation of inter-peptide [Formula: see text]-sheets increases the strength of the interactions consistently with the loss of liquid-like condensate properties we observe at the coarse-grained level. Overall, our work aids in elucidating fundamental molecular, kinetic, and thermodynamic mechanisms linking the rate of change in protein interaction strength to condensate shape and maturation during ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adiran Garaizar
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
| | - Jorge R Espinosa
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
| | - Jerelle A Joseph
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
| | - Rosana Collepardo-Guevara
- Maxwell Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK.
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK.
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13
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Korobeynikov VA, Lyashchenko AK, Blanco-Redondo B, Jafar-Nejad P, Shneider NA. Antisense oligonucleotide silencing of FUS expression as a therapeutic approach in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Nat Med 2022; 28:104-116. [PMID: 35075293 PMCID: PMC8799464 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-021-01615-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Fused in sarcoma (FUS) is an RNA-binding protein that is genetically and pathologically associated with rare and aggressive forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). To explore the mechanisms by which mutant FUS causes neurodegeneration in ALS-FTD, we generated a series of FUS knock-in mouse lines that express the equivalent of ALS-associated mutant FUSP525L and FUSΔEX14 protein. In FUS mutant mice, we show progressive, age-dependent motor neuron loss as a consequence of a dose-dependent gain of toxic function, associated with the insolubility of FUS and related RNA-binding proteins. In this disease-relevant mouse model of ALS-FUS, we show that ION363, a non-allele-specific FUS antisense oligonucleotide, efficiently silences Fus and reduces postnatal levels of FUS protein in the brain and spinal cord, delaying motor neuron degeneration. In a patient with ALS with a FUSP525L mutation, we provide preliminary evidence that repeated intrathecal infusions of ION363 lower wild-type and mutant FUS levels in the central nervous system, resulting in a marked reduction in the burden of FUS aggregates that are a pathological hallmark of disease. In mouse genetic and human clinical studies, we provide evidence in support of FUS silencing as a therapeutic strategy in FUS-dependent ALS and FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladislav A Korobeynikov
- Department of Neurology, Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander K Lyashchenko
- Department of Neurology, Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Beatriz Blanco-Redondo
- Department of Neurology, Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Rudolf-Schönheimer Institute for Biochemistry, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Neil A Shneider
- Department of Neurology, Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA. .,Department of Neurology, Eleanor and Lou Gehrig ALS Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
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14
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Alshareedah I, Moosa MM, Pham M, Potoyan DA, Banerjee PR. Programmable viscoelasticity in protein-RNA condensates with disordered sticker-spacer polypeptides. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6620. [PMID: 34785657 PMCID: PMC8595643 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26733-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation of multivalent proteins and RNAs drives the formation of biomolecular condensates that facilitate membrane-free compartmentalization of subcellular processes. With recent advances, it is becoming increasingly clear that biomolecular condensates are network fluids with time-dependent material properties. Here, employing microrheology with optical tweezers, we reveal molecular determinants that govern the viscoelastic behavior of condensates formed by multivalent Arg/Gly-rich sticker-spacer polypeptides and RNA. These condensates behave as Maxwell fluids with an elastically-dominant rheological response at shorter timescales and a liquid-like behavior at longer timescales. The viscous and elastic regimes of these condensates can be tuned by the polypeptide and RNA sequences as well as their mixture compositions. Our results establish a quantitative link between the sequence- and structure-encoded biomolecular interactions at the microscopic scale and the rheological properties of the resulting condensates at the mesoscale, enabling a route to systematically probe and rationally engineer biomolecular condensates with programmable mechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Matthew Pham
- Department of Chemistry, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Davit A Potoyan
- Department of Chemistry, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA.
| | - Priya R Banerjee
- Department of Physics, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA.
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15
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Kundinger SR, Dammer EB, Yin L, Hurst C, Shapley S, Ping L, Khoshnevis S, Ghalei H, Duong DM, Seyfried NT. Phosphorylation regulates arginine-rich RNA-binding protein solubility and oligomerization. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:101306. [PMID: 34673031 PMCID: PMC8569591 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) such as phosphorylation of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) regulate several critical steps in RNA metabolism, including spliceosome assembly, alternative splicing, and mRNA export. Notably, serine-/arginine- (SR)-rich RBPs are densely phosphorylated compared with the remainder of the proteome. Previously, we showed that dephosphorylation of the splicing factor SRSF2 regulated increased interactions with similar arginine-rich RBPs U1-70K and LUC7L3. However, the large-scale functional and structural impact of these modifications on RBPs remains unclear. In this work, we dephosphorylated nuclear extracts using phosphatase in vitro and analyzed equal amounts of detergent-soluble and -insoluble fractions by mass-spectrometry-based proteomics. Correlation network analysis resolved 27 distinct modules of differentially soluble nucleoplasm proteins. We found classes of arginine-rich RBPs that decrease in solubility following dephosphorylation and enrich the insoluble pelleted fraction, including the SR protein family and the SR-like LUC7L RBP family. Importantly, increased insolubility was not observed across broad classes of RBPs. We determined that phosphorylation regulated SRSF2 structure, as dephosphorylated SRSF2 formed high-molecular-weight oligomeric species in vitro. Reciprocally, phosphorylation of SRSF2 by serine/arginine protein kinase 2 (SRPK2) in vitro decreased high-molecular-weight SRSF2 species formation. Furthermore, upon pharmacological inhibition of SRPKs in mammalian cells, we observed SRSF2 cytoplasmic mislocalization and increased formation of cytoplasmic granules as well as cytoplasmic tubular structures that associated with microtubules by immunocytochemical staining. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that phosphorylation may be a critical modification that prevents arginine-rich RBP insolubility and oligomerization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean R Kundinger
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Eric B Dammer
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Luming Yin
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Cheyenne Hurst
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sarah Shapley
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Lingyan Ping
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Homa Ghalei
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Duc M Duong
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Nicholas T Seyfried
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
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16
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Yoneda R, Ueda N, Kurokawa R. m 6A Modified Short RNA Fragments Inhibit Cytoplasmic TLS/FUS Aggregation Induced by Hyperosmotic Stress. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011014. [PMID: 34681673 PMCID: PMC8539258 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Translocated in LipoSarcoma/Fused in Sarcoma (TLS/FUS) is a nuclear RNA binding protein whose mutations cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. TLS/FUS undergoes LLPS and forms membraneless particles with other proteins and nucleic acids. Interaction with RNA alters conformation of TLS/FUS, which affects binding with proteins, but the effect of m6A RNA modification on the TLS/FUS–RNA interaction remains elusive. Here, we investigated the binding specificity of TLS/FUS to m6A RNA fragments by RNA pull down assay, and elucidated that both wild type and ALS-related TLS/FUS mutants strongly bound to m6A modified RNAs. TLS/FUS formed cytoplasmic foci by treating hyperosmotic stress, but the cells transfected with m6A-modified RNAs had a smaller number of foci. Moreover, m6A-modified RNA transfection resulted in the cells obtaining higher resistance to the stress. In summary, we propose TLS/FUS as a novel candidate of m6A recognition protein, and m6A-modified RNA fragments diffuse cytoplasmic TLS/FUS foci and thereby enhance cell viability.
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17
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Mallucci GR, Klenerman D, Rubinsztein DC. Developing Therapies for Neurodegenerative Disorders: Insights from Protein Aggregation and Cellular Stress Responses. Annu Rev Cell Dev Biol 2021; 36:165-189. [PMID: 33021824 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cellbio-040320-120625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
As the world's population ages, neurodegenerative disorders are poised to become the commonest cause of death. Despite this, they remain essentially untreatable. Characterized pathologically both by the aggregation of disease-specific misfolded proteins and by changes in cellular stress responses, to date, therapeutic approaches have focused almost exclusively on reducing misfolded protein load-notably amyloid beta (Aβ) in Alzheimer's disease. The repeated failure of clinical trials has led to despondency over the possibility that these disorders will ever be treated. We argue that this is in fact a time for optimism: Targeting various generic stress responses is emerging as an increasingly promising means of modifying disease progression across these disorders. New treatments are approaching clinical trials, while novel means of targeting aggregates could eventually act preventively in early disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna R Mallucci
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AH, United Kingdom; .,Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AH, United Kingdom
| | - David Klenerman
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AH, United Kingdom; .,Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - David C Rubinsztein
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AH, United Kingdom; .,Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Cambridge CB2 0XY, United Kingdom
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18
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Portz B, Lee BL, Shorter J. FUS and TDP-43 Phases in Health and Disease. Trends Biochem Sci 2021; 46:550-563. [PMID: 33446423 PMCID: PMC8195841 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The distinct prion-like domains (PrLDs) of FUS and TDP-43, modulate phase transitions that result in condensates with a range of material states. These assemblies are implicated in both health and disease. In this review, we examine how sequence, structure, post-translational modifications, and RNA can affect the self-assembly of these RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). We discuss how our emerging understanding of FUS and TDP-43 liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) and aggregation, could be leveraged to design new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (LATE).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bede Portz
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Bo Lim Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - James Shorter
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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19
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Shapiro DM, Ney M, Eghtesadi SA, Chilkoti A. Protein Phase Separation Arising from Intrinsic Disorder: First-Principles to Bespoke Applications. J Phys Chem B 2021; 125:6740-6759. [PMID: 34143622 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.1c01146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The phase separation of biomolecules has become the focus of intense research in the past decade, with a growing body of research implicating this phenomenon in essentially all biological functions, including but not limited to homeostasis, stress responses, gene regulation, cell differentiation, and disease. Excellent reviews have been published previously on the underlying physical basis of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of biological molecules (Nat. Phys. 2015, 11, 899-904) and LLPS as it occurs natively in physiology and disease (Science 2017, 357, eaaf4382; Biochemistry 2018, 57, 2479-2487; Chem. Rev. 2014, 114, 6844-6879). Here, we review how the theoretical physical basis of LLPS has been used to better understand the behavior of biomolecules that undergo LLPS in natural systems and how this understanding has also led to the development of novel synthetic systems that exhibit biomolecular phase separation, and technologies that exploit these phenomena. In part 1 of this Review, we explore the theory behind the phase separation of biomolecules and synthetic macromolecules and introduce a few notable phase-separating biomolecules. In part 2, we cover experimental and computational methods used to study phase-separating proteins and how these techniques have uncovered the mechanisms underlying phase separation in physiology and disease. Finally, in part 3, we cover the development and applications of engineered phase-separating polypeptides, ranging from control of their self-assembly to create defined supramolecular architectures to reprogramming biological processes using engineered IDPs that exhibit LLPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mark Shapiro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Max Ney
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Seyed Ali Eghtesadi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Ashutosh Chilkoti
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
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20
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Non-coding RNA suppresses FUS aggregation caused by mechanistic shear stress on pipetting in a sequence-dependent manner. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9523. [PMID: 33947944 PMCID: PMC8096841 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89075-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Fused in sarcoma/translocated in liposarcoma (FUS/TLS) is a multitasking RNA/DNA binding protein. FUS aggregation is implicated in various neurodegenerative diseases. RNA was suggested to modulate phase transition of FUS. Here, we found that FUS transforms into the amorphous aggregation state as an instant response to the shear stress caused by usual pipetting even at a low FUS concentration, 100 nM. It was revealed that non-coding RNA can suppress the transformation of FUS into aggregates. The suppressive effect of RNA on FUS aggregation is sequence-dependent. These results suggested that the non-coding RNA could be a prospective suppressor of FUS aggregation caused by mechanistic stress in cells. Our finding might pave the way for more research on the role of RNAs as aggregation inhibitors, which could facilitate the development of therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
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21
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Don EK, Maschirow A, Radford RAW, Scherer NM, Vidal-Itriago A, Hogan A, Maurel C, Formella I, Stoddart JJ, Hall TE, Lee A, Shi B, Cole NJ, Laird AS, Badrock AP, Chung RS, Morsch M. In vivo Validation of Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation (BiFC) to Investigate Aggregate Formation in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:2061-2074. [PMID: 33415684 PMCID: PMC8018926 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02238-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a form of motor neuron disease (MND) that is characterized by the progressive loss of motor neurons within the spinal cord, brainstem, and motor cortex. Although ALS clinically manifests as a heterogeneous disease, with varying disease onset and survival, a unifying feature is the presence of ubiquitinated cytoplasmic protein inclusion aggregates containing TDP-43. However, the precise mechanisms linking protein inclusions and aggregation to neuronal loss are currently poorly understood. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) takes advantage of the association of fluorophore fragments (non-fluorescent on their own) that are attached to an aggregation-prone protein of interest. Interaction of the proteins of interest allows for the fluorescent reporter protein to fold into its native state and emit a fluorescent signal. Here, we combined the power of BiFC with the advantages of the zebrafish system to validate, optimize, and visualize the formation of ALS-linked aggregates in real time in a vertebrate model. We further provide in vivo validation of the selectivity of this technique and demonstrate reduced spontaneous self-assembly of the non-fluorescent fragments in vivo by introducing a fluorophore mutation. Additionally, we report preliminary findings on the dynamic aggregation of the ALS-linked hallmark proteins Fus and TDP-43 in their corresponding nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments using BiFC. Overall, our data demonstrates the suitability of this BiFC approach to study and characterize ALS-linked aggregate formation in vivo. Importantly, the same principle can be applied in the context of other neurodegenerative diseases and has therefore critical implications to advance our understanding of pathologies that underlie aberrant protein aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily K Don
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Alina Maschirow
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Rowan A W Radford
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Natalie M Scherer
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Andrés Vidal-Itriago
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Alison Hogan
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Cindy Maurel
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Isabel Formella
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Jack J Stoddart
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Thomas E Hall
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, QLD, St Lucia, 4072, Australia
| | - Albert Lee
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Bingyang Shi
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Nicholas J Cole
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Angela S Laird
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Andrew P Badrock
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
| | - Roger S Chung
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Marco Morsch
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
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22
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Velázquez-Cruz A, Baños-Jaime B, Díaz-Quintana A, De la Rosa MA, Díaz-Moreno I. Post-translational Control of RNA-Binding Proteins and Disease-Related Dysregulation. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:658852. [PMID: 33987205 PMCID: PMC8111222 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.658852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell signaling mechanisms modulate gene expression in response to internal and external stimuli. Cellular adaptation requires a precise and coordinated regulation of the transcription and translation processes. The post-transcriptional control of mRNA metabolism is mediated by the so-called RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), which assemble with specific transcripts forming messenger ribonucleoprotein particles of highly dynamic composition. RBPs constitute a class of trans-acting regulatory proteins with affinity for certain consensus elements present in mRNA molecules. However, these regulators are subjected to post-translational modifications (PTMs) that constantly adjust their activity to maintain cell homeostasis. PTMs can dramatically change the subcellular localization, the binding affinity for RNA and protein partners, and the turnover rate of RBPs. Moreover, the ability of many RBPs to undergo phase transition and/or their recruitment to previously formed membrane-less organelles, such as stress granules, is also regulated by specific PTMs. Interestingly, the dysregulation of PTMs in RBPs has been associated with the pathophysiology of many different diseases. Abnormal PTM patterns can lead to the distortion of the physiological role of RBPs due to mislocalization, loss or gain of function, and/or accelerated or disrupted degradation. This Mini Review offers a broad overview of the post-translational regulation of selected RBPs and the involvement of their dysregulation in neurodegenerative disorders, cancer and other pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Velázquez-Cruz
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Isla de la Cartuja, Universidad de Sevilla, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Seville, Spain
| | - Blanca Baños-Jaime
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Isla de la Cartuja, Universidad de Sevilla, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Seville, Spain
| | - Antonio Díaz-Quintana
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Isla de la Cartuja, Universidad de Sevilla, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Seville, Spain
| | - Miguel A De la Rosa
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Isla de la Cartuja, Universidad de Sevilla, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Seville, Spain
| | - Irene Díaz-Moreno
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Isla de la Cartuja, Universidad de Sevilla, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Seville, Spain
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23
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Fonda BD, Jami KM, Boulos NR, Murray DT. Identification of the Rigid Core for Aged Liquid Droplets of an RNA-Binding Protein Low Complexity Domain. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:6657-6668. [PMID: 33896178 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c02424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The biomolecular condensation of proteins with low complexity sequences plays a functional role in RNA metabolism and a pathogenic role in neurodegenerative diseases. The formation of dynamic liquid droplets brings biomolecules together to achieve complex cellular functions. The rigidification of liquid droplets into β-strand-rich hydrogel structures composed of protein fibrils is thought to be purely pathological in nature. However, low complexity sequences often harbor multiple fibril-prone regions with delicately balanced functional and pathological interactions. Here, we investigate the maturation of liquid droplets formed by the low complexity domain of the TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43). Solid state nuclear magnetic resonance measurements on the aged liquid droplets identify residues 365-400 as the structured core, which are squarely outside the region between residues 311-360 thought to be most important for pathological fibril formation and aggregation. The results of this study suggest that multiple segments of this low complexity domain are prone to form fibrils and that stabilization of β-strand-rich structure in one segment precludes the other region from adopting a rigid fibril structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blake D Fonda
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Khaled M Jami
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Natalie R Boulos
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Dylan T Murray
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
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24
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Jin Y, Vadukul DM, Gialama D, Ge Y, Thrush R, White JT, Aprile FA. The Diagnostic Potential of Amyloidogenic Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4128. [PMID: 33923609 PMCID: PMC8074075 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are a highly prevalent class of diseases, whose pathological mechanisms start before the appearance of any clear symptoms. This fact has prompted scientists to search for biomarkers that could aid early treatment. These currently incurable pathologies share the presence of aberrant aggregates called amyloids in the nervous system, which are composed of specific proteins. In this review, we discuss how these proteins, their conformations and modifications could be exploited as biomarkers for diagnostic purposes. We focus on proteins that are associated with the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and frontotemporal dementia. We also describe current challenges in detection, the most recent techniques with diagnostic potentials and possible future developments in diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Francesco Antonio Aprile
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, UK; (Y.J.); (D.M.V.); (D.G.); (Y.G.); (R.T.); (J.T.W.)
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25
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Reentrant liquid condensate phase of proteins is stabilized by hydrophobic and non-ionic interactions. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1085. [PMID: 33597515 PMCID: PMC7889641 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-21181-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation of proteins underpins the formation of membraneless compartments in living cells. Elucidating the molecular driving forces underlying protein phase transitions is therefore a key objective for understanding biological function and malfunction. Here we show that cellular proteins, which form condensates at low salt concentrations, including FUS, TDP-43, Brd4, Sox2, and Annexin A11, can reenter a phase-separated regime at high salt concentrations. By bringing together experiments and simulations, we demonstrate that this reentrant phase transition in the high-salt regime is driven by hydrophobic and non-ionic interactions, and is mechanistically distinct from the low-salt regime, where condensates are additionally stabilized by electrostatic forces. Our work thus sheds light on the cooperation of hydrophobic and non-ionic interactions as general driving forces in the condensation process, with important implications for aberrant function, druggability, and material properties of biomolecular condensates.
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26
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Krainer G, Welsh TJ, Joseph JA, Espinosa JR, Wittmann S, de Csilléry E, Sridhar A, Toprakcioglu Z, Gudiškytė G, Czekalska MA, Arter WE, Guillén-Boixet J, Franzmann TM, Qamar S, George-Hyslop PS, Hyman AA, Collepardo-Guevara R, Alberti S, Knowles TPJ. Reentrant liquid condensate phase of proteins is stabilized by hydrophobic and non-ionic interactions. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1085. [PMID: 33597515 DOI: 10.1101/2020.05.04.076299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation of proteins underpins the formation of membraneless compartments in living cells. Elucidating the molecular driving forces underlying protein phase transitions is therefore a key objective for understanding biological function and malfunction. Here we show that cellular proteins, which form condensates at low salt concentrations, including FUS, TDP-43, Brd4, Sox2, and Annexin A11, can reenter a phase-separated regime at high salt concentrations. By bringing together experiments and simulations, we demonstrate that this reentrant phase transition in the high-salt regime is driven by hydrophobic and non-ionic interactions, and is mechanistically distinct from the low-salt regime, where condensates are additionally stabilized by electrostatic forces. Our work thus sheds light on the cooperation of hydrophobic and non-ionic interactions as general driving forces in the condensation process, with important implications for aberrant function, druggability, and material properties of biomolecular condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Krainer
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Timothy J Welsh
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jerelle A Joseph
- Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jorge R Espinosa
- Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sina Wittmann
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG), Dresden, Germany
- Biotechnology Center (BIOTEC), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Tatzberg 47/49, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ella de Csilléry
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Akshay Sridhar
- Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, UK
| | - Zenon Toprakcioglu
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Giedre Gudiškytė
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Magdalena A Czekalska
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kasprzaka, 44/52 01-224, Warsaw, Poland
| | - William E Arter
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jordina Guillén-Boixet
- Biotechnology Center (BIOTEC), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Tatzberg 47/49, Dresden, Germany
| | - Titus M Franzmann
- Biotechnology Center (BIOTEC), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Tatzberg 47/49, Dresden, Germany
| | - Seema Qamar
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter St George-Hyslop
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Anthony A Hyman
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG), Dresden, Germany.
| | - Rosana Collepardo-Guevara
- Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, UK.
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Simon Alberti
- Biotechnology Center (BIOTEC), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Tatzberg 47/49, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Tuomas P J Knowles
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, UK.
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27
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Taniue K, Akimitsu N. Aberrant phase separation and cancer. FEBS J 2021; 289:17-39. [PMID: 33583140 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Eukaryotic cells are intracellularly divided into numerous compartments or organelles, which coordinate specific molecules and biological reactions. Membrane-bound organelles are physically separated by lipid bilayers from the surrounding environment. Biomolecular condensates, also referred to membraneless organelles, are micron-scale cellular compartments that lack membranous enclosures but function to concentrate proteins and RNA molecules, and these are involved in diverse processes. Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) driven by multivalent weak macromolecular interactions is a critical principle for the formation of biomolecular condensates, and a multitude of combinations among multivalent interactions may drive liquid-liquid phase transition (LLPT). Dysregulation of LLPS and LLPT leads to aberrant condensate and amyloid formation, which causes many human diseases, including neurodegeneration and cancer. Here, we describe recent findings regarding abnormal forms of biomolecular condensates and aggregation via aberrant LLPS and LLPT of cancer-related proteins in cancer development driven by mutation and fusion of genes. Moreover, we discuss the regulatory mechanisms by which aberrant LLPS and LLPT occur in cancer and the drug candidates targeting these mechanisms. Further understanding of the molecular events regulating how biomolecular condensates and aggregation form in cancer tissue is critical for the development of therapeutic strategies against tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenzui Taniue
- Isotope Science Center, The University of Tokyo, Japan.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Japan
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28
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Konstantoulea K, Louros N, Rousseau F, Schymkowitz J. Heterotypic interactions in amyloid function and disease. FEBS J 2021; 289:2025-2046. [PMID: 33460517 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Amyloid aggregation results from the self-assembly of identical aggregation-prone sequences into cross-beta-sheet structures. The process is best known for its association with a wide range of human pathologies but also as a functional mechanism in all kingdoms of life. Less well elucidated is the role of heterotypic interactions between amyloids and other proteins and macromolecules and how this contributes to disease. We here review current data with a focus on neurodegenerative amyloid-associated diseases. Evidence indicates that heterotypic interactions occur in a wide range of amyloid processes and that these interactions modify fundamental aspects of amyloid aggregation including seeding, aggregation rates and toxicity. More work is required to understand the mechanistic origin of these interactions, but current understanding suggests that both supersaturation and sequence-specific binding can contribute to heterotypic amyloid interactions. Further unravelling these mechanisms may help to answer outstanding questions in the field including the selective vulnerability of cells types and tissues and the stereotypical spreading patterns of amyloids in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Konstantoulea
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Switch Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nikolaos Louros
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Switch Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frederic Rousseau
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Switch Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joost Schymkowitz
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Switch Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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29
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Bhandari K, Cotten MA, Kim J, Rosen MK, Schmit JD. Structure-Function Properties in Disordered Condensates. J Phys Chem B 2021; 125:467-476. [PMID: 33395293 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.0c11057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates appear throughout the cell serving a wide variety of functions. Many condensates appear to form by the assembly of multivalent molecules, which produce phase-separated networks with liquidlike properties. These networks then recruit client molecules, with the total composition providing functionality. Here we use a model system of poly-SUMO and poly-SIM proteins to understand client-network interactions and find that the structure of the network plays a strong role in defining client recruitment and thus functionality. The basic unit of assembly in this system is a zipperlike filament composed of alternating poly-SUMO and poly-SIM molecules. These filaments have defects of unsatisfied bonds that allow for both the formation of a 3D network and the recruitment of clients. The filamentous structure constrains the scaffold stoichiometries and the distribution of client recruitment sites that the network can accommodate. This results in a nonmonotonic client binding response that can be tuned independently by the client valence and binding energy. These results show how the interactions within liquid states can be disordered yet still contain structural features that provide functionality to the condensate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamal Bhandari
- Department of Physics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, United States
| | - Michael A Cotten
- Department of Biophysics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - Jonggul Kim
- Department of Biophysics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - Michael K Rosen
- Department of Biophysics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - Jeremy D Schmit
- Department of Physics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, United States
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30
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Sankaranarayanan M, Weil TT. Granule regulation by phase separation during Drosophila oogenesis. Emerg Top Life Sci 2020; 4:343-352. [PMID: 32573699 PMCID: PMC7733668 DOI: 10.1042/etls20190155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Drosophila eggs are highly polarised cells that use RNA-protein complexes to regulate storage and translational control of maternal RNAs. Ribonucleoprotein granules are a class of biological condensates that form predominantly by intracellular phase separation. Despite extensive in vitro studies testing the physical principles regulating condensates, how phase separation translates to biological function remains largely unanswered. In this perspective, we discuss granules in Drosophila oogenesis as a model system for investigating the physiological role of phase separation. We review key maternal granules and their properties while highlighting ribonucleoprotein phase separation behaviours observed during development. Finally, we discuss how concepts and models from liquid-liquid phase separation could be used to test mechanisms underlying granule assembly, regulation and function in Drosophila oogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sankaranarayanan
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EJ, U.K
| | - Timothy T Weil
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EJ, U.K
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31
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Pessina F, Gioia U, Brandi O, Farina S, Ceccon M, Francia S, d'Adda di Fagagna F. DNA Damage Triggers a New Phase in Neurodegeneration. Trends Genet 2020; 37:337-354. [PMID: 33020022 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2020.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Subcellular compartmentalization contributes to the organization of a plethora of molecular events occurring within cells. This can be achieved in membraneless organelles generated through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), a demixing process that separates and concentrates cellular reactions. RNA is often a critical factor in mediating LLPS. Recent evidence indicates that DNA damage response foci are membraneless structures formed via LLPS and modulated by noncoding transcripts synthesized at DNA damage sites. Neurodegeneration is often associated with DNA damage, and dysfunctional LLPS events can lead to the formation of toxic aggregates. In this review, we discuss those gene products involved in neurodegeneration that undergo LLPS and their involvement in the DNA damage response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Pessina
- IFOM Foundation - FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology Foundation, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Ubaldo Gioia
- IFOM Foundation - FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology Foundation, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Ornella Brandi
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare 'Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza' CNR - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefania Farina
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare 'Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza' CNR - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 27100 Pavia, Italy; University School for Advanced Studies IUSS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Marta Ceccon
- IFOM Foundation - FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology Foundation, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Sofia Francia
- IFOM Foundation - FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology Foundation, 20139 Milan, Italy; Istituto di Genetica Molecolare 'Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza' CNR - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio d'Adda di Fagagna
- IFOM Foundation - FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology Foundation, 20139 Milan, Italy; Istituto di Genetica Molecolare 'Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza' CNR - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
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32
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Abstract
It is increasingly recognized that local protein synthesis (LPS) contributes to fundamental aspects of axon biology, in both developing and mature neurons. Mutations in RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), as central players in LPS, and other proteins affecting RNA localization and translation are associated with a range of neurological disorders, suggesting disruption of LPS may be of pathological significance. In this review, we substantiate this hypothesis by examining the link between LPS and key axonal processes, and the implicated pathophysiological consequences of dysregulated LPS. First, we describe how the length and autonomy of axons result in an exceptional reliance on LPS. We next discuss the roles of LPS in maintaining axonal structural and functional polarity and axonal trafficking. We then consider how LPS facilitates the establishment of neuronal connectivity through regulation of axonal branching and pruning, how it mediates axonal survival into adulthood and its involvement in neuronal stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Qiaojin Lin
- UK Dementia Research Institute at University of Cambridge, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Island Research Building, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Christine E Holt
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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33
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Wu X, Cai Q, Feng Z, Zhang M. Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation in Neuronal Development and Synaptic Signaling. Dev Cell 2020; 55:18-29. [PMID: 32726576 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2020.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Formation of biomolecular condensates that are not enclosed by membranes via liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a general strategy that cells adopt to organize membraneless subcellular compartments for diverse functions. Neurons are highly polarized with elaborate branching and functional compartmentalization of their neurites, thus, raising additional demand for the proper subcellular localization of both membraneless and membrane-based organelles. Recent studies have provided evidence that several protein assemblies involved in the establishment of neuronal stem cell (NSC) polarity and in the asymmetric division of NSCs form distinct molecular condensates via LLPS. In synapses of adult neurons, molecular apparatuses controlling presynaptic neurotransmitter release and postsynaptic signaling transmission are also likely formed via LLPS. These molecular condensates, though not enclosed by lipid bilayers, directly associate with plasma membranes or membrane-based organelles, indicating that direct communication between membraneless and membrane-based organelles is a common theme in neurons and other types of cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiandeng Wu
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qixu Cai
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhe Feng
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Institute for Advanced Study, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mingjie Zhang
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Center of Systems Biology and Human Health, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
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34
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Sehgal PB, Westley J, Lerea KM, DiSenso-Browne S, Etlinger JD. Biomolecular condensates in cell biology and virology: Phase-separated membraneless organelles (MLOs). Anal Biochem 2020; 597:113691. [PMID: 32194074 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2020.113691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Membraneless organelles (MLOs) in the cytoplasm and nucleus in the form of 2D and 3D phase-separated biomolecular condensates are increasingly viewed as critical in regulating diverse cellular functions. These functions include cell signaling, immune synapse function, nuclear transcription, RNA splicing and processing, mRNA storage and translation, virus replication and maturation, antiviral mechanisms, DNA sensing, synaptic transmission, protein turnover and mitosis. Components comprising MLOs often associate with low affinity; thus cell integrity can be critical to the maintenance of the full complement of respective MLO components. Phase-separated condensates are typically metastable (shape-changing) and can undergo dramatic, rapid and reversible assembly and disassembly in response to cell signaling events, cell stress, during mitosis, and after changes in cytoplasmic "crowding" (as observed with condensates of the human myxovirus resistance protein MxA). Increasing evidence suggests that neuron-specific aberrations in phase-separation properties of RNA-binding proteins (e.g. FUS and TDP-43) and others (such as the microtubule-binding protein tau) contribute to the development of degenerative neurological diseases (e.g. amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, and Alzheimer's disease). Thus, studies of liquid-like phase separation (LLPS) and the formation, structure and function of MLOs are of considerable importance in understanding basic cell biology and the pathogenesis of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pravin B Sehgal
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA; Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA.
| | - Jenna Westley
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA
| | - Kenneth M Lerea
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA
| | - Susan DiSenso-Browne
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA; Department of Dental Medicine, Touro College of Dental Medicine, Hawthorne, NY, 10532, USA
| | - Joseph D Etlinger
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA
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35
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Toprakcioglu Z, Challa P, Xu C, Knowles TPJ. Label-Free Analysis of Protein Aggregation and Phase Behavior. ACS NANO 2019; 13:13940-13948. [PMID: 31738513 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b05552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Phase transitions of protein molecules are central to biological function and malfunction. One such transition commonly encountered in nature is the conversion of soluble monomeric states into solid phases, which include crystals and amyloid fibrils, the latter of which are associated with the onset and development of neurodegenerative diseases. Monitoring aggregate formation and protein phase behavior is essential in gaining mechanistic insights into these fundamental processes. Fluorescence techniques have proven invaluable in observing biological molecules; yet, most such approaches rely on the use of an extrinsic fluorophore that binds to the molecule of interest, the installation of which can perturb the molecular systems under study. However, most proteins also possess aromatic amino acids within their peptide sequence and therefore exhibit intrinsic fluorescence. Here, we show that by measuring in space and time tryptophan autofluorescence for three proteins, reconstituted silk fibroin, β-lactoglobulin, and lysozyme, fibrillar self-assembly can be monitored accurately and without the need for extrinsic dyes. When fibrillar protein self-assembly takes place, hydrophobic burial occurs, resulting in the minimization of exposed tryptophan residues to the solvent and consequently leading to an increase in protein autofluorescence. Moreover, by employing a droplet-microfluidic approach to confine protein self-assembly in space, we demonstrate that intrinsic fluorescence can be used to image protein nanofibrils in a label-free manner and that the microstructural analysis obtained from intrinsic fluorescence microscopy correlates well with that from samples treated with extrinsic dyes. Finally, our results show that protein autofluorescence is not limited to the observation of β-sheet-rich structures, but can also be used to distinguish between different types of solid phases including spherulites and crystals, making this approach suitable for overall characterization of protein phase transition phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zenon Toprakcioglu
- Department of Chemistry , University of Cambridge , Lensfield Road , CB2 1EW , Cambridge , U.K
| | - Pavankumar Challa
- Department of Chemistry , University of Cambridge , Lensfield Road , CB2 1EW , Cambridge , U.K
| | - Catherine Xu
- Department of Chemistry , University of Cambridge , Lensfield Road , CB2 1EW , Cambridge , U.K
| | - Tuomas P J Knowles
- Department of Chemistry , University of Cambridge , Lensfield Road , CB2 1EW , Cambridge , U.K
- Cavendish Laboratory , J J Thomson Avenue , CB3 OHE , Cambridge , U.K
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36
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Spannl S, Tereshchenko M, Mastromarco GJ, Ihn SJ, Lee HO. Biomolecular condensates in neurodegeneration and cancer. Traffic 2019; 20:890-911. [PMID: 31606941 DOI: 10.1111/tra.12704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The intracellular environment is partitioned into functionally distinct compartments containing specific sets of molecules and reactions. Biomolecular condensates, also referred to as membrane-less organelles, are diverse and abundant cellular compartments that lack membranous enclosures. Molecules assemble into condensates by phase separation; multivalent weak interactions drive molecules to separate from their surroundings and concentrate in discrete locations. Biomolecular condensates exist in all eukaryotes and in some prokaryotes, and participate in various essential house-keeping, stress-response and cell type-specific processes. An increasing number of recent studies link abnormal condensate formation, composition and material properties to a number of disease states. In this review, we discuss current knowledge and models describing the regulation of condensates and how they become dysregulated in neurodegeneration and cancer. Further research on the regulation of biomolecular phase separation will help us to better understand their role in cell physiology and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Spannl
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maria Tereshchenko
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Sean J Ihn
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hyun O Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Canada Research Chairs Program, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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37
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Dogra P, Joshi A, Majumdar A, Mukhopadhyay S. Intermolecular Charge-Transfer Modulates Liquid–Liquid Phase Separation and Liquid-to-Solid Maturation of an Intrinsically Disordered pH-Responsive Domain. J Am Chem Soc 2019; 141:20380-20389. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.9b10892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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38
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Gabryelczyk B, Cai H, Shi X, Sun Y, Swinkels PJM, Salentinig S, Pervushin K, Miserez A. Hydrogen bond guidance and aromatic stacking drive liquid-liquid phase separation of intrinsically disordered histidine-rich peptides. Nat Commun 2019; 10:5465. [PMID: 31784535 PMCID: PMC6884462 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-13469-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) is involved in both intracellular membraneless organelles and extracellular tissues. Despite growing understanding of LLPS, molecular-level mechanisms behind this process are still not fully established. Here, we use histidine-rich squid beak proteins (HBPs) as model IDPs to shed light on molecular interactions governing LLPS. We show that LLPS of HBPs is mediated though specific modular repeats. The morphology of separated phases (liquid-like versus hydrogels) correlates with the repeats' hydrophobicity. Solution-state NMR indicates that LLPS is a multistep process initiated by deprotonation of histidine residues, followed by transient hydrogen bonding with tyrosine, and eventually by hydrophobic interactions. The microdroplets are stabilized by aromatic clustering of tyrosine residues exhibiting restricted molecular mobility in the nano-to-microsecond timescale according to solid-state NMR experiments. Our findings provide guidelines to rationally design pH-responsive peptides with LLPS ability for various applications, including bioinspired protocells and smart drug-delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartosz Gabryelczyk
- Center for Biomimetic Sensor Science, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), 50 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637553, Singapore
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, Kemistintie 1, 02150, Espoo, Finland
| | - Hao Cai
- Center for Biomimetic Sensor Science, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), 50 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637553, Singapore
| | - Xiangyan Shi
- School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, NTU, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
| | - Yue Sun
- Center for Biomimetic Sensor Science, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), 50 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637553, Singapore
| | - Piet J M Swinkels
- Center for Biomimetic Sensor Science, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), 50 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637553, Singapore
- Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter, Wageningen University, 6708 WE, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Stefan Salentinig
- Laboratory for Biointerfaces, Department Materials Meet Life, EMPA, CH-9014, St-Gallen, Switzerland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Fribourg, Chemin du Musée 9, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Konstantin Pervushin
- School of Biological Sciences, NTU, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551, Singapore.
| | - Ali Miserez
- Center for Biomimetic Sensor Science, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), 50 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637553, Singapore.
- School of Biological Sciences, NTU, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551, Singapore.
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CPEB3 inhibits translation of mRNA targets by localizing them to P bodies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:18078-18087. [PMID: 31416913 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1815275116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein synthesis is crucial for the maintenance of long-term memory-related synaptic plasticity. The cytoplasmic polyadenylation element-binding protein 3 (CPEB3) regulates the translation of several mRNAs important for long-term synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. In previous studies, we found that the oligomerization and activity of CPEB3 are controlled by small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO)ylation. In the basal state, CPEB3 is SUMOylated; it is soluble and acts as a repressor of translation. Following neuronal stimulation, CPEB3 is de-SUMOylated; it now forms oligomers that are converted into an active form that promotes the translation of target mRNAs. To better understand how CPEB3 regulates the translation of its mRNA targets, we have examined CPEB3 subcellular localization. We found that basal, repressive CPEB3 is localized to membraneless cytoplasmic processing bodies (P bodies), subcellular compartments that are enriched in translationally repressed mRNA. This basal state is affected by the SUMOylation state of CPEB3. After stimulation, CPEB3 is recruited into polysomes, thus promoting the translation of its target mRNAs. Interestingly, when we examined CPEB3 recombinant protein in vitro, we found that CPEB3 phase separates when SUMOylated and binds to a specific mRNA target. These findings suggest a model whereby SUMO regulates the distribution, oligomerization, and activity of oligomeric CPEB3, a critical player in the persistence of memory.
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Ukmar-Godec T, Wegmann S, Zweckstetter M. Biomolecular condensation of the microtubule-associated protein tau. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2019; 99:202-214. [PMID: 31260737 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Cells contain multiple compartments dedicated to the regulation and control of biochemical reactions. Cellular compartments that are not surrounded by membranes can rapidly form and dissolve in response to changes in the cellular environment. The physicochemical processes that underlie the formation of non-membrane-bound compartments in vivo are connected to liquid-liquid phase separation of proteins and nucleic acids in vitro. Recent evidence suggests that the protein tau, which plays an important role in Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders, phase separates in solution, forms tau phases with microtubules, and associates with phase-separated RNA-binding protein granules in cells. Here we review the experimental evidence that supports the ability of tau to phase separate in solution and form biomolecular condensates in cells. As for other disease-relevant proteins, the physiological and pathological functions of tau are tightly connected - through loss of normal function or gain of toxic function - and we therefore discuss how tau phase separation plays a role for both, and with respect to different cellular functions of tau.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Ukmar-Godec
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Von-Siebold-Str. 3a, 37075, Göttingen, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, University of Göttingen, Waldweg 33, 37073, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Wegmann
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Chariteplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Markus Zweckstetter
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Von-Siebold-Str. 3a, 37075, Göttingen, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, University of Göttingen, Waldweg 33, 37073, Göttingen, Germany; Department for NMR-based Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Faßberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany.
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41
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Babinchak WM, Haider R, Dumm BK, Sarkar P, Surewicz K, Choi JK, Surewicz WK. The role of liquid-liquid phase separation in aggregation of the TDP-43 low-complexity domain. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:6306-6317. [PMID: 30814253 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra118.007222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological aggregation of the transactive response DNA-binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43) is associated with several neurodegenerative disorders, including ALS, frontotemporal dementia, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and Alzheimer's disease. TDP-43 aggregation appears to be largely driven by its low-complexity domain (LCD), which also has a high propensity to undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). However, the mechanism of TDP-43 LCD pathological aggregation and, most importantly, the relationship between the aggregation process and LLPS remains largely unknown. Here, we show that amyloid formation by the LCD is controlled by electrostatic repulsion. We also demonstrate that the liquid droplet environment strongly accelerates LCD fibrillation and that its aggregation under LLPS conditions involves several distinct events, culminating in rapid assembly of fibrillar aggregates that emanate from within mature liquid droplets. These combined results strongly suggest that LLPS may play a major role in pathological TDP-43 aggregation, contributing to pathogenesis in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Michael Babinchak
- From the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
| | - Raza Haider
- From the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
| | - Benjamin K Dumm
- From the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
| | - Prottusha Sarkar
- From the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
| | - Krystyna Surewicz
- From the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
| | - Jin-Kyu Choi
- From the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
| | - Witold K Surewicz
- From the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
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42
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An H, Skelt L, Notaro A, Highley JR, Fox AH, La Bella V, Buchman VL, Shelkovnikova TA. ALS-linked FUS mutations confer loss and gain of function in the nucleus by promoting excessive formation of dysfunctional paraspeckles. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2019; 7:7. [PMID: 30642400 PMCID: PMC6330737 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-019-0658-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the FUS gene cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS-FUS). Mutant FUS is known to confer cytoplasmic gain of function but its effects in the nucleus are less understood. FUS is an essential component of paraspeckles, subnuclear bodies assembled on a lncRNA NEAT1. Paraspeckles may play a protective role specifically in degenerating spinal motor neurons. However it is still unknown how endogenous levels of mutant FUS would affect NEAT1/paraspeckles. Using novel cell lines with the FUS gene modified by CRISPR/Cas9 and human patient fibroblasts, we found that endogenous levels of mutant FUS cause accumulation of NEAT1 isoforms and paraspeckles. However, despite only mild cytoplasmic mislocalisation of FUS, paraspeckle integrity is compromised in these cells, as confirmed by reduced interaction of mutant FUS with core paraspeckle proteins NONO and SFPQ and increased NEAT1 extractability. This results in NEAT1 localisation outside paraspeckles, especially prominent under conditions of paraspeckle-inducing stress. Consistently, paraspeckle-dependent microRNA production, a readout for functionality of paraspeckles, is impaired in cells expressing mutant FUS. In line with the cellular data, we observed paraspeckle hyper-assembly in spinal neurons of ALS-FUS patients. Therefore, despite largely preserving its nuclear localisation, mutant FUS leads to loss (dysfunctional paraspeckles) and gain (excess of free NEAT1) of function in the nucleus. Perturbed fine structure and functionality of paraspeckles accompanied by accumulation of non-paraspeckle NEAT1 may contribute to the disease severity in ALS-FUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan An
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX UK
| | - Lucy Skelt
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX UK
| | - Antonietta Notaro
- ALS Clinical Research Center and Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - J. Robin Highley
- The Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Sheffield, S10 2HQ UK
| | - Archa H. Fox
- School of Human Sciences, School of Molecular Sciences and Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009 Australia
| | - Vincenzo La Bella
- ALS Clinical Research Center and Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Vladimir L. Buchman
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX UK
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds RAS, Chernogolovka, Russian Federation 142432
| | - Tatyana A. Shelkovnikova
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX UK
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds RAS, Chernogolovka, Russian Federation 142432
- Medicines Discovery Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AT UK
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Relation Between Stress Granules and Cytoplasmic Protein Aggregates Linked to Neurodegenerative Diseases. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2018; 18:107. [DOI: 10.1007/s11910-018-0914-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Di Gregorio SE, Duennwald ML. ALS Yeast Models-Past Success Stories and New Opportunities. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:394. [PMID: 30425620 PMCID: PMC6218427 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past two decades, yeast models have delivered profound insights into basic mechanisms of protein misfolding and the dysfunction of key cellular pathways associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Expressing ALS-associated proteins, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD1), TAR DNA binding protein 43 (TDP-43) and Fused in sarcoma (FUS), in yeast recapitulates major hallmarks of ALS pathology, including protein aggregation, mislocalization and cellular toxicity. Results from yeast have consistently been recapitulated in other model systems and even specimens from human patients, thus providing evidence for the power and validity of ALS yeast models. Focusing on impaired ribonucleic acid (RNA) metabolism and protein misfolding and their cytotoxic consequences in ALS, we summarize exemplary discoveries that originated from work in yeast. We also propose previously unexplored experimental strategies to modernize ALS yeast models, which will help to decipher the basic pathomechanisms underlying ALS and thus, possibly contribute to finding a cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja E Di Gregorio
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Martin L Duennwald
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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Sharkey LM, Safren N, Pithadia AS, Gerson JE, Dulchavsky M, Fischer S, Patel R, Lantis G, Ashraf N, Kim JH, Meliki A, Minakawa EN, Barmada SJ, Ivanova MI, Paulson HL. Mutant UBQLN2 promotes toxicity by modulating intrinsic self-assembly. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E10495-E10504. [PMID: 30333186 PMCID: PMC6217421 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1810522115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
UBQLN2 is one of a family of proteins implicated in ubiquitin-dependent protein quality control and integrally tied to human neurodegenerative disease. Whereas wild-type UBQLN2 accumulates in intraneuronal deposits in several common age-related neurodegenerative diseases, mutations in the gene encoding this protein result in X-linked amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal dementia associated with TDP43 accumulation. Using in vitro protein analysis, longitudinal fluorescence imaging and cellular, neuronal, and transgenic mouse models, we establish that UBQLN2 is intrinsically prone to self-assemble into higher-order complexes, including liquid-like droplets and amyloid aggregates. UBQLN2 self-assembly and solubility are reciprocally modulated by the protein's ubiquitin-like and ubiquitin-associated domains. Moreover, a pathogenic UBQLN2 missense mutation impairs droplet dynamics and favors amyloid-like aggregation associated with neurotoxicity. These data emphasize the critical link between UBQLN2's role in ubiquitin-dependent pathways and its propensity to self-assemble and aggregate in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Sharkey
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
- Protein Folding Disease Initiative, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Nathaniel Safren
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Amit S Pithadia
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Julia E Gerson
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Mark Dulchavsky
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Svetlana Fischer
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Ronak Patel
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Gabrielle Lantis
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Naila Ashraf
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - John H Kim
- Biophysics Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Alia Meliki
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Eiko N Minakawa
- Department of Degenerative Neurological Diseases, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo 187-8502, Japan
| | - Sami J Barmada
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200;
- Protein Folding Disease Initiative, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Magdalena I Ivanova
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200;
- Protein Folding Disease Initiative, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
- Biophysics Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
| | - Henry L Paulson
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200;
- Protein Folding Disease Initiative, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
- Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200
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