Cellular functions of NSF: not just SNAPs and SNAREs

The Ever-Expanding Influence of the Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase

Nitric oxide (NO) generated by the endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) plays an essential role in the maintenance of vascular homeostasis and the prevention of vascular inflammation. There are a myriad of mechanisms that regulate the activity of the enzyme that may prove to represent interesting therapeutic opportunities. In this regard, the kinases that phosphorylate the enzyme and regulate its activity in situations linked to vascular disease seem to be particularly promising. Although the actions of NO were initially linked mainly to the activation of the guanylyl cyclase and the generation of cyclic GMP in vascular smooth muscle cells and platelets, it is now clear that NO elicits the majority of its actions via its ability to modify redox-activated cysteine residues in a process referred to as S-nitrosylation. The more wide spread use of mass spectrometry to detect S-nitrosylated proteins has helped to identify just how large the NO sphere of influence is and just how many cellular processes are affected. It may be an old target, but the sheer impact of eNOS on vascular health really justifies a revaluation of therapeutic options to maintain and protect its activity in situations associated with a high risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

PEX1G843D remains functional in peroxisome biogenesis but is rapidly degraded by the proteasome

The PEX1/PEX6 AAA-ATPase is required for the biogenesis and maintenance of peroxisomes. Mutations in HsPEX1 and HsPEX6 disrupt peroxisomal matrix protein import and are the leading cause of peroxisome biogenesis disorders. The most common disease-causing mutation in PEX1 is the HsPEX1G843D allele, which results in a reduction of peroxisomal protein import. Here, we demonstrate that the homologous yeast mutant, ScPex1G700D, reduces the stability of Pex1's active D2 ATPase domain and impairs assembly with Pex6 in vitro, but can still form an active AAA-ATPase motor. In vivo, ScPex1G700D exhibits only a slight defect in peroxisome import. We generated model human HsPEX1G843D cell lines and show that PEX1G843D is rapidly degraded by the proteasome, but that induced overexpression of PEX1G843D can restore peroxisome import. Additionally, we found that the G843D mutation reduces PEX1's affinity for PEX6, and that impaired assembly is sufficient to induce degradation of PEX1WT. Lastly, we found that fusing a deubiquitinase to PEX1G843D significantly hinders its degradation in mammalian cells. Altogether, our findings suggest a novel regulatory mechanism for PEX1/PEX6 hexamer assembly and highlight the potential of protein stabilization as a therapeutic strategy for peroxisome biogenesis disorders arising from the G843D mutation and other PEX1 hypomorphs.

PEX1G843D remains functional in peroxisome biogenesis but is rapidly degraded by the proteasome

The PEX1/PEX6 AAA-ATPase is required for the biogenesis and maintenance of peroxisomes. Mutations in HsPEX1 and HsPEX6 disrupt peroxisomal matrix protein import and are the leading cause of Peroxisome Biogenesis Disorders (PBDs). The most common disease-causing mutation in PEX1 is the HsPEX1G843D allele, which results in a reduction of peroxisomal protein import. Here we demonstrate that in vitro the homologous yeast mutant, ScPex1G700D, reduces the stability of Pex1's active D2 ATPase domain and impairs assembly with Pex6, but can still form an active AAA-ATPase motor. In vivo, ScPex1G700D exhibits only a slight defect in peroxisome import. We generated model human HsPEX1G843D cell lines and show that PEX1G843D is rapidly degraded by the proteasome, but that induced overexpression of PEX1G843D can restore peroxisome import. Additionally, we found that the G843D mutation reduces PEX1's affinity for PEX6, and that impaired assembly is sufficient to induce degradation of PEX1WT. Lastly, we found that fusing a deubiquitinase to PEX1G843D significantly hinders its degradation in mammalian cells. Altogether, our findings suggest a novel regulatory mechanism for PEX1/PEX6 hexamer assembly and highlight the potential of protein stabilization as a therapeutic strategy for PBDs arising from the G843D mutation and other PEX1 hypomorphs.

The role of synaptic protein NSF in the development and progression of neurological diseases

This document provides a comprehensive examination of the pivotal function of the N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) protein in synaptic function. The NSF protein directly participates in critical biological processes, including the cyclic movement of synaptic vesicles (SVs) between exocytosis and endocytosis, the release and transmission of neurotransmitters, and the development of synaptic plasticity through interactions with various proteins, such as SNARE proteins and neurotransmitter receptors. This review also described the multiple functions of NSF in intracellular membrane fusion events and its close associations with several neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and epilepsy. Subsequent studies should concentrate on determining high-resolution structures of NSF in different domains, identifying its specific alterations in various diseases, and screening small molecule regulators of NSF from multiple perspectives. These research endeavors aim to reveal new therapeutic targets associated with the biological functions of NSF and disease mechanisms.

A Drosophila model for mechanistic investigation of tau protein spread

Brain protein aggregates are a hallmark of neurodegenerative disease. Previous work indicates that specific protein components of these aggregates are toxic, including tau (encoded by MAPT) in Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. Increasing evidence also indicates that these toxic proteins traffic between cells in a prion-like fashion, thereby spreading pathology from one brain region to another. However, the mechanisms involved in trafficking are poorly understood. We therefore developed a transgenic Drosophila model to facilitate rapid evaluation of candidate tau trafficking modifiers. Our model uses the bipartite Q system to drive co-expression of tau and GFP in the fly eye. We found age-dependent spread of tau into the brain, represented by detection of tau, but not of GFP. We also found that tau trafficking was attenuated upon inhibition of the endocytic factor dynamin (encoded by shi) or knockdown of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β, encoded by sgg). Further work revealed that dynamin promoted tau uptake in recipient tissues, whereas GSK-3β appeared to promote tau spread via direct phosphorylation of tau. Our robust and flexible system will promote the identification of tau-trafficking components involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases.

Time-resolved interactome profiling deconvolutes secretory protein quality control dynamics

Many cellular processes are governed by protein-protein interactions that require tight spatial and temporal regulation. Accordingly, it is necessary to understand the dynamics of these interactions to fully comprehend and elucidate cellular processes and pathological disease states. To map de novo protein-protein interactions with time resolution at an organelle-wide scale, we developed a quantitative mass spectrometry method, time-resolved interactome profiling (TRIP). We apply TRIP to elucidate aberrant protein interaction dynamics that lead to the protein misfolding disease congenital hypothyroidism. We deconvolute altered temporal interactions of the thyroid hormone precursor thyroglobulin with pathways implicated in hypothyroidism pathophysiology, such as Hsp70-/90-assisted folding, disulfide/redox processing, and N-glycosylation. Functional siRNA screening identified VCP and TEX264 as key protein degradation components whose inhibition selectively rescues mutant prohormone secretion. Ultimately, our results provide novel insight into the temporal coordination of protein homeostasis, and our TRIP method should find broad applications in investigating protein-folding diseases and cellular processes.

A Drosophila model for mechanistic investigation of tau protein spread

Brain protein aggregates are a hallmark of neurodegenerative disease. Previous work indicates that specific protein components of these aggregates are toxic, including tau in Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. Increasing evidence also indicates that these toxic proteins traffic between cells in a prion-like fashion, thereby spreading pathology from one brain region to another. However, the mechanisms involved in trafficking are poorly understood. We therefore developed a transgenic Drosophila model to facilitate rapid evaluation of candidate tau trafficking modifiers. Our model uses the bipartite Q system to drive co-expression of tau and GFP in the fly eye. We find age-dependent tau spread into the brain, represented by detection of tau, but not GFP in the brain. We also found that tau trafficking was attenuated upon inhibition of the endocytic factor dynamin or the kinase glycogen synthase kinase-3β ( GSK-3β ). Further work revealed that dynamin promotes tau uptake in recipient tissues, whereas GSK-3β appears to promote tau spread via direct phosphorylation of tau. Our robust and flexible system will promote the identification of tau trafficking components involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases.

SUMMARY STATEMENT

The trafficking of toxic proteins in neurodegenerative disease is well-known but poorly understood. Our model will allow rapid and new insight into molecular mechanisms underlying this process.

Plasma Proteome-Wide Mendelian Randomization Analysis Reveals Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets for Different Stages of COVID-19

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has resulted in a global health crisis with significant morbidity and mortality. While effective vaccinations have been developed, drug treatments for the disease are still required, particularly for different stages of the disease and to combat evolving variants. Identifying reliable biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for the different stages of COVID-19 is crucial.

Methods

Mendelian randomization using the largest publicly available datasets was conducted to identify potential causal plasma proteins for severe COVID-19, hospitalized COVID-19, and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Independent, and strongly associated cis- or pan-pQTLs were used as instrumental variables for each protein. The FDR q-value was used to correct for multiple testing followed by sensitivity analyses, reverse MR and genetic colocalization to ensure the robustness of the results.

Results

We identified proteins with strong evidence of causal association with different stages of COVID-19. Some of these proteins were identified previously, such as BGAT and BCAT2, but we also identified the novel proteins, such as KLC1, MRVI1, CACO2, and PCNP.

Conclusion

These proteins provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of COVID-19. The identification of these proteins offers new opportunities for developing potential therapeutic targets or biomarkers for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19.

Initial Molecular Mechanisms of the Pathogenesis of Parkinson's Disease in a Mouse Neurotoxic Model of the Earliest Preclinical Stage of This Disease

Studying the initial molecular mechanisms of the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD), primarily in the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system, is one of the priorities in neurology. Of particular interest is elucidating these mechanisms in the preclinical stage of PD, which lasts decades before diagnosis and is therefore not available for study in patients. Therefore, our main goal was to study the initial molecular mechanisms of the pathogenesis of PD in the striatum, the key center for dopamine regulation in motor function, in a mouse model of the earliest preclinical stage of PD, from 1 to 24 h after the administration of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). It was shown that the content of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the first enzyme in dopamine synthesis, does not change within 6 h after the administration of MPTP, but decreases after 24 h. In turn, TH activity increases after 1 h, decreases after 3 h, remains at the control level after 6 h, and decreases 24 h after the administration of MPTP. The concentration of dopamine in the striatum gradually decreases after MPTP administration, despite a decrease in its degradation. The identified initial molecular mechanisms of PD pathogenesis are considered as potential targets for the development of preventive neuroprotective treatment.

Host antiviral factors hijack furin to block SARS-CoV-2, ebola virus, and HIV-1 glycoproteins cleavage

Viral envelope glycoproteins are crucial for viral infections. In the process of enveloped viruses budding and release from the producer cells, viral envelope glycoproteins are presented on the viral membrane surface as spikes, promoting the virus's next-round infection of target cells. However, the host cells evolve counteracting mechanisms in the long-term virus-host co-evolutionary processes. For instance, the host cell antiviral factors could potently suppress viral replication by targeting their envelope glycoproteins through multiple channels, including their intracellular synthesis, glycosylation modification, assembly into virions, and binding to target cell receptors. Recently, a group of studies discovered that some host antiviral proteins specifically recognized host proprotein convertase (PC) furin and blocked its cleavage of viral envelope glycoproteins, thus impairing viral infectivity. Here, in this review, we briefly summarize several such host antiviral factors and analyze their roles in reducing furin cleavage of viral envelope glycoproteins, aiming at providing insights for future antiviral studies.

Analysis of ADORA2A, MTA1, PTGDS, PTGS2, NSF, and HNMT Gene Expression Levels in Peripheral Blood of Patients with Early Stages of Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common chronic, age-related neurodegenerative disease. This disease is characterized by a long prodromal period. In this context, it is important to search for the genes and mechanisms that are involved in the development of the pathological process in the earliest stages of the disease. Published data suggest that blood cells, particularly lymphocytes, may be a model for studying the processes that occur in the brain in PD. Thus, in the present work, we performed an analysis of changes in the expression of the genes ADORA2A, MTA1, PTGDS, PTGS2, NSF, and HNMT in the peripheral blood of patients with early stages of PD (stages 1 and 2 of the Hoehn-Yahr scale). We found significant and PD-specific expression changes of four genes, i.e., MTA1, PTGS2, NSF, and HNMT, in the peripheral blood of patients with early stages of PD. These genes may be associated with PD pathogenesis in the early clinical stages and can be considered as potential candidate genes for this disease. Altered expression of the ADORA2A gene in treated PD patients may indicate that this gene is involved in processes affected by antiparkinsonian therapy.

Early Endosomes Act as Local Exocytosis Hubs to Repair Endothelial Membrane Damage

The plasma membrane of a cell is subject to stresses causing ruptures that must be repaired immediately to preserve membrane integrity and ensure cell survival. Yet, the spatio-temporal membrane dynamics at the wound site and the source of the membrane required for wound repair are poorly understood. Here, it is shown that early endosomes, previously only known to function in the uptake of extracellular material and its endocytic transport, are involved in plasma membrane repair in human endothelial cells. Using live-cell imaging and correlative light and electron microscopy, it is demonstrated that membrane injury triggers a previously unknown exocytosis of early endosomes that is induced by Ca²⁺ entering through the wound. This exocytosis is restricted to the vicinity of the wound site and mediated by the endosomal soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) VAMP2, which is crucial for efficient membrane repair. Thus, the newly identified Ca²⁺ -evoked and localized exocytosis of early endosomes supplies the membrane material required for rapid resealing of a damaged plasma membrane, thereby providing the first line of defense against damage in mechanically challenged endothelial cells.

Molecular determinants of acrylamide neurotoxicity through covalent docking

Acrylamide (ACR) is formed during food processing by Maillard reaction between sugars and proteins at high temperatures. It is also used in many industries, from water waste treatment to manufacture of paper, fabrics, dyes and cosmetics. Unfortunately, cumulative exposure to acrylamide, either from diet or at the workplace, may result in neurotoxicity. Such adverse effects arise from covalent adducts formed between acrylamide and cysteine residues of several neuronal proteins via a Michael addition reaction. The molecular determinants of acrylamide reactivity and its impact on protein function are not completely understood. Here we have compiled a list of acrylamide protein targets reported so far in the literature in connection with neurotoxicity and performed a systematic covalent docking study. Our results indicate that acrylamide binding to cysteine is favored in the presence of nearby positively charged amino acids, such as lysines and arginines. For proteins with more than one reactive Cys, docking scores were able to discriminate between the primary ACR modification site and secondary sites modified only at high ACR concentrations. Therefore, docking scores emerge as a potential filter to predict Cys reactivity against acrylamide. Inspection of the ACR-protein complex structures provides insights into the putative functional consequences of ACR modification, especially for non-enzyme proteins. Based on our study, covalent docking is a promising computational tool to predict other potential protein targets mediating acrylamide neurotoxicity.

SNARE Proteins in Synaptic Vesicle Fusion

Neurotransmitters are stored in small membrane-bound vesicles at synapses; a subset of synaptic vesicles is docked at release sites. Fusion of docked vesicles with the plasma membrane releases neurotransmitters. Membrane fusion at synapses, as well as all trafficking steps of the secretory pathway, is mediated by SNARE proteins. The SNAREs are the minimal fusion machinery. They zipper from N-termini to membrane-anchored C-termini to form a 4-helix bundle that forces the apposed membranes to fuse. At synapses, the SNAREs comprise a single helix from syntaxin and synaptobrevin; SNAP-25 contributes the other two helices to complete the bundle. Unc13 mediates synaptic vesicle docking and converts syntaxin into the permissive "open" configuration. The SM protein, Unc18, is required to initiate and proofread SNARE assembly. The SNAREs are then held in a half-zippered state by synaptotagmin and complexin. Calcium removes the synaptotagmin and complexin block, and the SNAREs drive vesicle fusion. After fusion, NSF and alpha-SNAP unwind the SNAREs and thereby recharge the system for further rounds of fusion. In this chapter, we will describe the discovery of the SNAREs, their relevant structural features, models for their function, and the central role of Unc18. In addition, we will touch upon the regulation of SNARE complex formation by Unc13, complexin, and synaptotagmin.

mRNA Localization to the Endoplasmic Reticulum in Plant Endosperm Cells

Subcellular mRNA localization is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism to spatially and temporally drive local translation and, in turn, protein targeting. Hence, this mechanism achieves precise control of gene expression and establishes functional and structural networks during cell growth and development as well as during stimuli response. Since its discovery in ascidian eggs, mRNA localization has been extensively studied in animal and yeast cells. Although our knowledge of subcellular mRNA localization in plant cells lags considerably behind other biological systems, mRNA localization to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) has also been well established since its discovery in cereal endosperm cells in the early 1990s. Storage protein mRNA targeting to distinct subdomains of the ER determines efficient accumulation of the corresponding proteins in different endosomal storage sites and, in turn, underlies storage organelle biogenesis in cereal grains. The targeting process requires the presence of RNA localization elements, also called zipcodes, and specific RNA-binding proteins that recognize and bind these zipcodes and recruit other factors to mediate active transport. Here, we review the current knowledge of the mechanisms and functions of mRNA localization to the ER in plant cells and address directions for future research.

Vesicle trafficking and vesicle fusion: mechanisms, biological functions, and their implications for potential disease therapy

Intracellular vesicle trafficking is the fundamental process to maintain the homeostasis of membrane-enclosed organelles in eukaryotic cells. These organelles transport cargo from the donor membrane to the target membrane through the cargo containing vesicles. Vesicle trafficking pathway includes vesicle formation from the donor membrane, vesicle transport, and vesicle fusion with the target membrane. Coat protein mediated vesicle formation is a delicate membrane budding process for cargo molecules selection and package into vesicle carriers. Vesicle transport is a dynamic and specific process for the cargo containing vesicles translocation from the donor membrane to the target membrane. This process requires a group of conserved proteins such as Rab GTPases, motor adaptors, and motor proteins to ensure vesicle transport along cytoskeletal track. Soluble N-ethyl-maleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) attachment protein receptors (SNARE)-mediated vesicle fusion is the final process for vesicle unloading the cargo molecules at the target membrane. To ensure vesicle fusion occurring at a defined position and time pattern in eukaryotic cell, multiple fusogenic proteins, such as synaptotagmin (Syt), complexin (Cpx), Munc13, Munc18 and other tethering factors, cooperate together to precisely regulate the process of vesicle fusion. Dysfunctions of the fusogenic proteins in SNARE-mediated vesicle fusion are closely related to many diseases. Recent studies have suggested that stimulated membrane fusion can be manipulated pharmacologically via disruption the interface between the SNARE complex and Ca²⁺ sensor protein. Here, we summarize recent insights into the molecular mechanisms of vesicle trafficking, and implications for the development of new therapeutics based on the manipulation of vesicle fusion.

Insights into the Structure and Function of the Pex1/Pex6 AAA-ATPase in Peroxisome Homeostasis

The AAA-ATPases Pex1 and Pex6 are required for the formation and maintenance of peroxisomes, membrane-bound organelles that harbor enzymes for specialized metabolism. Together, Pex1 and Pex6 form a heterohexameric AAA-ATPase capable of unfolding substrate proteins via processive threading through a central pore. Here, we review the proposed roles for Pex1/Pex6 in peroxisome biogenesis and degradation, discussing how the unfolding of potential substrates contributes to peroxisome homeostasis. We also consider how advances in cryo-EM, computational structure prediction, and mechanisms of related ATPases are improving our understanding of how Pex1/Pex6 converts ATP hydrolysis into mechanical force. Since mutations in PEX1 and PEX6 cause the majority of known cases of peroxisome biogenesis disorders such as Zellweger syndrome, insights into Pex1/Pex6 structure and function are important for understanding peroxisomes in human health and disease.

Functional Screening of Parkinson's Disease Susceptibility Genes to Identify Novel Modulators of α-Synuclein Neurotoxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans

Idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by progressive loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons during aging. The pathological hallmark of PD is the Lewy body detected in postmortem brain tissue, which is mainly composed of aggregated α-Synuclein (αSyn). However, it is estimated that 90% of PD cases have unknown pathogenetic triggers. Here, we generated a new transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans PD model eraIs1 expressing green fluorescent protein- (GFP-) based reporter of human αSyn in DA neurons, and exhibited a nice readout of the developed αSyn inclusions in DA neurons, leading to their degeneration during aging. Using these animals in a preliminary reverse genetic screening of >100-PD genome-wide association study- (GWAS-) based susceptibility genes, we identified 28 orthologs of C. elegans and their inactivation altered the phenotype of eraIs1; 10 knockdowns exhibited reduced penetrance of αSyn:Venus inclusions formed in the axons of cephalic (CEP) DA neurons, 18 knockdowns exhibited increased penetrance of disrupted CEP dendrite integrity among which nine knockdowns also exhibited disrupted neuronal morphology independent of the expressed αSyn reporter. Loss-of-function alleles of the five identified genes, such as sac-2, rig-6 or lfe-2, unc-43, and nsf-1, modulated the corresponding eraIs1 phenotype, respectively, and supported the RNA interference (RNAi) data. The Western blot analysis showed that the levels of insoluble αSyn:Venus were not correlated with the observed phenotypes in these mutants. However, RNAi of 12 identified modulators reduced the formation of pro-aggregating polyglutamine Q40:YFP foci in muscle cells, suggesting the possible role of these genes in cellular proteotoxicity. Therefore, modulators identified by their associated biological pathways, such as calcium signaling or vesicular trafficking, represent new potential therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative proteopathies and other diseases associated with aging.

Detection of rare nematode resistance Rhg1 haplotypes in Glycine soja and a novel Rhg1 α-SNAP

This study pursued the hypothesis that wild plant germplasm accessions carrying alleles of interest can be identified using available single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotypes for particular alleles of other (unlinked) genes that contribute to the trait of interest. The soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines [HG]) resistance locus Rhg1 is widely used in farmed soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. The two known resistance-conferring haplotypes, rhg1-a and rhg1-b, typically contain three or seven to 10 tandemly duplicated Rhg1 segments, respectively. Each Rhg1 repeat carries four genes, including Glyma.18G022500, which encodes unusual isoforms of the vesicle-trafficking chaperone α-SNAP. Using SoySNP50K data for NSFRAN07 allele presence, we discovered a new Rhg1 haplotype, rhg1-ds, in six accessions of wild soybean, Glycine soja Siebold & Zucc. (0.5% of the ∼1,100 G. soja accessions in the USDA collection). The α-SNAP encoded by rhg1-ds is unique at an important site of amino acid variation and shares with the rhg1-a and rhg1-b α-SNAP proteins the traits of cytotoxicity and altered N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor (NSF) protein interaction. Copy number assays indicate three repeats of rhg1-ds. G. soja PI 507613 and PI 507623 exhibit resistance to HG type 2.5.7 SCN populations, in part because of contributions from other loci. In a segregating F2 population, rhg1-b and rhg1-ds made statistically indistinguishable contributions to resistance to a partially virulent HG type 2.5.7 SCN population. Hence, the unusual multigene copy number variation Rhg1 haplotype was present but rare in ancestral G. soja and was present in accessions that offer multiple traits for SCN resistance breeding. The accessions were initially identified for study based on an unlinked SNP.

Alpha-Soluble NSF Attachment Protein Prevents the Cleavage of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein by Functioning as an Interferon-Upregulated Furin Inhibitor

Loss of the furin cleavage motif in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein reduces the virulence and transmission of SARS-CoV-2, suggesting that furin is an attractive antiviral drug target. However, lack of understanding of the regulation of furin activity has largely limited the development of furin-based therapeutic strategies. Here, we find that alpha-soluble NSF attachment protein (α-SNAP), an indispensable component of vesicle trafficking machinery, inhibits the cleavage of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and other furin-dependent virus glycoproteins. SARS-CoV-2 infection increases the expression of α-SNAP, and overexpression of α-SNAP reduces SARS-CoV-2 infection in cells. We further reveal that α-SNAP is an interferon-upregulated furin inhibitor that inhibits furin function by interacting with its P domain. Our study demonstrates that α-SNAP, in addition to its role in vesicle trafficking, plays an important role in the host defense against furin-dependent virus infection and therefore could be a target for the development of therapeutic options for COVID-19. IMPORTANCE Some key mutations of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, such as D614G and P681R mutations, increase the transmission or pathogenicity by enhancing the cleavage efficacy of spike protein by furin. Loss of the furin cleavage motif of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein reduces the virulence and transmission, suggesting that furin is an attractive antiviral drug target. However, lack of understanding of the regulation of furin activity has largely limited the development of furin-based therapeutic strategies. Here, we found that in addition to its canonical role in vesicle trafficking, alpha-soluble NSF attachment protein (α-SNAP) plays an important role in the host defense against furin-dependent virus infection. we identified that α-SNAP is a novel interferon-upregulated furin inhibitor and inhibits the cleavage of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and other furin-dependent virus glycoproteins by interacting with P domain of furin. Our study demonstrates that α-SNAP could be a target for the development of therapeutic options for COVID-19.

Alpha-synuclein and cortico-striatal plasticity in animal models of Parkinson disease

Alpha-synuclein (α-synuclein) is a small, acidic protein containing 140 amino acids, highly expressed in the brain and primarily localized in the presynaptic terminals. It is found in high concentrations in Lewy Bodies, proteinaceous aggregates that constitute a typical histopathologic hallmark of Parkinson's disease. Altered environmental conditions, genetic mutations and post-translational changes can trigger abnormal aggregation processes with the increased frequency of oligomers, protofibrils, and fibrils formation that perturbs the neuronal homeostasis leading to cell death. Relevant to neuronal activity, a function of α-synuclein that has been extensively detailed is its regulatory actions in the trafficking of synaptic vesicles, including the processes of exocytosis, endocytosis and neurotransmitter release. Most recently, increasing attention has been paid to the possible role that α-synuclein plays at a postsynaptic level by interacting with selective subunits of the glutamate N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor, altering the corticostriatal plasticity of distinct neuronal populations.

Does GEC1 Enhance Expression and Forward Trafficking of the Kappa Opioid Receptor (KOR) via Its Ability to Interact with NSF Directly?

We reported previously that GEC1 (glandular epithelial cell 1), a member of microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs), interacted directly with the C-tail of KOR (KCT) and tubulin and enhanced cell surface expression of KOR in CHO cells by facilitating its trafficking along the export pathway. Two GEC1 analogs (GABARAP and GATE16) were also shown to increase KOR expression. In addition, to understand the underlying mechanism, we demonstrated that N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF), an essential component for membrane fusion, co-immunoprecipitated with GEC1 from brain extracts. In this study, using pull-down techniques, we have found that (1) GEC1 interacts with NSF directly and prefers the ADP-bound NSF to the ATP-bound NSF; (2) D1 and/or D2 domain(s) of NSF interact with GEC1, but the N domain of NSF does not; (3) NSF does not interact with KCT directly, but forms a protein complex with KCT via GEC1; (4) NSF and/or α-SNAP do not affect KCT-GEC1 interaction. Thus, GEC1 (vs the α-SNAP/SNAREs complex) binds to NSF in distinctive ways in terms of the ADP- or ATP-bound form and domains of NSF involved. In conclusion, GEC1 may, via its direct interactions with KOR, NSF, and tubulin, enhance trafficking and fusion of KOR-containing vesicles selectively along the export pathway, which leads to increase in surface expression of KOR. GABARAP and GATE16 may enhance KOR expression in a similar way.

LRRK2 along the Golgi and lysosome connection: a jamming situation

Parkinson's disease (PD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder, clinically characterized by bradykinesia, rigidity, and resting tremor. Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2 (LRRK2) is a large, multidomain protein containing two enzymatic domains. Missense mutations in its coding sequence are amongst the most common causes of familial PD. The physiological and pathological impact of LRRK2 is still obscure, but accumulating evidence supports a role for LRRK2 in membrane and vesicle trafficking, mainly functioning in the endosome-recycling system, (synaptic) vesicle trafficking, autophagy, and lysosome biology. LRRK2 binds and phosphorylates key regulators of the endomembrane systems and is dynamically localized at the Golgi. The impact of LRRK2 on the Golgi may reverberate throughout the entire endomembrane system and occur in multiple intersecting pathways, including endocytosis, autophagy, and lysosomal function. This would lead to overall dysregulation of cellular homeostasis and protein catabolism, leading to neuronal dysfunction and accumulation of toxic protein species, thus underlying the possible neurotoxic effect of LRRK2 mutations causing PD.

Identification of Celecoxib-Targeted Proteins Using Label-Free Thermal Proteome Profiling on Rat Hippocampus

Celecoxib, or Celebrex, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is one of the most common medicines for treating inflammatory diseases. Recently, it has been shown that celecoxib is associated with implications in complex diseases, such as Alzheimer disease and cancer as well as with cardiovascular risk assessment and toxicity, suggesting that celecoxib may affect multiple unknown targets. In this project, we detected targets of celecoxib within the nervous system using a label-free thermal proteome profiling method. First, proteins of the rat hippocampus were treated with multiple drug concentrations and temperatures. Next, we separated the soluble proteins from the denatured and sedimented total protein load by ultracentrifugation. Subsequently, the soluble proteins were analyzed by nano-liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to determine the identity of the celecoxib-targeted proteins based on structural changes by thermal stability variation of targeted proteins toward higher solubility in the higher temperatures. In the analysis of the soluble protein extract at 67°C, 44 proteins were uniquely detected in drug-treated samples out of all 478 identified proteins at this temperature. Ras-associated binding protein 4a, 1 out of these 44 proteins, has previously been reported as one of the celecoxib off targets in the rat central nervous system. Furthermore, we provide more molecular details through biomedical enrichment analysis to explore the potential role of all detected proteins in the biologic systems. We show that the determined proteins play a role in the signaling pathways related to neurodegenerative disease-and cancer pathways. Finally, we fill out molecular supporting evidence for using celecoxib toward the drug-repurposing approach by exploring drug targets. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study determined 44 off-target proteins of celecoxib, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory and one of the most common medicines for treating inflammatory diseases. It shows that these proteins play a role in the signaling pathways related to neurodegenerative disease and cancer pathways. Finally, the study provides molecular supporting evidence for using celecoxib toward the drug-repurposing approach by exploring drug targets.

LRRK2 and the Endolysosomal System in Parkinson's Disease

Mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) cause autosomal dominant familial Parkinson’s disease (PD), with pathogenic mutations enhancing LRRK2 kinase activity. There is a growing body of evidence indicating that LRRK2 contributes to neuronal damage and pathology both in familial and sporadic PD, making it of particular interest for understanding the molecular pathways that underlie PD. Although LRRK2 has been extensively studied to date, our understanding of the seemingly diverse functions of LRRK2 throughout the cell remains incomplete. In this review, we discuss the functions of LRRK2 within the endolysosomal pathway. Endocytosis, vesicle trafficking pathways, and lysosomal degradation are commonly disrupted in many neurodegenerative diseases, including PD. Additionally, many PD-linked gene products function in these intersecting pathways, suggesting an important role for the endolysosomal system in maintaining protein homeostasis and neuronal health in PD. LRRK2 activity can regulate synaptic vesicle endocytosis, lysosomal function, Golgi network maintenance and sorting, vesicular trafficking and autophagy, with alterations in LRRK2 kinase activity serving to disrupt or regulate these pathways depending on the distinct cell type or model system. LRRK2 is critically regulated by at least two proteins in the endolysosomal pathway, Rab29 and VPS35, which may serve as master regulators of LRRK2 kinase activity. Investigating the function and regulation of LRRK2 in the endolysosomal pathway in diverse PD models, especially in vivo models, will provide critical insight into the cellular and molecular pathophysiological mechanisms driving PD and whether LRRK2 represents a viable drug target for disease-modification in familial and sporadic PD.

Protease protection assays show polypeptide movement into the SecY channel by power strokes of the SecA ATPase

Bacterial secretory proteins are translocated post-translationally by the SecA ATPase through the protein-conducting SecY channel in the plasma membrane. During the ATP hydrolysis cycle, SecA undergoes large conformational changes of its two-helix finger and clamp domains, but how these changes result in polypeptide movement is unclear. Here, we use a reconstituted purified system and protease protection assays to show that ATP binding to SecA results in a segment of the translocation substrate being pushed into the channel. This motion is prevented by mutation of conserved residues at the finger's tip. Mutation of SecA's clamp causes backsliding of the substrate in the ATP-bound state. Together, these data support a power stroke model of translocation in which, upon ATP binding, the two-helix finger pushes the substrate into the channel, where it is held by the clamp until nucleotide hydrolysis has occurred.

Zipcode RNA-Binding Proteins and Membrane Trafficking Proteins Cooperate to Transport Glutelin mRNAs in Rice Endosperm

In rice (Oryza sativa) endosperm cells, mRNAs encoding glutelin and prolamine are translated on distinct cortical-endoplasmic reticulum (ER) subdomains (the cisternal-ER and protein body-ER), a process that facilitates targeting of their proteins to different endomembrane compartments. Although the cis- and trans-factors responsible for mRNA localization have been defined over the years, how these mRNAs are transported to the cortical ER has yet to be resolved. Here, we show that the two interacting glutelin zipcode RNA binding proteins (RBPs), RBP-P and RBP-L, form a quaternary complex with the membrane fusion factors n-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) and the small GTPase Rab5a, enabling mRNA transport on endosomes. Direct interaction of RBP-L with Rab5a, between NSF and RBP-P, and between NSF and Rab5a, were established. Biochemical and microscopic analyses confirmed the co-localization of these RBPs with NSF on Rab5a-positive endosomes that carry glutelin mRNAs. Analysis of a loss-of-function rab5a mutant showed that glutelin mRNA and the quaternary complex were mis-targeted to the extracellular paramural body structure formed by aborted endosomal trafficking, further confirming the involvement of endosomal trafficking in glutelin mRNA transport. Overall, these findings demonstrate that mRNA localization in plants co-opts membrane trafficking via the acquisition of new functional binding properties between RBPs and two essential membrane trafficking factors, thus defining an endosomal anchoring mechanism in mRNA localization.

Insights into the heparan sulphate-dependent externalisation of transglutaminase-2 (TG2) in glucose-stimulated proximal-like tubular epithelial cells

The extracellular matrix crosslinking enzyme transglutaminase 2 (TG2) is highly implicated in tissue fibrosis that precedes end-stage kidney failure. TG2 is unconventionally secreted through extracellular vesicles in a way that depends on the heparan sulphate (HS) proteoglycan syndecan-4 (Sdc4), the deletion of which reduces experimental kidney fibrosis as a result of lower extracellular TG2 in the tubule-interstitium. Here we establish a model of TG2 externalisation in NRK-52E tubular epithelial cells subjected to glucose stress. HS-binding TG2 mutants had reduced extracellular TG2 in transfected NRK-52E, suggesting that TG2-externalisation depends on an intact TG2 heparin binding site. Inhibition of N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor (NSF) vesicle-fusing ATPase, which was identified in the recently elucidated TG2 kidney membrane-interactome, led to significantly lower TG2-externalisation, thus validating the involvement of membrane fusion in TG2 secretion. As cyclin-G-associated kinase (GAK) had emerged as a further TG2-partner in the fibrotic kidney, we investigated whether glucose-induced TG2-externalisation was accompanied by TG2 phosphorylation in consensus sequences of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK). Glucose stress led to intense TG2 phosphorylation in serine/threonine CDK-target. TG2 phosphorylation by tyrosine kinases was also increased by glucose. Although the precise role of glucose-induced TG2 phosphorylation is unknown, these novel data suggest that phosphorylation may be involved in TG2 membrane-trafficking.

Skeletal muscle: A review of molecular structure and function, in health and disease

Decades of research in skeletal muscle physiology have provided multiscale insights into the structural and functional complexity of this important anatomical tissue, designed to accomplish the task of generating contraction, force and movement. Skeletal muscle can be viewed as a biomechanical device with various interacting components including the autonomic nerves for impulse transmission, vasculature for efficient oxygenation, and embedded regulatory and metabolic machinery for maintaining cellular homeostasis. The "omics" revolution has propelled a new era in muscle research, allowing us to discern minute details of molecular cross-talk required for effective coordination between the myriad interacting components for efficient muscle function. The objective of this review is to provide a systems-level, comprehensive mapping the molecular mechanisms underlying skeletal muscle structure and function, in health and disease. We begin this review with a focus on molecular mechanisms underlying muscle tissue development (myogenesis), with an emphasis on satellite cells and muscle regeneration. We next review the molecular structure and mechanisms underlying the many structural components of the muscle: neuromuscular junction, sarcomere, cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix, and vasculature surrounding muscle. We highlight aberrant molecular mechanisms and their possible clinical or pathophysiological relevance. We particularly emphasize the impact of environmental stressors (inflammation and oxidative stress) in contributing to muscle pathophysiology including atrophy, hypertrophy, and fibrosis. This article is categorized under: Physiology > Mammalian Physiology in Health and Disease Developmental Biology > Developmental Processes in Health and Disease Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Cellular Models.

Identification of Novel Adenylyl Cyclase 5 (AC5) Signaling Networks in D1 and D2 Medium Spiny Neurons using Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation Screening

Adenylyl cyclase type 5 (AC5), as the principal isoform expressed in striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs), is essential for the integration of both stimulatory and inhibitory midbrain signals that initiate from dopaminergic G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) activation. The spatial and temporal control of cAMP signaling is dependent upon the composition of local regulatory protein networks. However, there is little understanding of how adenylyl cyclase protein interaction networks adapt to the multifarious pressures of integrating acute versus chronic and inhibitory vs. stimulatory receptor signaling in striatal MSNs. Here, we presented the development of a novel bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC)-based protein-protein interaction screening methodology to further identify and characterize elements important for homeostatic control of dopamine-modulated AC5 signaling in a neuronal model cell line and striatal MSNs. We identified two novel AC5 modulators: the protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) catalytic subunit (PPP2CB) and the intracellular trafficking associated protein-NSF (N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor) attachment protein alpha (NAPA). The effects of genetic knockdown (KD) of each gene were evaluated in several cellular models, including D₁- and D₂-dopamine receptor-expressing MSNs from CAMPER mice. The knockdown of PPP2CB was associated with a reduction in acute and sensitized adenylyl cyclase activity, implicating PP2A is an important and persistent regulator of adenylyl cyclase activity. In contrast, the effects of NAPA knockdown were more nuanced and appeared to involve an activity-dependent protein interaction network. Taken together, these data represent a novel screening method and workflow for the identification and validation of adenylyl cyclase protein-protein interaction networks under diverse cAMP signaling paradigms.

A small-molecule competitive inhibitor of phosphatidic acid binding by the AAA+ protein NSF/Sec18 blocks the SNARE-priming stage of vacuole fusion

The homeostasis of most organelles requires membrane fusion mediated by soluble N -ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) attachment protein receptors (SNAREs). SNAREs undergo cycles of activation and deactivation as membranes move through the fusion cycle. At the top of the cycle, inactive cis-SNARE complexes on a single membrane are activated, or primed, by the hexameric ATPase associated with the diverse cellular activities (AAA+) protein, N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF/Sec18), and its co-chaperone α-SNAP/Sec17. Sec18-mediated ATP hydrolysis drives the mechanical disassembly of SNAREs into individual coils, permitting a new cycle of fusion. Previously, we found that Sec18 monomers are sequestered away from SNAREs by binding phosphatidic acid (PA). Sec18 is released from the membrane when PA is hydrolyzed to diacylglycerol by the PA phosphatase Pah1. Although PA can inhibit SNARE priming, it binds other proteins and thus cannot be used as a specific tool to further probe Sec18 activity. Here, we report the discovery of a small-molecule compound, we call IPA (inhibitor of priming activity), that binds Sec18 with high affinity and blocks SNARE activation. We observed that IPA blocks SNARE priming and competes for PA binding to Sec18. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that IPA induces a more rigid NSF/Sec18 conformation, which potentially disables the flexibility required for Sec18 to bind to PA or to activate SNAREs. We also show that IPA more potently and specifically inhibits NSF/Sec18 activity than does N-ethylmaleimide, requiring the administration of only low micromolar concentrations of IPA, demonstrating that this compound could help to further elucidate SNARE-priming dynamics.

A connection between reversible tyrosine phosphorylation and SNARE complex disassembly activity of N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor unveiled by the phosphomimetic mutant N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor-Y83E

N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) disassembles fusion-incompetent cis soluble-NSF attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complexes making monomeric SNAREs available for subsequent trans pairing and fusion. In most cells the activity of NSF is constitutive, but in Jurkat cells and sperm it is repressed by tyrosine phosphorylation; the phosphomimetic mutant NSF–Y83E inhibits secretion in the former. The questions addressed here are if and how the NSF mutant influences the configuration of the SNARE complex. Our model is human sperm, where the initiation of exocytosis (acrosome reaction (AR)) de-represses the activity of NSF through protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B)-mediated dephosphorylation. We developed a fluorescence microscopy-based method to show that capacitation increased, and challenging with an AR inducer decreased, the number of cells with tyrosine-phosphorylated PTP1B substrates in the acrosomal domain. Results from bioinformatic and biochemical approaches using purified recombinant proteins revealed that NSF–Y83E bound PTP1B and thereupon inhibited its catalytic activity. Mutant NSF introduced into streptolysin O-permeabilized sperm impaired cis SNARE complex disassembly, blocking the AR; subsequent addition of PTP1B rescued exocytosis. We propose that NSF–Y83E prevents endogenous PTP1B from dephosphorylating sperm NSF, thus maintaining NSF’s activity in a repressed mode and the SNARE complex unable to dissociate. The contribution of this paper to the sperm biology field is the detection of PTP1B substrates, one of them likely being NSF, whose tyrosine phosphorylation status varies during capacitation and the AR. The contribution of this paper to the membrane traffic field is to have generated direct evidence that explains the dominant-negative role of the phosphomimetic mutant NSF–Y83E.

Protein translocation by the SecA ATPase occurs by a power-stroke mechanism

SecA belongs to the large class of ATPases that use the energy of ATP hydrolysis to perform mechanical work resulting in protein translocation across membranes, protein degradation, and unfolding. SecA translocates polypeptides through the SecY membrane channel during protein secretion in bacteria, but how it achieves directed peptide movement is unclear. Here, we use single-molecule FRET to derive a model that couples ATP hydrolysis-dependent conformational changes of SecA with protein translocation. Upon ATP binding, the two-helix finger of SecA moves toward the SecY channel, pushing a segment of the polypeptide into the channel. The finger retracts during ATP hydrolysis, while the clamp domain of SecA tightens around the polypeptide, preserving progress of translocation. The clamp opens after phosphate release and allows passive sliding of the polypeptide chain through the SecA-SecY complex until the next ATP binding event. This power-stroke mechanism may be used by other ATPases that move polypeptides.

Cytokine exocytosis and JAK/STAT activation in the Drosophila ovary requires the vesicle trafficking regulator α-Snap

How vesicle trafficking components actively contribute to regulation of paracrine signaling is unclear. We genetically uncovered a requirement for α-soluble NSF attachment protein (α-Snap) in the activation of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway during Drosophila egg development. α-Snap, a well-conserved vesicle trafficking regulator, mediates association of N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) and SNAREs to promote vesicle fusion. Depletion of α-Snap or the SNARE family member Syntaxin1A in epithelia blocks polar cells maintenance and prevents specification of motile border cells. Blocking apoptosis rescues polar cell maintenance in α-Snap-depleted egg chambers, indicating that the lack of border cells in mutants is due to impaired signaling. Genetic experiments implicate α-Snap and NSF in secretion of a STAT-activating cytokine. Live imaging suggests that changes in intracellular Ca2+ are linked to this event. Our data suggest a cell-type specific requirement for particular vesicle trafficking components in regulated exocytosis during development. Given the central role for STAT signaling in immunity, this work may shed light on regulation of cytokine release in humans.

An atypical N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor enables the viability of nematode-resistant Rhg1 soybeans

N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor (NSF) and α-soluble NSF attachment protein (α-SNAP) are essential eukaryotic housekeeping proteins that cooperatively function to sustain vesicular trafficking. The "resistance to Heterodera glycines 1" (Rhg1) locus of soybean (Glycine max) confers resistance to soybean cyst nematode, a highly damaging soybean pest. Rhg1 loci encode repeat copies of atypical α-SNAP proteins that are defective in promoting NSF function and are cytotoxic in certain contexts. Here, we discovered an unusual NSF allele (Rhg1-associated NSF on chromosome 07; NSFRAN07 ) in Rhg1+ germplasm. NSFRAN07 protein modeling to mammalian NSF/α-SNAP complex structures indicated that at least three of the five NSFRAN07 polymorphisms reside adjacent to the α-SNAP binding interface. NSFRAN07 exhibited stronger in vitro binding with Rhg1 resistance-type α-SNAPs. NSFRAN07 coexpression in planta was more protective against Rhg1 α-SNAP cytotoxicity, relative to WT NSFCh07 Investigation of a previously reported segregation distortion between chromosome 18 Rhg1 and a chromosome 07 interval now known to contain the Glyma.07G195900 NSF gene revealed 100% coinheritance of the NSFRAN07 allele with disease resistance Rhg1 alleles, across 855 soybean accessions and in all examined Rhg1+ progeny from biparental crosses. Additionally, we show that some Rhg1-mediated resistance is associated with depletion of WT α-SNAP abundance via selective loss of WT α-SNAP loci. Hence atypical coevolution of the soybean SNARE-recycling machinery has balanced the acquisition of an otherwise disruptive housekeeping protein, enabling a valuable disease resistance trait. Our findings further indicate that successful engineering of Rhg1-related resistance in plants will require a compatible NSF partner for the resistance-conferring α-SNAP.

Disease resistance through impairment of α-SNAP-NSF interaction and vesicular trafficking by soybean Rhg1

α-SNAP [soluble NSF (N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor) attachment protein] and NSF proteins are conserved across eukaryotes and sustain cellular vesicle trafficking by mediating disassembly and reuse of SNARE protein complexes, which facilitate fusion of vesicles to target membranes. However, certain haplotypes of the Rhg1 (resistance to Heterodera glycines 1) locus of soybean possess multiple repeat copies of an α-SNAP gene (Glyma.18G022500) that encodes atypical amino acids at a highly conserved functional site. These Rhg1 loci mediate resistance to soybean cyst nematode (SCN; H. glycines), the most economically damaging pathogen of soybeans worldwide. Rhg1 is widely used in agriculture, but the mechanisms of Rhg1 disease resistance have remained unclear. In the present study, we found that the resistance-type Rhg1 α-SNAP is defective in interaction with NSF. Elevated in planta expression of resistance-type Rhg1 α-SNAPs depleted the abundance of SNARE-recycling 20S complexes, disrupted vesicle trafficking, induced elevated abundance of NSF, and caused cytotoxicity. Soybean, due to ancient genome duplication events, carries other loci that encode canonical (wild-type) α-SNAPs. Expression of these α-SNAPs counteracted the cytotoxicity of resistance-type Rhg1 α-SNAPs. For successful growth and reproduction, SCN dramatically reprograms a set of plant root cells and must sustain this sedentary feeding site for 2-4 weeks. Immunoblots and electron microscopy immunolocalization revealed that resistance-type α-SNAPs specifically hyperaccumulate relative to wild-type α-SNAPs at the nematode feeding site, promoting the demise of this biotrophic interface. The paradigm of disease resistance through a dysfunctional variant of an essential gene may be applicable to other plant-pathogen interactions.

P120-Catenin Regulates Early Trafficking Stages of the N-Cadherin Precursor Complex

It is well established that binding of p120 catenin to the cytoplasmic domain of surface cadherin prevents cadherin endocytosis and degradation, contributing to cell-cell adhesion. In the present work we show that p120 catenin bound to the N-cadherin precursor, contributes to its anterograde movement from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the Golgi complex. In HeLa cells, depletion of p120 expression, or blocking its binding to N-cadherin, increased the accumulation of the precursor in the ER, while it decreased the localization of mature N-cadherin at intercellular junctions. Reconstitution experiments in p120-deficient SW48 cells with all three major isoforms of p120 (1, 3 and 4) had similar capacity to promote the processing of the N-cadherin precursor to the mature form, and its localization at cell-cell junctions. P120 catenin and protein tyrosine phosphatase PTP1B facilitated the recruitment of the N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor (NSF), an ATPase involved in vesicular trafficking, to the N-cadherin precursor complex. Dominant negative NSF E329Q impaired N-cadherin trafficking, maturation and localization at cell-cell junctions. Our results uncover a new role for p120 catenin bound to the N-cadherin precursor ensuring its trafficking through the biosynthetic pathway towards the cell surface.

N-Ethylmaleimide Dissociates α7 ACh Receptor from a Complex with NSF and Promotes Its Delivery to the Presynaptic Membrane

N-Ethylmaleimide (NEM)-sensitive factor (NSF) associates with soluble NSF attachment protein (SNAP), that binds to SNAP receptors (SNAREs) including syntaxin, SNAP25, and synaptobrevin. The complex of NSF/SNAP/SNAREs plays a critical role in the regulation of vesicular traffic. The present study investigated NEM-regulated α7 ACh receptor translocation. NSF associated with β-SNAP and the SNAREs syntaxin 1 and synaptobrevin 2 in the rat hippocampus. NSF also associated with the α7 ACh receptor subunit, the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor subunits GluA1 and GluA2, and the γ-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor γ2 subunit. NEM, an inhibitor of NSF, significantly dissociated the α7 ACh receptor subunit from a complex with NSF and increased cell surface localization of the receptor subunit, but such effect was not obtained with the GluA1, GluA2 or γ2 subunits. NEM, alternatively, dissociated synaptobrevin 2 from an assembly of NSF/β-SNAP/syntaxin 1/synaptobrevin 2. NEM significantly increased the rate of nicotine-triggered AMPA receptor-mediated miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents, without affecting the amplitude, in rat hippocampal slices. The results of the present study indicate that NEM releases the α7 ACh receptor subunit and synaptobrevin 2 from an assembly of α7 ACh receptor subunit/NSF/β-SNAP/syntaxin 1/synaptobrevin 2, thereby promoting delivery of the α7 ACh receptor subunit to presynaptic membrane.

LRRK2 phosphorylates pre-synaptic N-ethylmaleimide sensitive fusion (NSF) protein enhancing its ATPase activity and SNARE complex disassembling rate

Background

Lrrk2, a gene linked to Parkinson’s disease, encodes a large scaffolding protein with kinase and GTPase activities implicated in vesicle and cytoskeletal-related processes. At the presynaptic site, LRRK2 associates with synaptic vesicles through interaction with a panel of presynaptic proteins.

Results

Here, we show that LRRK2 kinase activity influences the dynamics of synaptic vesicle fusion. We therefore investigated whether LRRK2 phosphorylates component(s) of the exo/endocytosis machinery. We have previously observed that LRRK2 interacts with NSF, a hexameric AAA+ ATPase that couples ATP hydrolysis to the disassembling of SNARE proteins allowing them to enter another fusion cycle during synaptic exocytosis. Here, we demonstrate that NSF is a substrate of LRRK2 kinase activity. LRRK2 phosphorylates full-length NSF at threonine 645 in the ATP binding pocket of D2 domain. Functionally, NSF phosphorylated by LRRK2 displays enhanced ATPase activity and increased rate of SNARE complex disassembling. Substitution of threonine 645 with alanine abrogates LRRK2-mediated increased ATPase activity.

Conclusions

Given that the most common Parkinson’s disease LRRK2 G2019S mutation displays increased kinase activity, our results suggest that mutant LRRK2 may impair synaptic vesicle dynamics via aberrant phosphorylation of NSF.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13024-015-0066-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Cassava root membrane proteome reveals activities during storage root maturation

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is one of the most important crops of Thailand. Its storage roots are used as food, feed, starch production, and be the important source for biofuel and biodegradable plastic production. Despite the importance of cassava storage roots, little is known about the mechanisms involved in their formation. This present study has focused on comparison of the expression profiles of cassava root proteome at various developmental stages using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and LC-MS/MS. Based on an anatomical study using Toluidine Blue, the secondary growth was confirmed to be essential during the development of cassava storage root. To investigate biochemical processes occurring during storage root maturation, soluble and membrane proteins were isolated from storage roots harvested from 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month-old cassava plants. The proteins with differential expression pattern were analysed and identified to be associated with 8 functional groups: protein folding and degradation, energy, metabolism, secondary metabolism, stress response, transport facilitation, cytoskeleton, and unclassified function. The expression profiling of membrane proteins revealed the proteins involved in protein folding and degradation, energy, and cell structure were highly expressed during early stages of development. Integration of these data along with the information available in genome and transcriptome databases is critical to expand knowledge obtained solely from the field of proteomics. Possible role of identified proteins were discussed in relation with the activities during storage root maturation in cassava.

Platelet secretory behaviour: as diverse as the granules … or not?

Platelets play a central role in the arrest of bleeding after damage to a blood vessel and in the development of thrombosis. Platelets rapidly respond after interaction with sub-endothelial components and release cargo from their storage granules. The three principal granule types of platelets are α-granules, dense granules and lysosomes. Timed release of granule contents and regulated expression of critical receptors are essential for maintenance of the platelet thrombus, yet also have important functions beyond hemostasis (i.e. inflammatory reactions and immune responses). α-granules store adhesive molecules such as von Willebrand factor and fibrinogen, growth factors and inflammatory and angiogenic mediators, which play crucial roles in inflammatory responses and tumor genesis. The α-granules comprise a group of subcellular compartments with a unique composition and ultrastructure. Recent studies have suggested that differential secretory kinetics of α-granule subtypes is responsible for a thematic release of adhesive and inflammatory mediators. In addition, new results indicate that activation-dependent synthesis and release of cytokines also contribute to the inflammatory role of platelets. We will discuss the various methods that platelets use to regulate secretory processes and how these relate to potential differential secretion patterns, thereby promoting adhesiveness and/or inflammatory functions. We will focus on the heterogenic granule population, open canalicular system (OCS) plasticity, the role of contractile and mechanobiological forces, and the fusogenic machinery.

Recent Advances in Deciphering the Structure and Molecular Mechanism of the AAA+ ATPase N-Ethylmaleimide-Sensitive Factor (NSF)

N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF), first discovered in 1988, is a key factor for eukaryotic trafficking, including protein and hormone secretion and neurotransmitter release. It is a member of the AAA+ family (ATPases associated with diverse cellular activities). NSF disassembles soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complexes in conjunction with soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein (SNAP). Structural studies of NSF and its complex with SNAREs and SNAPs (known as 20S supercomplex) started about 20years ago. Crystal structures of individual N and D2 domains of NSF and low-resolution electron microscopy structures of full-length NSF and 20S supercomplex have been reported over the years. Nevertheless, the molecular architecture of the 20S supercomplex and the molecular mechanism of NSF-mediated SNARE complex disassembly remained unclear until recently. Here we review recent atomic-resolution or near-atomic resolution structures of NSF and of the 20S supercomplex, as well as recent insights into the molecular mechanism and energy requirements of NSF. We also compare NSF with other known AAA+ family members.

The OsSec18 complex interacts with P0(P1-P2)2 to regulate vacuolar morphology in rice endosperm cell

BACKGROUND

Sec18p/N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) is a conserved eukaryotic ATPase, which primarily functions in vesicle membrane fusion from yeast to human. However, the function of the OsSec18 gene, a homologue of NSF in rice, remains unknown.

RESULTS

In the present study, we investigated the function of OsSec18 in rice and found that OsSec18 complements the temperature-sensitive phenotype and interferes with vacuolar morphogenesis in yeast. Overexpression of OsSec18 in rice decreased the plant height and 1000-grain weight and altered the morphology of the protein bodies. Further examination revealed that OsSec18 presented as a 290-kDa complex in rice endosperm cells. Moreover, Os60sP0 was identified a component of this complex, demonstrating that the OsSec18 complex contains another complex of P0(P1-P2)2 in rice endosperm cells. Furthermore, we determined that the N-terminus of OsSec18 can interact with the N- and C-termini of Os60sP0, whereas the C-terminus of OsSec18 can only interact with the C-terminus of Os60sP0.

CONCLUSION

Our results revealed that the OsSec18 regulates vacuolar morphology in both yeast and rice endosperm cell and the OsSec18 interacts with P0(P1-P2)2 complex in rice endosperm cell.

Identification of differentially expressed proteins and validation of the changes of N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor in rats with focal cerebral ischemia after transection of the cervical sympathetic trunk

Stellate ganglion blockade (SGB) protects patients from focal cerebral ischemic injury, and transection of the cervical sympathetic trunk (TCST) in a rat model can mimic SGB in humans. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of TCST on neuronal damage in the hippocampus in a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in an attempt to elucidate the neuroprotective effects of SGB. The modified method of Zea Longa was used to establish the permanent MCAO model. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: sham-operated group, MCAO group, and TCST group. The animals in TCST group were sacrificed 48 h after TCST which was performed after the establishment of the MCAO model. Proteins were extracted from the ipsilateral hippocampus and analyzed by two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) and peptide mass fingerprinting (PMF). The levels of N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) were measured as well. The results showed that 11 types of proteins were identified by 2D-DIGE. The expressions of eight proteins were changed both in the sham-operated and TCST groups, and the expressions of the other three proteins were changed in all three groups. Moreover, the expression of NSF was higher in the TCST group than in the MCAO group but lower in the MCAO group than in sham-operated group. The ratio of NSF expression between the MCAO group and shamoperated group was -1.37 (P<0.05), whereas that between the TCST group and MCAO group was 1.35 (P<0.05). Our results imply that TCST increases the expression of NSF in the hippocampus of adult rats with focal cerebral ischemia, which may contribute to the protection of the injured brain. Our study provides a theoretical basis for the therapeutic application of SGB to patients with permanent cerebral ischemia.

Ganglioside regulation of AMPA receptor trafficking

Gangliosides are major cell-surface determinants on all vertebrate neurons. Human congenital disorders of ganglioside biosynthesis invariably result in intellectual disability and are often associated with intractable seizures. To probe the mechanisms of ganglioside functions, affinity-captured ganglioside-binding proteins from rat cerebellar granule neurons were identified by quantitative proteomic mass spectrometry. Of the six proteins that bound selectively to the major brain ganglioside GT1b (GT1b:GM1 > 4; p < 10(-4)), three regulate neurotransmitter receptor trafficking: Thorase (ATPase family AAA domain-containing protein 1), soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) attachment protein (γ-SNAP), and the transmembrane protein Nicalin. Thorase facilitates endocytosis of GluR2 subunit-containing AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) in an ATPase-dependent manner; its deletion in mice results in learning and memory deficits (J. Zhang et al., 2011b). GluR2-containing AMPARs did not bind GT1b, but bound specifically to another ganglioside, GM1. Addition of noncleavable ATP (ATPγS) significantly disrupted ganglioside binding, whereas it enhanced AMPAR association with Thorase, NSF, and Nicalin. Mutant mice lacking GT1b expressed markedly higher brain Thorase, whereas Thorase-null mice expressed higher GT1b. Treatment of cultured hippocampal neurons with sialidase, which cleaves GT1b (and other sialoglycans), resulted in a significant reduction in the size of surface GluR2 puncta. These data support a model in which GM1-bound GluR2-containing AMPARs are functionally segregated from GT1b-bound AMPAR-trafficking complexes. Release of ganglioside binding may enhance GluR2-containing AMPAR association with its trafficking complexes, increasing endocytosis. Disrupting ganglioside biosynthesis may result in reduced synaptic expression of GluR2-contianing AMPARs resulting in intellectual deficits and seizure susceptibility in mice and humans.

Human ASPL/TUG interacts with p97 and complements the proteasome mislocalization of a yeast ubx4 mutant, but not the ER-associated degradation defect

Background

In mammalian cells, ASPL is involved in insulin-stimulated redistribution of the glucose transporter GLUT4 and assembly of the Golgi apparatus. Its putative yeast orthologue, Ubx4, is important for proteasome localization, endoplasmic reticulum-associated protein degradation (ERAD), and UV-induced degradation of RNA polymerase.

Results

Here, we show that ASPL is a cofactor of the hexameric ATPase complex, known as p97 or VCP in mammals and Cdc48 in yeast. In addition, ASPL interacts in vitro with NSF, another hexameric ATPase complex. ASPL localizes to the ER membrane. The central area in ASPL, containing both a SHP box and a UBX domain, is required for binding to the p97 N-domain. Knock-down of ASPL does not impair degradation of misfolded secretory proteins via the ERAD pathway. Deletion of UBX4 in yeast causes cycloheximide sensitivity, while ubx4 cdc48-3 double mutations cause proteasome mislocalization. ASPL alleviates these defects, but not the impaired ERAD.

Conclusions

In conclusion, ASPL and Ubx4 are homologous proteins with only partially overlapping functions. Both interact with p97/Cdc48, but while Ubx4 is important for ERAD, ASPL appears not to share this function.

N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor interacts with the serotonin transporter and modulates its trafficking: implications for pathophysiology in autism

Background

Changes in serotonin transporter (SERT) function have been implicated in autism. SERT function is influenced by the number of transporter molecules present at the cell surface, which is regulated by various cellular mechanisms including interactions with other proteins. Thus, we searched for novel SERT-binding proteins and investigated whether the expression of one such protein was affected in subjects with autism.

Methods

Novel SERT-binding proteins were examined by a pull-down system. Alterations of SERT function and membrane expression upon knockdown of the novel SERT-binding protein were studied in HEK293-hSERT cells. Endogenous interaction of SERT with the protein was evaluated in mouse brains. Alterations in the mRNA expression of SERT (SLC6A4) and the SERT-binding protein in the post-mortem brains and the lymphocytes of autism patients were compared to nonclinical controls.

Results

N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) was identified as a novel SERT-binding protein. NSF was co-localized with SERT at the plasma membrane, and NSF knockdown resulted in decreased SERT expression at the cell membranes and decreased SERT uptake function. NSF was endogenously co-localized with SERT and interacted with SERT. While SLC6A4 expression was not significantly changed, NSF expression tended to be reduced in post-mortem brains, and was significantly reduced in lymphocytes of autistic subjects, which correlated with the severity of the clinical symptoms.

Conclusions

These data clearly show that NSF interacts with SERT under physiological conditions and is required for SERT membrane trafficking and uptake function. A possible role for NSF in the pathophysiology of autism through modulation of SERT trafficking, is suggested.

Early consolidation of development and physiology of an identified presynaptic nerve terminal

Background

A central objective in the field of neurobiology is to understand the developmental plasticity of neurons. The pursuit of this objective has revealed the presence of critical periods in neural development. Here, critical periods are defined as developmental time windows during which neural remodeling can take place; outside of these times neural plasticity is reduced. We have taken advantage of transgenic technology at the Drosophila melanogaster neuromuscular junction (NMJ) to investigate developmental plasticity and critical period determination of an identifiable nerve terminal.

Results

Using temperature-dependent Gal80 control of transgene expression, we regulated the expression of dNSF2^E/Q, a dominant-negative version of the Drosophila NSF2 gene, by shifting developing embryos and larvae between permissive and restrictive temperatures. dNSF2^E/Q reduces synaptic strength and causes tremendous overgrowth of the neuromuscular junctions. We therefore measured synaptic transmission and synaptic morphology in two temperature-shift paradigms. Our data show that both physiological and morphological development is susceptible to dNSF2^E/Q perturbation within the first two days.

Conclusion

Our data support the view that individual motor neurons in Drosophila larvae possess a critical window for synapse development in the first one to two days of life and that the time period for morphological and physiological plasticity are not identical. These studies open the door to further molecular genetic analysis of critical periods of synaptic development.