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Han W, Wei M, Xu F, Niu Z. Aggregation and phase separation of α-synuclein in Parkinson's disease. Chem Commun (Camb) 2024. [PMID: 38808534 DOI: 10.1039/d4cc01591f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
The deposition of α-synuclein (α-Syn) in Lewy bodies serves as a prominent pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD). Recent research has revealed that α-Syn can undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) during its fibrillization. Over time, the maturation of the resulting condensates leads to a liquid-to-solid phase transition (LSPT) ultimately resulting in the amyloid deposition in cells which is linked to the pathogenesis and development of PD. Herein, we summarize the understanding of α-Syn aggregation which can be described by nucleation and elongation steps to obtain insights into the correlation of protein aggregation, structural polymorphism, and PD progression. Additionally, we discuss the LLPS phenomena of α-Syn and heterotypic cross-amyloid interactions with a focus on aberrant LSPT in the aggregation process. Exploring the underlying mechanisms and interplay between α-Syn aberrant aggregation, pathological phase transitions, and PD pathogenesis will shed light on potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanlu Han
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
| | - Mengrui Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
| | - Fei Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
| | - Zheng Niu
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
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2
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Mukherjee S, Poudyal M, Dave K, Kadu P, Maji SK. Protein misfolding and amyloid nucleation through liquid-liquid phase separation. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:4976-5013. [PMID: 38597222 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs01065a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is an emerging phenomenon in cell physiology and diseases. The weak multivalent interaction prerequisite for LLPS is believed to be facilitated through intrinsically disordered regions, which are prevalent in neurodegenerative disease-associated proteins. These aggregation-prone proteins also exhibit an inherent property for phase separation, resulting in protein-rich liquid-like droplets. The very high local protein concentration in the water-deficient confined microenvironment not only drives the viscoelastic transition from the liquid to solid-like state but also most often nucleate amyloid fibril formation. Indeed, protein misfolding, oligomerization, and amyloid aggregation are observed to be initiated from the LLPS of various neurodegeneration-related proteins. Moreover, in these cases, neurodegeneration-promoting genetic and environmental factors play a direct role in amyloid aggregation preceded by the phase separation. These cumulative recent observations ignite the possibility of LLPS being a prominent nucleation mechanism associated with aberrant protein aggregation. The present review elaborates on the nucleation mechanism of the amyloid aggregation pathway and the possible early molecular events associated with amyloid-related protein phase separation. It also summarizes the recent advancement in understanding the aberrant phase transition of major proteins contributing to neurodegeneration focusing on the common disease-associated factors. Overall, this review proposes a generic LLPS-mediated multistep nucleation mechanism for amyloid aggregation and its implication in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semanti Mukherjee
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Manisha Poudyal
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Kritika Dave
- Sunita Sanghi Centre of Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Pradeep Kadu
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Samir K Maji
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
- Sunita Sanghi Centre of Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
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3
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Wang J, Zhu H, Tian R, Zhang Q, Zhang H, Hu J, Wang S. Physiological and pathological effects of phase separation in the central nervous system. J Mol Med (Berl) 2024; 102:599-615. [PMID: 38441598 PMCID: PMC11055734 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-024-02435-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Phase separation, also known as biomolecule condensate, participates in physiological processes such as transcriptional regulation, signal transduction, gene expression, and DNA damage repair by creating a membrane-free compartment. Phase separation is primarily caused by the interaction of multivalent non-covalent bonds between proteins and/or nucleic acids. The strength of molecular multivalent interaction can be modified by component concentration, the potential of hydrogen, posttranslational modification, and other factors. Notably, phase separation occurs frequently in the cytoplasm of mitochondria, the nucleus, and synapses. Phase separation in vivo is dynamic or stable in the normal physiological state, while abnormal phase separation will lead to the formation of biomolecule condensates, speeding up the disease progression. To provide candidate suggestions for the clinical treatment of nervous system diseases, this review, based on existing studies, carefully and systematically represents the physiological roles of phase separation in the central nervous system and its pathological mechanism in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, People's Republic of China
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361000, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongrui Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, People's Republic of China.
- Core Facility Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC (Anhui Provincial Hospital), Hefei, China.
| | - Ruijia Tian
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361000, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Zhang
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361000, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoliang Zhang
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Hu
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361000, People's Republic of China
| | - Sheng Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, People's Republic of China.
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4
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Chen S, Barritt JD, Cascella R, Bigi A, Cecchi C, Banchelli M, Gallo A, Jarvis JA, Chiti F, Dobson CM, Fusco G, De Simone A. Structure-Toxicity Relationship in Intermediate Fibrils from α-Synuclein Condensates. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:10537-10549. [PMID: 38567991 PMCID: PMC11027145 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c14703] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
The aberrant aggregation of α-synuclein (αS) into amyloid fibrils is associated with a range of highly debilitating neurodegenerative conditions, including Parkinson's disease. Although the structural properties of mature amyloids of αS are currently understood, the nature of transient protofilaments and fibrils that appear during αS aggregation remains elusive. Using solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR), cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), and biophysical methods, we here characterized intermediate amyloid fibrils of αS forming during the aggregation from liquid-like spherical condensates to mature amyloids adopting the structure of pathologically observed aggregates. These transient amyloid intermediates, which induce significant levels of cytotoxicity when incubated with neuronal cells, were found to be stabilized by a small core in an antiparallel β-sheet conformation, with a disordered N-terminal region of the protein remaining available to mediate membrane binding. In contrast, mature amyloids that subsequently appear during the aggregation showed different structural and biological properties, including low levels of cytotoxicity, a rearranged structured core embedding also the N-terminal region, and a reduced propensity to interact with the membrane. The characterization of these two fibrillar forms of αS, and the use of antibodies and designed mutants, enabled us to clarify the role of critical structural elements endowing intermediate amyloid species with the ability to interact with membranes and induce cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serene
W. Chen
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Joseph D. Barritt
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Roberta Cascella
- Department
of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bigi
- Department
of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Cristina Cecchi
- Department
of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Martina Banchelli
- Institute
of Applied Physics “Nello Carrara” National Research
Council of Italy, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence 50019, Italy
| | - Angelo Gallo
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Turin, Turin 10124, Italy
| | - James A. Jarvis
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
- Randall
Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics and Centre for Biomolecular
Spectroscopy, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, U.K.
| | - Fabrizio Chiti
- Department
of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | | | - Giuliana Fusco
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K.
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Alfonso De Simone
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Naples 80131, Italy
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5
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Mahapatra A, Newberry RW. Liquid-liquid phase separation of α-synuclein is highly sensitive to sequence complexity. Protein Sci 2024; 33:e4951. [PMID: 38511533 PMCID: PMC10955625 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
The Parkinson's-associated protein α-synuclein (α-syn) can undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), which typically leads to the formation of amyloid fibrils. The coincidence of LLPS and amyloid formation has complicated the identification of the molecular determinants unique to LLPS of α-syn. Moreover, the lack of strategies to selectively perturb LLPS makes it difficult to dissect the biological roles specific to α-syn LLPS, independent of fibrillation. Herein, using a combination of subtle missense mutations, we show that LLPS of α-syn is highly sensitive to its sequence complexity. In fact, we find that even a highly conservative mutation (V16I) that increases sequence complexity without perturbing physicochemical and structural properties, is sufficient to reduce LLPS by 75%; this effect can be reversed by an adjacent V-to-I mutation (V15I) that restores the original sequence complexity. A18T, a complexity-enhancing PD-associated mutation, was likewise found to reduce LLPS, implicating sequence complexity in α-syn pathogenicity. Furthermore, leveraging the differences in LLPS propensities among different α-syn variants, we demonstrate that fibrillation of α-syn does not necessarily correlate with its LLPS. In fact, we identify mutations that selectively perturb LLPS or fibrillation of α-syn, unlike previously studied mutations. The variants and design principles reported herein should therefore empower future studies to disentangle these two phenomena and distinguish their (patho)biological roles.
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Sternke-Hoffmann R, Sun X, Menzel A, Pinto MDS, Venclovaitė U, Wördehoff M, Hoyer W, Zheng W, Luo J. Phase Separation and Aggregation of α-Synuclein Diverge at Different Salt Conditions. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.01.582895. [PMID: 38464093 PMCID: PMC10925286 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.01.582895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The coacervation and structural rearrangement of the protein alpha-synuclein (αSyn) into cytotoxic oligomers and amyloid fibrils are considered pathological hallmarks of Parkinson's disease. While aggregation is recognized as the key element of amyloid diseases, liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) and its interplay with aggregation have gained increasing interest. Previous work showed that factors promoting or inhibiting amyloid formation have similar effects on phase separation. Here, we provide a detailed scanning of a wide range of parameters including protein, salt and crowding concentrations at multiple pH values, revealing different salt dependencies of aggregation and phase separation. The influence of salt on aggregation under crowded conditions follows a non-monotonic pattern, showing increased effects at medium salt concentrations. This behavior can be elucidated through a combination of electrostatic screening and salting-out effects on the intramolecular interactions between the N-terminal and C-terminal regions of αSyn. By contrast, we find a monotonic salt dependence of phase separation due to the intermolecular interaction. Furthermore, we observe the time evolution of the two distinct assembly states, with macroscopic fibrillar-like bundles initially forming at medium salt concentration but subsequently converting into droplets after prolonged incubation. The droplet state is therefore capable of inhibiting aggregation or even dissolving the aggregates through a variety of heterotypic interactions, thus preventing αSyn from its dynamically arrested state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Sternke-Hoffmann
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Xun Sun
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Menzel
- Photon Science Division, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Miriam Dos Santos Pinto
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Urtė Venclovaitė
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Michael Wördehoff
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hoyer
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Wenwei Zheng
- College of Integrative Sciences and Arts, Arizona State University, Mesa, AZ, 85212, United States
| | - Jinghui Luo
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
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Wu J, Li Y, Tian S, Na S, Wei H, Wu Y, Yang Y, Shen Z, Ding J, Bao S, Liu S, Li L, Feng R, Zhu Y, He C, Yue J. CYP1B1 affects the integrity of the blood-brain barrier and oxidative stress in the striatum: An investigation of manganese-induced neurotoxicity. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14633. [PMID: 38429921 PMCID: PMC10907825 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Excessive influx of manganese (Mn) into the brain across the blood-brain barrier induces neurodegeneration. CYP1B1 is involved in the metabolism of arachidonic acid (AA) that affects vascular homeostasis. We aimed to investigate the effect of brain CYP1B1 on Mn-induced neurotoxicity. METHOD Brain Mn concentrations and α-synuclein accumulation were measured in wild-type and CYP1B1 knockout mice treated with MnCl2 (30 mg/kg) and biotin (0.2 g/kg) for 21 continuous days. Tight junctions and oxidative stress were analyzed in hCMEC/D3 and SH-SY5Y cells after the treatment with MnCl2 (200 μM) and CYP1B1-derived AA metabolites (HETEs and EETs). RESULTS Mn exposure inhibited brain CYP1B1, and CYP1B1 deficiency increased brain Mn concentrations and accelerated α-synuclein deposition in the striatum. CYP1B1 deficiency disrupted the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and increased the ratio of 3, 4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) to dopamine in the striatum. HETEs attenuated Mn-induced inhibition of tight junctions by activating PPARγ in endothelial cells. Additionally, EETs attenuated Mn-induced up-regulation of the KLF/MAO-B axis and down-regulation of NRF2 in neuronal cells. Biotin up-regulated brain CYP1B1 and reduced Mn-induced neurotoxicity in mice. CONCLUSIONS Brain CYP1B1 plays a critical role in both cerebrovascular and dopamine homeostasis, which might serve as a novel therapeutic target for the prevention of Mn-induced neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
- Department of PharmacyTaikang Tongji (Wuhan) HospitalWuhuChina
| | - Yueran Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
- Department of PharmacyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
| | - Shuwei Tian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Shufang Na
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan UniversityTransplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on TransplantationWuhanHubeiChina
| | - Hongyan Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Yafei Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Yafei Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Zixia Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Jiayue Ding
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Shenglan Bao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Siqi Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Lingyun Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Rongling Feng
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Yong Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Chunyan He
- Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medicine Education, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Jiang Yue
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical SciencesWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and ImmunologyWuhanChina
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Liu Y, Lv S, He G, Wang C, Ou C. Ferroptosis at the crossroads of manganese-induced neurotoxicity: A retrospective study. Toxicology 2024; 502:153727. [PMID: 38216111 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Manganese is an essential trace element, but overexposure can cause neurotoxicity and subsequent neurodegenerative diseases. Ferroptosis is a form of cell death characterized by lipid peroxidation and iron overload inside cells, which is closely related to manganese neurotoxicity. Manganese can induce ferroptosis through multiple pathways: causing oxidative stress and increased cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in lipid peroxidation; depleting glutathione (GSH) and weakening the antioxidant capacity of cells; disrupting iron metabolism and increasing iron-dependent lipid peroxidation; damaging mitochondrial function and disrupting the electron transport chain, leading to increased ROS production. Oxidative stress, iron metabolism disorders, lipid peroxidation, GSH depletion, and mitochondrial dysfunction, typical features of ferroptosis, have been observed in animal and cell models after manganese exposure. In summary, manganese can participate in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases by inducing events related to ferroptosis. This provides new insights into studying the mechanism of manganese neurotoxicity and developing therapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyang Liu
- Department of Toxicology, College of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Shanyu Lv
- Department of Toxicology, College of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Guoguo He
- Department of Toxicology, College of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Changyong Wang
- Department of Toxicology, College of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China.
| | - Chaoyan Ou
- Department of Toxicology, College of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China.
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9
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Kosmachevskaya OV, Novikova NN, Yakunin SN, Topunov AF. Formation of Supplementary Metal-Binding Centers in Proteins under Stress Conditions. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2024; 89:S180-S204. [PMID: 38621750 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297924140104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
In many proteins, supplementary metal-binding centers appear under stress conditions. They are known as aberrant or atypical sites. Physico-chemical properties of proteins are significantly changed after such metal binding, and very stable protein aggregates are formed, in which metals act as "cross-linking" agents. Supplementary metal-binding centers in proteins often arise as a result of posttranslational modifications caused by reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and reactive carbonyl compounds. New chemical groups formed as a result of these modifications can act as ligands for binding metal ions. Special attention is paid to the role of cysteine SH-groups in the formation of supplementary metal-binding centers, since these groups are the main target for the action of reactive species. Supplementary metal binding centers may also appear due to unmasking of amino acid residues when protein conformation changing. Appearance of such centers is usually considered as a pathological process. Such unilateral approach does not allow to obtain an integral view of the phenomenon, ignoring cases when formation of metal complexes with altered proteins is a way to adjust protein properties, activity, and stability under the changed redox conditions. The role of metals in protein aggregation is being studied actively, since it leads to formation of non-membranous organelles, liquid condensates, and solid conglomerates. Some proteins found in such aggregates are typical for various diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Huntington's diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and some types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga V Kosmachevskaya
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | | | - Sergey N Yakunin
- National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Moscow, 123182, Russia
| | - Alexey F Topunov
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia.
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10
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Vaidya B, Padhy DS, Joshi HC, Sharma SS, Singh JN. Ion Channels and Metal Ions in Parkinson's Disease: Historical Perspective to the Current Scenario. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2761:529-557. [PMID: 38427260 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3662-6_36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative condition linked to the deterioration of motor and cognitive performance. It produces degeneration of the dopaminergic neurons along the nigrostriatal pathway in the central nervous system (CNS), which leads to symptoms such as bradykinesias, tremors, rigidity, and postural instability. There are several medications currently approved for the therapy of PD, but a permanent cure for it remains elusive. With the aging population set to increase, a number of PD cases are expected to shoot up in the coming times. Hence, there is a need to look for new molecular targets that could be investigated both preclinically and clinically for PD treatment. Among these, several ion channels and metal ions are being studied for their effects on PD pathology and the functioning of dopaminergic neurons. Ion channels such as N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), γ-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA), voltage-gated calcium channels, potassium channels, HCN channels, Hv1 proton channels, and voltage-gated sodium channels and metal ions such as mercury, zinc, copper, iron, manganese, calcium, and lead showed prominent involvement in PD. Pharmacological agents have been used to target these ion channels and metal ions to prevent or treat PD. Hence, in the present review, we summarize the pathophysiological events linked to PD with an emphasis on the role of ions and ion channels in PD pathology, and pharmacological agents targeting these ion channels have also been listed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhupesh Vaidya
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Punjab, India
| | - Dibya S Padhy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Punjab, India
| | - Hem C Joshi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Punjab, India
| | - Shyam S Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Punjab, India.
| | - Jitendra Narain Singh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Punjab, India.
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11
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Ning M, Hua S, Ma Y, Liu Y, Wang D, Xu K, Yu H. Microvesicles facilitate the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into pancreatic beta-like cells via miR-181a-5p/150-5p. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:127719. [PMID: 37918601 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127719] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Transplantation of pancreatic islet cells is a promising strategy for the long-term treatment of type 1 diabetes (T1D). The stem cell-derived beta cells showed great potential as substitute sources of transplanted pancreatic islet cells. However, the current efficiency of stem cell differentiation still cannot match the requirements for clinical transplantation. Here, we report that microvesicles (MVs) from insulin-producing INS-1 cells could induce mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation into pancreatic beta-like cells. The combination of MVs with small molecules, nicotinamide and insulin-transferrin-selenium (ITS), dramatically improved the efficiency of MSC differentiation. Notably, the function of MVs in MSC differentiation requires their entry into MSCs through giant pinocytosis. The MVs-treated or MVs combined with small molecules-treated MSCs show pancreatic beta-like cell morphology and response to glucose stimulation in insulin secretion. Using high throughput small RNA-sequencing, we found that MVs induced MSC differentiation into the beta-like cells through miR-181a-5p/150-5p. Together, our findings reveal the role of MVs or the MV-enriched miR-181a-5p/150-5p as a class of biocompatible reagents to differentiate MSCs into functional beta-like cells and demonstrate that the combined usage of MVs or miR-181a-5p/150-5p with small molecules can potentially be used in making pancreatic islet cells for future clinical purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Ning
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Shanshan Hua
- Department of Spine Surgery, Qingdao Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Qingdao Municipal Hospital), Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Ying Ma
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yunpeng Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Dianliang Wang
- Stem cell and tissue engineering research laboratory, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, China.
| | - Kai Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Haijia Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
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12
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Liu T, Wu H, Wei J. The Construction and Validation of a Novel Ferroptosis-Related Gene Signature in Parkinson's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17203. [PMID: 38139032 PMCID: PMC10742934 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
As a newly discovered regulated cell death mode, ferroptosis is associated with the development of Parkinson's disease (PD) and has attracted much attention. Nonetheless, the relationship between ferroptosis and PD pathogenesis remains unclear. The GSE8397 dataset includes GPL96 and GPL97 platforms. The differential genes were analyzed by immune infiltration and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) (p < 0.05), and differential multiple |logFC| > 1 and weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) were used to screen differential expression genes (DEGs). The intersection with 368 ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) was conducted for gene ontology/Kyoto encyclopedia of gene and genome (GO/KEGG) enrichment analysis, gene expression analysis, correlation analysis, single-cell sequencing analysis, and prognosis analysis (area under the curve, AUC) and to predict relevant miRNAs and construct network diagrams using Cytoscape. The intersection genes of differentially expressed ferroptosis-related genes (DEFRGs) and mitochondrial dysfunction genes were validated in the substantia nigra of MPTP-induced PD mice models by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry, and the protein-binding pocket was predicted using the DoGSiteScorer database. According to the results, the estimated scores were positively correlated with the stromal scores or immune scores in the GPL96 and GPL97 platforms. In the GPL96 platform, the GSEA showed that differential genes were mainly involved in the GnRH signaling pathway, B cell receptor signaling pathway, inositol phosphate metabolism, etc. In the GPL97 platform, the GSEA showed that differential genes were mainly involved in the ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, axon guidance, Wnt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, etc. We obtained 26 DEFRGs, including 12 up-regulated genes and 14 down-regulated genes, with good correlation. The area under the prognostic analysis curve (AUC > 0.700) showed a good prognostic ability. We found that they were enriched in different neuronal cells, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, oligodendrocyte precursor cells, and microglial cells, and their expression scores were positively correlated, and selected genes with an AUC curve ≥0.9 were used to predict miRNA, including miR-214/761/3619-5p, miR-203, miR-204/204b/211, miR-128/128ab, miR-199ab-5p, etc. For the differentially expressed ferroptosis-mitochondrial dysfunction-related genes (DEF-MDRGs) (AR, ISCU, SNCA, and PDK4), in the substantia nigra of mice, compared with the Saline group, the expression of AR and ISCU was decreased (p < 0.05), and the expression of α-Syn and PDK4 was increased (p < 0.05) in the MPTP group. Therapeutic drugs that target SNCA include ABBV-0805, Prasinezumab, Cinpanemab, and Gardenin A. The results of this study suggest that cellular DEF-MDRGs might play an important role in PD. AR, ISCU, SNCA, and PDK4 have the potential to be specific biomarkers for the early diagnosis of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jianshe Wei
- Institute for Brain Sciences Research, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (T.L.)
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13
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Sołtys K, Tarczewska A, Bystranowska D. Modulation of biomolecular phase behavior by metal ions. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2023; 1870:119567. [PMID: 37582439 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) appears to be a newly appreciated aspect of the cellular organization of biomolecules that leads to the formation of membraneless organelles (MLOs). MLOs generate distinct microenvironments where particular biomolecules are highly concentrated compared to those in the surrounding environment. Their thermodynamically driven formation is reversible, and their liquid nature allows them to fuse with each other. Dysfunctional biomolecular condensation is associated with human diseases. Pathological states of MLOs may originate from the mutation of proteins or may be induced by other factors. In most aberrant MLOs, transient interactions are replaced by stronger and more rigid interactions, preventing their dissolution, and causing their uncontrolled growth and dysfunction. For these reasons, there is great interest in identifying factors that modulate LLPS. In this review, we discuss an enigmatic and mostly unexplored aspect of this process, namely, the regulatory effects of metal ions on the phase behavior of biomolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Sołtys
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Aneta Tarczewska
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Dominika Bystranowska
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland
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14
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Mahapatra A, Newberry RW. Liquid-liquid phase separation of α-synuclein is highly sensitive to sequence complexity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.03.551831. [PMID: 37577712 PMCID: PMC10418173 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.03.551831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
The Parkinson's-associated protein α-synuclein (α-syn) can undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), which typically leads to the formation of amyloid fibrils. The coincidence of LLPS and amyloid formation has complicated the identification of the molecular determinants unique to LLPS of α-syn. Moreover, the lack of strategies to selectively perturb LLPS makes it difficult to dissect the biological roles specific to α-syn LLPS, independent of fibrillation. Herein, using a combination of subtle missense mutations, we show that LLPS of α-syn is highly sensitive to its sequence complexity. In fact, we find that even a highly conservative mutation (V16I) that increases sequence complexity without perturbing physicochemical and structural properties, is sufficient to reduce LLPS by 75%; this effect can be reversed by an adjacent V-to-I mutation (V15I) that restores the original sequence complexity. A18T, a complexity-enhancing PD-associated mutation, was likewise found to reduce LLPS, implicating sequence complexity in α-syn pathogenicity. Furthermore, leveraging the differences in LLPS propensities among different α-syn variants, we demonstrate that fibrillation of α-syn does not necessarily correlate with its LLPS. In fact, we identify mutations that selectively perturb LLPS or fibrillation of α-syn, unlike previously studied mutations. The variants and design principles reported herein should therefore empower future studies to disentangle these two phenomena and distinguish their (patho)biological roles.
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15
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Kumar R, Vincy A, Rani K, Jain N, Singh S, Agarwal A, Vankayala R. Facile Synthesis of Multifunctional Carbon Dots Derived from Camel Milk for Mn 7+ Sensing and Antiamyloid and Anticancer Activities. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:36521-36533. [PMID: 37810638 PMCID: PMC10552091 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c05485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) are promising biocompatible fluorescent nanoparticles mainly used in bioimaging, drug delivery, sensing, therapeutics, and various other applications. The utilization of natural sources and green synthetic approaches is resulting in highly biocompatible and nontoxic nanoparticles. Herein, we report an unprecedented facile and green synthesis of highly luminescent carbon dots derived from camel milk (CM) for sensing manganese (Mn7+) ions and for identifying the anticancer potential and antiamyloid activity against α-synuclein amyloids. α-Synuclein amyloid formation due to protein misfolding (genetic and environmental factors) has gained significant attention due to its association with Parkinson's disease and other synucleinopathies. The as-synthesized CM-CDs possess an average hydrodynamic diameter ranging from 3 to 15 nm and also exhibit strong photoluminescence (PL) emission in the blue region. The CM-CDs possess good water dispersibility, stable fluorescence under different physical states, and outstanding photostability. Moreover, the CM-CDs are validated as an efficient sensor for the detection of Mn7+ ions in DI water and in metal ion-polluted tap water. In addition, the CM-CDs have demonstrated a very good quantum yield (QY) of 24.6% and a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.58 μM for Mn7+ ions with no incubation time. Consequently, the exceptional properties of CM-CDs make them highly suitable for a diverse array of biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Kumar
- Department
of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Indian
Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Karwar 342030, India
| | - Antony Vincy
- Department
of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Indian
Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Karwar 342030, India
| | - Khushboo Rani
- Department
of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Indian
Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Karwar 342030, India
| | - Neha Jain
- Department
of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Indian
Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Karwar 342030, India
- Centre
for Emerging Technologies for Sustainable Development (CETSD), Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Karwar 342030, India
| | - Sarvar Singh
- Department
of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute
of Technology Jodhpur, Karwar 342030, India
| | - Ajay Agarwal
- Interdisciplinary
Research Platform Smart Healthcare, Indian
Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Karwar 342030, India
- Department
of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute
of Technology Jodhpur, Karwar 342030, India
| | - Raviraj Vankayala
- Department
of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Indian
Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Karwar 342030, India
- Interdisciplinary
Research Platform Smart Healthcare, Indian
Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Karwar 342030, India
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16
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Hou K, Liu T, Li J, Xian M, Sun L, Wei J. Liquid-liquid phase separation regulates alpha-synuclein aggregate and mitophagy in Parkinson's disease. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1250532. [PMID: 37781241 PMCID: PMC10536155 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1250532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world, and alpha-synuclein (α-syn) abnormal aggregate and mitochondrial dysfunction play a crucial role in its pathological development. Recent studies have revealed that proteins can form condensates through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), and LLPS has been found to be widely present in α-syn aberrant aggregate and mitophagy-related protein physiological processes. This review summarizes the occurrence of α-syn LLPS and its influencing factors, introduces the production and transformation of the related protein LLPS during PINK1-Parkin-mediated mitophagy, hoping to provide new ideas and methods for the study of PD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiying Hou
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Jingwen Li
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Meiyan Xian
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Lin Sun
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Jianshe Wei
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
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17
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Ray S, Mason TO, Boyens-Thiele L, Farzadfard A, Larsen JA, Norrild RK, Jahnke N, Buell AK. Mass photometric detection and quantification of nanoscale α-synuclein phase separation. Nat Chem 2023; 15:1306-1316. [PMID: 37337111 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-023-01244-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Protein liquid-liquid phase separation can lead to disease-related amyloid fibril formation. The mechanisms of conversion of monomeric protein into condensate droplets and of the latter into fibrils remain elusive. Here, using mass photometry, we demonstrate that the Parkinson's disease-related protein, α-synuclein, can form dynamic nanoscale clusters at physiologically relevant, sub-saturated concentrations. Nanoclusters nucleate in bulk solution and promote amyloid fibril formation of the dilute-phase monomers upon ageing. Their formation is instantaneous, even under conditions where macroscopic assemblies appear only after several days. The slow growth of the nanoclusters can be attributed to a kinetic barrier, probably due to an interfacial penalty from the charged C terminus of α-synuclein. Our findings reveal that α-synuclein phase separation occurs at much wider ranges of solution conditions than reported so far. Importantly, we establish mass photometry as a promising methodology to detect and quantify nanoscale precursors of phase separation. We also demonstrate its general applicability by probing the existence of nanoclusters of a non-amyloidogenic protein, Ddx4n1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumik Ray
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Thomas O Mason
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Lars Boyens-Thiele
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Azad Farzadfard
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Jacob Aunstrup Larsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Rasmus K Norrild
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Nadin Jahnke
- Novo Nordisk A/S, Novo Nordisk Park, Måløv, Denmark
| | - Alexander K Buell
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark.
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18
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Piroska L, Fenyi A, Thomas S, Plamont MA, Redeker V, Melki R, Gueroui Z. α-Synuclein liquid condensates fuel fibrillar α-synuclein growth. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadg5663. [PMID: 37585526 PMCID: PMC10431715 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg5663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-Syn) aggregation into fibrils with prion-like features is intimately associated with Lewy pathology and various synucleinopathies. Emerging studies suggest that α-Syn could form liquid condensates through phase separation. The role of these condensates in aggregation and disease remains elusive and the interplay between α-Syn fibrils and α-Syn condensates remains unexplored, possibly due to difficulties in triggering the formation of α-Syn condensates in cells. To address this gap, we developed an assay allowing the controlled assembly/disassembly of α-Syn condensates in cells and studied them upon exposure to preformed α-Syn fibrillar polymorphs. Fibrils triggered the evolution of liquid α-Syn condensates into solid-like structures displaying growing needle-like extensions and exhibiting pathological amyloid hallmarks. No such changes were elicited on α-Syn that did not undergo phase separation. We, therefore, propose a model where α-Syn within condensates fuels exogenous fibrillar seeds growth, thus speeding up the prion-like propagation of pathogenic aggregates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard Piroska
- PASTEUR, Department of Chemistry, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Alexis Fenyi
- Institut Francois Jacob (MIRCen), CEA, CNRS, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Scott Thomas
- PASTEUR, Department of Chemistry, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Marie-Aude Plamont
- PASTEUR, Department of Chemistry, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Virginie Redeker
- Institut Francois Jacob (MIRCen), CEA, CNRS, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Ronald Melki
- Institut Francois Jacob (MIRCen), CEA, CNRS, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Zoher Gueroui
- PASTEUR, Department of Chemistry, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
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19
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Li S, Wang Y, Lai L. Small molecules in regulating protein phase separation. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2023; 55:1075-1083. [PMID: 37294104 PMCID: PMC10415206 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2023106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates formed by phase separation are involved in many cellular processes. Dysfunctional or abnormal condensates are closely associated with neurodegenerative diseases, cancer and other diseases. Small molecules can effectively regulate protein phase separation by modulating the formation, dissociation, size and material properties of condensates. Discovery of small molecules to regulate protein phase separation provides chemical probes for deciphering the underlying mechanism and potential novel treatments for condensate-related diseases. Here we review the advances of small molecule regulation of phase separation. The discovery, chemical structures of recently found small molecule phase separation regulators and how they modulate biological condensates are summarized and discussed. Possible strategies to accelerate the discovery of more liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS)-regulating small molecules are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyang Li
- Center for Quantitative BiologyAcademy for Advanced Interdisciplinary StudiesPeking UniversityBeijing100871China
| | - Yanyan Wang
- BNLMSPeking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at College of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringPeking UniversityBeijing100871China
| | - Luhua Lai
- Center for Quantitative BiologyAcademy for Advanced Interdisciplinary StudiesPeking UniversityBeijing100871China
- BNLMSPeking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at College of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringPeking UniversityBeijing100871China
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20
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Chen X, Xing L, Li X, Chen N, Liu L, Wang J, Zhou X, Liu S. Manganese Ion-Induced Amyloid Fibrillation Kinetics of Hen Egg White-Lysozyme in Thermal and Acidic Conditions. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:16439-16449. [PMID: 37179629 PMCID: PMC10173442 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c01531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
As manganese ions (Mn2+) are identified as an environmental risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases, uncovering their action mechanism on protein amyloid fibril formation is crucial for related disease treatments. Herein, we performed a combined study of Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), thioflavin T (ThT) fluorescence, and UV-vis absorption spectroscopy assays, in which the distinctive effect of Mn2+ on the amyloid fibrillation kinetics of hen egg white-lysozyme (HEWL) was clarified at the molecular level. With thermal and acid treatments, the unfolding of protein tertiary structures is efficiently accelerated by Mn2+ to form oligomers, as indicated by two Raman markers for the Trp residues on protein side chains: the FWHM at 759 cm-1 and the I1340/I1360 ratio. Meanwhile, the inconsistent evolutionary kinetics of the two indicators, as well as AFM images and UV-vis absorption spectroscopy assays, validate the tendency of Mn2+ toward the formation of amorphous aggregates instead of amyloid fibrils. Moreover, Mn2+ plays an accelerator role in the secondary structure transition from α-helix to organized β-sheet structures, as indicated by the N-Cα-C intensity at 933 cm-1 and the amide I position of Raman spectroscopy and ThT fluorescence assays. Notably, the more significant promotion effect of Mn2+ on the formation of amorphous aggregates provides credible clues to understand the fact that excess exposure to manganese is associated with neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Chen
- Department
of Chemical Physics, University of Science
and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Lei Xing
- State
Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of
Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing
University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xinfei Li
- Department
of Chemical Physics, University of Science
and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Ning Chen
- Department
of Chemical Physics, University of Science
and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Liming Liu
- Department
of Chemical Physics, University of Science
and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Jionghan Wang
- Department
of Chemical Physics, University of Science
and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Xiaoguo Zhou
- Department
of Chemical Physics, University of Science
and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Shilin Liu
- Department
of Chemical Physics, University of Science
and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
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21
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Zhang K, Qi C, Cai K. Manganese-Based Tumor Immunotherapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2205409. [PMID: 36121368 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202205409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
As an essential micronutrient, manganese (Mn) participates in various physiological processes and plays important roles in host immune system, hematopoiesis, endocrine function, and oxidative stress regulation. Mn-based nanoparticles are considered to be biocompatible and show versatile applications in nanomedicine, in particular utilized in tumor immunotherapy in the following ways: 1) acting as a biocompatible nanocarrier to deliver immunotherapeutic agents for tumor immunotherapy; 2) serving as an adjuvant to regulate tumor immune microenvironment and enhance immunotherapy; 3) activating host's immune system through the cGAS-STING pathway to trigger tumor immunotherapy; 4) real-time monitoring tumor immunotherapy effect by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) since Mn2+ ions are ideal MRI contrast agent which can significantly enhance the T1 -weighted MRI signal after binding to proteins. This comprehensive review focuses on the most recent progress of Mn-based nanoplatforms in tumor immunotherapy. The characteristics of Mn are first discussed to guide the design of Mn-based multifunctional nanoplatforms. Then the biomedical applications of Mn-based nanoplatforms, including immunotherapy alone, immunotherapy-involved multimodal synergistic therapy, and imaging-guided immunotherapy are discussed in detail. Finally, the challenges and future developments of Mn-based tumor immunotherapy are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Chao Qi
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Kaiyong Cai
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
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22
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Xu B, Fan F, Liu Y, Liu Y, Zhou L, Yu H. Distinct Effects of Familial Parkinson's Disease-Associated Mutations on α-Synuclein Phase Separation and Amyloid Aggregation. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13050726. [PMID: 37238596 DOI: 10.3390/biom13050726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites are key pathological hallmarks of Parkinson's disease (PD). Single-point mutations associated with familial PD cause α-synuclein (α-Syn) aggregation, leading to the formation of Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites. Recent studies suggest α-Syn nucleates through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) to form amyloid aggregates in a condensate pathway. How PD-associated mutations affect α-Syn LLPS and its correlation with amyloid aggregation remains incompletely understood. Here, we examined the effects of five mutations identified in PD, A30P, E46K, H50Q, A53T, and A53E, on the phase separation of α-Syn. All other α-Syn mutants behave LLPS similarly to wild-type (WT) α-Syn, except that the E46K mutation substantially promotes the formation of α-Syn condensates. The mutant α-Syn droplets fuse to WT α-Syn droplets and recruit α-Syn monomers into their droplets. Our studies showed that α-Syn A30P, E46K, H50Q, and A53T mutations accelerated the formation of amyloid aggregates in the condensates. In contrast, the α-Syn A53E mutant retarded the aggregation during the liquid-to-solid phase transition. Finally, we observed that WT and mutant α-Syn formed condensates in the cells, whereas the E46K mutation apparently promoted the formation of condensates. These findings reveal that familial PD-associated mutations have divergent effects on α-Syn LLPS and amyloid aggregation in the phase-separated condensates, providing new insights into the pathogenesis of PD-associated α-Syn mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingkuan Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Fengshuo Fan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yunpeng Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yinghui Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- School of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Nanjing Normal University Taizhou College, Taizhou 225300, China
| | - Haijia Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
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23
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Miyazaki I, Asanuma M. Multifunctional Metallothioneins as a Target for Neuroprotection in Parkinson's Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040894. [PMID: 37107269 PMCID: PMC10135286 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by motor symptoms based on a loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons and by non-motor symptoms which precede motor symptoms. Neurodegeneration accompanied by an accumulation of α-synuclein is thought to propagate from the enteric nervous system to the central nervous system. The pathogenesis in sporadic PD remains unknown. However, many reports indicate various etiological factors, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, α-synuclein toxicity and mitochondrial impairment, drive neurodegeneration. Exposure to heavy metals contributes to these etiopathogenesis and increases the risk of developing PD. Metallothioneins (MTs) are cysteine-rich metal-binding proteins; MTs chelate metals and inhibit metal-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. In addition, MTs possess antioxidative properties by scavenging free radicals and exert anti-inflammatory effects by suppression of microglial activation. Furthermore, MTs recently received attention as a potential target for attenuating metal-induced α-synuclein aggregation. In this article, we summarize MTs expression in the central and enteric nervous system, and review protective functions of MTs against etiopathogenesis in PD. We also discuss neuroprotective strategies for the prevention of central dopaminergic and enteric neurodegeneration by targeting MTs. This review highlights multifunctional MTs as a target for the development of disease-modifying drugs for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikuko Miyazaki
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Masato Asanuma
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
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Development of Small Molecules Targeting α-Synuclein Aggregation: A Promising Strategy to Treat Parkinson’s Disease. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030839. [PMID: 36986700 PMCID: PMC10059018 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease, the second most common neurodegenerative disorder worldwide, is characterized by the accumulation of protein deposits in the dopaminergic neurons. These deposits are primarily composed of aggregated forms of α-Synuclein (α-Syn). Despite the extensive research on this disease, only symptomatic treatments are currently available. However, in recent years, several compounds, mainly of an aromatic character, targeting α-Syn self-assembly and amyloid formation have been identified. These compounds, discovered by different approaches, are chemically diverse and exhibit a plethora of mechanisms of action. This work aims to provide a historical overview of the physiopathology and molecular aspects associated with Parkinson’s disease and the current trends in small compound development to target α-Syn aggregation. Although these molecules are still under development, they constitute an important step toward discovering effective anti-aggregational therapies for Parkinson’s disease.
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Liquid-liquid Phase Separation of α-Synuclein: A New Mechanistic Insight for α-Synuclein Aggregation Associated with Parkinson's Disease Pathogenesis. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167713. [PMID: 35787838 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant aggregation of the misfolded presynaptic protein, α-Synuclein (α-Syn) into Lewy body (LB) and Lewy neuritis (LN) is a major pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD) and other synucleinopathies. Numerous studies have suggested that prefibrillar and fibrillar species of the misfolded α-Syn aggregates are responsible for cell death in PD pathogenesis. However, the precise molecular events during α-Syn aggregation, especially in the early stages, remain elusive. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of α-Syn occurs in the nucleation step of α-Syn aggregation, which offers an alternate non-canonical aggregation pathway in the crowded microenvironment. The liquid-like α-Syn droplets gradually undergo an irreversible liquid-to-solid phase transition into amyloid-like hydrogel entrapping oligomers and fibrils. This new mechanism of α-Syn LLPS and gel formation might represent the molecular basis of cellular toxicity associated with PD. This review aims to demonstrate the recent development of α-Syn LLPS, the underlying mechanism along with the microscopic events of aberrant phase transition. This review further discusses how several intrinsic and extrinsic factors regulate the thermodynamics and kinetics of α-Syn LLPS and co-LLPS with other proteins, which might explain the pathophysiology of α-Syn in various neurodegenerative diseases.
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Zhao Q, Tao Y, Zhao K, Ma Y, Xu Q, Liu C, Zhang S, Li D. Structural Insights of Fe 3+ Induced α-synuclein Fibrillation in Parkinson's Disease. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167680. [PMID: 35690099 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Amyloid aggregation of α-synuclein (α-syn) in Lewy bodies (LBs) is the pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD). Iron, especially Fe3+, is accumulated in substantia nigra of PD patients and co-deposited with α-syn in LBs. However, how Fe3+ modulates α-syn fibrillation at molecular level remains unclear. In this study, we found that Fe3+ can promote α-syn fibrillation at low concentration while inhibit its fibrillation at high concentration. NMR titration study shows poor interaction between α-syn monomer and Fe3+. Instead, we found that Fe3+ binds to α-syn fibrils. By using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), we further determined the atomic structure of α-syn fibril in complex with Fe3+ at the resolution of 2.7 Å. Strikingly, two extra electron densities adjacent to His50 and Glu57 were observed as putative binding sites of Fe3+ and water molecules, suggesting that Fe3+ binds to the negative cleft of the fibril and stabilizes the fibril structure for promoting α-syn aggregation. Further mutagenesis study shows mutation of His50 abolishes the Fe3+-facilitated fibrillation of α-syn. Our work illuminates the structural basis of the interaction of Fe3+ and α-syn in both monomeric and fibrillar forms, and sheds light on understanding the pathological role of Fe3+ in α-syn aggregation in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinyue Zhao
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China; School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Youqi Tao
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China; School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Kun Zhao
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yeyang Ma
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qianhui Xu
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Cong Liu
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shengnan Zhang
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Dan Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China; Bio-X-Renji Hospital Research Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
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Wu X, Qiu H, Zhang M. Interactions between Membraneless Condensates and Membranous Organelles at the Presynapse: A Phase Separation View of Synaptic Vesicle Cycle. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167629. [PMID: 35595170 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Action potential-induced neurotransmitter release in presynaptic boutons involves coordinated actions of a large list of proteins that are associated directly or indirectly with membrane structures including synaptic vesicles and plasma membranes. These proteins are often highly abundant in different synaptic bouton sub-compartments, and they rarely act alone. Instead, these proteins interact with each other forming intricate and distinct molecular complexes. Many of these complexes form condensed clusters on membrane surfaces. This review summarizes findings in recent years showing that many of presynaptic protein complex assemblies are formed via phase separation. These protein condensates extensively interact with lipid membranes via distinct modes, forming various mesoscale structures by different mode of organizations between membraneless condensates and membranous organelles. We discuss that such mesoscale interactions could have deep implications on mobilization, exocytosis, and retrieval of synaptic vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiandeng Wu
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hua Qiu
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mingjie Zhang
- Greater Bay Biomedical Innocenter, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518036, China; School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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Ubbiali D, Fratini M, Piersimoni L, Ihling CH, Kipping M, Heilmann I, Iacobucci C, Sinz A. Direct Observation of "Elongated" Conformational States in α-Synuclein upon Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202205726. [PMID: 36115020 PMCID: PMC9828221 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202205726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-syn) is an intrinsically disordered protein (IDP) that undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), fibrillation, and forms insoluble intracellular Lewy bodies in neurons, which are the hallmark of Parkinson's Disease (PD). Neurotoxicity precedes the formation of aggregates and might be related to α-syn LLPS. The molecular mechanisms underlying the early stages of LLPS are still elusive. To obtain structural insights into α-syn upon LLPS, we take advantage of cross-linking/mass spectrometry (XL-MS) and introduce an innovative approach, termed COMPASS (COMPetitive PAiring StatisticS). In this work, we show that the conformational ensemble of α-syn shifts from a "hairpin-like" structure towards more "elongated" conformational states upon LLPS. We obtain insights into the critical initial stages of LLPS and establish a novel mass spectrometry-based approach that will aid to solve open questions in LLPS structural biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Ubbiali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Bioanalytics, Institute of PharmacyMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany,Center for Structural Mass SpectrometryMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany
| | - Marta Fratini
- Department of Plant BiochemistryCharles Tanford Protein CenterInstitute for Biochemistry and BiotechnologyMartin-Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany
| | - Lolita Piersimoni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Bioanalytics, Institute of PharmacyMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany,Center for Structural Mass SpectrometryMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany
| | - Christian H. Ihling
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Bioanalytics, Institute of PharmacyMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany,Center for Structural Mass SpectrometryMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany
| | - Marc Kipping
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Bioanalytics, Institute of PharmacyMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany,Center for Structural Mass SpectrometryMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany
| | - Ingo Heilmann
- Department of Plant BiochemistryCharles Tanford Protein CenterInstitute for Biochemistry and BiotechnologyMartin-Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany
| | - Claudio Iacobucci
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Bioanalytics, Institute of PharmacyMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany,Center for Structural Mass SpectrometryMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany,Department of Physical and Chemical SciencesUniversity of L'AquilaVia Vetoio, Coppito67100L'AquilaItaly
| | - Andrea Sinz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Bioanalytics, Institute of PharmacyMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany,Center for Structural Mass SpectrometryMartin Luther University Halle-WittenbergKurt-Mothes-Str. 306120Halle/SaaleGermany
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Phase separation and other forms of α-Synuclein self-assemblies. Essays Biochem 2022; 66:987-1000. [DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-Syn) is a natively unstructured protein, which self-assembles into higher-order aggregates possessing serious pathophysiological implications. α-Syn aberrantly self-assembles into protein aggregates, which have been widely implicated in Parkinson’s disease (PD) pathogenesis and other synucleinopathies. The self-assembly of α-Syn involves the structural conversion of soluble monomeric protein into oligomeric intermediates and eventually fibrillar aggregates of amyloids with cross-β-sheet rich conformation. These aggregated α-Syn species majorly constitute the intraneuronal inclusions, which is a hallmark of PD neuropathology. Self-assembly/aggregation of α-Syn is not a single-state conversion process as unfolded protein can access multiple conformational states through the formation of metastable, transient pre-fibrillar intermediate species. Recent studies have indicated that soluble oligomers are the potential neurotoxic species responsible for cell death in PD pathogenesis. The heterogeneous and transient nature of oligomers formed during the early stage of aggregation pathway limit their detailed study in understanding the structure–toxicity relationship. Moreover, the precise molecular events occurring in the early stage of α-Syn aggregation process majorly remain unsolved. Recently, liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) of α-Syn has been designated as an alternate nucleation mechanism, which occurs in the early lag phase of the aggregation pathway leading to the formation of dynamic supramolecular assemblies. The stronger self-association among the protein molecules triggers the irreversible liquid-to-solid transition of these supramolecular assemblies into the amyloid-like hydrogel, which may serve as a reservoir entrapping toxic oligomeric intermediates and fibrils. This review strives to provide insights into different modes of α-Syn self-assemblies including LLPS-mediated self-assembly and its recent advancements.
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Langkilde AE, Vestergaard B. Protein fibrillation from another small angle-SAXS data analysis of developing systems. Methods Enzymol 2022; 678:377-409. [PMID: 36641215 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2022.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
During the fibrillation process amyloid proteins undergo structural changes at very different length and time scales. Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) is a method that is uniquely suitable for the structural analysis of this process. Careful measures must, however, be taken both in the sample preparation, data collection and data analysis procedures to ensure proper data quality, coverage of the process and reliable interpretation. With this chapter, we provide many details about the data analysis of such developing systems. The recommendations are based on our own experience with analysis of data from several amyloid and amyloid-like proteins, with data decomposition being a central point in the procedure. We focus on two alternative approaches, one being a laborious, hands-on, iterative approach, the other being more automated, applying a chemometrics based software, developed for the purpose. Both methods can equally well be applied to other developing mixtures, but specific recommendations for amyloid samples are emphasized in this chapter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Eva Langkilde
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Bente Vestergaard
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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31
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Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation Promotes Protein Aggregation and Its Implications in Ferroptosis in Parkinson’s Disease Dementia. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:7165387. [PMID: 36246407 PMCID: PMC9560807 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7165387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The pathological features of PDD are represented by dopaminergic neuronal death and intracellular α-synuclein (α-syn) aggregation. The interaction of iron accumulation with α-syn and tau was further explored as an essential pathological mechanism of PDD. However, the links and mechanisms between these factors remain unclear. Studies have shown that the occurrence and development of neurodegenerative diseases such as PDD are closely related to the separation of abnormal phases. Substances such as proteins can form droplets through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) under normal physiological conditions and even undergo further liquid-solid phase transitions to form solid aggregates under disease or regulatory disorders, leading to pathological phenomena. By analyzing the existing literature, we propose that LLPS is the crucial mechanism causing abnormal accumulation of α-syn, tau, and other proteins in PDD, and its interaction with iron metabolism disorder is the key factor driving ferroptosis in PDD. Therefore, we believe that LLPS can serve as one of the means to explain the pathological mechanism of PDD. Determining the significance of LLPS in neurodegenerative diseases such as PDD will stimulate interest in research into treatments based on interference with abnormal LLPS.
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32
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Xu B, Chen J, Liu Y. Curcumin Interacts with α-Synuclein Condensates To Inhibit Amyloid Aggregation under Phase Separation. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:30281-30290. [PMID: 36061735 PMCID: PMC9434619 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c03534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The amyloid aggregation of α-synuclein (α-Syn) is highly associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). Discovering α-Syn amyloid inhibitors is one of the strategies for PD therapies. Recent studies suggested that α-Syn undergoes phase separation to accelerate amyloid aggregation. Molecules modulating α-Syn phase separation or transition have the potential to regulate amyloid aggregation. Here, we discovered that curcumin, a small natural molecule, interacts with α-Syn during phase separation. Our study showed that curcumin neither affects the formation of α-Syn condensates nor influences the initial morphology of α-Syn condensates. However, curcumin decreases the fluidity of α-Syn inside the condensates and efficiently inhibits α-Syn from turning into an amyloid. It also inhibits the amyloid aggregations of PD disease-related α-Syn E46K and H50Q mutants under phase separation. Furthermore, curcumin can destabilize preformed α-Syn amyloid aggregates in the condensates. Together, our findings demonstrate that curcumin regulates α-Syn amyloid formation during protein phase separation and reveal that α-Syn amyloid aggregation under phase separation can be modulated by small molecules.
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Xu B, Mo X, Chen J, Yu H, Liu Y. Myricetin Inhibits α-Synuclein Amyloid Aggregation by Delaying the Liquid-to-Solid Phase Transition. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200216. [PMID: 35657723 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The aggregation of α-synuclein (α-Syn) is a critical pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD). Prevention of α-Syn aggregation has become a key strategy for treating PD. Recent studies have suggested that α-Syn undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) to facilitate nucleation and amyloid formation. Here, we examined the modulation of α-Syn aggregation by myricetin, a polyhydroxyflavonol compound, under the conditions of LLPS. Unexpectedly, neither the initial morphology nor the phase-separated fraction of α-Syn was altered by myricetin. However, the dynamics of α-Syn condensates decreased upon myricetin binding. Further studies showed that myricetin dose-dependently inhibits amyloid aggregation in the condensates by delaying the liquid-to-solid phase transition. In addition, myricetin could disassemble the preformed α-Syn amyloid aggregates matured from the condensates. Together, our study shows that myricetin inhibits α-Syn amyloid aggregation in the condensates by retarding the liquid-to-solid phase transition and reveals that α-Syn phase transition can be targeted to inhibit amyloid aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingkuan Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, No. 1 Wenyuan Road, Nanjing, 210046, (P. R. China)
| | - Xiaoli Mo
- Biology Department, Clark University 950 Main Street, Worcester, Massachusetts (USA) 01610
| | - Jing Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, No. 1 Wenyuan Road, Nanjing, 210046, (P. R. China)
| | - Haijia Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, No. 1 Wenyuan Road, Nanjing, 210046, (P. R. China)
| | - Yinghui Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, No. 1 Wenyuan Road, Nanjing, 210046, (P. R. China)
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Huang S, Mo X, Wang J, Ye X, Yu H, Liu Y. α-Synuclein phase separation and amyloid aggregation are modulated by C-terminal truncations. FEBS Lett 2022; 596:1388-1400. [PMID: 35485974 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The aggregation of α-synuclein (α-Syn) is a key pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD). α-Syn undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) to drive amyloid aggregation. How the LLPS of α-Syn is regulated remains largely unknown. Here, we discovered that the C-terminal region modulates α-Syn phase separation through electrostatic interactions. The wild-type (WT) and PD disease-related truncated α-Syn can co-exist in the condensates. The truncated α-Syn could dramatically promote WT α-Syn phase separation. Further studies demonstrated that the truncated α-Syn accelerated WT α-Syn turning to amyloid aggregates by modulation of phase separation. Together, our findings disclose the role of the C-terminal domain in the LLPS of α-Syn and pave the path for understanding the mechanism of truncated α-Syn in PD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xiaoli Mo
- Biology Department, Clark University, Worcester, Massachusetts, 01610, USA
| | - Jieyi Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xinyi Ye
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Haijia Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yinghui Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
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Huang S, Xu B, Liu Y. Calcium promotes α-synuclein liquid-liquid phase separation to accelerate amyloid aggregation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 603:13-20. [PMID: 35276458 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.02.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-Syn) is an aggregation-prone protein whose accumulation in Lewy bodies leads to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease (PD). Calcium plays a critical role in neurons, and calcium dysregulation is one of the risk factors of PD. It is known that Ca2+ interacts with α-Syn and affects its assembly. However, how Ca2+ regulates α-Syn aggregation remains unclear. Here, we reported that Ca2+ accelerates α-Syn amyloid aggregation through the modulation of protein phase separation. We observed that Ca2+ promotes the formation of α-Syn liquid droplets but does not change the protein fluidity inside the droplets. Further studies showed Ca2+-involved α-Syn droplets are still able to fuse. A metal chelator eliminated Ca2+-induced enlargement of α-Syn droplets, suggesting the influence of Ca2+ on α-Syn assembly could be reversed at the stage of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). Interestingly, our data showed Ca2+ still promoted α-Syn phase separation in the presence of the lipid membranes. In addition, Ca2+/α-syn droplets could efficiently recruit lipid vesicles to the surface of these condensates. Our findings demonstrate that Ca2+ facilitates α-Syn phase separation to accelerate amyloid aggregation and pave the path for understanding the implications of Ca2+ in α-Syn accumulation and PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Bingkuan Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yinghui Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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