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Silva MA, Izidoro MA, Aricó M, Juliano L, Schenkman S. The effect of nutritional and oxidative stress on the metabolome of Trypanosoma cruzi. Mol Microbiol 2024. [PMID: 38814666 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.15279] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi, a flagellated protozoan, is the causative agent of Chagas disease. The parasite has developed various mechanisms to get through its intricate life cycle and adapt to different evolutionary phases. T. cruzi proliferates in the insect vector's digestive tract as an epimastigote form, encountering fluctuating nutrient availability and oxidative stress caused by the digestion of red blood cells from the mammalian host blood meal. To unravel how the parasite's metabolism adapts to these changing conditions, we conducted an analysis of the chemical species present in epimastigote forms. This involved comparing cultured parasites with those subjected to nutritional deficiency or oxidative stress using untargeted metabolomics. We looked at 21 samples: seven biological copies of parasites that were actively growing, seven samples that were put in a medium without nutrients for 3 h, and seven samples that were treated with glucose oxidase for 30 min to make H2O2 continuously. Importantly, in all conditions, parasite viability was maintained when the samples were collected. Upon nutrient removal, we observed a substantial decrease in amino acids and carbohydrate metabolites, accompanied by the accumulation of fatty acids and steroids, with the predominance of inositol and sphingolipid metabolism, along with a simultaneous decrease in the levels of H2O2. In the presence of H2O2, a significant rise in components of the pentose pathway and specific amino acids such as methionine and serine occurred, along with pathways related to an increase in antioxidant species metabolism such as ribulose 5-phosphate and glyceric acid. Conversely, fatty acid and steroid levels decrease. We found no common increase in metabolites or lipids. In contrast, eight species (succinic acid, glutamic acid, valine, 2-hydroxyisocaproic acid, alanine, indolelactic acid, proline, and lanosterol) were consumed under both stresses. These findings underscore the rapid and distinct enrichment responses in amino acids, lipids, and carbohydrates required to cope with each different environmental condition. We concluded that T. cruzi presents a flexible metabolism that rapidly adapts to variable changes in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Augusto Silva
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Mirella Aricó
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz Juliano
- Department of Biophysics, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sergio Schenkman
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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San Francisco J, Astudillo C, Vega JL, Catalán A, Gutiérrez B, Araya JE, Zailberger A, Marina A, García C, Sanchez N, Osuna A, Vilchez S, Ramírez MI, Macedo J, Feijoli VS, Palmisano G, González J. Trypanosoma cruzi pathogenicity involves virulence factor expression and upregulation of bioenergetic and biosynthetic pathways. Virulence 2022; 13:1827-1848. [PMID: 36284085 PMCID: PMC9601562 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2022.2132776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular repertoire of Trypanosoma cruzi effects its virulence and impacts the clinical course of the resulting Chagas disease. This study aimed to determine the mechanism underlying the pathogenicity of T. cruzi. Two T. cruzi cell lines (C8C3hvir and C8C3lvir), obtained from the clone H510 C8C3 and exhibiting different virulence phenotypes, were used to evaluate the parasite's infectivity in mice. The organ parasite load was analysed by qPCR. The proteomes of both T. cruzi cell lines were compared using nLC-MS/MS. Cruzipain (Czp), complement regulatory protein (CRP), trans-sialidase (TS), Tc-85, and sialylated epitope expression levels were evaluated by immunoblotting. High-virulence C8C3hvir was highly infectious in mice and demonstrated three to five times higher infectivity in mouse myocardial cells than low-virulence C8C3lvir. qPCR revealed higher parasite loads in organs of acute as well as chronically C8C3hvir-infected mice than in those of C8C3lvir-infected mice. Comparative quantitative proteomics revealed that 390 of 1547 identified proteins were differentially regulated in C8C3hvir with respect to C8C3lvir. Amongst these, 174 proteins were upregulated in C8C3hvir and 216 were downregulated in C8C3lvir. The upregulated proteins in C8C3hvir were associated with the tricarboxylic acid cycle, ribosomal proteins, and redoxins. Higher levels of Czp, CRP, TS, Tc-85, and sialylated epitopes were expressed in C8C3hvir than in C8C3lvir. Thus, T. cruzi virulence may be related to virulence factor expression as well as upregulation of bioenergetic and biosynthetic pathways proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan San Francisco
- Molecular Parasitology Unit, Medical Technology Department, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Constanza Astudillo
- Molecular Parasitology Unit, Medical Technology Department, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - José Luis Vega
- Molecular Parasitology Unit, Medical Technology Department, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile,Laboratory of Gap Junction Proteins and Parasitic Disease, Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile,Research Center in Immunology and Biomedical Biotechnology of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Alejandro Catalán
- Molecular Parasitology Unit, Medical Technology Department, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Bessy Gutiérrez
- Molecular Parasitology Unit, Medical Technology Department, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Jorge E Araya
- Molecular Parasitology Unit, Medical Technology Department, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | | | - Anabel Marina
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos García
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Sanchez
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Osuna
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Susana Vilchez
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Marcel I Ramírez
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Sistemática de Trypanosomatides, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fiocruz, Parana, Brazil
| | - Janaina Macedo
- Department of Parasitology, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Jorge González
- Molecular Parasitology Unit, Medical Technology Department, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile,Research Center in Immunology and Biomedical Biotechnology of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile,Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Sistemática de Trypanosomatides, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Antofagasta, Chile,CONTACT Jorge González
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Hickson J, Athayde LFA, Miranda TG, Junior PAS, Dos Santos AC, da Cunha Galvão LM, da Câmara ACJ, Bartholomeu DC, de Souza RDCM, Murta SMF, Nahum LA. Trypanosoma cruzi iron superoxide dismutases: insights from phylogenetics to chemotherapeutic target assessment. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:194. [PMID: 35668508 PMCID: PMC9169349 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05319-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Components of the antioxidant defense system in Trypanosoma cruzi are potential targets for new drug development. Superoxide dismutases (SODs) constitute key components of antioxidant defense systems, removing excess superoxide anions by converting them into oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. The main goal of the present study was to investigate the genes coding for iron superoxide dismutase (FeSOD) in T. cruzi strains from an evolutionary perspective. Methods In this study, molecular biology methods and phylogenetic studies were combined with drug assays. The FeSOD-A and FeSOD-B genes of 35 T. cruzi strains, belonging to six discrete typing units (Tcl–TcVI), from different hosts and geographical regions were amplified by PCR and sequenced using the Sanger method. Evolutionary trees were reconstructed based on Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood methods. Drugs that potentially interacted with T. cruzi FeSODs were identified and tested against the parasites. Results Our results suggest that T. cruzi FeSOD types are members of distinct families. Gene copies of FeSOD-A (n = 2), FeSOD-B (n = 4) and FeSOD-C (n = 4) were identified in the genome of the T. cruzi reference clone CL Brener. Phylogenetic inference supported the presence of two functional variants of each FeSOD type across the T. cruzi strains. Phylogenetic trees revealed a monophyletic group of FeSOD genes of T. cruzi TcIV strains in both distinct genes. Altogether, our results support the hypothesis that gene duplication followed by divergence shaped the evolution of T. cruzi FeSODs. Two drugs, mangafodipir and polaprezinc, that potentially interact with T. cruzi FeSODs were identified and tested in vitro against amastigotes and trypomastigotes: mangafodipir had a low trypanocidal effect and polaprezinc was inactive. Conclusions Our study contributes to a better understanding of the molecular biodiversity of T. cruzi FeSODs. Herein we provide a successful approach to the study of gene/protein families as potential drug targets. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05319-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica Hickson
- René Rachou Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Functional genomics of parasites group; Biosystems informatics, bioengineering and genomic group), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lucas Felipe Almeida Athayde
- René Rachou Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Functional genomics of parasites group; Biosystems informatics, bioengineering and genomic group), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.,Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Thainá Godinho Miranda
- René Rachou Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Functional genomics of parasites group; Biosystems informatics, bioengineering and genomic group), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.,Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Policarpo Ademar Sales Junior
- René Rachou Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Functional genomics of parasites group; Biosystems informatics, bioengineering and genomic group), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Anderson Coqueiro Dos Santos
- Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lúcia Maria da Cunha Galvão
- Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte State, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Antônia Cláudia Jácome da Câmara
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte State, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Daniella Castanheira Bartholomeu
- Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Rita de Cássia Moreira de Souza
- René Rachou Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Functional genomics of parasites group; Biosystems informatics, bioengineering and genomic group), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Silvane Maria Fonseca Murta
- René Rachou Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Functional genomics of parasites group; Biosystems informatics, bioengineering and genomic group), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Laila Alves Nahum
- René Rachou Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Functional genomics of parasites group; Biosystems informatics, bioengineering and genomic group), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. .,Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil. .,Promove College of Technology, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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4
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Docampo R, Vercesi AE. Mitochondrial Ca 2+ and Reactive Oxygen Species in Trypanosomatids. Antioxid Redox Signal 2022; 36:969-983. [PMID: 34218689 PMCID: PMC9125514 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2021.0058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Significance: Millions of people are infected with trypanosomatids and new therapeutic approaches are needed. Trypanosomatids possess one mitochondrion per cell and its study has led to discoveries of general biological interest. These mitochondria, as in their animal counterparts, generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and have evolved enzymatic and nonenzymatic defenses against them. Mitochondrial calcium ion (Ca2+) overload leads to generation of ROS and its study could lead to relevant information on the biology of trypanosomatids and to novel drug targets. Recent Advances: Mitochondrial Ca2+ is normally involved in maintaining the bioenergetics of trypanosomes, but when Ca2+ overload occurs, it is associated with cell death. Trypanosomes lack key players in the mechanism of cell death described in mammalian cells, although mitochondrial Ca2+ overload results in collapse of their membrane potential, production of ROS, and cytochrome c release. They are also very resistant to mitochondrial permeability transition, and cell death after mitochondrial Ca2+ overload depends on generation of ROS. Critical Issues: In this review, we consider the mechanisms of mitochondrial oxidant generation and removal and the involvement of Ca2+ in trypanosome cell death. Future Directions: More studies are required to determine the reactions involved in generation of ROS by the mitochondria of trypanosomatids, their enzymatic and nonenzymatic defenses against ROS, and the occurrence and composition of a mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 36, 969-983.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Docampo
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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5
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de Obeso Fernandez del Valle A, Scheckhuber CQ. Superoxide Dismutases in Eukaryotic Microorganisms: Four Case Studies. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020188. [PMID: 35204070 PMCID: PMC8868140 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Various components in the cell are responsible for maintaining physiological levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Several different enzymes exist that can convert or degrade ROS; among them are the superoxide dismutases (SODs). If left unchecked, ROS can cause damage that leads to pathology, can contribute to aging, and may, ultimately, cause death. SODs are responsible for converting superoxide anions to hydrogen peroxide by dismutation. Here we review the role of different SODs on the development and pathogenicity of various eukaryotic microorganisms relevant to human health. These include the fungal aging model, Podospora anserina; various members of the genus Aspergillus that can potentially cause aspergillosis; the agents of diseases such as Chagas and sleeping disease, Trypanosoma cruzi and Trypanosoma brucei, respectively; and, finally, pathogenic amoebae, such as Acanthamoeba spp. In these organisms, SODs fulfill essential and often regulatory functions that come into play during processes such as the development, host infection, propagation, and control of gene expression. We explore the contribution of SODs and their related factors in these microorganisms, which have an established role in health and disease.
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6
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Choudhuri S, Rios L, Vázquez-Chagoyán JC, Garg NJ. Oxidative stress implications for therapeutic vaccine development against Chagas disease. Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:1395-1406. [PMID: 34406892 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1969230] [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: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pathogenesis of Chagas disease (CD) caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi) involves chronic oxidative and inflammatory stress. In this review, we discuss the research efforts in therapeutic vaccine development to date and the potential challenges imposed by oxidative stress in achieving an efficient therapeutic vaccine against CD. AREAS COVERED This review covers the immune and nonimmune mechanisms of reactive oxygen species production and immune response patterns during T. cruzi infection in CD. A discussion on immunotherapy development efforts, the efficacy of antigen-based immune therapies against T. cruzi, and the role of antioxidants as adjuvants is discussed to provide promising insights to developing future treatment strategies against CD. EXPERT OPINION Administration of therapeutic vaccines can be a good option to confront persistent parasitemia in CD by achieving a rapid, short-lived stimulation of type 1 cell-mediated immunity. At the same time, adjunct therapies could play a critical role in the preservation of mitochondrial metabolism and cardiac muscle contractility in CD. We propose combined therapy with antigen-based vaccine and small molecules to control the pathological oxidative insult would be effective in the conservation of cardiac structure and function in CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhadip Choudhuri
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Lizette Rios
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Juan Carlos Vázquez-Chagoyán
- Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados En Salud Animal, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca, México
| | - Nisha Jain Garg
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.,Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Tx, USA
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7
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Mesías AC, Garg NJ, Zago MP. Redox Balance Keepers and Possible Cell Functions Managed by Redox Homeostasis in Trypanosoma cruzi. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2019; 9:435. [PMID: 31921709 PMCID: PMC6932984 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2019.00435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The toxicity of oxygen and nitrogen reactive species appears to be merely the tip of the iceberg in the world of redox homeostasis. Now, oxidative stress can be seen as a two-sided process; at high concentrations, it causes damage to biomolecules, and thus, trypanosomes have evolved a strong antioxidant defense system to cope with these stressors. At low concentrations, oxidants are essential for cell signaling, and in fact, the oxidants/antioxidants balance may be able to trigger different cell fates. In this comprehensive review, we discuss the current knowledge of the oxidant environment experienced by T. cruzi along the different phases of its life cycle, and the molecular tools exploited by this pathogen to deal with oxidative stress, for better or worse. Further, we discuss the possible redox-regulated processes that could be governed by this oxidative context. Most of the current research has addressed the importance of the trypanosomes' antioxidant network based on its detox activity of harmful species; however, new efforts are necessary to highlight other functions of this network and the mechanisms underlying the fine regulation of the defense machinery, as this represents a master key to hinder crucial pathogen functions. Understanding the relevance of this balance keeper program in parasite biology will give us new perspectives to delineate improved treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea C Mesías
- Instituto de Patología Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) - Universidad Nacional de Salta, Salta, Argentina
| | - Nisha J Garg
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - M Paola Zago
- Instituto de Patología Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) - Universidad Nacional de Salta, Salta, Argentina
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Yunta MJR, Dietrich RC. Tropical and Subtropical Parasitic Diseases: Targets for a New Approach to Virtual Screening. Mol Inform 2019; 38:e1900052. [PMID: 31490642 DOI: 10.1002/minf.201900052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Computational techniques are widely used to reduce costs associated with new drug development with the ability to bind a specific molecular target. These studies need a Brookhaven protein data bank structure sample of the enzyme interaction with an inhibitor of adequate size. In this context, a new computational methodology is postulated to be used when there are no published samples fulfilling this requirements. In this study, 7 compounds, which showed anti-T. cruzi, L. donovani and L. infantum properties, and proved to be inhibitors of their Fe-SOD enzymes, have been theoretically evaluated against related parasites Fe-SOD enzymes, which have been proposed as targets for antiparasitic drugs. This methodology may be applied to similar cases and also to generate starting structures to be used with different CADD methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria J R Yunta
- Organic Chemistry Department, Universidad Complutense, E-28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roque Carlos Dietrich
- Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP). La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Cytosolic Fe-superoxide dismutase safeguards Trypanosoma cruzi from macrophage-derived superoxide radical. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:8879-8888. [PMID: 30979807 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1821487116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease (CD), contains exclusively Fe-dependent superoxide dismutases (Fe-SODs). During T. cruzi invasion to macrophages, superoxide radical (O2 •-) is produced at the phagosomal compartment toward the internalized parasite via NOX-2 (gp91-phox) activation. In this work, T. cruzi cytosolic Fe-SODB overexpressers (pRIBOTEX-Fe-SODB) exhibited higher resistance to macrophage-dependent killing and enhanced intracellular proliferation compared with wild-type (WT) parasites. The higher infectivity of Fe-SODB overexpressers compared with WT parasites was lost in gp91-phox -/- macrophages, underscoring the role of O2 •- in parasite killing. Herein, we studied the entrance of O2 •- and its protonated form, perhydroxyl radical [(HO2 •); pKa = 4.8], to T. cruzi at the phagosome compartment. At the acidic pH values of the phagosome lumen (pH 5.3 ± 0.1), high steady-state concentrations of O2 •- and HO2 • were estimated (∼28 and 8 µM, respectively). Phagosomal acidification was crucial for O2 •- permeation, because inhibition of the macrophage H+-ATPase proton pump significantly decreased O2 •- detection in the internalized parasite. Importantly, O2 •- detection, aconitase inactivation, and peroxynitrite generation were lower in Fe-SODB than in WT parasites exposed to external fluxes of O2 •- or during macrophage infections. Other mechanisms of O2 •- entrance participate at neutral pH values, because the anion channel inhibitor 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid decreased O2 •- detection. Finally, parasitemia and tissue parasite burden in mice were higher in Fe-SODB-overexpressing parasites, supporting the role of the cytosolic O2 •--catabolizing enzyme as a virulence factor for CD.
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10
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Piacenza L, Trujillo M, Radi R. Reactive species and pathogen antioxidant networks during phagocytosis. J Exp Med 2019; 216:501-516. [PMID: 30792185 PMCID: PMC6400530 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20181886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This review discusses the generation of phagosomal cytotoxic reactive species by activated macrophages and neutrophils for the control of intracellular pathogens, and the mechanisms by which microbes combat host-derived oxidants via antioxidant networks that mitigate the redox-dependent control of infection. The generation of phagosomal cytotoxic reactive species (i.e., free radicals and oxidants) by activated macrophages and neutrophils is a crucial process for the control of intracellular pathogens. The chemical nature of these species, the reactions they are involved in, and the subsequent effects are multifaceted and depend on several host- and pathogen-derived factors that influence their production rates and catabolism inside the phagosome. Pathogens rely on an intricate and synergistic antioxidant armamentarium that ensures their own survival by detoxifying reactive species. In this review, we discuss the generation, kinetics, and toxicity of reactive species generated in phagocytes, with a focus on the response of macrophages to internalized pathogens and concentrating on Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Trypanosoma cruzi as examples of bacterial and parasitic infection, respectively. The ability of pathogens to deal with host-derived reactive species largely depends on the competence of their antioxidant networks at the onset of invasion, which in turn can tilt the balance toward pathogen survival, proliferation, and virulence over redox-dependent control of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Piacenza
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay.,Center for Free Radical and Biomedical Research, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Madia Trujillo
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay.,Center for Free Radical and Biomedical Research, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Rafael Radi
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay .,Center for Free Radical and Biomedical Research, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
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Beltrame-Botelho IT, Talavera-López C, Andersson B, Grisard EC, Stoco PH. A Comparative In Silico Study of the Antioxidant Defense Gene Repertoire of Distinct Lifestyle Trypanosomatid Species. Evol Bioinform Online 2016; 12:263-275. [PMID: 27840574 PMCID: PMC5100842 DOI: 10.4137/ebo.s40648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Kinetoplastids are an ancestral group of protists that contains free-living species and parasites with distinct mechanisms in response to stress. Here, we compared genes involved in antioxidant defense (AD), proposing an evolution model among trypanosomatids. All genes were identified in Bodo saltans, suggesting that AD mechanisms have evolved prior to adaptation for parasitic lifestyles. While most of the monoxenous and dixenous parasites revealed minor differences from B. saltans, the endosymbiont-bearing species have an increased number of genes. The absence of these genes was mainly observed in the extracellular parasites of the genera Phytomonas and Trypanosoma. In trypanosomes, a distinction was observed between stercorarian and salivarian parasites, except for Trypanosoma rangeli. Our analyses indicate that the variability of AD among trypanosomatids at the genomic level is not solely due to the geographical isolation, being mainly related to specific adaptations of their distinct biological cycles within insect vectors and to a parasitism of a wide range of hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Thaís Beltrame-Botelho
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
- Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina, Palhoça, SC, Brazil
| | | | - Björn Andersson
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Edmundo Carlos Grisard
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Patricia Hermes Stoco
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
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Specific primers design based on the superoxide dismutase b gene for Trypanosoma cruzi as a screening tool: Validation method using strains from Colombia classified according to their discrete typing unit. ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2014; 7:854-9. [DOI: 10.1016/s1995-7645(14)60149-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2014] [Revised: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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13
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Martinez A, Peluffo G, Petruk AA, Hugo M, Piñeyro D, Demicheli V, Moreno DM, Lima A, Batthyány C, Durán R, Robello C, Martí MA, Larrieux N, Buschiazzo A, Trujillo M, Radi R, Piacenza L. Structural and molecular basis of the peroxynitrite-mediated nitration and inactivation of Trypanosoma cruzi iron-superoxide dismutases (Fe-SODs) A and B: disparate susceptibilities due to the repair of Tyr35 radical by Cys83 in Fe-SODB through intramolecular electron transfer. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:12760-78. [PMID: 24616096 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.545590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, contains exclusively iron-dependent superoxide dismutases (Fe-SODs) located in different subcellular compartments. Peroxynitrite, a key cytotoxic and oxidizing effector biomolecule, reacted with T. cruzi mitochondrial (Fe-SODA) and cytosolic (Fe-SODB) SODs with second order rate constants of 4.6 ± 0.2 × 10(4) M(-1) s(-1) and 4.3 ± 0.4 × 10(4) M(-1) s(-1) at pH 7.4 and 37 °C, respectively. Both isoforms are dose-dependently nitrated and inactivated by peroxynitrite. Susceptibility of T. cruzi Fe-SODA toward peroxynitrite was similar to that reported previously for Escherichia coli Mn- and Fe-SODs and mammalian Mn-SOD, whereas Fe-SODB was exceptionally resistant to oxidant-mediated inactivation. We report mass spectrometry analysis indicating that peroxynitrite-mediated inactivation of T. cruzi Fe-SODs is due to the site-specific nitration of the critical and universally conserved Tyr(35). Searching for structural differences, the crystal structure of Fe-SODA was solved at 2.2 Å resolution. Structural analysis comparing both Fe-SOD isoforms reveals differences in key cysteines and tryptophan residues. Thiol alkylation of Fe-SODB cysteines made the enzyme more susceptible to peroxynitrite. In particular, Cys(83) mutation (C83S, absent in Fe-SODA) increased the Fe-SODB sensitivity toward peroxynitrite. Molecular dynamics, electron paramagnetic resonance, and immunospin trapping analysis revealed that Cys(83) present in Fe-SODB acts as an electron donor that repairs Tyr(35) radical via intramolecular electron transfer, preventing peroxynitrite-dependent nitration and consequent inactivation of Fe-SODB. Parasites exposed to exogenous or endogenous sources of peroxynitrite resulted in nitration and inactivation of Fe-SODA but not Fe-SODB, suggesting that these enzymes play distinctive biological roles during parasite infection of mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Martinez
- From the Departamento de Bioquímica and Center for Free Radical and Biomedical Research, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11800, Uruguay
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14
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Piacenza L, Peluffo G, Alvarez MN, Martínez A, Radi R. Trypanosoma cruzi antioxidant enzymes as virulence factors in Chagas disease. Antioxid Redox Signal 2013; 19:723-34. [PMID: 22458250 PMCID: PMC3739954 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2012.4618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Chagas disease (CD) affects several million people in Latin America and is spreading beyond its classical boundaries due to the migration of infected host and insect vectors, HIV co-infection, and blood transfusion. The current therapy is not adequate for treatment of the chronic phase of CD, and new drugs are warranted. RECENT ADVANCES Trypanosoma cruzi is equipped with a specialized and complex network of antioxidant enzymes that are located at different subcellular compartments which defend the parasite against host oxidative assaults. Recently, strong evidence has emerged which indicates that enzyme components of the T. cruzi antioxidant network (cytosolic and mitochondrial peroxiredoxins and trypanothione synthetase) in naturally occurring strains act as a virulence factor for CD. This precept is recapitulated with the observed increased resistance of T. cruzi peroxirredoxins overexpressers to in vivo or in vitro nitroxidative stress conditions. In addition, the modulation of mitochondrial superoxide radical levels by iron superoxide dismutase (FeSODA) influences parasite programmed cell death, underscoring the role of this enzyme in parasite survival. CRITICAL ISSUES The unraveling of the biological significance of FeSODs in T. cruzi programmed cell death in the context of chronic infection in CD is still under examination. FUTURE DIRECTIONS The role of the antioxidant enzymes in the pathogenesis of CD, including parasite virulence and persistence, and their feasibility as pharmacological targets justifies further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Piacenza
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
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15
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Functional expression and characterization of an iron-containing superoxide dismutase of Acanthamoeba castellanii. Parasitol Res 2012; 111:1673-82. [PMID: 22752747 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-012-3006-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2012] [Accepted: 06/08/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. are free-living amoebae, but opportunistic infections of some strains of the organisms cause severe diseases such as acanthamoebic keratitis, pneumonitis, and granulomatous amoebic encephalitis in human. In this study, we identified a gene encoding iron superoxide dismutase of Acanthamoeba castellanii (AcFe-SOD) and characterized biochemical and functional properties of the recombinant enzyme. Multiple sequence alignment of the deduced amino acid sequence of AcFe-SOD with those of previously reported iron-containing SODs (Fe-SODs) from other protozoan parasites showed that AcFe-SOD shared common metal-binding residues and motifs that are conserved in Fe-SODs. The genomic length of the AcFe-SOD gene was 926 bp consisting of five exons interrupted by four introns. The recombinant AcFe-SOD showed similar biochemical characteristics with its native enzyme and shared typical biochemical properties with other characterized Fe-SODs, including molecular structure, broad pH optimum, and sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide. Immunolocalization analysis revealed that the enzyme localized in the cytosol of the trophozoites. Activity and expression level of the enzyme were significantly increased under oxidative stressed conditions. These results collectively suggest that AcFe-SOD may play essential roles in the survival of the parasite not only by protecting itself from endogenous oxidative stress but also by detoxifying oxidative killing of the parasite by host immune effector cells.
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16
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Peloso EF, Gonçalves CC, Silva TM, Ribeiro LHG, Piñeyro MD, Robello C, Gadelha FR. Tryparedoxin peroxidases and superoxide dismutases expression as well as ROS release are related to Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes growth phases. Arch Biochem Biophys 2012; 520:117-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2012.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2011] [Revised: 02/27/2012] [Accepted: 02/28/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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17
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Mateo H, Sánchez-Moreno M, Marín C. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with purified Trypanosoma cruzi excreted superoxide dismutase. Clin Biochem 2010; 43:1257-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2010.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2010] [Revised: 07/07/2010] [Accepted: 07/13/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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18
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Bachega JFR, Navarro MVAS, Bleicher L, Bortoleto-Bugs RK, Dive D, Hoffmann P, Viscogliosi E, Garratt RC. Systematic structural studies of iron superoxide dismutases from human parasites and a statistical coupling analysis of metal binding specificity. Proteins 2009; 77:26-37. [DOI: 10.1002/prot.22412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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19
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Subileau M, Barnabé C, Douzery E, Diosque P, Tibayrenc M. Trypanosoma cruzi: New insights on ecophylogeny and hybridization by multigene sequencing of three nuclear and one maxicircle genes. Exp Parasitol 2009; 122:328-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2009.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2009] [Revised: 04/07/2009] [Accepted: 04/12/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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20
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Hernandez SM, Kolliker-Frers RA, Sanchez MS, Razzitte G, Britos RD, Fuentes ME, Schwarcz de Tarlovsky MN. Antiproliferative effect of sera from chagasic patients on Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes. Involvement of xanthine oxidase. Acta Trop 2009; 109:219-25. [PMID: 19073131 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2008.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2008] [Revised: 11/10/2008] [Accepted: 11/14/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Serum from asymptomatic or symptomatic (with cardiovascular manifestations) chagasic patients depleted of the complement system displayed an antiproliferative effect on Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes, RA strain, when added to the growth medium. This effect was also observed when patient's serum was depleted of specific antibodies. The antiproliferative effect was both time and concentration dependent. It was confined to the non-dialyzable, high molecular weight, fraction of the serum. This effect was abrogated by allopurinol and catalase, and enhanced by N-ethylmaleimide. Xanthine oxidoreductase and xanthine oxidase activities were increased in the chagasic sera, while catalase activity remained unchanged. Parasites exposed to chagasic sera showed a decrease in Fe/superoxide dismutase activity as well as an increase in membrane lipoperoxidation. Our data provides evidence to support the idea that the antiproliferative activity observed in sera from chagasic patients may be due, at least partially, to a direct effect of hydrogen peroxide on the epimastigotes of T. cruzi. The increase of hydrogen peroxide to antiproliferative levels might result from an increase in xanthine oxidase activity in the serum of patients infected with the parasite.
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21
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Irigoín F, Cibils L, Comini MA, Wilkinson SR, Flohé L, Radi R. Insights into the redox biology of Trypanosoma cruzi: Trypanothione metabolism and oxidant detoxification. Free Radic Biol Med 2008; 45:733-42. [PMID: 18588970 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2008.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2008] [Revised: 05/24/2008] [Accepted: 05/28/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi is the etiologic agent of Chagas' disease, an infection that affects several million people in Latin America. With no immediate prospect of a vaccine and problems associated with current chemotherapies, the development of new treatments is an urgent priority. Several aspects of the redox metabolism of this parasite differ enough from those in the mammalian host to be considered targets for drug development. Here, we review the information about a trypanosomatid-specific molecule centrally involved in redox metabolism, the dithiol trypanothione, and the main effectors of cellular antioxidant defense. We focus mainly on data from T. cruzi, making comparisons with other trypanosomatids whenever possible. In these parasites trypanothione participates in crucial thiol-disulfide exchange reactions and serves as electron donor in different metabolic pathways, from synthesis of DNA precursors to oxidant detoxification. Interestingly, the levels of several enzymes involved in trypanothione metabolism and oxidant detoxification increase during the transformation of T. cruzi to its mammalian-infective form and the overexpression of some of them has been associated with increased resistance to macrophage-dependent oxidative killing. Together, the evidence suggests a central role of the trypanothione-dependent antioxidant systems in the infection process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florencia Irigoín
- Departmento de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Uruguay
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22
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Identification and characterization of a mitochondrial iron-superoxide dismutase of Cryptosporidium parvum. Parasitol Res 2008; 103:787-95. [PMID: 18551319 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-008-1041-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2008] [Accepted: 05/16/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum is an intracellular protozoan parasite that causes cryptosporidiosis in mammals. In this study, we identified a gene encoding mitochondrial iron-superoxide dismutase of C. parvum (Cp-mtSOD) and characterized biochemical properties of the recombinant protein. Multiple sequence alignment of the deduced amino acid sequence of Cp-mtSOD with those of previously reported iron-containing SODs (Fe-SODs) from other protozoan parasites showed that Cp-mtSOD shares common metal-binding residues and motifs that were conserved in Fe-SODs. However, the N-terminal 26-amino acid residues of Cp-mtSOD did not show sequence identities to any other Fe-SOD sequences. Further analysis of the N-terminal presequence of Cp-mtSOD suggested that it shares common physiochemical characteristics found in mitochondria targeting sequences and predicted localization of Cp-mtSOD in the mitochondria. The recombinant Cp-mtSOD showed typical biochemical properties with other characterized Fe-SODs, including molecular structure, broad pH optimum, and sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide.
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23
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Dufernez F, Derelle E, Noël C, Sanciu G, Mantini C, Dive D, Soyer-Gobillard MO, Capron M, Pierce RJ, Wintjens R, Guillebault D, Viscogliosi E. Molecular characterization of iron-containing superoxide dismutases in the heterotrophic dinoflagellate Crypthecodinium cohnii. Protist 2008; 159:223-38. [PMID: 18276189 DOI: 10.1016/j.protis.2007.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2007] [Accepted: 11/30/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are a family of antioxidant enzymes that catalyse the degradation of toxic superoxide radicals in obligate and facultative aerobic organisms. Here, we report the presence of a multi-copy gene family encoding SODs in the heterotrophic dinoflagellate Crypthecodinium cohnii. All the genes identified (sod1 to sod17) have been cloned and sequenced, and shown to encode potentially functional dimeric iron-containing SOD isozymes. Our data revealed a considerable molecular heterogeneity of this enzyme in C. cohnii at both genomic and transcriptional levels. The C. cohnii SOD1, overexpressed in Escherichia coli, was active and its structure obtained by homology modeling using X-ray crystal structures of homologues exhibited the typical fold of dimeric FeSODs. Phylogenetic studies including 110 other dimeric FeSODs and closely related cambialistic dimeric SOD sequences showed that the C. cohnii SODs form a monophyletic group and have all been acquired by the same event of horizontal gene transfer. It also revealed a dichotomy within the C. cohnii SOD sequences that could be explained by an ancestral sod gene duplication followed by subsequent gene duplications within each of the two groups. Enzyme assays of SOD activity indicated the presence of two FeSOD activities in C. cohnii cell lysate whereas MnSOD and Cu/ZnSOD were not detected. These activities contrasted with the SOD repertoire previously characterized in photosynthetic dinoflagellates. To explain these differences, a hypothetical evolutionary scenario is proposed that suggests gains and losses of sod genes in dinoflagellates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Dufernez
- Institut Pasteur de Lille, Université Lille 2, 59019 Lille cedex, France
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24
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Getachew F, Gedamu L. Leishmania donovani iron superoxide dismutase A is targeted to the mitochondria by its N-terminal positively charged amino acids. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2007; 154:62-9. [PMID: 17524502 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2007.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2006] [Revised: 04/03/2007] [Accepted: 04/11/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Many reports have shown that Leishmania species are susceptible to reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS)-mediated killing. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) is one of the antioxidant defense enzymes important for parasite survival through its detoxification of superoxide into hydrogen peroxide and oxygen. The mitochondria produce numerous superoxide radicals as a by-product of cellular respiration and hence targeting of SODs to the mitochondria is critical in maintaining healthy mitochondria. This study examines the characteristic determinants for mitochondrial localization of Leishmania donovani FeSODA. We show that FeSODA is localized to the mitochondria and that the N-terminal 31 amino acid extension is important for its localization. Interestingly, further dissection of the 31 amino acid extension revealed that the first 8 amino acids of the FeSODA protein are sufficient for targeting to the mitochondria. In addition, we found that the four basic amino acid residues contained within the N-terminal extension are also important for targeting. These studies highlight important features of mitochondrial targeting sequences in kinetoplastids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fitsum Getachew
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada
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25
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Nogueira FB, Krieger MA, Nirdé P, Goldenberg S, Romanha AJ, Murta SMF. Increased expression of iron-containing superoxide dismutase-A (TcFeSOD-A) enzyme in Trypanosoma cruzi population with in vitro-induced resistance to benznidazole. Acta Trop 2006; 100:119-32. [PMID: 17113553 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2006.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2006] [Revised: 09/28/2006] [Accepted: 10/04/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Superoxide dismutase (SOD) removes excess superoxide radicals via dismutation to oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. In this work, we have characterized TcFeSOD-A gene from 25 Trypanosoma cruzi populations and clones susceptible, naturally resistant or with in vitro-induced (17 LER) or in vivo-selected resistance to benznidazole (BZR). In the 17 LER T. cruzi population, the levels of TcFeSOD-A mRNA were at least 3-fold higher than its drug-susceptible counterpart 17 WTS. The levels of TcFeSOD-A mRNA were similar among the other T. cruzi populations and clones regardless of the drug-resistance phenotype. We determined whether the increase in mRNA levels was due to gene amplification using Southern blot analysis of the T. cruzi populations and clones. We found that the number of TcFeSOD-A gene copies was similar for all samples tested, except for 17 LER that presented twice as many copies. The chromosomal location of the TcFeSOD-A gene and polymorphisms detected in nucleotide and amino acid sequences of TcFeSOD-A were associated with the zymodeme of the T. cruzi strain but not with drug-resistance phenotype. We observed a 23 kDa TcFeSOD-A polypeptide in all analysed T. cruzi strains. The level of this polypeptide was increased only in the 17 LER population. Specific enzyme activity analysis of TcFeSOD in the T. cruzi samples revealed a correlation between expression and activity. Our findings show an increased expression of the TcFeSOD-A enzyme in the T. cruzi population with in vitro-induced resistance to benznidazole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda B Nogueira
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Celular e Molecular, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, FIOCRUZ, Av Augusto de Lima 1715, 30190-002 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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26
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Marín C, Rodríguez-González I, Sánchez-Moreno M. Identification of excreted iron superoxide dismutase for the diagnosis of Phtytomonas. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2006; 101:649-54. [PMID: 17072478 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762006000600012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2006] [Accepted: 06/21/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
An excreted iron superoxide dismutase (FeSODe) of pI 3.6 with a molecular weight of 28-30 kDa was detected in the in vitro culture of Phytomonas isolated from Euphorbia characias (SODeCHA) and from Lycopersicon esculentum (SODeTOM), in Grace's medium without serum. These FeSODe excreted into the medium had immunogenic capacity: the positivity of the anti-SODeCHA serum persisted to a dilution of 1/30,000, and for the anti-SODeTOM to 1/10,000 by Western blot. In addition, cross reaction was detected between the anti-SODe serum of Phytomonas isolated from E. characias against SODeTOM, and the anti-SODe serum from L. esculentum with SODeCHA. This characteristic offers the possibility of its use to diagnose plant trypanosomatids. The validation of the test was confirmed by experimental inoculation of tomato fruits with Phytomonas isolated from L. esculentum. At 7, 10, 15, and 21 days post infection, it was possible to detect the presence of the parasites with the anti-SODe serum of Phytomonas isolated from L. esculentum at a dilution of 1/250. These serological results were confirmed by visualization of the parasites by optical microscopy. The data of this study confirm that the SOD is sufficient to identify a trypanosomatid isolated from plants as belonging to the genus Phytomonas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clotilde Marín
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, C/Severo Ochoa s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
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27
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Hernández SM, Sánchez MS, de Tarlovsky MNS. Polyamines as a defense mechanism against lipoperoxidation in Trypanosoma cruzi. Acta Trop 2006; 98:94-102. [PMID: 16574050 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2006.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2005] [Revised: 01/02/2006] [Accepted: 02/20/2006] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The polyamines, spermine and spermidine--organic polycations that are absolutely required for eukaryotic cell growth--are shown here to function in Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes, as protectors of membrane lipoperoxidation by reactive oxygen species generated either by H2O2/Fe2+ or nifurtimox. In vitro, spermine and spermidine inhibited lipoperoxidation in a dose dependent manner. Spermine was more efficient than spermidine in its inhibitory effect. Lipid peroxidation induced by H2O2 showed an IC50 of 0.55 mM for spermine and 0.9 mM for spermidine while an IC50 of 0.8 mM for spermine and 1.5 mM for spermidine were observed when lipoperoxidation was elicited by nifurtimox. Likewise in vivo, both exogenously added spermine and spermidine or endogenous increase of spermine levels induced by phorbol ester, protected against lipoperoxidation and decreased citotoxicity provoked by nifurtimox. Putrescine and cadaverine, also present in T. cruzi had no effect at all. None of the polyamines had any effect neither on the scavenging of superoxide anion nor on the regulation of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and peroxidases involved in H2O2 detoxification. Here we point out that spermine, by acting as a protector of membrane lipoperoxidation might contribute to survival of T. cruzi continuously exposed to oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana M Hernández
- School of Medicine, Universidad Abierta Interamericana (UAI), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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28
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Wilkinson SR, Prathalingam SR, Taylor MC, Ahmed A, Horn D, Kelly JM. Functional characterisation of the iron superoxide dismutase gene repertoire in Trypanosoma brucei. Free Radic Biol Med 2006; 40:198-209. [PMID: 16413403 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2005.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2005] [Revised: 06/10/2005] [Accepted: 06/27/2005] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Superoxide dismutases (SOD) are a family of antioxidant enzymes that function by removing superoxide anions from the cellular environment. Here, we show that the African trypanosome, Trypanosoma brucei, expresses four SOD isoforms, three of which we have validated biochemically as iron dependent, a feature normally associated with prokaryotic SODs. Localisation studies reveal that two of the enzymes are found predominantly in a parasite-specific organelle, the glycosome (TbSODB1 and TbSODB2), while the other two are targeted to the mitochondrion (TbSODA and TbSODC). Functional analysis of the SOD repertoire in bloodstream form parasites was performed using an inducible RNA interference (RNAi) approach. Down-regulation of the glycosomal SOD transcripts corresponded with a significant reduction in the corresponding proteins and a dramatic level of cell death within the population. The importance of one of the mitochondrial enzymes (TbSODA) only became apparent when parasites were exposed to the superoxide-generating agent paraquat following induction of RNAi. These experiments therefore identify essential components of the superoxide metabolising arm of the T. brucei oxidative defence system and validate these enzymes as parasite-specific targets for drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane R Wilkinson
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK.
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29
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Dufernez F, Yernaux C, Gerbod D, Noël C, Chauvenet M, Wintjens R, Edgcomb VP, Capron M, Opperdoes FR, Viscogliosi E. The presence of four iron-containing superoxide dismutase isozymes in trypanosomatidae: characterization, subcellular localization, and phylogenetic origin in Trypanosoma brucei. Free Radic Biol Med 2006; 40:210-25. [PMID: 16413404 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2005.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2005] [Revised: 06/27/2005] [Accepted: 06/27/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Metalloenzymes such as the superoxide dismutases (SODs) form part of a defense mechanism that helps protect obligate and facultative aerobic organisms from oxygen toxicity and damage. Here, we report the presence in the trypanosomatid genomes of four SOD genes: soda, sodb1, sodb2, and a newly identified sodc. All four genes of Trypanosoma brucei have been cloned (Tbsods), sequenced, and overexpressed in Escherichia coli and shown to encode active dimeric FeSOD isozymes. Homology modeling of the structures of all four enzymes using available X-ray crystal structures of homologs showed that the four TbSOD structures were nearly identical. Subcellular localization using GFP-fusion proteins in procyclic insect trypomastigotes shows that TbSODB1 is mainly cytosolic, with a minor glycosomal component, TbSODB2 is mainly glycosomal with some activity in the cytosol, and TbSODA and TbSODC are both mitochondrial isozymes. Phylogenetic studies of all available trypanosomatid SODs and 106 dimeric FeSODs and closely related cambialistic dimeric SOD sequences suggest that the trypanosomatid SODs have all been acquired by more than one event of horizontal gene transfer, followed by events of gene duplication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Dufernez
- Institut Pasteur, Inserm U547, 1 Rue du Professeur Calmette, B. P. 245, F-59019 Lille cedex, France
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. JDM, . AM. Inhibition of Glutathione Synthesis as a Potential Therapeutic Strategy Against Chagas’ Disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.3923/jbs.2005.847.854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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31
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Li AH, Kong Y, Cho SH, Lee HW, Na BK, Pak JK, Kim TS. Molecular cloning and characterization of the copper/zinc and manganese superoxide dismutase genes from the human parasiteClonorchis sinensis. Parasitology 2005; 130:687-97. [PMID: 15977906 DOI: 10.1017/s003118200400695x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
A copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/ZnSOD) gene and a manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) gene of the human parasiteClonorchis sinensishave been cloned and their gene products functionally characterized. GenesCu/ZnSODandMnSODencode proteins of 16 kDa and 25·4 kDa, respectively. The deduced amino acid sequences of the two genes contained highly conserved residues required for activity and secondary structure formation of Cu/ZnSOD and MnSOD, respectively, and show up to 73·7% and 75·4% identities with their counterparts in other animals. The genomic DNA sequence analysis of Cu/ZnSOD gene revealed this as an intronless gene. Inhibitor studies with purified recombinant Cu/ZnSOD and MnSOD, both of which were functionally expressed inEscherichia coli, confirmed that they are copper/zinc and manganese-containing SOD, respectively. Immunoblots showed that bothC. sinensisCu/ZnSOD and MnSOD should be antigenic for humans, and both, especially theC. sinensisMnSOD, exhibit extensive cross-reactions with sera of patients infected by other trematodes or cestodes. RT-PCR and SOD activity staining of parasite lysates indicate that there are no significant differences in mRNA level or SOD activity for both species of SOD, indicating cytosolic Cu/ZnSOD and MnSOD might play a comparatively important role in theC. sinensisantioxidant system.
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Affiliation(s)
- A H Li
- Department of Tropical and Endemic Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Health, Seoul 122-701, Korea
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Marín C, Rodríguez-González I, Hitos AB, Rosales MJ, Dollet M, Sánchez-Moreno M. Purification and characterization of two iron superoxide dismutases ofPhytomonassp. isolated fromEuphorbia characias(plant trypanosomatids). Parasitology 2004; 129:79-86. [PMID: 15267114 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182004005293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Two superoxide dismutases (SODI and SODII) have been purified by differential centrifugation, fractionation with ammonium sulphate followed by chromatographic separation (ionic exchange and affinity), from a plant trypanosomatid isolated fromEuphorbia characias, and then characterized for several biochemical properties. Both enzymes were insensitive to cyanide but sensitive to hydrogen peroxide, properties characteristic of iron-containing superoxide dismutase. SODI had a molecular mass of approximately 66 kDa, whereas the molecular mass of SODII was approximately 22 kDa, both enzymes showing single bands. The isoelectric points of SODI and SODII were 6·8 and 3·6, respectively. The enzymatic stability persisted at least for 6 months when the sample was lyophilized and preserved at −80 °C. Digitonin titration and subcellular fractionation showed that both enzymes were in the cytoplasmic fraction, although part of SODII isoenzyme was also associated with glycosomes. We assayed these activities (SOD) in 18 trypanosomatid isolates on isoelectric focusing gels, and have demonstrated that the SOD is a biochemical marker sufficient to identify a trypanosomatid isolated from a plant as belonging to the genusPhytomonasand to distinguish between a truePhytomonasand other trypanosomatids that are capable of causing transient infections in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Marín
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, C/Severo Ochoa s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
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Cho MH, Na BK, Song KJ, Cho JH, Kang SW, Lee KH, Song CY, Kim TS. Cloning, expression, and characterization of iron-containing superoxide dismutase from Neospora caninum. J Parasitol 2004; 90:278-85. [PMID: 15165050 DOI: 10.1645/ge-3222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
A gene encoding superoxide dismutase (SOD) from Neospora caninum, a causative agent of neosporosis, has been cloned and its gene product functionally expressed and characterized. The gene had an open reading frame of 606 bp and deduced 201 amino acids. Sequence analysis showed that the gene had conserved metal-binding residues and conserved amino acid residues that were found in Fe-SODs. Comparison of the deduced amino acid sequence of the enzyme with previously reported Fe-SOD amino acid sequences of the other parasitic protozoans revealed significant high homology. The coding region of the N. caninum Fe-SOD was cloned and functionally expressed in Escherichia coli. Enzyme activity of the expressed protein was inhibited by hydrogen peroxide but not by sodium azide and potassium cyanide, and the enzyme showed similar biochemical properties with typical Fe-SODs of other parasitic protozoans. Southern blot analysis showed that the SOD gene appears to be present as a single-copy gene in N. caninum genome. Semiquantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunoblot using antiserum raised against the purified recombinant protein showed that Fe-SOD is expressed in both developmental stages of N. caninum, i.e., in bradyzoites and tachyzoites. In an immunofluorescence assay, the enzyme was localized on the cell surface of N. caninum tachyzoites. These results suggest that Fe-SOD might be essential for the intracellular survival of N. caninum and may play an important role in the pathogenesis of the parasite by protecting the parasite from oxidative killing.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Animals
- Blotting, Northern
- Blotting, Southern
- Cloning, Molecular
- DNA, Complementary/biosynthesis
- DNA, Complementary/chemistry
- Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel
- Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect
- Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic
- Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Neospora/enzymology
- Neospora/genetics
- Polymerase Chain Reaction
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/isolation & purification
- Sequence Alignment
- Sequence Homology, Amino Acid
- Superoxide Dismutase/chemistry
- Superoxide Dismutase/genetics
- Superoxide Dismutase/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Hee Cho
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 156-756, Korea
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Brydges SD, Carruthers VB. Mutation of an unusual mitochondrial targeting sequence of SODB2 produces multiple targeting fates in Toxoplasma gondii. J Cell Sci 2003; 116:4675-85. [PMID: 14576360 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.00750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteins destined for the mitochondria travel an intricate pathway through two membranes, each with its own receptors and channels. These proteins interact with receptors via N-terminal presequences that form amphipathic helices. Generally, these helices contain abundant positive charges on one face and hydrophobic residues on the other, but share little primary sequence homology. While extensive research on mitochondrial import has been done in yeast and mammalian cells, little is known about import or contents of the single mitochondrion of Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite in the phylum Apicomplexa. We describe here the characterization of TgSODB2, a novel, mitochondrial superoxide dismutase in T. gondii with an unusual targeting sequence consisting of a hydrophobic segment resembling a signal peptide, followed by a presequence. We show that although the hydrophobic segment is competent to target a reporter protein to the secretory system, it is prevented from directing ER translocation when coupled with the presequence. When we mutated the only charged residue in the hydrophobic sequence, ER translocation is restored and the reporter targeted to the apicoplast, a chloroplast-like organelle found in most apicomplexans. The presequence that follows is predicted to form an amphipathic helix, but targeted the cytoplasm when the hydrophobic peptide is removed. In addition to having an unusual targeting sequence, TgSODB2 is only the second mitochondrially imported, iron-containing SOD to be described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susannah D Brydges
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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35
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Ahmed H, Schott EJ, Gauthier JD, Vasta GR. Superoxide dismutases from the oyster parasite Perkinsus marinus: purification, biochemical characterization, and development of a plate microassay for activity. Anal Biochem 2003; 318:132-41. [PMID: 12782041 DOI: 10.1016/s0003-2697(03)00192-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We have isolated and biochemically characterized superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in cell extracts of clonally cultured Perkinsus marinus, a facultative intracellular parasite of the Eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica. In order to assess the SOD activity throughout the purification, we developed and optimized a 96-well-plate microassay based on the inhibition of pyrogallol oxidation. The assay was also adapted to identify SOD activity type (Cu/Zn-, Mn-, or FeSOD), even in mixtures of more than one type of SOD. All SOD activity detected in the cell extracts was of the FeSOD type. Most of the SOD activity in P. marinus trophozoites resides in a major component of subunit molecular weight 24 kDa. The protein was purified by affinity chromatography on an anti-SOD antibody-Sepharose column. Amino-terminal peptide sequence of the affinity-purified protein corresponds to the predicted product of the PmSOD1 gene and indicates that amino-terminal processing has taken place. The results are discussed in the context of processing of mitochondrially targeted SODs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafiz Ahmed
- Center of Marine Biotechnology, University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute, 701 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
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36
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Schott EJ, Vasta GR. The PmSOD1 gene of the protistan parasite Perkinsus marinus complements the sod2Delta mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and directs an iron superoxide dismutase to mitochondria. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2003; 126:81-92. [PMID: 12554087 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-6851(02)00271-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The facultative intracellular oyster parasite, Perkinsus marinus, taxonomically related to both dinoflagellates and apicomplexan parasites, possesses at least two distinct genes (PmSOD1 and PmSOD2) predicted to encode iron-containing superoxide dismutases (Fe-SOD). The present study demonstrates that PmSOD1 complements a Saccharomyces cerevisiae mutant lacking the mitochondrial manganese-containing SOD (Mn-SOD), whereas PmSOD2 complements an Escherichia coli mutant lacking genes for cytosolic SOD activities. Mitochondria isolated from complemented yeast contain an SOD activity susceptible to inhibition by hydrogen peroxide, but resistant to cyanide, both characteristics of Fe-SODs. In cultured P. marinus trophozoites, indirect immunofluorescence using anti-PmSOD1 antibodies shows colocalization of PmSOD1 product with the mitochondrial marker MitoTracker Red. Further analysis of the leader sequence of the predicted PmSOD1 product revealed similarities to a mitochondrial targeting domain, an unusual observation for Fe-SODs, which are typically localized in the cytoplasm. These results suggest that PmSOD1 encodes a mitochondrial Fe-SOD, which may contribute to P. marinus resistance to exogenous oxidative damage in host phagocytes. The present study constitutes the first report of an endogenous Fe-SOD that is directed to the mitochondria, and suggests that mitochondria targeting sequences have been conserved among diverse branches of the eukaryotes, including the early protista. It also illustrates the potential of complementation-based approaches for further gene discovery and characterization in P. marinus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J Schott
- Center of Marine Biotechnology, University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute, 701 East Pratt Street, Baltimore 21202, USA
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37
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Kabiri M, Steverding D. Identification of a developmentally regulated iron superoxide dismutase of Trypanosoma brucei. Biochem J 2001; 360:173-7. [PMID: 11696005 PMCID: PMC1222215 DOI: 10.1042/0264-6021:3600173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
An iron superoxide dismutase (FeSOD) gene of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei has been cloned and its gene product functionally characterized. The gene encodes a protein of 198 residues which shows 80% identity with FeSODs from other trypanosomatids. Inhibitor studies with purified recombinant FeSOD expressed in Escherichia coli confirmed that the enzyme is an iron-containing SOD. The FeSOD is developmentally regulated in the parasite, expression being lowest in the cell-cycle-arrested, short stumpy bloodstream forms. Differential expression of the FeSOD protein contrasts with only minor quantitative changes in the FeSOD mRNA, indicating post-transcriptional regulation of the enzyme. As the level of FeSOD increases during differentiation of cell-cycle-arrested short stumpy into dividing procyclic forms, it is suggested that the enzyme is only required in proliferating stages of the parasite for the elimination of superoxide radicals which are released during the generation of the iron-tyrosyl free-radical centre in the small subunit of ribonucleotide reductase.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kabiri
- Abteilung Parasitologie, Hygiene-Institut der Ruprecht-Karls Universität, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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38
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Wilkinson SR, Temperton NJ, Mondragon A, Kelly JM. Distinct mitochondrial and cytosolic enzymes mediate trypanothione-dependent peroxide metabolism in Trypanosoma cruzi. J Biol Chem 2000; 275:8220-5. [PMID: 10713147 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.275.11.8220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The American trypanosome Trypanosoma cruzi is exposed to toxic oxygen metabolites that are generated by drug metabolism and immune responses in addition to those produced by endogenous processes. However, much remains to be resolved about the parasite oxidative defense system, including the mechanism(s) of peroxide reduction. Here we show that reduction of peroxides in T. cruzi is catalyzed by two distinct trypanothione-dependent enzymes. These were localized to the cytosol and mitochondrion. Both are members of the peroxiredoxin family of antioxidant proteins and are characterized by the presence of two conserved domains containing redox active cysteines. The role of these proteins in protecting T. cruzi from peroxide-mediated damage was demonstrated following overexpression of enzyme activity. The parasite-specific features of T. cruzi cytoplasmic peroxiredoxin and T. cruzi mitochondrial peroxiredoxin may be exploitable in terms of drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Wilkinson
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT United Kingdom.
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39
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Lopez JA, Carvalho TU, de Souza W, Flohé L, Guerrero SA, Montemartini M, Kalisz HM, Nogoceke E, Singh M, Alves MJ, Colli W. Evidence for a trypanothione-dependent peroxidase system in Trypanosoma cruzi. Free Radic Biol Med 2000; 28:767-72. [PMID: 10754272 DOI: 10.1016/s0891-5849(00)00159-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Hydroperoxide metabolism in Crithidia fasciculata has recently been shown to be catalyzed by a cascade of three oxidoreductases comprising trypanothione reductase (TR), tryparedoxin (TXN1), and tryparedoxin peroxidase (TXNPx) (Nogoceke et al., Biol. Chem. 378, 827-836, 1997). The existence of this metabolic system in the human pathogen Trypanosoma cruzi is supported here by immunohistochemistry. Epimastigotes of T. cruzi display strong immunoreactivity with antibodies raised against TXN1 and TXNPx of C. fasciculata. In addition, a full-length open reading frame presumed to encode a peroxiredoxin-type protein in T. cruzi (Acc. Nr. AJ 012101) was heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli and shown to exhibit tryparedoxin peroxidase activity. With TXN, TXNPx, trypanothione and TR, T. cruzi possesses all components constituting the crithidial peroxidase system. It is concluded that the antioxidant defense of T. cruzi also depends on the NADPH-fuelled, trypanothione-mediated enzymatic hydroperoxide metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Lopez
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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40
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Odberg-Ferragut C, Renault JP, Viscogliosi E, Toursel C, Briche I, Engels A, Lepage G, Morgenstern-Badarau I, Camus D, Tomavo S, Dive D. Molecular cloning, expression analysis and iron metal cofactor characterisation of a superoxide dismutase from Toxoplasma gondii. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2000; 106:121-9. [PMID: 10743616 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-6851(99)00211-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A genomic region of 12 kb encompassing the gene encoding the superoxide dismutase (SOD) of Toxoplasma gondii has been cloned. The gene contains four exons of 121, 42, 381 and 59 bp which are separated by three introns of 321, 202, and 577 bp, respectively. The open reading frame can be translated into a protein of 201 amino acids with a molecular mass of 22.6 kDa. Alignment indicated that it is a FeSOD, a type only found in bacteria, protozoa and chloroplast of higher plants. Recombinant SOD was expressed in a Escherichia coli double mutant lacking both MnFeSOD and FeSODs. The presence of iron as metal cofactor was confirmed by measurements of iron by absorption mass spectrometry and electron paramagnetic resonance studies. Semi-quantitative reverse transcribed polymerase chain reaction experiments showed a similar amount of SOD transcripts in two developmental stages of T. gondii. Antibodies raised against the purified recombinant protein detected SOD protein in both bradyzoite and tachyzoite forms suggesting this SOD might be essential for the intracellular growth of both developmental stages. Southern blot analysis indicated that SOD occured as a single copy gene in T. gondii genome.
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41
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Abstract
Thiol-dependent hydroperoxide metabolism in parasites is reviewed in respect to potential therapeutic strategies. The hydroperoxide metabolism of Crithidia fasciculata has been characterized to comprise a cascade of three enzymes, trypanothione reductase, tryparedoxin, and tryparedoxin peroxidase, plus two supportive enzymes to synthesize the redox mediator trypanothione from glutathione and spermidine. The essentiality of the system in respect to parasite vitality and virulence has been verified by genetic approaches. The system appears to be common to all genera of the Kinetoplastida. The terminal peroxidase of the system belongs to the protein family of peroxiredoxins which is also represented in Entamoeba and a variety of metazoan parasites. Plasmodial hydroperoxide metabolism displays similarities to the mammalian system in comprising glutathione biosynthesis, glutathione reductase, and at least one glutathione peroxidase homolog having the active site selenocysteine replaced by cysteine. Nothing precise is known about the antioxidant defence systems of Giardia, Toxoplasma, and Trichomonas species. Also, the role of ovothiols and mycothiols reportedly present in several parasites remains to be established. Scrutinizing known enzymes of parasitic antioxidant defence for suitability as drug targets leaves only those of the trypanosomatid system as directly or indirectly validated. By generally accepted criteria of target selection and feasibility considerations tryparedoxin and tryparedoxin peroxidase can at present be rated as the most appealing target structures for the development of antiparasitic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Flohé
- Department of Biochemistry, Technical University of Braunschweig, Germany.
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42
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Temperton NJ, Wilkinson SR, Meyer DJ, Kelly JM. Overexpression of superoxide dismutase in Trypanosoma cruzi results in increased sensitivity to the trypanocidal agents gentian violet and benznidazole. Mol Biochem Parasitol 1998; 96:167-76. [PMID: 9851615 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-6851(98)00127-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The parasitic protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi is exposed to toxic oxygen metabolites which arise from drug metabolism or immune mechanisms, in addition to those produced by endogenous processes. Identification and functional analysis of parasite enzymes which confer protection against oxidative stress is therefore of importance. To investigate the role of T. cruzi superoxide dismutase (SOD) we transfected epimastigotes with an expression vector containing a putative Fe-SOD gene homologue and achieved overexpression of enzyme activity (5-8 fold). Inhibition studies carried out on the partially purified enzyme revealed azide and H2O2 sensitivity and cyanide insensitivity, the profile expected of an Fe-isoform. Phenotypic analysis of transformed parasites showed that they were more susceptible than control cells to growth inhibition by the trypanocidal drug benznidazole and by gentian violet, an agent which can be used to decontaminate blood supplies in endemic areas. These results may reflect an imbalance in the antioxidant defences of the parasite produced as a result of overexpression of Fe-SOD.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Temperton
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK
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Tetaud E, Fairlamb AH. Cloning, expression and reconstitution of the trypanothione-dependent peroxidase system of Crithidia fasciculata. Mol Biochem Parasitol 1998; 96:111-23. [PMID: 9851611 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-6851(98)00120-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
As a consequence of aerobic metabolism, trypanosomatids are exposed to reactive oxygen intermediates such as superoxide, hydrogen peroxide and the hydroxyl radical. Metabolism of hydrogen peroxide in Crithidia fasciculata is accomplished by three distinct proteins, tryparedoxin, tryparedoxin peroxidase and trypanothione reductase, working in concert with the substrates NADPH and trypanothione. Here, we report the cloning and characterisation of the tryparedoxin (TryX) and tryparedoxin peroxidase (TryP) genes from C. fasciculata. Both genes are multicopy and organized in distinct tandem arrays in the genome. TryX encodes a 16 kDa protein, which belongs to the thioredoxin superfamily, sharing the WCPPC motif, whereas TryP encodes a 21 kDa protein belonging to a new class of peroxidases called 2-Cys peroxidoxins. Both TryX and TryP were expressed in Escherichia coli and the purified recombinant proteins shown to utilise hydrogen peroxide in the presence of NADPH, trypanothione and trypanothione reductase, similar to the native proteins. TryX is rapidly reduced by trypanothione, but weakly by glutathionylspermidine, glutathione or ovothiol A. TryP shows a broad substrate specificity and can reduced hydrogen peroxide, t-butyl hydroperoxide and cumene hydroperoxide with equal efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Tetaud
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Dundee, Scotland, UK
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44
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Paramchuk WJ, Ismail SO, Bhatia A, Gedamu L. Cloning, characterization and overexpression of two iron superoxide dismutase cDNAs from Leishmania chagasi: role in pathogenesis. Mol Biochem Parasitol 1997; 90:203-21. [PMID: 9497044 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-6851(97)00141-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
We have isolated and characterized two superoxide dismutase (SOD) cDNAs from a Leishmania chagasi promastigote cDNA library using degenerate primers derived from conserved amino acid residues of previously isolated manganese and iron SODs. Comparison of these two L. chagasi SOD deduced amino acid sequences with previously isolated MnSOD and FeSOD amino acid sequences revealed that they have higher homology to, and complete conservation of, invariant residues found in iron-containing SODs. Southern blot analysis showed that one gene, L.c.FeSODA, is a single copy gene, whereas the other gene, L.c.FeSODB, belongs to a multi-gene family. Transcript levels and enzyme activities of L.c.FeSODA and L.c.FeSODB show differential stage expression, with higher levels present in the amastigote stage of the parasite compared to the promastigote stage. Expression of the L.c.FeSODs in an E. coli SOD null strain protected the bacteria against free radical generating agents. Overexpression of these FeSODs in L. chagasi parasites also showed enhanced protection against the free radical generating agents, paraquat and nitroprusside. The cloning, characterization and overexpression of the L.c.FeSODA and L.c.FeSODB genes and proteins demonstrates the possible role of SODs in Leishmania pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- W J Paramchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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