1
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Shang W, Lichtenberg E, Mlesnita AM, Wilde A, Koch HG. The contribution of mRNA targeting to spatial protein localization in bacteria. FEBS J 2024. [PMID: 38226707 DOI: 10.1111/febs.17054] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
About 30% of all bacterial proteins execute their function outside of the cytosol and must be inserted into or translocated across the cytoplasmic membrane. This requires efficient targeting systems that recognize N-terminal signal sequences in client proteins and deliver them to protein transport complexes in the membrane. While the importance of these protein transport machineries for the spatial organization of the bacterial cell is well documented in multiple studies, the contribution of mRNA targeting and localized translation to protein transport is only beginning to emerge. mRNAs can exhibit diverse subcellular localizations in the bacterial cell and can accumulate at sites where new protein is required. This is frequently observed for mRNAs encoding membrane proteins, but the physiological importance of membrane enrichment of mRNAs and the consequences it has for the insertion of the encoded protein have not been explored in detail. Here, we briefly highlight some basic concepts of signal sequence-based protein targeting and describe in more detail strategies that enable the monitoring of mRNA localization in bacterial cells and potential mechanisms that route mRNAs to particular positions within the cell. Finally, we summarize some recent developments that demonstrate that mRNA targeting and localized translation can sustain membrane protein insertion under stress conditions when the protein-targeting machinery is compromised. Thus, mRNA targeting likely acts as a back-up strategy and complements the canonical signal sequence-based protein targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenkang Shang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Andreea Mihaela Mlesnita
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Germany
| | - Annegret Wilde
- Faculty of Biology, Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Georg Koch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Germany
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2
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Length matters: Functional flip of the short TatA transmembrane helix. Biophys J 2022:S0006-3495(22)03926-1. [PMID: 36523158 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2022.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The twin arginine translocase (Tat) exports folded proteins across bacterial membranes. The putative pore-forming or membrane-weakening component (TatAd in B. subtilis) is anchored to the lipid bilayer via an unusually short transmembrane α-helix (TMH), with less than 16 residues. Its tilt angle in different membranes was analyzed under hydrophobic mismatch conditions, using synchrotron radiation circular dichroism and solid-state NMR. Positive mismatch (introduced either by reconstitution in short-chain lipids or by extending the hydrophobic TMH length) increased the helix tilt of the TMH as expected. Negative mismatch (introduced either by reconstitution in long-chain lipids or by shortening the TMH), on the other hand, led to protein aggregation. These data suggest that the TMH of TatA is just about long enough for stable membrane insertion. At the same time, its short length is a crucial factor for successful translocation, as demonstrated here in native membrane vesicles using an in vitro translocation assay. Furthermore, when reconstituted in model membranes with negative spontaneous curvature, the TMH was found to be aligned parallel to the membrane surface. This intrinsic ability of TatA to flip out of the membrane core thus seems to play a key role in its membrane-destabilizing effect during Tat-dependent translocation.
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3
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Brüser T, Mehner-Breitfeld D. Occurrence and potential mechanism of holin-mediated non-lytic protein translocation in bacteria. MICROBIAL CELL (GRAZ, AUSTRIA) 2022; 9:159-173. [PMID: 36262927 PMCID: PMC9527704 DOI: 10.15698/mic2022.10.785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Holins are generally believed to generate large membrane lesions that permit the passage of endolysins across the cytoplasmic membrane of prokaryotes, ultimately resulting in cell wall degradation and cell lysis. However, there are more and more examples known for non-lytic holin-dependent secretion of proteins by bacteria, indicating that holins somehow can transport proteins without causing large membrane lesions. Phage-derived holins can be used for a non-lytic endolysin translocation to permeabilize the cell wall for the passage of secreted proteins. In addition, clostridia, which do not possess the Tat pathway for transport of folded proteins, most likely employ non-lytic holin-mediated transport also for secretion of toxins and bacteriocins that are incompatible with the general Sec pathway. The mechanism for non-lytic holin-mediated transport is unknown, but the recent finding that the small holin TpeE mediates a non-lytic toxin secretion in Clostridium perfringens opened new perspectives. TpeE contains only one short transmembrane helix that is followed by an amphipathic helix, which is reminiscent of TatA, the membrane-permeabilizing component of the Tat translocon for folded proteins. Here we review the known cases of non-lytic holin-mediated transport and then focus on the structural and functional comparison of TatA and TpeE, resulting in a mechanistic model for holin-mediated transport. This model is strongly supported by a so far not recognized naturally occurring holin-endolysin fusion protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Brüser
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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4
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Sharma A, Chowdhury R, Musser SM. Oligomerization state of the functional bacterial twin-arginine translocation (Tat) receptor complex. Commun Biol 2022; 5:988. [PMID: 36123532 PMCID: PMC9485244 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03952-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The twin-arginine translocation (Tat) system transports folded proteins across bacterial and plastid energy transducing membranes. Ion leaks are generally considered to be mitigated by the creation and destruction of the translocation conduit in a cargo-dependent manner, a mechanism that enables tight sealing around a wide range of cargo shapes and sizes. In contrast to the variable stoichiometry of the active translocon, the oligomerization state of the receptor complex is considered more consistently stable but has proved stubbornly difficult to establish. Here, using a single molecule photobleaching analysis of individual inverted membrane vesicles, we demonstrate that Tat receptor complexes are tetrameric in native membranes with respect to both TatB and TatC. This establishes a maximal diameter for a resting state closed pore. A large percentage of Tat-deficient vesicles explains the typically low transport efficiencies observed. This individual reaction chamber approach will facilitate examination of the effects of stochastically distributed molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankith Sharma
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University, School of Medicine, 1114 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Rajdeep Chowdhury
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University, School of Medicine, 1114 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Siegfried M Musser
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University, School of Medicine, 1114 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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5
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Mehner-Breitfeld D, Ringel MT, Tichy DA, Endter LJ, Stroh KS, Lünsdorf H, Risselada HJ, Brüser T. TatA and TatB generate a hydrophobic mismatch important for the function and assembly of the Tat translocon in Escherichia coli. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102236. [PMID: 35809643 PMCID: PMC9424591 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102236] [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: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The twin-arginine translocation (Tat) system serves to translocate folded proteins across energy-transducing membranes in bacteria, archaea, plastids, and some mitochondria. In Escherichia coli, TatA, TatB, and TatC constitute functional translocons. TatA and TatB both possess an N-terminal transmembrane helix (TMH) followed by an amphipathic helix. The TMHs of TatA and TatB generate a hydrophobic mismatch with the membrane, as the helices comprise only 12 consecutive hydrophobic residues; however, the purpose of this mismatch is unclear. Here, we shortened or extended this stretch of hydrophobic residues in either TatA, TatB, or both and analyzed effects on translocon function and assembly. We found the WT length helices functioned best, but some variation was clearly tolerated. Defects in function were exacerbated by simultaneous mutations in TatA and TatB, indicating partial compensation of mutations in each by the other. Furthermore, length variation in TatB destabilized TatBC-containing complexes, revealing that the 12-residue-length is important but not essential for this interaction and translocon assembly. To also address potential effects of helix length on TatA interactions, we characterized these interactions by molecular dynamics simulations, after having characterized the TatA assemblies by metal-tagging transmission electron microscopy. In these simulations, we found that interacting short TMHs of larger TatA assemblies were thinning the membrane and—together with laterally-aligned tilted amphipathic helices—generated a deep V-shaped membrane groove. We propose the 12 consecutive hydrophobic residues may thus serve to destabilize the membrane during Tat transport, and their conservation could represent a delicate compromise between functionality and minimization of proton leakage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael T Ringel
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Daniel Alexander Tichy
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Hannover, Germany; Institute for Theoretical Physics, Georg August University Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Laura J Endter
- Institute for Theoretical Physics, Georg August University Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Kai Steffen Stroh
- Institute for Theoretical Physics, Georg August University Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Herre Jelger Risselada
- Institute for Theoretical Physics, Georg August University Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Brüser
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Hannover, Germany.
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6
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Dwivedi M, Bajpai K. The chamber of secretome in Mycobacterium tuberculosis as a potential therapeutic target. Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev 2022; 39:1-44. [PMID: 35613080 DOI: 10.1080/02648725.2022.2076031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) causes one of the ancient diseases, Tuberculosis, affects people around the globe and its severity can be understood by its classification as a second infectious disease after COVID-19 and the 13th leading cause of death according to a WHO report. Despite having advanced diagnostic approaches and therapeutic strategies, unfortunately, TB is still spreading across the population due to the emergence of drug-resistance MTB and Latent TB infection (LTBI). We are seeking for effective approaches to overcome these hindrances and efficient treatment for this perilous disease. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop drugs based on operative targeting of the bacterial system that could result in both efficient treatment and lesser emergence of MDR-TB. One such promising target could be the secretory systems and especially the Type 7 secretory system (T7SS-ESX) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is crucial for the secretion of effector proteins as well as in establishing host-pathogen interactions of the tubercle bacilli. The five paralogous ESX systems (ESX-1 to EXS-5) have been observed by in silico genome analysis of MTB, among which ESX-1 and ESX-5 are substantial for virulence and mediating host cellular inflammasome. The bacterium growth and virulence can be modulated by targeting the T7SS. In the present review, we demonstrate the current status of therapeutics against MTB and focus on the function and cruciality of T7SS along with other secretory systems as a promising therapeutic target against Tuberculosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Dwivedi
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, India
| | - Kriti Bajpai
- Department of Biotechnology, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, India
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7
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Bageshwar UK, DattaGupta A, Musser SM. Influence of the TorD signal peptide chaperone on Tat-dependent protein translocation. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0256715. [PMID: 34499687 PMCID: PMC8428690 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0256715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The twin-arginine translocation (Tat) pathway transports folded proteins across energetic membranes. Numerous Tat substrates contain co-factors that are inserted before transport with the assistance of redox enzyme maturation proteins (REMPs), which bind to the signal peptide of precursor proteins. How signal peptides are transferred from a REMP to a binding site on the Tat receptor complex remains unknown. Since the signal peptide mediates both interactions, possibilities include: i) a coordinated hand-off mechanism; or ii) a diffusional search after REMP dissociation. We investigated the binding interaction between substrates containing the TorA signal peptide (spTorA) and its cognate REMP, TorD, and the effect of TorD on the in vitro transport of such substrates. We found that Escherichia coli TorD is predominantly a monomer at low micromolar concentrations (dimerization KD > 50 μM), and this monomer binds reversibly to spTorA (KD ≈ 1 μM). While TorD binds to membranes (KD ≈ 100 nM), it has no apparent affinity for Tat translocons and it inhibits binding of a precursor substrate to the membrane. TorD has a minimal effect on substrate transport by the Tat system, being mildly inhibitory at high concentrations. These data are consistent with a model in which the REMP-bound signal peptide is shielded from recognition by the Tat translocon, and spontaneous dissociation of the REMP allows the substrate to engage the Tat machinery. Thus, the REMP does not assist with targeting to the Tat translocon, but rather temporarily shields the signal peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umesh K. Bageshwar
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University, College of Medicine, The Texas A&M Health Science Center, TX, United States of America
| | - Antara DattaGupta
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University, College of Medicine, The Texas A&M Health Science Center, TX, United States of America
| | - Siegfried M. Musser
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University, College of Medicine, The Texas A&M Health Science Center, TX, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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8
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Prajapati B, Bernal-Cabas M, López-Álvarez M, Schaffer M, Bartel J, Rath H, Steil L, Becher D, Völker U, Mäder U, van Dijl JM. Double trouble: Bacillus depends on a functional Tat machinery to avoid severe oxidative stress and starvation upon entry into a NaCl-depleted environment. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2020; 1868:118914. [PMID: 33245978 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2020.118914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The widely conserved twin-arginine translocases (Tat) allow the transport of fully folded cofactor-containing proteins across biological membranes. In doing so, these translocases serve different biological functions ranging from energy conversion to cell division. In the Gram-positive soil bacterium Bacillus subtilis, the Tat machinery is essential for effective growth in media lacking iron or NaCl. It was previously shown that this phenomenon relates to the Tat-dependent export of the heme-containing peroxidase EfeB, which converts Fe2+ to Fe3+ at the expense of hydrogen peroxide. However, the reasons why the majority of tat mutant bacteria perish upon dilution in NaCl-deprived medium and how, after several hours, a sub-population adapts to this condition was unknown. Here we show that, upon growth in the absence of NaCl, the bacteria face two major problems, namely severe oxidative stress at the membrane and starvation leading to death. The tat mutant cells can overcome these challenges if they are fed with arginine, which implies that severe arginine depletion is a major cause of death and resumed arginine synthesis permits their survival. Altogether, our findings show that the Tat system of B. subtilis is needed to preclude severe oxidative stress and starvation upon sudden drops in the environmental Na+ concentration as caused by flooding or rain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bimal Prajapati
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Medical Microbiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Margarita Bernal-Cabas
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Medical Microbiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Marina López-Álvarez
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Medical Microbiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Marc Schaffer
- University Medicine Greifswald, Interfaculty Institute of Genetics and Functional Genomics, Department of Functional Genomics, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Jürgen Bartel
- University of Greifswald, Institute of Microbiology, Department of Microbial Proteomics, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Hermann Rath
- University Medicine Greifswald, Interfaculty Institute of Genetics and Functional Genomics, Department of Functional Genomics, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Leif Steil
- University Medicine Greifswald, Interfaculty Institute of Genetics and Functional Genomics, Department of Functional Genomics, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Dörte Becher
- University of Greifswald, Institute of Microbiology, Department of Microbial Proteomics, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Uwe Völker
- University Medicine Greifswald, Interfaculty Institute of Genetics and Functional Genomics, Department of Functional Genomics, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Ulrike Mäder
- University Medicine Greifswald, Interfaculty Institute of Genetics and Functional Genomics, Department of Functional Genomics, Greifswald, Germany.
| | - Jan Maarten van Dijl
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Medical Microbiology, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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9
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Abstract
The twin-arginine protein translocation (Tat) system has been characterized in bacteria, archaea and the chloroplast thylakoidal membrane. This system is distinct from other protein transport systems with respect to two key features. Firstly, it accepts cargo proteins with an N-terminal signal peptide that carries the canonical twin-arginine motif, which is essential for transport. Second, the Tat system only accepts and translocates fully folded cargo proteins across the respective membrane. Here, we review the core essential features of folded protein transport via the bacterial Tat system, using the three-component TatABC system of Escherichia coli and the two-component TatAC systems of Bacillus subtilis as the main examples. In particular, we address features of twin-arginine signal peptides, the essential Tat components and how they assemble into different complexes, mechanistic features and energetics of Tat-dependent protein translocation, cytoplasmic chaperoning of Tat cargo proteins, and the remarkable proofreading capabilities of the Tat system. In doing so, we present the current state of our understanding of Tat-dependent protein translocation across biological membranes, which may serve as a lead for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly M Frain
- The School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NZ, UK
| | - Colin Robinson
- The School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NZ, UK
| | - Jan Maarten van Dijl
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen (UMCG), Hanzeplein 1, P.O. Box 30001, 9700 RB, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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10
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The Plant Mitochondrial TAT Pathway Is Essential for Complex III Biogenesis. Curr Biol 2020; 30:840-853.e5. [PMID: 32084398 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Twin arginine translocation (TAT) pathways have been extensively studied in bacteria and chloroplasts for their role in membrane translocation of folded proteins. However, an increasing number of organisms have been found to contain mitochondria-located TAT subunits, including plant mitochondria, which contain TAT subunits, though in an unusual arrangement with only TatB and TatC subunits. To date, no confirmed function has been attributed to mitochondrial TAT pathways in any organism. Using a truncation mutant approach, we demonstrate that the plant mitochondrial TatB (MTTATB) is required for complex III biogenesis. More specifically, MTTATB performs at a late stage in complex III biogenesis, conveying the translocation of the C terminus of the Rieske FeS subunit back across the inner membrane. This work confirms that plant mitochondria retained a functional TAT pathway for the Rieske FeS translocation, most likely from the original mitochondrial ancestor. It is hypothesized that the original mitochondria contained a bacteria-derived TAT pathway required for at least the Rieske FeS translocation. In several eukaryotic lineages, this mitochondrial TAT pathway was lost and replaced by BCS1. Interestingly, plant mitochondria appear to assemble complex III in the same subunit order as yeast and mammals but in contrast use bacteria-like assembly factors for this process.
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11
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Abstract
The Tat pathway for protein translocation across bacterial membranes stands out for its selective handling of fully folded cargo proteins. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of our current understanding of the different known Tat components, their assembly into different complexes, and their specific roles in the protein translocation process. In particular, this overview focuses on the Gram-negative bacterium Escherichia coli and the Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis. Using these organisms as examples, we discuss structural features of Tat complexes alongside mechanistic models that allow for the Tat pathway's unique protein proofreading and transport capabilities. Finally, we highlight recent advances in exploiting the Tat pathway for biotechnological benefit, the production of high-value pharmaceutical proteins.
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12
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Fröbel J, Blümmel AS, Drepper F, Warscheid B, Müller M. Surface-exposed domains of TatB involved in the structural and functional assembly of the Tat translocase in Escherichia coli. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:13902-13914. [PMID: 31341014 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.009298] [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: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Twin-arginine-dependent translocases transport folded proteins across bacterial, archaeal, and chloroplast membranes. Upon substrate binding, they assemble from hexahelical TatC and single-spanning TatA and TatB membrane proteins. Although structural and functional details of individual Tat subunits have been reported previously, the sequence and dynamics of Tat translocase assembly remain to be determined. Employing the zero-space cross-linker N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD) in combination with LC-MS/MS, we identified as yet unknown intra- and intermolecular contact sites of TatB and TatC. In addition to their established intramembrane binding sites, both proteins were thus found to contact each other through the soluble N terminus of TatC and the interhelical linker region around the conserved glutamyl residue Glu49 of TatB from Escherichia coli Functional analyses suggested that by interacting with the TatC N terminus, TatB improves the formation of a proficient substrate recognition site of TatC. The Glu49 region of TatB was found also to contact distinct downstream sites of a neighboring TatB molecule and to thereby mediate oligomerization of TatB within the TatBC receptor complex. Finally, we show that global DCCD-mediated cross-linking of TatB and TatC in membrane vesicles or, alternatively, creating covalently linked TatC oligomers prevents TatA from occupying a position close to the TatBC-bound substrate. Collectively, our results are consistent with a circular arrangement of the TatB and TatC units within the TatBC receptor complex and with TatA entering the interior TatBC-binding cavity through lateral gates between TatBC protomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Fröbel
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anne-Sophie Blümmel
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Friedel Drepper
- Institute of Biology II, Biochemistry-Functional Proteomics, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.,BIOSS Centre for Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bettina Warscheid
- Institute of Biology II, Biochemistry-Functional Proteomics, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.,BIOSS Centre for Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.,CIBSS Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Müller
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
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13
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Hamsanathan S, Musser SM. The Tat protein transport system: intriguing questions and conundrums. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2019; 365:5000164. [PMID: 29897510 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fny123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Tat machinery catalyzes the transport of folded proteins across the cytoplasmic membrane in bacteria and the thylakoid membrane in plants. Transport occurs only in the presence of an electric field (Δψ) and/or a pH (ΔpH) gradient, and thus, Tat transport is considered to be dependent on the proton motive force (pmf). This presents a fundamental and major challenge, namely, that the Tat system catalyzes the movement of large folded protein cargos across a membrane without collapse of ion gradients. Current models argue that the active translocon assembles de novo for each cargo transported, thus providing an effective gating mechanism to minimize ion leakage. A limited structural understanding of the intermediates occurring during transport and the role of the pmf in stabilizing and/or driving this process have hindered the development of more detailed models. A fundamental question that remains unanswered is whether the pmf is actually 'consumed', providing an energetic driving force for transport, or alternatively, whether its presence is instead necessary to provide the appropriate environment for the translocon components to become active. Including addressing this issue in greater detail, we explore a series of additional questions that challenge current models, and, hopefully, motivate future work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruthi Hamsanathan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, College of Medicine, The Texas A&M Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, 1114 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Siegfried M Musser
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, College of Medicine, The Texas A&M Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, 1114 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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14
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Pohlschroder M, Pfeiffer F, Schulze S, Abdul Halim MF. Archaeal cell surface biogenesis. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2018; 42:694-717. [PMID: 29912330 PMCID: PMC6098224 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuy027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell surfaces are critical for diverse functions across all domains of life, from cell-cell communication and nutrient uptake to cell stability and surface attachment. While certain aspects of the mechanisms supporting the biosynthesis of the archaeal cell surface are unique, likely due to important differences in cell surface compositions between domains, others are shared with bacteria or eukaryotes or both. Based on recent studies completed on a phylogenetically diverse array of archaea, from a wide variety of habitats, here we discuss advances in the characterization of mechanisms underpinning archaeal cell surface biogenesis. These include those facilitating co- and post-translational protein targeting to the cell surface, transport into and across the archaeal lipid membrane, and protein anchoring strategies. We also discuss, in some detail, the assembly of specific cell surface structures, such as the archaeal S-layer and the type IV pili. We will highlight the importance of post-translational protein modifications, such as lipid attachment and glycosylation, in the biosynthesis as well as the regulation of the functions of these cell surface structures and present the differences and similarities in the biogenesis of type IV pili across prokaryotic domains.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Friedhelm Pfeiffer
- Computational Biology Group, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Stefan Schulze
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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15
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New CP, Ma Q, Dabney-Smith C. Routing of thylakoid lumen proteins by the chloroplast twin arginine transport pathway. PHOTOSYNTHESIS RESEARCH 2018; 138:289-301. [PMID: 30101370 DOI: 10.1007/s11120-018-0567-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Thylakoids are complex sub-organellar membrane systems whose role in photosynthesis makes them critical to life. Thylakoids require the coordinated expression of both nuclear- and plastid-encoded proteins to allow rapid response to changing environmental conditions. Transport of cytoplasmically synthesized proteins to thylakoids or the thylakoid lumen is complex; the process involves transport across up to three membrane systems with routing through three aqueous compartments. Protein transport in thylakoids is accomplished by conserved ancestral prokaryotic plasma membrane translocases containing novel adaptations for the sub-organellar location. This review focuses on the evolutionarily conserved chloroplast twin arginine transport (cpTat) pathway. An overview is provided of known aspects of the cpTat components, energy requirements, and mechanisms with a focus on recent discoveries. Some of the most exciting new studies have been in determining the structural architecture of the membrane complex involved in forming the point of passage for the precursor and binding features of the translocase components. The cpTat system is of particular interest because it transports folded protein domains using only the proton motive force for energy. The implications for mechanism of translocation by recent studies focusing on interactions between membrane Tat components and with the translocating precursor will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Paul New
- Cellular, Molecular, and Structural Biology Graduate Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA
| | - Qianqian Ma
- Cellular, Molecular, and Structural Biology Graduate Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA
| | - Carole Dabney-Smith
- Cellular, Molecular, and Structural Biology Graduate Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA.
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA.
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Petrů M, Wideman J, Moore K, Alcock F, Palmer T, Doležal P. Evolution of mitochondrial TAT translocases illustrates the loss of bacterial protein transport machines in mitochondria. BMC Biol 2018; 16:141. [PMID: 30466434 PMCID: PMC6251230 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-018-0607-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacteria and mitochondria contain translocases that function to transport proteins across or insert proteins into their inner and outer membranes. Extant mitochondria retain some bacterial-derived translocases but have lost others. While BamA and YidC were integrated into general mitochondrial protein transport pathways (as Sam50 and Oxa1), the inner membrane TAT translocase, which uniquely transports folded proteins across the membrane, was retained sporadically across the eukaryote tree. RESULTS We have identified mitochondrial TAT machinery in diverse eukaryotic lineages and define three different types of eukaryote-encoded TatABC-derived machineries (TatAC, TatBC and TatC-only). Here, we investigate TatAC and TatC-only machineries, which have not been studied previously. We show that mitochondria-encoded TatAC of the jakobid Andalucia godoyi represent the minimal functional pathway capable of substituting for the Escherichia coli TatABC complex and can transport at least one substrate. However, selected TatC-only machineries, from multiple eukaryotic lineages, were not capable of supporting the translocation of this substrate across the bacterial membrane. Despite the multiple losses of the TatC gene from the mitochondrial genome, the gene was never transferred to the cell nucleus. Although the major constraint preventing nuclear transfer of mitochondrial TatC is likely its high hydrophobicity, we show that in chloroplasts, such transfer of TatC was made possible due to modifications of the first transmembrane domain. CONCLUSIONS At its origin, mitochondria inherited three inner membrane translocases Sec, TAT and Oxa1 (YidC) from its bacterial ancestor. Our work shows for the first time that mitochondrial TAT has likely retained its unique function of transporting folded proteins at least in those few eukaryotes with TatA and TatC subunits encoded in the mitochondrial genome. However, mitochondria, in contrast to chloroplasts, abandoned the machinery multiple times in evolution. The overall lower hydrophobicity of the Oxa1 protein was likely the main reason why this translocase was nearly universally retained in mitochondrial biogenesis pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markéta Petrů
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, BIOCEV, Charles University, Průmyslová 595, 252 50, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Jeremy Wideman
- Wissenschaftskolleg zu Berlin, Wallotstrasse 19, 14193, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, PO Box 15000, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Kristoffer Moore
- Division of Molecular Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Felicity Alcock
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Tracy Palmer
- Division of Molecular Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Pavel Doležal
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, BIOCEV, Charles University, Průmyslová 595, 252 50, Vestec, Czech Republic.
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17
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Basile LA, Zalguizuri A, Briones G, Lepek VC. Two Rieske Fe/S Proteins and TAT System in Mesorhizobium loti MAFF303099: Differential Regulation and Roles on Nodulation. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2018; 9:1686. [PMID: 30515183 PMCID: PMC6256036 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2018.01686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Mesorhizobium loti MAFF303099 is a rhizobial strain that nodulates Lotus spp. A M. loti MAFF303099 mutant strain affected in the tatC gene was generated. This strain presented an altered protein secretion level to the culture supernatant and also a higher sensitivity to SDS. Its nodulation phenotype on Lotus showed the induction of small and colorless nodules, and in a larger number than those induced by the wild-type strain. In addition, these nodules presented defects in the degree of occupation by rhizobia. Two Rieske Fe/S proteins, encoded by the mll2707 and mlr0970 genes, were predicted as potential Tat substrates in M. loti MAFF303099. The transcriptional expression of mll2707 and mlr0970 genes was analyzed under different oxygen growth conditions. The mll2707 gene was expressed constitutively, while the expression of the mlr0970 gene was only detected under anaerobic and microaerophilic in vitro conditions. Both genes were down-regulated in the tatC mutant strain. mll2707 and mlr0970 mRNAs from the wild-type strain were detected in nodules. Using a translational reporter peptide fusion, we found that the Mll2707 protein was only detectable in the wild-type strain. On the other hand, although Mlr0970 protein was detected in wild-type and tatC mutant strains, its association with the membrane was favored in the wild-type strain. The tatC and the mll2707 mutant strains were affected in the cytochrome c oxidase activity. These results confirm that Mll2707 is required for cytochrome c-dependent respiration and that Tat functionality is required for the correct activity of Mll2707. The mll2707 mutant strain showed a nodulation phenotype similar to the tatC mutant strain, although it presented only a slight difference in comparison with wild-type strain in terms of nodule occupation. No defective phenotype was observed in the nodulation with the mlr0970 mutant strain. These results indicate that, of the two Rieske Fe/S proteins coded by M. loti MAFF303099, only Mll2707 expression is required for the induction of effective nodules, and that the functionality of the Tat system is necessary not only for the correct function of this protein, but also for some other protein required in an earlier stage of the nodulation process.
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18
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Ulfig A, Freudl R. The early mature part of bacterial twin-arginine translocation (Tat) precursor proteins contributes to TatBC receptor binding. J Biol Chem 2018; 293:7281-7299. [PMID: 29593092 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra118.002576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The twin-arginine translocation (Tat) pathway transports folded proteins across bacterial membranes. Tat precursor proteins possess a conserved twin-arginine (RR) motif in their signal peptides that is involved in the binding of the proteins to the membrane-associated TatBC receptor complex. In addition, the hydrophobic region in the Tat signal peptides also contributes to TatBC binding, but whether regions beyond the signal-peptide cleavage site are involved in this process is unknown. Here, we analyzed the contribution of the early mature protein part of the Escherichia coli trimethylamine N-oxide reductase (TorA) to productive TatBC receptor binding. We identified substitutions in the 30 amino acids immediately following the TorA signal peptide (30aa-region) that restored export of a transport-defective TorA[KQ]-30aa-MalE precursor, in which the RR residues had been replaced by a lysine-glutamine pair. Some of these substitutions increased the hydrophobicity of the N-terminal part of the 30aa-region and thereby likely enhanced hydrophobic substrate-receptor interactions within the hydrophobic TatBC substrate-binding cavity. Another class of substitutions increased the positive net charge of the region's C-terminal part, presumably leading to strengthened electrostatic interactions between the mature substrate part and the cytoplasmic TatBC regions. Furthermore, we identified substitutions in the C-terminal domains of TatB following the transmembrane segment that restored transport of various transport-defective TorA-MalE derivatives. Some of these substitutions most likely affected the orientation or conformation of the flexible, carboxy-proximal helices of TatB. Therefore, we propose that a tight accommodation of the folded mature region by TatB contributes to productive binding of Tat substrates to TatBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Ulfig
- Institute of Bio- and Geosciences, IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Wilhelm-Johnen-Strasse, D-52425 Jülich, Germany
| | - Roland Freudl
- Institute of Bio- and Geosciences, IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Wilhelm-Johnen-Strasse, D-52425 Jülich, Germany.
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19
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Unanticipated functional diversity among the TatA-type components of the Tat protein translocase. Sci Rep 2018; 8:1326. [PMID: 29358647 PMCID: PMC5777986 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-19640-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Twin-arginine translocation (Tat) systems transport folded proteins that harbor a conserved arginine pair in their signal peptides. They assemble from hexahelical TatC-type and single-spanning TatA-type proteins. Many Tat systems comprise two functionally diverse, TatA-type proteins, denominated TatA and TatB. Some bacteria in addition express TatE, which thus far has been characterized as a functional surrogate of TatA. For the Tat system of Escherichia coli we demonstrate here that different from TatA but rather like TatB, TatE contacts a Tat signal peptide independently of the proton-motive force and restricts the premature processing of a Tat signal peptide. Furthermore, TatE embarks at the transmembrane helix five of TatC where it becomes so closely spaced to TatB that both proteins can be covalently linked by a zero-space cross-linker. Our results suggest that in addition to TatB and TatC, TatE is a further component of the Tat substrate receptor complex. Consistent with TatE being an autonomous TatAB-type protein, a bioinformatics analysis revealed a relatively broad distribution of the tatE gene in bacterial phyla and highlighted unique protein sequence features of TatE orthologs.
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20
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Hamsanathan S, Anthonymuthu TS, Bageshwar UK, Musser SM. A Hinged Signal Peptide Hairpin Enables Tat-Dependent Protein Translocation. Biophys J 2018; 113:2650-2668. [PMID: 29262359 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.09.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Tat machinery catalyzes the transport of folded proteins across the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane and the thylakoid membrane in plants. Using fluorescence quenching and cross-linking approaches, we demonstrate that the Escherichia coli TatBC complex catalyzes insertion of a pre-SufI signal peptide hairpin that penetrates about halfway across the membrane bilayer. Analysis of 512 bacterial Tat signal peptides using secondary structure prediction and docking algorithms suggest that this hairpin interaction mode is generally conserved. An internal cross-link in the signal peptide that blocks transport but does not affect binding indicates that a signal peptide conformational change is required during translocation. These results suggest, to our knowledge, a novel hairpin-hinge model in which the signal peptide hairpin unhinges during movement of the mature domain across the membrane. Thus, in addition to enabling the necessary recognition, the interaction of Tat signal peptides with the receptor complex plays a critical role in the transport process itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruthi Hamsanathan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, College of Medicine, The Texas A&M Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Tamil S Anthonymuthu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Umesh K Bageshwar
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, College of Medicine, The Texas A&M Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Siegfried M Musser
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, College of Medicine, The Texas A&M Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas.
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21
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Blümmel AS, Drepper F, Knapp B, Eimer E, Warscheid B, Müller M, Fröbel J. Structural features of the TatC membrane protein that determine docking and insertion of a twin-arginine signal peptide. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:21320-21329. [PMID: 29089385 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.812560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Twin-arginine translocation (Tat) systems transport folded proteins across cellular membranes with the concerted action of mostly three membrane proteins: TatA, TatB, and TatC. Hetero-oligomers of TatB and TatC form circular substrate-receptor complexes with a central binding cavity for twin-arginine-containing signal peptides. After binding of the substrate, energy from an electro-chemical proton gradient is transduced into the recruitment of TatA oligomers and into the actual translocation event. We previously reported that Tat-dependent protein translocation into membrane vesicles of Escherichia coli is blocked by the compound N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD, DCC). We have now identified a highly conserved glutamate residue in the transmembrane region of E. coli TatC, which when modified by DCCD interferes with the deep insertion of a Tat signal peptide into the TatBC receptor complex. Our findings are consistent with a hydrophobic binding cavity formed by TatB and TatC inside the lipid bilayer. Moreover, we found that DCCD mediates discrete intramolecular cross-links of E. coli TatC involving both its N- and C-tails. These results confirm the close proximity of two distant sequence sections of TatC proposed to concertedly function as the primary docking site for twin-arginine signal peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Sophie Blümmel
- From the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine.,the Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM).,the Faculty of Biology
| | - Friedel Drepper
- the Institute of Biology II, Biochemistry: Functional Proteomics, Faculty of Biology, and.,the BIOSS Centre for Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bettina Knapp
- the Institute of Biology II, Biochemistry: Functional Proteomics, Faculty of Biology, and
| | - Ekaterina Eimer
- From the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine.,the Faculty of Biology
| | - Bettina Warscheid
- the Institute of Biology II, Biochemistry: Functional Proteomics, Faculty of Biology, and.,the BIOSS Centre for Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Müller
- From the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine,
| | - Julia Fröbel
- From the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, Faculty of Medicine
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22
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Ulfig A, Fröbel J, Lausberg F, Blümmel AS, Heide AK, Müller M, Freudl R. The h-region of twin-arginine signal peptides supports productive binding of bacterial Tat precursor proteins to the TatBC receptor complex. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:10865-10882. [PMID: 28515319 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.788950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The twin-arginine translocation (Tat) pathway transports folded proteins across bacterial membranes. Tat precursor proteins possess a conserved twin-arginine (RR) motif in their signal peptides that is involved in their binding to the Tat translocase, but some facets of this interaction remain unclear. Here, we investigated the role of the hydrophobic (h-) region of the Escherichia coli trimethylamine N-oxide reductase (TorA) signal peptide in TatBC receptor binding in vivo and in vitro We show that besides the RR motif, a minimal, functional h-region in the signal peptide is required for Tat-dependent export in Escherichia coli Furthermore, we identified mutations in the h-region that synergistically suppressed the export defect of a TorA[KQ]-30aa-MalE Tat reporter protein in which the RR motif was replaced with a lysine-glutamine pair. Strikingly, all suppressor mutations increased the hydrophobicity of the h-region. By systematically replacing a neutral residue in the h-region with various amino acids, we detected a positive correlation between the hydrophobicity of the h-region and the translocation efficiency of the resulting reporter variants. In vitro cross-linking of residues located in the periplasmically-oriented part of the TatBC receptor to TorA[KQ]-30aa-MalE reporter variants harboring a more hydrophobic h-region in their signal peptides confirmed that unlike in TorA[KQ]-30aa-MalE with an unaltered h-region, the mutated reporters moved deep into the TatBC-binding cavity. Our results clearly indicate that, besides the Tat motif, the h-region of the Tat signal peptides is another important binding determinant that significantly contributes to the productive interaction of Tat precursor proteins with the TatBC receptor complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Ulfig
- From the Institute of Bio- and Geosciences, IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Wilhelm-Johnen-Strasse, D-52425 Jülich, Germany and
| | - Julia Fröbel
- the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, University of Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Strasse 17, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Frank Lausberg
- From the Institute of Bio- and Geosciences, IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Wilhelm-Johnen-Strasse, D-52425 Jülich, Germany and
| | - Anne-Sophie Blümmel
- the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, University of Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Strasse 17, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anna Katharina Heide
- From the Institute of Bio- and Geosciences, IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Wilhelm-Johnen-Strasse, D-52425 Jülich, Germany and
| | - Matthias Müller
- the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, ZBMZ, University of Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Strasse 17, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Roland Freudl
- From the Institute of Bio- and Geosciences, IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Wilhelm-Johnen-Strasse, D-52425 Jülich, Germany and
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23
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Arun PVPS, Miryala SK, Chattopadhyay S, Thiyyagura K, Bawa P, Bhattacharjee M, Yellaboina S. Identification and functional analysis of essential, conserved, housekeeping and duplicated genes. FEBS Lett 2016; 590:1428-37. [PMID: 27129600 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Revised: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Gene conservation, duplication and constitutive expression are intricately linked and strong predictors of essentiality. Here, we introduce metrics based on diversity indices to measure gene conservation, duplication and constitutive expression and validate them by measuring their performance in prediction of essential genes. Conservation and duplication were measured using the diversity indices on the bit score profile of Escherichia coli K12 orthologues, across the genomes, and paralogues, within the genome respectively. Constitutive expression was measured using expression diversity of E. coli K12 genes across different conditions. In addition, we developed a systematic method for enrichment analysis of gene-sets in a given ranked list of genes. The method was used to identify genome-wide functions of essential, conserved, constitutively expressed and duplicated genes. Furthermore, we also ranked various operons, complexes and pathways according to their essentiality, conservation, constitutive expression and duplication.
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Affiliation(s)
- P V Parvati Sai Arun
- CR Rao Advanced Institute of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Sravan Kumar Miryala
- CR Rao Advanced Institute of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.,National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Subhayan Chattopadhyay
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Kranthi Thiyyagura
- CR Rao Advanced Institute of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Payal Bawa
- CR Rao Advanced Institute of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | | | - Sailu Yellaboina
- CR Rao Advanced Institute of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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24
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Kuzniatsova L, Winstone TML, Turner RJ. Identification of protein-protein interactions between the TatB and TatC subunits of the twin-arginine translocase system and respiratory enzyme specific chaperones. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2016; 1858:767-75. [PMID: 26826271 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2016.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2015] [Revised: 01/24/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The Twin-arginine translocation (Tat) pathway serves for translocation of fully folded proteins across the cytoplasmic membrane in bacterial and chloroplast thylakoid membranes. The Escherichia coli Tat system consists of three core components: TatA, TatB, and TatC. The TatB and TatC subunits form the receptor complex for Tat dependent proteins. The TatB protein is composed of a single transmembrane helix and cytoplasmic domain. The structure of TatC revealed six transmembrane helices. Redox Enzyme Maturation Proteins (REMPs) are system specific chaperones, which play roles in the maturation of Tat dependent respiratory enzymes. Here we applied the in vivo bacterial two-hybrid technique to investigate interaction of REMPs with the TatBC proteins, finding that all but the formate dehydrogenase REMP dock to TatB or TatC. We focused on the NarJ subfamily, where DmsD--the REMP for dimethyl sulfoxide reductase in E. coli--was previously shown to interact with TatB and TatC. We found that these REMPs interact with TatC cytoplasmic loops 1, 2 and 4, with the exception of NarJ, that only interacts with 1 and 4. An in vitro isothermal titration calorimetry study was applied to confirm the evidence of interactions between TatC fragments and DmsD chaperone. Using a peptide overlapping array, it was shown that the different NarJ subfamily REMPs interact with different regions of the TatB cytoplasmic domains. The results demonstrate a role of REMP chaperones in targeting respiratory enzymes to the Tat system. The data suggests that the different REMPs may have different mechanisms for this task.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lalita Kuzniatsova
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Tara M L Winstone
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Raymond J Turner
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada.
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25
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Abstract
In Escherichia coli, hydrogen metabolism plays a prominent role in anaerobic physiology. The genome contains the capability to produce and assemble up to four [NiFe]-hydrogenases, each of which are known, or predicted, to contribute to different aspects of cellular metabolism. In recent years, there have been major advances in the understanding of the structure, function, and roles of the E. coli [NiFe]-hydrogenases. The membrane-bound, periplasmically oriented, respiratory Hyd-1 isoenzyme has become one of the most important paradigm systems for understanding an important class of oxygen-tolerant enzymes, as well as providing key information on the mechanism of hydrogen activation per se. The membrane-bound, periplasmically oriented, Hyd-2 isoenzyme has emerged as an unusual, bidirectional redox valve able to link hydrogen oxidation to quinone reduction during anaerobic respiration, or to allow disposal of excess reducing equivalents as hydrogen gas. The membrane-bound, cytoplasmically oriented, Hyd-3 isoenzyme is part of the formate hydrogenlyase complex, which acts to detoxify excess formic acid under anaerobic fermentative conditions and is geared towards hydrogen production under those conditions. Sequence identity between some Hyd-3 subunits and those of the respiratory NADH dehydrogenases has led to hypotheses that the activity of this isoenzyme may be tightly coupled to the formation of transmembrane ion gradients. Finally, the E. coli genome encodes a homologue of Hyd-3, termed Hyd-4, however strong evidence for a physiological role for E. coli Hyd-4 remains elusive. In this review, the versatile hydrogen metabolism of E. coli will be discussed and the roles and potential applications of the spectrum of different types of [NiFe]-hydrogenases available will be explored.
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26
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Abstract
Twin-arginine protein translocation systems (Tat) translocate fully folded and co-factor-containing proteins across biological membranes. In this review, we focus on the Tat pathway of Gram-positive bacteria. The minimal Tat pathway is composed of two components, namely a TatA and TatC pair, which are often complemented with additional TatA-like proteins. We provide overviews of our current understanding of Tat pathway composition and mechanistic aspects related to Tat-dependent cargo protein translocation. This includes Tat pathway flexibility, requirements for the correct folding and incorporation of co-factors in cargo proteins and the functions of known cargo proteins. Tat pathways of several Gram-positive bacteria are discussed in detail, with emphasis on the Tat pathway of Bacillus subtilis. We discuss both shared and unique features of the different Gram-positive bacterial Tat pathways. Lastly, we highlight topics for future research on Tat, including the development of this protein transport pathway for the biotechnological secretion of high-value proteins and its potential applicability as an antimicrobial drug target in pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivianne J Goosens
- MRC Centre for Molecular Bacteriology and Infection, Section of Microbiology, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Jan Maarten van Dijl
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, P.O. Box 30001, 9700, RB, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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27
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Eimer E, Fröbel J, Blümmel AS, Müller M. TatE as a Regular Constituent of Bacterial Twin-arginine Protein Translocases. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:29281-9. [PMID: 26483541 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.696005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Twin-arginine translocation (Tat) systems mediate the transmembrane translocation of completely folded proteins that possess a conserved twin-arginine (RR) motif in their signal sequences. Many Tat systems consist of three essential membrane components named TatA, TatB, and TatC. It is not understood why some bacteria, in addition, constitutively express a functional paralog of TatA called TatE. Here we show, in live Escherichia coli cells, that, upon expression of a Tat substrate protein, fluorescently labeled TatE-GFP relocates from a rather uniform distribution in the plasma membrane into a number of discrete clusters. Clustering strictly required an intact RR signal peptide and the presence of the TatABC subunits, suggesting that TatE-GFP associates with functional Tat translocases. In support of this notion, site-specific photo cross-linking revealed interactions of TatE with TatA, TatB, and TatC. The same approach also disclosed a pronounced tendency of TatE and TatA to hetero-oligomerize. Under in vitro conditions, we found that TatE replaces TatA inefficiently. Our collective results are consistent with TatE being a regular constituent of the Tat translocase in E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Eimer
- From the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, and
| | - Julia Fröbel
- From the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
| | - Anne-Sophie Blümmel
- From the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, and Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
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A Tat ménage à trois — The role of Bacillus subtilis TatAc in twin-arginine protein translocation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2015; 1853:2745-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2015.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Revised: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Initial assembly steps of a translocase for folded proteins. Nat Commun 2015; 6:7234. [PMID: 26068441 PMCID: PMC4490388 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms8234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The so-called Tat (twin-arginine translocation) system transports completely folded proteins across cellular membranes of archaea, prokaryotes and plant chloroplasts. Tat-directed proteins are distinguished by a conserved twin-arginine (RR-) motif in their signal sequences. Many Tat systems are based on the membrane proteins TatA, TatB and TatC, of which TatB and TatC are known to cooperate in binding RR-signal peptides and to form higher-order oligomeric structures. We have now elucidated the fine architecture of TatBC oligomers assembled to form closed intramembrane substrate-binding cavities. The identification of distinct homonymous and heteronymous contacts between TatB and TatC suggest that TatB monomers coalesce into dome-like TatB structures that are surrounded by outer rings of TatC monomers. We also show that these TatBC complexes are approached by TatA protomers through their N-termini, which thereby establish contacts with TatB and membrane-inserted RR-precursors. The twin-arginine translocation complex consists of TatA, TatB and TatC subunits and transports folded proteins across cellular membranes. Here, using photocrosslinking, the authors show that TatB monomers form dome-like structures that are surrounded by TatC monomers enabling lateral access of TatA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben C. Berks
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom;
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Cline K. Mechanistic Aspects of Folded Protein Transport by the Twin Arginine Translocase (Tat). J Biol Chem 2015; 290:16530-8. [PMID: 25975269 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.r114.626820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The twin arginine translocase (Tat) transports folded proteins of widely varying size across ionically tight membranes with only 2-3 components of machinery and the proton motive force. Tat operates by a cycle in which the receptor complex combines with the pore-forming component to assemble a new translocase for each substrate. Recent data on component and substrate organization in the receptor complex and on the structure of the pore complex inform models for translocase assembly and translocation. A translocation mechanism involving local transient bilayer rupture is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Cline
- From the Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611
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Taubert J, Brüser T. Twin-arginine translocation-arresting protein regions contact TatA and TatB. Biol Chem 2015; 395:827-36. [PMID: 25003386 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2014-0170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Tat systems translocate folded proteins across biological membranes of prokaryotes and plant plastids. TatBC complexes recognize N-terminal Tat signal peptides that contain a sequence motif with two conserved arginines (RR-motif), and transport takes place after a recruitment of TatA. Unfolded Tat substrate domains lower translocation efficiency and too long linkers lead to translocation arrest. To identify the components that interact with transported proteins during their passage through the translocon, we used a Tat substrate that arrests translocation at a long unfolded linker region, and we chose in vivo site-directed photo cross-linking to specifically detect the interactions of this linker region. For comparison, we included the interactions of the signal peptide and of the folded domain at the C-terminus of this construct. The data show that the linker contacts only two, structurally similar Tat components, namely TatA and TatB. These contacts depend on the recognition of the Tat-specific signal peptide. Only when membrane translocation of the globular domain was allowed--i.e., in the absence of the linker--we observed the same TatAB-contacts also to the globular domain. The data thus suggest that mature protein domains are translocated through a TatAB environment.
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Taubert J, Hou B, Risselada HJ, Mehner D, Lünsdorf H, Grubmüller H, Brüser T. TatBC-independent TatA/Tat substrate interactions contribute to transport efficiency. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0119761. [PMID: 25774531 PMCID: PMC4361764 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0119761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 02/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Tat system can transport folded, signal peptide-containing proteins (Tat substrates) across energized membranes of prokaryotes and plant plastids. A twin-arginine motif in the signal peptide of Tat substrates is recognized by TatC-containing complexes, and TatA permits the membrane passage. Often, as in the model Tat systems of Escherichia coli and plant plastids, a third component - TatB - is involved that resembles TatA but has a higher affinity to TatC. It is not known why most TatA dissociates from TatBC complexes in vivo and distributes more evenly in the membrane. Here we show a TatBC-independent substrate-binding to TatA from Escherichia coli, and we provide evidence that this binding enhances Tat transport. First hints came from in vivo cross-linking data, which could be confirmed by affinity co-purification of TatA with the natural Tat substrates HiPIP and NrfC. Two positions on the surface of HiPIP could be identified that are important for the TatA interaction and transport efficiency, indicating physiological relevance of the interaction. Distributed TatA thus may serve to accompany membrane-interacting Tat substrates to the few TatBC spots in the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Taubert
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Schneiderberg 50, 30167, Hannover, Germany
| | - Bo Hou
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Schneiderberg 50, 30167, Hannover, Germany
| | - H. Jelger Risselada
- Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Denise Mehner
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Schneiderberg 50, 30167, Hannover, Germany
| | - Heinrich Lünsdorf
- Helmholtz Centre of Infection Research, Inhoffenstraße 7, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Helmut Grubmüller
- Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Brüser
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Schneiderberg 50, 30167, Hannover, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Biology and Assembly of the Bacterial Envelope. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2015; 883:41-76. [PMID: 26621461 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-23603-2_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
All free-living bacterial cells are delimited and protected by an envelope of high complexity. This physiological barrier is essential for bacterial survival and assures multiple functions. The molecular assembly of the different envelope components into a functional structure represents a tremendous biological challenge and is of high interest for fundamental sciences. The study of bacterial envelope assembly has also been fostered by the need for novel classes of antibacterial agents to fight the problematic of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. This chapter focuses on the two most intensively studied classes of bacterial envelopes that belong to the phyla Firmicutes and Proteobacteria. The envelope of Firmicutes typically has one membrane and is defined as being monoderm whereas the envelope of Proteobacteria contains two distinct membranes and is referred to as being diderm. In this chapter, we will first discuss the multiple roles of the bacterial envelope and clarify the nomenclature used to describe the different types of envelopes. We will then define the architecture and composition of the envelopes of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria while outlining their similarities and differences. We will further cover the extensive progress made in the field of bacterial envelope assembly over the last decades, using Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli as model systems for the study of the monoderm and diderm bacterial envelopes, respectively. We will detail our current understanding of how molecular machines assure the secretion, insertion and folding of the envelope proteins as well as the assembly of the glycosidic components of the envelope. Finally, we will highlight the topics that are still under investigation, and that will surely lead to important discoveries in the near future.
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Gillespie JJ, Kaur SJ, Rahman MS, Rennoll-Bankert K, Sears KT, Beier-Sexton M, Azad AF. Secretome of obligate intracellular Rickettsia. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2014; 39:47-80. [PMID: 25168200 DOI: 10.1111/1574-6976.12084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The genus Rickettsia (Alphaproteobacteria, Rickettsiales, Rickettsiaceae) is comprised of obligate intracellular parasites, with virulent species of interest both as causes of emerging infectious diseases and for their potential deployment as bioterrorism agents. Currently, there are no effective commercially available vaccines, with treatment limited primarily to tetracycline antibiotics, although others (e.g. josamycin, ciprofloxacin, chloramphenicol, and azithromycin) are also effective. Much of the recent research geared toward understanding mechanisms underlying rickettsial pathogenicity has centered on characterization of secreted proteins that directly engage eukaryotic cells. Herein, we review all aspects of the Rickettsia secretome, including six secretion systems, 19 characterized secretory proteins, and potential moonlighting proteins identified on surfaces of multiple Rickettsia species. Employing bioinformatics and phylogenomics, we present novel structural and functional insight on each secretion system. Unexpectedly, our investigation revealed that the majority of characterized secretory proteins have not been assigned to their cognate secretion pathways. Furthermore, for most secretion pathways, the requisite signal sequences mediating translocation are poorly understood. As a blueprint for all known routes of protein translocation into host cells, this resource will assist research aimed at uniting characterized secreted proteins with their apposite secretion pathways. Furthermore, our work will help in the identification of novel secreted proteins involved in rickettsial 'life on the inside'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Gillespie
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Simran J Kaur
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - M Sayeedur Rahman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kristen Rennoll-Bankert
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Khandra T Sears
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Magda Beier-Sexton
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Abdu F Azad
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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‘Come into the fold’: A comparative analysis of bacterial redox enzyme maturation protein members of the NarJ subfamily. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2014; 1838:2971-2984. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2014.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Revised: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 08/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Patel R, Vasilev C, Beck D, Monteferrante CG, van Dijl JM, Hunter CN, Smith C, Robinson C. A mutation leading to super-assembly of twin-arginine translocase (Tat) protein complexes. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2014; 1843:1978-86. [PMID: 24875903 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2014.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/19/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The Tat system transports folded proteins across the bacterial plasma membrane. The mechanism is believed to involve coalescence of a TatC-containing unit with a separate TatA complex, but the full translocation complex has never been visualised and the assembly process is poorly defined. We report the analysis of the Bacillus subtilis TatAyCy system, which occurs as separate TatAyCy and TatAy complexes at steady state, using single-particle electron microscopy (EM) and advanced atomic force microscopy (AFM) approaches. We show that a P2A mutation in the TatAy subunit leads to apparent super-assembly of Tat complexes. Purification of TatCy-containing complexes leads to a large increase in the TatA:TatC ratio, suggesting that TatAy(P2A) complexes may have attached to the TatAyCy complex. EM and AFM analyses show that the wild-type TatAyCy complex purifies as roughly spherical complexes of 9-16nm diameter, whereas the P2A mutation leads to accumulation of large (up to 500nm long) fibrils that are chains of numerous complexes. Time lapsed AFM imaging, recorded on fibrils under liquid, shows that they adopt a variety of tightly curved conformations, with radii of curvature of 10-12nm comparable to the size of single TatAy(P2A) complexes. The combined data indicate that the mutation leads to super-assembly of TatAy(P2A) complexes and we propose that an individual TatAy(P2A) complex assembles initially with a TatAy(P2A)Cy complex, after which further TatAy(P2A) complexes attach to each other. The data further suggest that the N-terminal extracytoplasmic domain of TatAy plays an essential role in Tat complex interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshani Patel
- School of Life Sciences, Gibbet Hill Campus, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Cvetelin Vasilev
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Daniel Beck
- School of Life Sciences, Gibbet Hill Campus, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Carmine G Monteferrante
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Maarten van Dijl
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - C Neil Hunter
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Corinne Smith
- School of Life Sciences, Gibbet Hill Campus, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Colin Robinson
- Centre for Molecular Processing, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK.
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Aldridge C, Ma X, Gerard F, Cline K. Substrate-gated docking of pore subunit Tha4 in the TatC cavity initiates Tat translocase assembly. J Cell Biol 2014; 205:51-65. [PMID: 24711501 PMCID: PMC3987133 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201311057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The twin-arginine translocase (Tat) transports folded proteins across tightly sealed membranes. cpTatC is the core component of the thylakoid translocase and coordinates transport through interactions with the substrate signal peptide and other Tat components, notably the Tha4 pore-forming component. Here, Cys-Cys matching mapped Tha4 contact sites on cpTatC and assessed the role of signal peptide binding on Tha4 assembly with the cpTatC-Hcf106 receptor complex. Tha4 made contact with a peripheral cpTatC site in nonstimulated membranes. In the translocase, Tha4 made an additional contact within the cup-shaped cavity of cpTatC that likely seeds Tha4 polymerization to form the pore. Substrate binding triggers assembly of Tha4 onto the interior site. We provide evidence that the substrate signal peptide inserts between cpTatC subunits arranged in a manner that conceivably forms an enclosed chamber. The location of the inserted signal peptide and the Tha4-cpTatC contact data suggest a model for signal peptide-gated Tha4 entry into the chamber to form the translocase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassie Aldridge
- Horticultural Sciences Department and Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611
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Berks BC, Lea SM, Stansfeld PJ. Structural biology of Tat protein transport. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2014; 27:32-7. [PMID: 24709396 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2014.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2014] [Revised: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The Tat protein transport system is found in the cytoplasmic membrane of prokaryotes and the thylakoid membrane of plant chloroplasts. Unusually, the Tat system translocates proteins only after they have folded. Proteins are targeted to the Tat system by specific N-terminal signal peptides. High resolution structures have recently been determined for the TatA and TatC proteins that form the Tat translocation site. These structures provide a molecular framework for understanding the mechanism of Tat transport. The interactions between TatC and the signal peptide of the substrate protein can be provisionally modelled. However, the way that TatA and TatC combine in the active translocation site remains to be definitively established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben C Berks
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom.
| | - Susan M Lea
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3RE, United Kingdom.
| | - Phillip J Stansfeld
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
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Behrendt J, Brüser T. The TatBC complex of the Tat protein translocase in Escherichia coli and its transition to the substrate-bound TatABC complex. Biochemistry 2014; 53:2344-54. [PMID: 24654648 DOI: 10.1021/bi500169s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The twin-arginine translocation (Tat) system serves to transport folded proteins across membranes of prokaryotes and plant plastids. In Escherichia coli, a complex consisting of multiple copies of TatB and TatC initiates the transport by binding the signal peptides of the Tat substrates. Using blue-native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, bands of TatBC-containing complexes can be detected at molecular masses of 440 and 580 kDa. We systematically analyzed the formation of Tat complexes with TatB or TatC variants that carried point mutations at selected positions. Several mutations resulted in specific disassembly patterns and alterations in the 440 kDa:580 kDa complex ratios. The 440 kDa complex contains only TatBC, whereas the 580 kDa complex consists of TatABC. Substrate binding results in a TatBC-Tat substrate complex at ~500 kDa and a TatABC-Tat substrate complex at ~600 kDa. Only the ~600 kDa complex was detected with nonrecombinant substrate levels and thus could be the physiologically most relevant species. The results suggest that some TatA is usually associated with TatBC, regardless of substrate binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Behrendt
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz University Hannover , Schneiderberg 50, 30167 Hannover, Germany
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Solution structure of the TatB component of the twin-arginine translocation system. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2014; 1838:1881-8. [PMID: 24699374 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2014.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2013] [Revised: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The twin-arginine protein transport (Tat) system translocates fully folded proteins across lipid membranes. In Escherichia coli, the Tat system comprises three essential components: TatA, TatB and TatC. The protein translocation process is proposed to initiate by signal peptide recognition and substrate binding to the TatBC complex. Upon formation of the TatBC-substrate protein complex, the TatA subunits are recruited and form the protein translocation pore. Experimental evidences suggest that TatB forms a tight complex with TatC at 1:1 molar ratio and the TatBC complex contains multiple copies of both proteins. Cross-linking experiments demonstrate that TatB functions in tetrameric units and interacts with both TatC and substrate proteins. However, structural information of the TatB protein is still lacking, and its functional mechanism remains elusive. Herein, we report the solution structure of TatB in DPC micelles determined by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Overall, the structure shows an extended 'L-shape' conformation comprising four helices: a transmembrane helix (TMH) α1, an amphipathic helix (APH) α2, and two solvent exposed helices α3 and α4. The packing of TMH and APH is relatively rigid, whereas helices α3 and α4 display notably higher mobility. The observed floppiness of helices α3 and α4 allows TatB to sample a large conformational space, thus providing high structural plasticity to interact with substrate proteins of different sizes and shapes.
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Goosens VJ, Monteferrante CG, van Dijl JM. Co-factor insertion and disulfide bond requirements for twin-arginine translocase-dependent export of the Bacillus subtilis Rieske protein QcrA. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:13124-31. [PMID: 24652282 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.529677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The twin-arginine translocation (Tat) pathway can transport folded and co-factor-containing cargo proteins over bacterial cytoplasmic membranes. Functional Tat machinery components, a folded state of the cargo protein and correct co-factor insertion in the cargo protein are generally considered as prerequisites for successful translocation. The present studies were aimed at a dissection of these requirements with regard to the Rieske iron-sulfur protein QcrA of Bacillus subtilis. Notably, QcrA is a component of the cytochrome bc1 complex, which is conserved from bacteria to man. Single amino acid substitutions were introduced into the Rieske domain of QcrA to prevent either co-factor binding or disulfide bond formation. Both types of mutations precluded QcrA translocation. Importantly, a proofreading hierarchy was uncovered, where a QcrA mutant defective in disulfide bonding was quickly degraded, whereas mutant QcrA proteins defective in co-factor binding accumulated in the cytoplasm and membrane. Altogether, these are the first studies on Tat-dependent protein translocation where both oxidative folding and co-factor attachment have been addressed in a single native molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivianne J Goosens
- From the Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, P. O. Box 30001, 9700 RB, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Patel R, Smith SM, Robinson C. Protein transport by the bacterial Tat pathway. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2014; 1843:1620-8. [PMID: 24583120 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2014.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Revised: 02/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/15/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The twin-arginine translocation (Tat) system accomplishes the remarkable feat of translocating large - even dimeric - proteins across tightly sealed energy-transducing membranes. All of the available evidence indicates that it is unique in terms of both structure and mechanism; however its very nature has hindered efforts to probe the core translocation events. At the heart of the problem is the fact that two large sub-complexes are believed to coalesce to form the active translocon, and 'capturing' this translocation event has been too difficult. Nevertheless, studies on the individual components have come a long way in recent years, and structural studies have reached the point where educated guesses can be made concerning the most interesting aspects of Tat. In this article we review these studies and the emerging ideas in this field. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Protein trafficking and secretion in bacteria. Guest Editors: Anastassios Economou and Ross Dalbey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshani Patel
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah M Smith
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Colin Robinson
- Centre for Molecular Processing, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, United Kingdom.
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The twin arginine translocation system is essential for aerobic growth and full virulence of Burkholderia thailandensis. J Bacteriol 2013; 196:407-16. [PMID: 24214943 DOI: 10.1128/jb.01046-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The twin arginine translocation (Tat) system in bacteria is responsible for transporting folded proteins across the cytoplasmic membrane, and in some bacteria, Tat-exported substrates have been linked to virulence. We report here that the Tat machinery is present in Burkholderia pseudomallei, B. mallei, and B. thailandensis, and we show that the system is essential for aerobic but not anaerobic growth. Switching off of the Tat system in B. thailandensis grown anaerobically resulted in filamentous bacteria, and bacteria showed increased sensitivity to some β-lactam antibiotics. In Galleria mellonella and zebrafish infection models, the Tat conditional mutant was attenuated. The aerobic growth-restricted phenotype indicates that Tat substrates may play a functional role in oxygen-dependent energy conservation. In other bacteria, aerobic growth restriction in Tat mutants has been attributed to the inability to translocate PetA, the Rieske iron-sulfur protein which forms part of the quinol-cytochrome c oxidoreductase complex. Here, we show that PetA is not responsible for aerobic growth restriction in B. thailandensis. However, we have identified an operon encoding 2 proteins of unknown function (BTH_I2176 and BTH_I2175) that play a role in aerobic growth restriction, and we present evidence that BTH_I2176 is Tat translocated.
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Goosens VJ, Monteferrante CG, van Dijl JM. The Tat system of Gram-positive bacteria. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2013; 1843:1698-706. [PMID: 24140208 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2013.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2013] [Revised: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The twin-arginine protein translocation (Tat) system has a unique ability to translocate folded and co-factor-containing proteins across lipid bilayers. The Tat pathway is present in bacteria, archaea and in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts and, depending on the organism and environmental conditions, it can be deemed important for cell survival, virulence or bioproduction. This review provides an overview of the current understanding of the Tat system with specific focus on Gram-positive bacteria. The 'universal minimal Tat system' is composed of a TatA and a TatC protein. However, this pathway is more commonly composed of two TatA-like proteins and one TatC protein. Often the TatA-like proteins have diverged to have two different functions and, in this case, the second TatA-like protein is usually referred to as TatB. The correct folding and/or incorporation of co-factors are requirements for translocation, and the known quality control mechanisms are examined in this review. A number of examples of crosstalk between the Tat system and other protein transport systems, such as the Sec-YidC translocon and signal peptidases or sheddases are also discussed. Further, an overview of specific Gram-positive bacterial Tat systems found in monoderm and diderm species is detailed. Altogether, this review highlights the unique features of Gram-positive bacterial Tat systems and pinpoints key questions that remain to be addressed in future research. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Protein trafficking and secretion in bacteria. Guest Editors: Anastassios Economou and Ross Dalbey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivianne J Goosens
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, P.O. Box 30001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Carmine G Monteferrante
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, P.O. Box 30001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Maarten van Dijl
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, P.O. Box 30001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Rose P, Fröbel J, Graumann PL, Müller M. Substrate-dependent assembly of the Tat translocase as observed in live Escherichia coli cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e69488. [PMID: 23936332 PMCID: PMC3732296 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0069488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The twin-arginine translocation (Tat) pathway guides fully folded proteins across membranes of bacteria, archaea and plant chloroplasts. In Escherichia coli, Tat-specific transport is executed in a still largely unknown manner by three functionally diverse membrane proteins, termed TatA, TatB, and TatC. In order to follow the intracellular distribution of the TatABC proteins in live E. coli cells, we have individually expressed fluorophore-tagged versions of each Tat protein in addition to a set of chromosomally encoded TatABC proteins. In this way, a Tat translocase could form from the native TatABC proteins and be visualized via the association of a fluorescent Tat variant. A functionally active TatA-green fluorescent protein fusion was found to re-locate from a uniform distribution in the membrane into a few clusters preferentially located at the cell poles. Clustering was absolutely dependent on the co-expression of functional Tat substrates, the proton-motive force, and the cognate TatBC subunits. Likewise, polar cluster formation of a functional TatB-mCherry fusion required TatA and TatC and that of a functional TatC-mCherry fusion a functional Tat substrate. Furthermore we directly demonstrate the co-localization of TatA and TatB in the same fluorescent clusters. Our collective results are consistent with distinct Tat translocation sites dynamically forming in vivo in response to newly synthesized Tat substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Rose
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zentrum für Biochemie und Molekulare Zellforschung, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Julia Fröbel
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zentrum für Biochemie und Molekulare Zellforschung, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Peter L. Graumann
- LOEWE Center for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO) and Department of Chemistry, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Müller
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zentrum für Biochemie und Molekulare Zellforschung, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Kudva R, Denks K, Kuhn P, Vogt A, Müller M, Koch HG. Protein translocation across the inner membrane of Gram-negative bacteria: the Sec and Tat dependent protein transport pathways. Res Microbiol 2013; 164:505-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2013.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2012] [Accepted: 03/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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48
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Enough is enough: TatA demand during Tat-dependent protein transport. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2013; 1833:957-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2013.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Revised: 01/23/2013] [Accepted: 01/25/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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49
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The glove-like structure of the conserved membrane protein TatC provides insight into signal sequence recognition in twin-arginine translocation. Structure 2013; 21:777-88. [PMID: 23583035 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2013.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Revised: 02/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In bacteria, two signal-sequence-dependent secretion pathways translocate proteins across the cytoplasmic membrane. Although the mechanism of the ubiquitous general secretory pathway is becoming well understood, that of the twin-arginine translocation pathway, responsible for translocation of folded proteins across the bilayer, is more mysterious. TatC, the largest and most conserved of three integral membrane components, provides the initial binding site of the signal sequence prior to pore assembly. Here, we present two crystal structures of TatC from the thermophilic bacteria Aquifex aeolicus at 4.0 Å and 6.8 Å resolution. The membrane architecture of TatC includes a glove-shaped structure with a lipid-exposed pocket predicted by molecular dynamics to distort the membrane. Correlating the biochemical literature to these results suggests that the signal sequence binds in this pocket, leading to structural changes that facilitate higher order assemblies.
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50
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Beck D, Vasisht N, Baglieri J, Monteferrante CG, van Dijl JM, Robinson C, Smith CJ. Ultrastructural characterisation of Bacillus subtilis TatA complexes suggests they are too small to form homooligomeric translocation pores. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2013; 1833:1811-9. [PMID: 23567937 PMCID: PMC3988878 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2013.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2013] [Revised: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Tat-dependent protein transport permits the traffic of fully folded proteins across membranes in bacteria and chloroplasts. The mechanism by which this occurs is not understood. Current theories propose that a key step requires the coalescence of a substrate-binding TatC-containing complex with a TatA complex, which forms pores of varying sizes that could accommodate different substrates. We have studied the structure of the TatAd complex from Bacillus subtilis using electron microscopy to generate the first 3D model of a TatA complex from a Gram-positive bacterium. We observe that TatAd does not exhibit the remarkable heterogeneity of Escherichia coli TatA complexes but instead forms ring-shaped complexes of 7.5–9 nm diameter with potential pores of 2.5–3 nm diameter that are occluded at one end. Such structures are consistent with those seen for E. coli TatE complexes. Furthermore, the small diameter of the TatAd pore, and the homogeneous nature of the complexes, suggest that TatAd cannot form the translocation channel by itself. Biochemical data indicate that another B. subtilis TatA complex, TatAc, has similar properties, suggesting a common theme for TatA-type complexes from Bacillus. First 3D density maps of TatA-type complexes from Gram-positive organism TatAd forms ring-shaped complexes with potential pores of 2.5–3 nm diameters. The small diameter of TatAd channels apparently precludes passage of folded proteins. TatAc forms homogeneous complexes of < 100 kDa. Similarities between B. subtilis TatAd and TatAc suggest a common mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Beck
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
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