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Ji Y, Lu Q, Duan Y, Chen X, Zhang Y, Yao W, Yin J, Gao X. Enhanced bioactivity and stability of a long-acting FGF21: A novel variant for the treatment of NASH. Biochimie 2024; 225:26-39. [PMID: 38740172 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is pivotal in regulating energy metabolism, highlighting substantial therapeutic potential for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Previously, we reported a long-acting FGF21 fusion protein, PsTag-FGF21, which was prepared by genetically fusing human FGF21 with a 648-residue polypeptide (PsTag). While this fusion protein demonstrated therapeutic efficacy against NASH, our final product analysis revealed the presence of fixed impurities resistant to effective removal, indicating potential degradation of PsTag-FGF21. Here, we enriched and analyzed the impurities, confirming our hypothesis regarding the C-terminal degradation of PsTag-FGF21. We now describe a new variant developed to eliminate the C-terminal degradation. By introducing one mutation located at the C-terminal of PsTag-FGF21(V169L), we demonstrated that the new molecule, PsTag-FGF21(V169L), exhibits many improved attributes. Compared with PsTag-FGF21, PsTag-FGF21(V169L) displayed elevated bioactivity and stability, along with a twofold enhanced binding affinity to the coreceptor β-Klotho. In vivo, the circulating half-life of PsTag-FGF21(V169L) was further enhanced compared with that of PsTag-FGF21. In NASH mice, PsTag-FGF21(V169L) demonstrated efficacy with sustained improvements in multiple metabolic parameters. Besides, PsTag-FGF21(V169L) demonstrated the ability to alleviate NASH by decreasing hepatocyte apoptosis. The superior biophysical, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic properties, along with the positive metabolic effects, imply that further clinical development of PsTag-FGF21(V169L) as a metabolic therapy for NASH patients may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Qingzhou Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Yiliang Duan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Xuan Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Yuxi Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Wenbing Yao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| | - Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| | - Xiangdong Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
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Burr DJ, Drauschke J, Kanevche K, Kümmel S, Stryhanyuk H, Heberle J, Perfumo A, Elsaesser A. Stable Isotope Probing-nanoFTIR for Quantitation of Cellular Metabolism and Observation of Growth-Dependent Spectral Features. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2400289. [PMID: 38708804 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202400289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
This study utilizes nanoscale Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (nanoFTIR) to perform stable isotope probing (SIP) on individual bacteria cells cultured in the presence of 13C-labelled glucose. SIP-nanoFTIR simultaneously quantifies single-cell metabolism through infrared spectroscopy and acquires cellular morphological information via atomic force microscopy. The redshift of the amide I peak corresponds to the isotopic enrichment of newly synthesized proteins. These observations of single-cell translational activity are comparable to those of conventional methods, examining bulk cell numbers. Observing cells cultured under conditions of limited carbon, SIP- nanoFTIR is used to identify environmentally-induced changes in metabolic heterogeneity and cellular morphology. Individuals outcompeting their neighboring cells will likely play a disproportionately large role in shaping population dynamics during adverse conditions or environmental fluctuations. Additionally, SIP-nanoFTIR enables the spectroscopic differentiation of specific cellular growth phases. During cellular replication, subcellular isotope distribution becomes more homogenous, which is reflected in the spectroscopic features dependent on the extent of 13C-13C mode coupling or to specific isotopic symmetries within protein secondary structures. As SIP-nanoFTIR captures single-cell metabolism, environmentally-induced cellular processes, and subcellular isotope localization, this technique offers widespread applications across a variety of disciplines including microbial ecology, biophysics, biopharmaceuticals, medicinal science, and cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Burr
- Department of Physics, Experimental Biophysics and Space Sciences, Freie Universität Berlin, Arnimallee 14, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Janina Drauschke
- Department of Physics, Experimental Biophysics and Space Sciences, Freie Universität Berlin, Arnimallee 14, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katerina Kanevche
- Department of Physics, Experimental Molecular Biophysics, Freie Universität Berlin, Arnimallee 14, 14195, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, 08544, USA
| | - Steffen Kümmel
- Department of Technical Biogeochemistry, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstraße 15, 04318, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hryhoriy Stryhanyuk
- Department of Technical Biogeochemistry, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstraße 15, 04318, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Joachim Heberle
- Department of Physics, Experimental Molecular Biophysics, Freie Universität Berlin, Arnimallee 14, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Amedea Perfumo
- Department of Physics, Experimental Molecular Biophysics, Freie Universität Berlin, Arnimallee 14, 14195, Berlin, Germany
- Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Polar Terrestrial Environmental Systems, Telegrafenberg, 14473, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Andreas Elsaesser
- Department of Physics, Experimental Biophysics and Space Sciences, Freie Universität Berlin, Arnimallee 14, 14195, Berlin, Germany
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3
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Chain C, Sheehan JP, Xu X, Ghaffari S, Godbole A, Kim H, Freundlich JS, Rabinowitz JD, Gitai Z. A folate inhibitor exploits metabolic differences in Pseudomonas aeruginosa for narrow-spectrum targeting. Nat Microbiol 2024; 9:1207-1219. [PMID: 38594311 PMCID: PMC11087268 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-024-01665-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections for which the development of antibiotics is urgently needed. Unlike most enteric bacteria, P. aeruginosa lacks enzymes required to scavenge exogenous thymine. An appealing strategy to selectively target P. aeruginosa is to disrupt thymidine synthesis while providing exogenous thymine. However, known antibiotics that perturb thymidine synthesis are largely inactive against P. aeruginosa.Here we characterize fluorofolin, a dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) inhibitor derived from Irresistin-16, that exhibits significant activity against P. aeruginosa in culture and in a mouse thigh infection model. Fluorofolin is active against a wide range of clinical P. aeruginosa isolates resistant to known antibiotics. Metabolomics and in vitro assays using purified folA confirm that fluorofolin inhibits P. aeruginosa DHFR. Importantly, in the presence of thymine supplementation, fluorofolin activity is selective for P. aeruginosa. Resistance to fluorofolin can emerge through overexpression of the efflux pumps MexCD-OprJ and MexEF-OprN, but these mutants also decrease pathogenesis. Our findings demonstrate how understanding species-specific genetic differences can enable selective targeting of important pathogens while revealing trade-offs between resistance and pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor Chain
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Joseph P Sheehan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Xincheng Xu
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Soodabeh Ghaffari
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Aneesh Godbole
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University - New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Hahn Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- Small Molecule Screening Center, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Joel S Freundlich
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University - New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine and the Ruy V. Lourenço Center for the Study of Emerging and Re-emerging Pathogens, Rutgers University - New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Joshua D Rabinowitz
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Princeton Branch, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Zemer Gitai
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
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4
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Verma RK, Gondu P, Saha T, Chatterjee S. The Global Transcription Regulator XooClp Governs Type IV Pili System-Mediated Bacterial Virulence by Directly Binding to TFP-Chp Promoters to Coordinate Virulence Associated Functions. MOLECULAR PLANT-MICROBE INTERACTIONS : MPMI 2024; 37:357-369. [PMID: 38105438 DOI: 10.1094/mpmi-07-23-0100-r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Type IV pili (TFP) play a crucial role in the sensing of the external environment for several bacteria. This surface sensing is essential for the lifestyle transitions of several bacteria and involvement in pathogenesis. However, the precise mechanisms underlying TFP's integration of environmental cues, particularly in regulating the TFP-Chp system and its effects on Xanthomonas physiology, social behavior, and virulence, remain poorly understood. In this study, we focused on investigating Clp, a global transcriptional regulator similar to CRP-like proteins, in Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, a plant pathogen. Our findings reveal that Clp integrates environmental cues detected through diffusible signaling factor (DSF) quorum sensing into the TFP-Chp regulatory system. It accomplishes this by directly binding to TFP-Chp promoters in conjunction with intracellular levels of cyclic-di-GMP, a ubiquitous bacterial second messenger, thereby controlling TFP expression. Moreover, Clp-mediated regulation is involved in regulating several cellular processes, including the production of virulence-associated functions. Collectively, these processes contribute to host colonization and disease initiation. Our study elucidates the intricate regulatory network encompassing Clp, environmental cues, and the TFP-Chp system, providing insights into the molecular mechanisms that drive bacterial virulence in Xanthomonas spp. These findings offer valuable knowledge regarding Xanthomonas pathogenicity and present new avenues for innovative strategies aimed at combating plant diseases caused by these bacteria. [Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj Kumar Verma
- Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Uppal, Hyderabad 500039, India
| | - Parimala Gondu
- Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Uppal, Hyderabad 500039, India
| | - Tirthankar Saha
- Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Uppal, Hyderabad 500039, India
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5
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Zhou L, Meng G, Zhu L, Ma L, Chen K. Insect Antimicrobial Peptides as Guardians of Immunity and Beyond: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3835. [PMID: 38612644 PMCID: PMC11011964 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), as immune effectors synthesized by a variety of organisms, not only constitute a robust defense mechanism against a broad spectrum of pathogens in the host but also show promising applications as effective antimicrobial agents. Notably, insects are significant reservoirs of natural AMPs. However, the complex array of variations in types, quantities, antimicrobial activities, and production pathways of AMPs, as well as evolution of AMPs across insect species, presents a significant challenge for immunity system understanding and AMP applications. This review covers insect AMP discoveries, classification, common properties, and mechanisms of action. Additionally, the types, quantities, and activities of immune-related AMPs in each model insect are also summarized. We conducted the first comprehensive investigation into the diversity, distribution, and evolution of 20 types of AMPs in model insects, employing phylogenetic analysis to describe their evolutionary relationships and shed light on conserved and distinctive AMP families. Furthermore, we summarize the regulatory pathways of AMP production through classical signaling pathways and additional pathways associated with Nitric Oxide, insulin-like signaling, and hormones. This review advances our understanding of AMPs as guardians in insect immunity systems and unlocks a gateway to insect AMP resources, facilitating the use of AMPs to address food safety concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizhen Zhou
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China;
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Guanliang Meng
- Zoological Research Museum Alexander Koenig, Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change, 53113 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Ling Zhu
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China;
| | - Li Ma
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu 030810, China
| | - Kangkang Chen
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China;
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6
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Bae HW, Choi SY, Cho YH. An outer membrane determinant for RNA phage genome entry in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. iScience 2024; 27:108675. [PMID: 38213628 PMCID: PMC10783630 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108675] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Host range of a phage is determined at the various life cycle stages during phage infection. We reported the limited phage-receptor interaction between the RNA phage, PP7 and its host Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains: PAO1 has susceptible type IV pilus (TFP) pilin, whereas PA14 has resistant pilin. Here, we have created a PA14 derivative (PA14P) with the PAO1 pilin gene and found that other determinants than TFP pilin could limit PP7 infectivity in PA14P. Transposon mutant screens revealed that PP7 infectivity was restored in the PA14P mutants (htrB2) lacking a secondary acyltransferase in lipid A biosynthesis. The lack of this enzyme increased the RNA phage entry, which is deemed attributed to the loosened lipopolysaccharide (LPS) structure. Polymyxin B treatment also selectively increased the RNA phage entry. These results demonstrated that LPS structures could limit the entry stage of RNA phages, providing another determinant for the host range in diverse P. aeruginosa strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Won Bae
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do 13488, Korea
| | - Shin-Yae Choi
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do 13488, Korea
| | - You-Hee Cho
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do 13488, Korea
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7
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Davies-Jones J, Davies PR, Graf A, Hewes D, Hill KE, Pascoe M. Photoinduced force microscopy as a novel method for the study of microbial nanostructures. NANOSCALE 2023; 16:223-236. [PMID: 38053416 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr03499b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
A detailed comparison of the capabilities of electron microscopy and nano-infrared (IR) microscopy for imaging microbial nanostructures has been carried out for the first time. The surface sensitivity, chemical specificity, and non-destructive nature of spectroscopic mapping is shown to offer significant advantages over transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for the study of biological samples. As well as yielding important topographical information, the distribution of amides, lipids, and carbohydrates across cross-sections of bacterial (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus) and fungal (Candida albicans) cells was demonstrated using PiFM. The unique information derived from this new mode of spectroscopic mapping of the surface chemistry and biology of microbial cell walls and membranes, may provide new insights into fungal/bacterial cell function as well as having potential use in determining mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance, especially those targeting the cell wall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Davies-Jones
- Cardiff Catalysis Institute, Cardiff School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3A, UK.
| | - Philip R Davies
- Cardiff Catalysis Institute, Cardiff School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3A, UK.
| | - Arthur Graf
- Cardiff Catalysis Institute, Cardiff School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3A, UK.
| | - Dan Hewes
- Cardiff Catalysis Institute, Cardiff School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3A, UK.
| | - Katja E Hill
- Advanced Therapies Group, School of Dentistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XY, UK.
| | - Michael Pascoe
- Cardiff Catalysis Institute, Cardiff School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3A, UK.
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3BN, UK.
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8
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Yang H, Huang Z, Yue J, Chen J, Yu M, Qu C. Metabolomics reveals the mechanism of action of meropenem and amikacin combined in the treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1327452. [PMID: 38116135 PMCID: PMC10728327 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1327452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection often involves the combined use of β-lactam and aminoglycoside antibiotics. In this study, we employed metabolomic analysis to investigate the mechanism responsible for the synergistic activities of meropenem/amikacin combination therapy against multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa strains harboring OXA-50 and PAO genes. Antibiotic concentrations for meropenem (2 mg/L) monotherapy, amikacin (16 mg/L) monotherapy, and meropenem/amikacin (2/16 mg/L) combination therapy were selected based on clinical breakpoint considerations. Metabolomic analysis revealed significant alterations in relevant metabolites involved in bacterial cell membrane and cell wall synthesis within 15 min of combined drug administration. These alterations encompassed various metabolic pathways, including fatty acid metabolism, peptidoglycan synthesis, and lipopolysaccharide metabolism. Furthermore, at 1 h and 4 h, the combination therapy exhibited significant interference with amino acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, and central carbon metabolism pathways, including the tricarboxylic acid cycle and pentose phosphate pathway. In contrast, the substances affected by single drug administration at 1 h and 4 h demonstrated a noticeable reduction. Meropenem/amikacin combination resulted in notable perturbations of metabolic pathways essential for survival of P. aeruginosa, whereas monotherapies had comparatively diminished impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Yang
- Affiliated Qingdao Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao Cancer Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhen Huang
- Affiliated Qingdao Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao Cancer Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Jiali Yue
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Jianqi Chen
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Mingming Yu
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Chengming Qu
- Affiliated Qingdao Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao Cancer Hospital, Qingdao, China
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9
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Costafrolaz J, Panis G, Casu B, Ardissone S, Degeorges L, Pilhofer M, Viollier PH. Adaptive β-lactam resistance from an inducible efflux pump that is post-translationally regulated by the DjlA co-chaperone. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002040. [PMID: 38051727 PMCID: PMC10754441 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The acquisition of multidrug resistance (MDR) determinants jeopardizes treatment of bacterial infections with antibiotics. The tripartite efflux pump AcrAB-NodT confers adaptive MDR in the polarized α-proteobacterium Caulobacter crescentus via transcriptional induction by first-generation quinolone antibiotics. We discovered that overexpression of AcrAB-NodT by mutation or exogenous inducers confers resistance to cephalosporin and penicillin (β-lactam) antibiotics. Combining 2-step mutagenesis-sequencing (Mut-Seq) and cephalosporin-resistant point mutants, we dissected how TipR uses a common operator of the divergent tipR and acrAB-nodT promoter for adaptive and/or potentiated AcrAB-NodT-directed efflux. Chemical screening identified diverse compounds that interfere with DNA binding by TipR or induce its dependent proteolytic turnover. We found that long-term induction of AcrAB-NodT deforms the envelope and that homeostatic control by TipR includes co-induction of the DnaJ-like co-chaperone DjlA, boosting pump assembly and/or capacity in anticipation of envelope stress. Thus, the adaptive MDR regulatory circuitry reconciles drug efflux with co-chaperone function for trans-envelope assemblies and maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Costafrolaz
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine/Centre Médical Universitaire, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gaël Panis
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine/Centre Médical Universitaire, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bastien Casu
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Biology & Biophysics, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Silvia Ardissone
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine/Centre Médical Universitaire, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laurence Degeorges
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine/Centre Médical Universitaire, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Martin Pilhofer
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Biology & Biophysics, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Patrick H. Viollier
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine/Centre Médical Universitaire, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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10
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Lee Upton S, Tay JW, Schwartz DK, Sousa MC. Similarly slow diffusion of BAM and SecYEG complexes in live E. coli cells observed with 3D spt-PALM. Biophys J 2023; 122:4382-4394. [PMID: 37853695 PMCID: PMC10698321 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The β-barrel assembly machinery (BAM) complex is responsible for inserting outer membrane proteins (OMPs) into the Escherichia coli outer membrane. The SecYEG translocon inserts inner membrane proteins into the inner membrane and translocates both soluble proteins and nascent OMPs into the periplasm. Recent reports describe Sec possibly playing a direct role in OMP biogenesis through interactions with the soluble polypeptide transport-associated (POTRA) domains of BamA (the central OMP component of BAM). Here we probe the diffusion behavior of these protein complexes using photoactivatable super-resolution localization microscopy and single-particle tracking in live E. coli cells of BAM and SecYEG components BamA and SecE and compare them to other outer and inner membrane proteins. To accurately measure trajectories on the highly curved cell surface, three-dimensional tracking was performed using double-helix point-spread function microscopy. All proteins tested exhibit two diffusive modes characterized by "slow" and "fast" diffusion coefficients. We implement a diffusion coefficient analysis as a function of the measurement lag time to separate positional uncertainty from true mobility. The resulting true diffusion coefficients of the slow and fast modes showed a complete immobility of full-length BamA constructs in the time frame of the experiment, whereas the OMP OmpLA displayed a slow diffusion consistent with the high viscosity of the outer membrane. The periplasmic POTRA domains of BamA were found to anchor BAM to other cellular structures and render it immobile. However, deletion of individual distal POTRA domains resulted in increased mobility, suggesting that these domains are required for the full set of cellular interactions. SecE diffusion was much slower than that of the inner membrane protein PgpB and was more like OMPs and BamA. Strikingly, SecE diffused faster upon POTRA domain deletion. These results are consistent with the existence of a BAM-SecYEG trans-periplasmic assembly in live E. coli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Lee Upton
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado
| | - Jian Wei Tay
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado
| | - Daniel Keith Schwartz
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado
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11
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Kim MJ, Bae HE, Kwon S, Park MK, Yong D, Kang MJ, Pyun JC. Phage-targeting bimetallic nanoplasmonic biochip functionalized with bacterial outer membranes as a biorecognition element. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 238:115598. [PMID: 37597282 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
The use of phages-a natural predator of bacteria-has emerged as a therapeutic strategy for treating multidrug-resistant bacterial infections; thus, the isolation and detection of phages from the environment is crucial for advancing phage therapy. Herein, for the first time, we propose a nanoplasmonic-based biodetection platform for phages that utilizes bacterial outer membranes (OMs) as a biorecognition element. Conventional biosensors based on phage-bacteria interactions encounter multiple challenges due to the bacteriolytic phages and potentially toxic bacteria, resulting in instability and risk in the measurement. Therefore, instead of whole living bacteria, we employ a safe biochemical OMs fraction presenting phage-specific receptors, allowing the robust and reliable phage detection. In addition, the biochip is constructed on bimetallic nanoplasmonic islands through solid-state dewetting for synergy between Au and Ag, whereby sensitive detection of phage-OMs interactions is achieved by monitoring the absorption peak shift. For high detection performance, the nanoplasmonic chip is optimized by systematically investigating the morphological features, e.g., size and packing density of the nanoislands. Using our optimized device, phages are detected with high sensitivity (≥∼104 plaques), specificity (little cross-reactivity), and affinity (stronger binding to the host OMs than anti-bacterial antibodies), further exhibiting the cell-killing activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moon-Ju Kim
- Department of Materials and Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, South Korea
| | - Hyung Eun Bae
- Department of Materials and Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, South Korea
| | - Soonil Kwon
- Department of Materials and Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, South Korea
| | - Mi-Kyung Park
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, South Korea
| | - Dongeun Yong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Research Institute of Bacterial Resistance, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, South Korea
| | - Min-Jung Kang
- Molecular Recognition Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, South Korea
| | - Jae-Chul Pyun
- Department of Materials and Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, South Korea.
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12
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Gurunathan S, Kim JH. Bacterial extracellular vesicles: Emerging nanoplatforms for biomedical applications. Microb Pathog 2023; 183:106308. [PMID: 37595812 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs) are nanosized lipid bilayers generated from membranes that are filled with components derived from bacteria. BEVs are important for the physiology, pathogenicity, and interactions between bacteria and their hosts as well. BEVs represent an important mechanism of transport and interaction between cells. Recent advances in biomolecular nanotechnology have enabled the desired properties to be engineered on the surface of BEVs and decoration with desired and diverse biomolecules and nanoparticles, which have potential biomedical applications. BEVs have been the focus of various fields, including nanovaccines, therapeutic agents, and drug delivery vehicles. In this review, we delineate the fundamental aspects of BEVs, including their biogenesis, cargo composition, function, and interactions with host cells. We comprehensively summarize the factors influencing the biogenesis of BEVs. We further highlight the importance of the isolation, purification, and characterization of BEVs because they are essential processes for potential benefits related to host-microbe interactions. In addition, we address recent advancements in BEVs in biomedical applications. Finally, we provide conclusions and future perspectives as well as highlight the remaining challenges of BEVs for different biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangiliyandi Gurunathan
- Department of Biotechnology, Rathinam College of Arts and Science, Rathinam Techzone Campus, Eachanari, Coimbatore, 641 021, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Jin-Hoi Kim
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea.
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13
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Rath P, Hermann A, Schaefer R, Agustoni E, Vonach JM, Siegrist M, Miscenic C, Tschumi A, Roth D, Bieniossek C, Hiller S. High-throughput screening of BAM inhibitors in native membrane environment. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5648. [PMID: 37704632 PMCID: PMC10499997 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41445-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The outer membrane insertase of Gram-negative bacteria, BAM, is a key target for urgently needed novel antibiotics. Functional reconstitutions of BAM have so far been limited to synthetic membranes and with low throughput capacity for inhibitor screening. Here, we describe a BAM functional assay in native membrane environment capable of high-throughput screening. This is achieved by employing outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) to present BAM directly in native membranes. Refolding of the model substrate OmpT by BAM was possible from the chaperones SurA and Skp, with the required SurA concentration three times higher than Skp. In the OMVs, the antibiotic darobactin had a tenfold higher potency than in synthetic membranes, highlighting the need for native conditions in antibiotics development. The assay is successfully miniaturized for 1536-well plates and upscaled using large scale fermentation, resulting in high-throughput capacities to screen large commercial compound libraries. Our OMV-based assay thus lays the basis for discovery, hit validation and lead expansion of antibiotics targeting BAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parthasarathi Rath
- Biozentrum, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 41, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Adrian Hermann
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ramona Schaefer
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Elia Agustoni
- Biozentrum, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 41, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Marie Vonach
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Siegrist
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Miscenic
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Tschumi
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Doris Roth
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Bieniossek
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Sebastian Hiller
- Biozentrum, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 41, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
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14
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Li X, Fu L, Zhang S, Wang Y, Gao L. How Alligator Immune Peptides Kill Gram-Negative Bacteria: A Lipid-Scrambling, Squeezing, and Extracting Mechanism Revealed by Theoretical Simulations. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10962. [PMID: 37446138 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310962] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Alligator sinensis cathelicidins (As-CATHs) are antimicrobial peptides extracted from alligators that enable alligators to cope with diseases caused by bacterial infections. This study assessed the damaging effects of sequence-truncated and residue-substituted variants of As-CATH4, AS4-1, AS4-5, and AS4-9 (with decreasing charges but increasing hydrophobicity) on the membranes of Gram-negative bacteria at the molecular level by using coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations. The simulations predicted that all the variants disrupt the structures of the inner membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, with AS4-9 having the highest antibacterial activity that is able to squeeze the membrane and extract lipids from the membrane. However, none of them can disrupt the structure of asymmetric outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, which is composed of lipopolysaccharides in the outer leaflet and phospholipids in the inner leaflet. Nonetheless, the adsorption of AS4-9 induces lipid scrambling in the membrane by lowering the free energy of a phospholipid flipping from the inner leaflet up to the outer leaflet. Upon binding onto the lipid-scrambled outer membrane, AS4-9s are predicted to squeeze and extract phospholipids from the membrane, AS4-5s have a weak pull-out effect, and AS4-1s mainly stay free in water without any lipid-extracting function. These findings provide inspiration for the development of potent therapeutic agents targeting bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Lei Fu
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Shan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Yipeng Wang
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Lianghui Gao
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
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15
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Wang YD, Gong JS, Guan YC, Zhao ZL, Cai YN, Shan XF. OmpR (TCS response regulator) of Aeromonas veronii plays a major role in drug resistance, stress resistance and virulence by regulating biofilm formation. Microb Pathog 2023; 181:106176. [PMID: 37244492 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Aeromonas veronii (A. veronii), a highly pathogenic bacteria with a wide range of hosts, widely exists in the environment of humans, animals and aquatic animals, and can cause a variety of diseases. In this study, the receptor regulator ompR in the envZ/ompR of two-component system was selected to construct a mutant strain (Δ ompR) and a complement strain (C-ompR) to explore the regulatory effect of ompR on the biological characteristics and virulence of TH0426. The results showed that the ability of biofilm formation and osmotic stress of TH0426 were significantly reduced (P < 0.001), the resistance to ceftriaxone and neomycin were slightly down-regulate when the ompR gene was deleted. At the same time, animal pathogenicity experiments showed that the virulence of TH0426 was significantly down-regulated (P < 0.001). These results indicated that ompR gene regulates the biofilm formation of TH0426, and regulates some biological characteristics of TH0426, including drug sensitivity, resistance to osmotic stress, and also affects its virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-da Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, China
| | - Jin-Shuo Gong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, China
| | - Yong-Chao Guan
- Institute of Comparative Medicine College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ze-Lin Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, China
| | - Ya-Nan Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, China.
| | - Xiao-Feng Shan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, China.
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16
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Mazurkiewicz-Pisarek A, Baran J, Ciach T. Antimicrobial Peptides: Challenging Journey to the Pharmaceutical, Biomedical, and Cosmeceutical Use. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24109031. [PMID: 37240379 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), or host defence peptides, are short proteins in various life forms. Here we discuss AMPs, which may become a promising substitute or adjuvant in pharmaceutical, biomedical, and cosmeceutical uses. Their pharmacological potential has been investigated intensively, especially as antibacterial and antifungal drugs and as promising antiviral and anticancer agents. AMPs exhibit many properties, and some of these have attracted the attention of the cosmetic industry. AMPs are being developed as novel antibiotics to combat multidrug-resistant pathogens and as potential treatments for various diseases, including cancer, inflammatory disorders, and viral infections. In biomedicine, AMPs are being developed as wound-healing agents because they promote cell growth and tissue repair. The immunomodulatory effects of AMPs could be helpful in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. In the cosmeceutical industry, AMPs are being investigated as potential ingredients in skincare products due to their antioxidant properties (anti-ageing effects) and antibacterial activity, which allows the killing of bacteria that contribute to acne and other skin conditions. The promising benefits of AMPs make them a thrilling area of research, and studies are underway to overcome obstacles and fully harness their therapeutic potential. This review presents the structure, mechanisms of action, possible applications, production methods, and market for AMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mazurkiewicz-Pisarek
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Technologies CEZAMAT, Warsaw University of Technology, Poleczki 19, 02-822 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Baran
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Technologies CEZAMAT, Warsaw University of Technology, Poleczki 19, 02-822 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Ciach
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Technologies CEZAMAT, Warsaw University of Technology, Poleczki 19, 02-822 Warsaw, Poland
- Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Warynskiego 1, 00-645 Warsaw, Poland
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17
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Nandi S, Nair KS, Bajaj H. Bacterial Outer-Membrane-Mimicking Giant Unilamellar Vesicle Model for Detecting Antimicrobial Permeability. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2023; 39:5891-5900. [PMID: 37036429 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c00378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The construction of bacterial outer membrane models with native lipids like lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a barrier to understanding antimicrobial permeability at the membrane interface. Here, we engineer bacterial outer membrane (OM)-mimicking giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) by constituting LPS under different pH conditions and assembled GUVs with controlled dimensions. We quantify the LPS reconstituted in GUV membranes and reveal their arrangement in the leaflets of the vesicles. Importantly, we demonstrate the applications of OM vesicles by exploring antimicrobial permeability activity across membranes. Model peptides, melittin and magainin-2, are examined where both peptides exhibit lower membrane activity in OM vesicles than vesicles devoid of LPS. Our findings reveal the mode of action of antimicrobial peptides in bacterial-membrane-mimicking models. Notably, the critical peptide concentration required to elicit activity on model membranes correlates with the cell inhibitory concentrations that revalidate our models closely mimic bacterial membranes. In conclusion, we provide an OM-mimicking model capable of quantifying antimicrobial permeability across membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir Nandi
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR- National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST), Trivandrum 695019, Kerala, India
| | - Karthika S Nair
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR- National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST), Trivandrum 695019, Kerala, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-Human Resource Development Centre, Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Harsha Bajaj
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR- National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST), Trivandrum 695019, Kerala, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-Human Resource Development Centre, Ghaziabad 201002, India
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18
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Feng S, Park S, Choi YK, Im W. CHARMM-GUI Membrane Builder: Past, Current, and Future Developments and Applications. J Chem Theory Comput 2023; 19:2161-2185. [PMID: 37014931 PMCID: PMC10174225 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.2c01246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Molecular dynamics simulations of membranes and membrane proteins serve as computational microscopes, revealing coordinated events at the membrane interface. As G protein-coupled receptors, ion channels, transporters, and membrane-bound enzymes are important drug targets, understanding their drug binding and action mechanisms in a realistic membrane becomes critical. Advances in materials science and physical chemistry further demand an atomistic understanding of lipid domains and interactions between materials and membranes. Despite a wide range of membrane simulation studies, generating a complex membrane assembly remains challenging. Here, we review the capability of CHARMM-GUI Membrane Builder in the context of emerging research demands, as well as the application examples from the CHARMM-GUI user community, including membrane biophysics, membrane protein drug-binding and dynamics, protein-lipid interactions, and nano-bio interface. We also provide our perspective on future Membrane Builder development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shasha Feng
- Departments of Biological Sciences and Chemistry, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015, United States
| | - Soohyung Park
- Departments of Biological Sciences and Chemistry, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015, United States
| | - Yeol Kyo Choi
- Departments of Biological Sciences and Chemistry, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015, United States
| | - Wonpil Im
- Departments of Biological Sciences and Chemistry, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015, United States
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19
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Devlin T, Marx DC, Roskopf MA, Bubb QR, Plummer AM, Fleming KG. FkpA enhances membrane protein folding using an extensive interaction surface. Protein Sci 2023; 32:e4592. [PMID: 36775935 PMCID: PMC10031210 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Outer membrane protein (OMP) biogenesis in gram-negative bacteria is managed by a network of periplasmic chaperones that includes SurA, Skp, and FkpA. These chaperones bind unfolded OMPs (uOMPs) in dynamic conformational ensembles to suppress aggregation, facilitate diffusion across the periplasm, and enhance folding. FkpA primarily responds to heat-shock stress, but its mechanism is comparatively understudied. To determine FkpA chaperone function in the context of OMP folding, we monitored the folding of three OMPs and found that FkpA, unlike other periplasmic chaperones, increases the folded yield but decreases the folding rate of OMPs. The results indicate that FkpA behaves as a chaperone and not as a folding catalyst to influence the OMP folding trajectory. Consistent with the folding assay results, FkpA binds all three uOMPs as determined by sedimentation velocity (SV) and photo-crosslinking experiments. We determine the binding affinity between FkpA and uOmpA171 by globally fitting SV titrations and find it to be intermediate between the known affinities of Skp and SurA for uOMP clients. Notably, complex formation steeply depends on the urea concentration, suggesting an extensive binding interface. Initial characterizations of the complex using photo-crosslinking indicate that the binding interface spans the entire FkpA molecule. In contrast to prior findings, folding and binding experiments performed using subdomain constructs of FkpA demonstrate that the full-length chaperone is required for full activity. Together these results support that FkpA has a distinct and direct effect on OMP folding that it achieves by utilizing an extensive chaperone-client interface to tightly bind clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Devlin
- T.C. Jenkins Department of BiophysicsJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Dagan C. Marx
- T.C. Jenkins Department of BiophysicsJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Michaela A. Roskopf
- T.C. Jenkins Department of BiophysicsJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Quenton R. Bubb
- T.C. Jenkins Department of BiophysicsJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Ashlee M. Plummer
- T.C. Jenkins Department of BiophysicsJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Karen G. Fleming
- T.C. Jenkins Department of BiophysicsJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
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20
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Cho SH, Dekoninck K, Collet JF. Envelope-Stress Sensing Mechanism of Rcs and Cpx Signaling Pathways in Gram-Negative Bacteria. J Microbiol 2023; 61:317-329. [PMID: 36892778 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-023-00030-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
The global public health burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is intensified by Gram-negative bacteria, which have an additional membrane, the outer membrane (OM), outside of the peptidoglycan (PG) cell wall. Bacterial two-component systems (TCSs) aid in maintaining envelope integrity through a phosphorylation cascade by controlling gene expression through sensor kinases and response regulators. In Escherichia coli, the major TCSs defending cells from envelope stress and adaptation are Rcs and Cpx, which are aided by OM lipoproteins RcsF and NlpE as sensors, respectively. In this review, we focus on these two OM sensors. β-Barrel assembly machinery (BAM) inserts transmembrane OM proteins (OMPs) into the OM. BAM co-assembles RcsF, the Rcs sensor, with OMPs, forming the RcsF-OMP complex. Researchers have presented two models for stress sensing in the Rcs pathway. The first model suggests that LPS perturbation stress disassembles the RcsF-OMP complex, freeing RcsF to activate Rcs. The second model proposes that BAM cannot assemble RcsF into OMPs when the OM or PG is under specific stresses, and thus, the unassembled RcsF activates Rcs. These two models may not be mutually exclusive. Here, we evaluate these two models critically in order to elucidate the stress sensing mechanism. NlpE, the Cpx sensor, has an N-terminal (NTD) and a C-terminal domain (CTD). A defect in lipoprotein trafficking results in NlpE retention in the inner membrane, provoking the Cpx response. Signaling requires the NlpE NTD, but not the NlpE CTD; however, OM-anchored NlpE senses adherence to a hydrophobic surface, with the NlpE CTD playing a key role in this function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Hyun Cho
- WELBIO-Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and Biotechnology, 1200, Brussels, Belgium. .,de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Kilian Dekoninck
- WELBIO-Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and Biotechnology, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.,de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.,University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Jean-Francois Collet
- WELBIO-Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and Biotechnology, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.,de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
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21
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Tiwari H, Raina D, Gupta M, Barik MR, Khan IA, Khan F, Nargotra A. Identification of novel MurA inhibitors using in silico approach, their validation and elucidation of mode of inhibition. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:457-468. [PMID: 34866550 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.2007793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
UDP-N-acetylglucosamine enolpyruvyl transferase (MurA) is an important enzyme involved in the first cytosolic step of bacterial cell wall synthesis. In this study a combination of ligand based and structure based in silico virtual screening methods were utilised for screening of more than 50,000 drug-like compounds from CSIR-IIIM in-house compound library in order to identify potent inhibitors of MurA. The identified hits were validated in vitro under various incubation conditions using Malachite green phosphate assay, and two potent hits viz 3772-9534 and D396-0012 were identified. Among these hits, compound 3772-9534 showed significant changes in the activity values in different assay conditions. The MD simulation study of 3772-9534 suggested a novel binding site in MurA enzyme, independent of the two-substrate binding sites. Binding of inhibitors at the allosteric site induces conformational changes in the enzyme, which leads to inhibition of enzymatic activity. Overall, the study offers new insight for targeting MurA, which may promote the discovery of novel MurA allosteric site inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshita Tiwari
- Discovery Informatics, NPMC Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Diksha Raina
- Clinical Microbiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Monika Gupta
- Discovery Informatics, NPMC Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India
| | - Manas Ranjan Barik
- Discovery Informatics, NPMC Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Inshad Ali Khan
- Clinical Microbiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India.,Department of Microbiology, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, Rajasthan, India
| | - Farrah Khan
- Clinical Microbiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India
| | - Amit Nargotra
- Discovery Informatics, NPMC Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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22
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Chaudhari R, Singh K, Kodgire P. Biochemical and molecular mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella spp. Res Microbiol 2023; 174:103985. [PMID: 35944794 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2022.103985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Salmonella is a diverse Gram-negative bacterium that represents the major disease burden worldwide. According to WHO, Salmonella is one of the fourth global causes of diarrhoeal disease. Antibiotic resistance is a worldwide health concern, and Salmonella spp. is one of the microorganisms that can evade the toxicity of antimicrobials via antibiotic resistance. This review aims to deliver in-depth knowledge of the molecular mechanisms and the underlying biochemical alterations perceived in antibiotic resistance in Salmonella. This information will help understand and mitigate the impact of antibiotic-resistant bacteria on humans and contribute to the state-of-the-art research developing newer and more potent antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Chaudhari
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Simrol, Khandwa Road, Indore 453552, India
| | - Kanika Singh
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Simrol, Khandwa Road, Indore 453552, India
| | - Prashant Kodgire
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Simrol, Khandwa Road, Indore 453552, India.
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23
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SurA-like and Skp-like Proteins as Important Virulence Determinants of the Gram Negative Bacterial Pathogens. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010295. [PMID: 36613738 PMCID: PMC9820271 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In the Gram-negative bacteria, many important virulence factors reach their destination via two-step export systems, and they must traverse the periplasmic space before reaching the outer membrane. Since these proteins must be maintained in a structure competent for transport into or across the membrane, they frequently require the assistance of chaperones. Based on the results obtained for the model bacterium Escherichia coli and related species, it is assumed that in the biogenesis of the outer membrane proteins and the periplasmic transit of secretory proteins, the SurA peptidyl-prolyl isomerase/chaperone plays a leading role, while the Skp chaperone is rather of secondary importance. However, detailed studies carried out on several other Gram-negative pathogens indicate that the importance of individual chaperones in the folding and transport processes depends on the properties of client proteins and is species-specific. Taking into account the importance of SurA functions in bacterial virulence and severity of phenotypes due to surA mutations, this folding factor is considered as a putative therapeutic target to combat microbial infections. In this review, we present recent findings regarding SurA and Skp proteins: their mechanisms of action, involvement in processes related to virulence, and perspectives to use them as therapeutic targets.
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24
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CpxAR of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae Contributes to Heat Stress Response by Repressing Expression of Type IV Pilus Gene apfA. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0252322. [PMID: 36259970 PMCID: PMC9769684 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02523-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute pleuropneumonia in swine, caused by Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, is characterized by a high and sustained fever. Fever creates an adverse environment for many bacteria, leading to reduced bacterial proliferation; however, most pathogenic bacteria can tolerate higher temperatures. CpxAR is a two-component regulation system, ubiquitous among Gram-negative bacteria, which senses and responds to envelope alterations that are mostly associated with protein misfolding in the periplasm. Our previous study showed that CpxAR is necessary for the optimal growth of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae under heat stress. Here, we showed that mutation of the type IV pilin gene apfA rescued the growth defect of the cpxAR deletion strain under heat stress. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analyses revealed that 265 genes were differentially expressed in the ΔcpxAR strains grown at 42°C, including genes involved in type IV pilus biosynthesis. We also demonstrated direct binding of the CpxR protein to the promoter of the apf operon by an electrophoretic mobility shift assay and identified the binding site by a DNase I footprinting assay. In conclusion, our results revealed the important role of CpxAR in A. pleuropneumoniae resistance to heat stress by directly suppressing the expression of ApfA. IMPORTANCE Heat acts as a danger signal for pathogens, especially those infecting mammalian hosts in whom fever indicates infection. However, some bacteria have evolved exquisite mechanisms to survive under heat stress. Studying the mechanism of resistance to heat stress is crucial to understanding the pathogenesis of A. pleuropneumoniae during the acute stage of infection. Our study revealed that CpxAR plays an important role in A. pleuropneumoniae resistance to heat stress by directly suppressing expression of the type IV pilin protein ApfA.
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Bactericidal activity of gallic acid against multi-drug resistance Escherichia coli. Microb Pathog 2022; 173:105824. [PMID: 36243382 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2022.105824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The continuous emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria has posed an increasingly serious public health threat which urges people to develop some alternatives. Gallic acid (GA) is a natural ingredient in many traditional Chinese medicines, which has many biological activities, such as antibacterial, and antiseptic. Here, clinical isolates of MDR Escherichia coli (E. coli) were used to evaluate the antibacterial effect of GA and the underlying mechanism. The results revealed that GA exerted bactericidal activity and inhibited the formation of bacterial biofilm. GA enhanced the activities of ceftiofur sodium or tetracycline against E. coli, and facilitated antibiotic accumulation in bacteria. Further analysis of morphological alterations and efflux pump gene expressions confirmed that GA damaged outer and inner membranes, and suppressed the mRNA expressions of acrA, acrB, tolC, acrD and acrF involved in membrane permeability. In addition, GA showed protective effects against bacterial infection and improved the survival rates of Galleria mellonella and BALB/c mice. These data highlight a better understanding of GA against bacteria and provide an alternative strategy for MDR bacterial infection.
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Revealing novel synergistic defense and acid tolerant performance of Escherichia coli in response to organic acid stimulation. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:7577-7594. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-12241-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Hogan AM, Cardona ST. Gradients in gene essentiality reshape antibacterial research. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2022; 46:fuac005. [PMID: 35104846 PMCID: PMC9075587 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuac005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Essential genes encode the processes that are necessary for life. Until recently, commonly applied binary classifications left no space between essential and non-essential genes. In this review, we frame bacterial gene essentiality in the context of genetic networks. We explore how the quantitative properties of gene essentiality are influenced by the nature of the encoded process, environmental conditions and genetic background, including a strain's distinct evolutionary history. The covered topics have important consequences for antibacterials, which inhibit essential processes. We argue that the quantitative properties of essentiality can thus be used to prioritize antibacterial cellular targets and desired spectrum of activity in specific infection settings. We summarize our points with a case study on the core essential genome of the cystic fibrosis pathobiome and highlight avenues for targeted antibacterial development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Hogan
- Department of Microbiology, University of Manitoba, 45 Chancellor's Circle, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Silvia T Cardona
- Department of Microbiology, University of Manitoba, 45 Chancellor's Circle, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2N2, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Room 543 - 745 Bannatyne Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3E 0J9, Canada
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Inhibitors of Heptosyltransferase I to prevent heptose transfer against antibiotic resistance of E. coli: Energetics and stability analysis by DFT and molecular dynamics. J Mol Struct 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2021.132258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Chao S, Liu Y, Ding N, Lin Y, Wang Q, Tan J, Li W, Zheng Y, Hu X, Li J. Highly Expressed Soluble Recombinant Anti-GFP VHHs in Escherichia coli via Optimized Signal Peptides, Strains, and Inducers. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:848829. [PMID: 35359590 PMCID: PMC8960375 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.848829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Antigen-binding variable domains of the H chain of heavy-chain antibodies (VHHs), also known as nanobodies (Nbs), are of great interest in imaging technique, disease prevention, diagnosis, and therapy. High-level expression of soluble Nbs is very important for its industrial production. In this study, we optimized the expression system of anti-green fluorescent protein (GFP) VHHs with three different signal peptides (SPs), outer-membrane protein A (OmpA), pectate lyase B (PelB), and L-asparaginase II SP (L-AsPsII), in different Escherichia coli strains via isopropyl β-D-thiogalactoside (IPTG) induction and auto-induction, respectively. The solubility of recombinant anti-GFP VHHs with PelB or OmpA was significantly enhanced to the same extent by IPTG induction and auto-induction in BL21 (DE3) E. coli strain and the maximum yield of target protein reached approximately 0.4 mg/l in a shake flask. The binding activity of recombinant anti-GFP VHHs was also confirmed to be retained by native-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). These results suggest that SPs like OmpA and PelB could efficiently improve the recombinant anti-GFP VHH solubility without changing its bioactivity, providing a novel strategy to optimize the E. coli expression system of soluble VHHs, and lay the foundation for the industrial production of soluble recombinant anti-GFP VHHs and the research of other VHHs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangying Chao
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, China
- DalianKey Laboratory of Oligosaccharide Recombination and Recombinant Protein Modification, Dalian, China
| | - Yuhang Liu
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, China
- DalianKey Laboratory of Oligosaccharide Recombination and Recombinant Protein Modification, Dalian, China
| | - Ning Ding
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, China
- DalianKey Laboratory of Oligosaccharide Recombination and Recombinant Protein Modification, Dalian, China
| | - Yue Lin
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, China
- DalianKey Laboratory of Oligosaccharide Recombination and Recombinant Protein Modification, Dalian, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, China
- DalianKey Laboratory of Oligosaccharide Recombination and Recombinant Protein Modification, Dalian, China
| | - Junwen Tan
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, China
- DalianKey Laboratory of Oligosaccharide Recombination and Recombinant Protein Modification, Dalian, China
| | - Wei Li
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, China
- DalianKey Laboratory of Oligosaccharide Recombination and Recombinant Protein Modification, Dalian, China
| | - Yang Zheng
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, China
- DalianKey Laboratory of Oligosaccharide Recombination and Recombinant Protein Modification, Dalian, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Zheng, ; Xuejun Hu, ; Junming Li,
| | - Xuejun Hu
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, China
- DalianKey Laboratory of Oligosaccharide Recombination and Recombinant Protein Modification, Dalian, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Zheng, ; Xuejun Hu, ; Junming Li,
| | - Junming Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Zheng, ; Xuejun Hu, ; Junming Li,
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Tsviklist V, Guest RL, Raivio TL. The Cpx Stress Response Regulates Turnover of Respiratory Chain Proteins at the Inner Membrane of Escherichia coli. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:732288. [PMID: 35154019 PMCID: PMC8831704 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.732288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The Cpx envelope stress response is a major signaling pathway monitoring bacterial envelope integrity, activated both internally by excessive synthesis of membrane proteins and externally by a variety of environmental cues. The Cpx regulon is enriched with genes coding for protein folding and degrading factors, virulence determinants, and large envelope-localized complexes. Transcriptional repression of the two electron transport chain complexes, NADH dehydrogenase I and cytochrome bo3, by the Cpx pathway has been demonstrated, however, there is evidence that additional regulatory mechanisms exist. In this study, we examine the interaction between Cpx-regulated protein folding and degrading factors and the respiratory complexes NADH dehydrogenase I and succinate dehydrogenase in Escherichia coli. Here we show that the cellular need for Cpx-mediated stress adaptation increases when respiratory complexes are more prevalent or active, which is demonstrated by the growth defect of Cpx-deficient strains on media that requires a functional electron transport chain. Interestingly, deletion of several Cpx-regulated proteolytic factors and chaperones results in similar growth-deficient phenotypes. Furthermore, we find that the stability of the NADH dehydrogenase I protein complex is lower in cells with a functional Cpx response, while in its absence, protein turnover is impaired. Finally, we demonstrated that the succinate dehydrogenase complex has reduced activity in E. coli lacking the Cpx pathway. Our results suggest that the Cpx two-component system serves as a sentry of inner membrane protein biogenesis, ensuring the function of large envelope protein complexes and maintaining the cellular energy status of the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Tsviklist
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Randi L. Guest
- Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States
| | - Tracy L. Raivio
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Tracy L. Raivio,
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Singh P, Verma RK, Chatterjee S. The diffusible signal factor synthase, RpfF, in Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae is required for the maintenance of membrane integrity and virulence. MOLECULAR PLANT PATHOLOGY 2022; 23:118-132. [PMID: 34704368 PMCID: PMC8659556 DOI: 10.1111/mpp.13148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The Xanthomonas group of phytopathogens communicate with a fatty acid-like cell-cell signalling molecule, cis-11-2-methyl-dodecenoic acid, also known as diffusible signal factor (DSF). In the pathogen of rice, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, DSF is involved in the regulation of several virulence-associated functions, including production and secretion of several cell wall hydrolysing type II secretion effectors. To understand the role of DSF in the secretion of type II effectors, we characterized DSF synthase-deficient (rpfF) and DSF-deficient, type II secretion (xpsE) double mutants. Mutant analysis by expression analysis, secretion assay, fatty acid analysis, and physiological studies indicated that rpfF mutants exhibit hypersecretion of several type II effectors due to a perturbed membrane and DSF is required for maintaining membrane integrity. The rpfF mutants exhibited significantly higher uptake of 1-N-phenylnapthylamine and ethidium bromide, and up-regulation of rpoE (σE ). Increasing the osmolarity of the medium could rescue the hypersecretion phenotype of the rpfF mutant. The rpfF mutant exhibited highly reduced virulence. We report for the first time that in X. oryzae pv. oryzae RpfF is involved in the maintenance of membrane integrity by playing a regulatory role in the fatty acid synthesis pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashantee Singh
- Laboratory of Plant Microbe InteractionsCentre for DNA Fingerprinting and DiagnosticsUppalIndia
- Graduate StudiesManipal Academy of Higher EducationMangaluruIndia
| | - Raj Kumar Verma
- Laboratory of Plant Microbe InteractionsCentre for DNA Fingerprinting and DiagnosticsUppalIndia
| | - Subhadeep Chatterjee
- Laboratory of Plant Microbe InteractionsCentre for DNA Fingerprinting and DiagnosticsUppalIndia
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Garcia-Vello P, Speciale I, Di Lorenzo F, Molinaro A, De Castro C. Dissecting Lipopolysaccharide Composition and Structure by GC-MS and MALDI Spectrometry. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2548:181-209. [PMID: 36151499 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2581-1_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) are the main components of the external leaflet of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. They exert multiple functions, starting from conferring stability to the bacterial membrane to mediating the interaction of the microbe with the external environment. The composition and the structure of LPSs present tremendous diversity even within bacteria of the same species, and for this reason, the determination of the structure of these molecules is crucial because it can provide information on the motifs key for the virulence of a pathogen or that are associated to a bacterium of the commensal or beneficial microbiota. In addition, structural data disclose the effects triggered from a mutation or from the use of an antibiotic, or they can be used as tools to check the quality of adjuvants and/or medications, as vaccines, that make use of LPS.The structural study of LPSs is complex, and it can be achieved with the right combination of different techniques. In this frame, this chapter focuses on the two MS-based approaches, the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Immacolata Speciale
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples, Portici, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Molinaro
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina De Castro
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples, Portici, Italy.
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Sharma A, Yadav SP, Sarma D, Mukhopadhaya A. Modulation of host cellular responses by gram-negative bacterial porins. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2021; 128:35-77. [PMID: 35034723 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The outer membrane of a gram-negative bacteria encapsulates the plasma membrane thereby protecting it from the harsh external environment. This membrane acts as a sieving barrier due to the presence of special membrane-spanning proteins called "porins." These porins are β-barrel channel proteins that allow the passive transport of hydrophilic molecules and are impermeable to large and charged molecules. Many porins form trimers in the outer membrane. They are abundantly present on the bacterial surface and therefore play various significant roles in the host-bacteria interactions. These include the roles of porins in the adhesion and virulence mechanisms necessary for the pathogenesis, along with providing resistance to the bacteria against the antimicrobial substances. They also act as the receptors for phage and complement proteins and are involved in modulating the host cellular responses. In addition, the potential use of porins as adjuvants, vaccine candidates, therapeutic targets, and biomarkers is now being exploited. In this review, we focus briefly on the structure of the porins along with their important functions and roles in the host-bacteria interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpita Sharma
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Shashi Prakash Yadav
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Dwipjyoti Sarma
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Arunika Mukhopadhaya
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Mohali, Punjab, India.
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The challenges and prospects of Escherichia coli as an organic acid production host under acid stress. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2021; 105:8091-8107. [PMID: 34617140 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-021-11577-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Organic acids have a wide range of applications and have attracted the attention of many industries, and their large-scale applications have led fermentation production to low-cost development. Among them, the microbial fermentation method, especially using Escherichia coli as the production host, has the advantages of fast growth and low energy consumption, and has gradually shown better advantages and prospects in organic acid fermentation production. IMPORTANCE However, when the opportunity comes, the acidified environment caused by the acid products accumulated during the fermentation process also challenges E. coli. The acid sensitivity of E. coli is a core problem that needs to be solved urgently. The addition of neutralizers in traditional operations led to the emergence of osmotic stress inadvertently, the addition of strong acid substances to recover products in the salt state not only increases production costs, but the discharged sewage is also harmful to the environment. ELABORATION This article summarizes the current status of the application of E. coli in the production of organic acids, and based on the impact of acid stress on the physiological state of cells and the impact of industrial production profits, put forward some new conjectures that can make up for the deficiencies in existing research and application. IMPLICATION At this point, the diversified transformation of E. coli has become a chassis microbe that is more suitable for industrial fermentation, enhancing industrial application value. KEY POINTS • E. coli is a potential host for high value-added organic acids production. • Classify the damage mechanism and coping strategies of E. coli when stimulated by acid molecules. • Multi-dimensional expansion tools are needed to create acid-resistant E. coli chassis.
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Dahal D, Ojha KR, Pokhrel S, Paruchuri S, Konopka M, Liu Q, Pang Y. NIR-emitting styryl dyes with large Stokes' shifts for imaging application: From cellular plasma membrane, mitochondria to Zebrafish neuromast. DYES AND PIGMENTS : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL 2021; 194:109629. [PMID: 34366501 PMCID: PMC8345024 DOI: 10.1016/j.dyepig.2021.109629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Near-infrared (NIR) emitting probes with very large Stokes' shifts play a crucial role in bioimaging applications, as the optical signals in this region exhibit high signal to background ratio and allow deeper tissue penetration. Herein we illustrate NIR-emitting probe 2 with very large Stokes' shifts (Δλ ≈ 260 - 272 nm) by integrating the excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) unit 2-(2'-hydroxyphenyl)benzoxazole (HBO) into a pyridinium derived cyanine. The ESIPT not only enhances the Stokes' shifts but also improves the quantum efficiency of the probe 2 (фfl = 0.27 - 0.40 in DCM). The application of 2 in live cells imaging reveals that compound 2 stains mitochondria in eukaryotic cells, normal human lungs fibroblast (NHLF), Zebrafish's neuromast hair cells, and support cells, and inner plasma membrane in prokaryotic cells, Escherichia coli (E. coli).
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipendra Dahal
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
| | - Krishna R Ojha
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
| | - Sabita Pokhrel
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
| | - Sailaja Paruchuri
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
| | - Michael Konopka
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
| | - Qin Liu
- Department of Biology, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
| | - Yi Pang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
- Maurice Morton Institute of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
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Potent Activity of Hybrid Arthropod Antimicrobial Peptides Linked by Glycine Spacers. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168919. [PMID: 34445625 PMCID: PMC8396199 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Arthropod antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) offer a promising source of new leads to address the declining number of novel antibiotics and the increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. AMPs with potent activity against Gram-negative bacteria and distinct modes of action have been identified in insects and scorpions, allowing the discovery of AMP combinations with additive and/or synergistic effects. Here, we tested the synergistic activity of two AMPs, from the dung beetle Copris tripartitus (CopA3) and the scorpion Heterometrus petersii (Hp1090), against two strains of Escherichia coli. We also tested the antibacterial activity of two hybrid peptides generated by joining CopA3 and Hp1090 with linkers comprising two (InSco2) or six (InSco6) glycine residues. We found that CopA3 and Hp1090 acted synergistically against both bacterial strains, and the hybrid peptide InSco2 showed more potent bactericidal activity than the parental AMPs or InSco6. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the short linker stabilizes an N-terminal 310-helix in the hybrid peptide InSco2. This secondary structure forms from a coil region that interacts with phosphatidylethanolamine in the membrane bilayer model. The highest concentration of the hybrid peptides used in this study was associated with stronger hemolytic activity than equivalent concentrations of the parental AMPs. As observed for CopA3, the increasing concentration of InSco2 was also cytotoxic to BHK-21 cells. We conclude that AMP hybrids linked by glycine spacers display potent antibacterial activity and that the cytotoxic activity can be modulated by adjusting the nature of the linker peptide, thus offering a strategy to produce hybrid peptides as safe replacements or adjuncts for conventional antibiotic therapy.
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Deletion of Yersinia pestis ail causes temperature sensitive pleiotropic effects including cell lysis that are suppressed by carbon source, cations, or loss of phospholipase A activity. J Bacteriol 2021; 203:e0036121. [PMID: 34398663 PMCID: PMC8508112 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00361-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of phospholipid (PL) and lipopoly- or lipooligo-saccharide (LPS or LOS) asymmetry in the outer membrane (OM) of Gram-negative bacteria is essential but poorly understood. The Yersinia pestis OM Ail protein was required to maintain lipid homeostasis and cell integrity at elevated temperature (37° C). Loss of this protein had pleiotropic effects. A Y. pestis Δail mutant and KIM6+ wild- type were systematically compared for (i) growth requirements at 37° C, (ii) cell structure, (iii) antibiotic and detergent sensitivity, (iv) proteins released into supernates, (v) induction of the heat shock response, and (vi) physiological and genetic suppressors that restored the wild- type phenotype. The Δail mutant grew normally at 28° C but lysed at 37° C when it entered stationary phase as shown by cell count, SDS-PAGE of cell supernatants, and electron microscopy. Immuno-fluorescent microscopy showed that the Δail mutant did not assemble Caf1 capsule. Expression of heat shock promoters rpoE or rpoH fused to a lux operon reporter were not induced when the Δail mutant was shifted from the 28° C to 37° C (p<0.001 and p<0.01 respectively). Mutant lysis was suppressed by addition of 11 mM glucose, 22 or 44 mM glycerol, 2.5 mM Ca2+, or 2.5 mM Mg2+ to the growth medium, or by a mutation in the phospholipase A gene (pldA::miniTn5, ΔpldA, or PldAS164A). A model, accounting for the temperature-sensitive lysis of the Δail mutant and the Ail-dependent stabilization of the OM tetraacylated LOS at 37°C is presented. IMPORTANCE The Gram-negative pathogen, Yersinia pestis, transitions between a flea vector (ambient temperature) and a mammalian host (37° C). In response to 37° C, Y. pestis modifies its outer membrane (OM) by reducing the fatty acid content in lipid A, changing the outer leaflet from being predominantly hexaacylated to being predominantly tetraacylated. It also increases the Ail concentration, so it becomes the most prominent OM protein. Both measures are needed for Y. pestis to evade the host innate immune response. Deletion of ail destabilizes the OM at 37° C causing the cells to lyse. These results show that a protein is essential for maintaining lipid asymmetry and lipid homeostasis in the bacterial OM.
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Coones RT, Green RJ, Frazier RA. Investigating lipid headgroup composition within epithelial membranes: a systematic review. SOFT MATTER 2021; 17:6773-6786. [PMID: 34212942 DOI: 10.1039/d1sm00703c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Membrane lipid composition is often quoted within the literature, but with very little insight into how or why these compositions vary when compared to other biological membranes. One prominent area that lacks understanding in terms of rationale for lipid variability is the human gastro-intestinal tract (GIT). We have carried out a comprehensive systematic literature search to ascertain the key lipid components of epithelial membranes, with a particular focus on addressing the human GIT and to use compositional data to understand structural aspects of biological membranes. Both bacterial outer membranes and the human erythrocyte membrane were used as a comparison for the mammalian [epithelial] membranes and to understand variations in lipid presence. We show that phosphatidylcholine (PC) lipid types tend to dominate (33%) with phosphatidylethanolamines (PE) and cholesterol having very similar abundances (25 and 23% respectively). This systematic review presents a detailed insight into lipid headgroup composition and roles in various membrane types, with a summary of the distinction between the major lipid bilayer forming lipids and how peripheral lipids regulate charge and fluidity. The variety of lipids present in biological membranes is discussed and rationalised in terms function as well as cellular position.
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Affiliation(s)
- R T Coones
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemistry, Food, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, UK.
| | - R J Green
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemistry, Food, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, UK.
| | - R A Frazier
- Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy, University of Reading, UK.
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Functional compartmentalization and metabolic separation in a prokaryotic cell. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2022114118. [PMID: 34161262 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2022114118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The prokaryotic cell is traditionally seen as a "bag of enzymes," yet its organization is much more complex than in this simplified view. By now, various microcompartments encapsulating metabolic enzymes or pathways are known for Bacteria These microcompartments are usually small, encapsulating and concentrating only a few enzymes, thus protecting the cell from toxic intermediates or preventing unwanted side reactions. The hyperthermophilic, strictly anaerobic Crenarchaeon Ignicoccus hospitalis is an extraordinary organism possessing two membranes, an inner and an energized outer membrane. The outer membrane (termed here outer cytoplasmic membrane) harbors enzymes involved in proton gradient generation and ATP synthesis. These two membranes are separated by an intermembrane compartment, whose function is unknown. Major information processes like DNA replication, RNA synthesis, and protein biosynthesis are located inside the "cytoplasm" or central cytoplasmic compartment. Here, we show by immunogold labeling of ultrathin sections that enzymes involved in autotrophic CO2 assimilation are located in the intermembrane compartment that we name (now) a peripheric cytoplasmic compartment. This separation may protect DNA and RNA from reactive aldehydes arising in the I. hospitalis carbon metabolism. This compartmentalization of metabolic pathways and information processes is unprecedented in the prokaryotic world, representing a unique example of spatiofunctional compartmentalization in the second domain of life.
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40
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Wang Z, Qin Q, Zheng Y, Li F, Zhao Y, Chen GQ. Engineering the permeability of Halomonas bluephagenesis enhanced its chassis properties. Metab Eng 2021; 67:53-66. [PMID: 34098101 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymben.2021.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial outer membrane (OM), an asymmetric lipid bilayer functioning as a self-protective barrier with reduced permeability for Gram-negative bacteria, yet wasting nutrients and energy to synthesize, has not been studied for its effect on bioproduction. Here we construct several OM-defected halophile Halomonas bluephagenesis strains to investigate the effects of OM on bioproduction. We achieve enhanced chassis properties of H. bluephagenesis based on positive cellular properties among several OM-defected strains. The OM-defected H. bluephagenesis WZY09 demonstrates better adaptation to lower salinity, increasing 28%, 30% and 12% on dry cell mass (DCM), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) accumulation and glucose to PHB conversion rate, respectively, including enlarged cell sizes and 21-folds reduced endotoxin. Interestingly, a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-21mol%4-hydroxybutyrate) (P(3HB-co-21mol%4HB)) is produced by H. bluephagenesis WZY09 derivate WZY249, increasing 60% and 260% on polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production and 4HB content, respectively. Furthermore, increased electroporation efficiency, more sensitive isopropyl β-D-1-thio-galactopyranoside (IPTG) induction, better oxygen uptake, enhanced antibiotics sensitivity and ectoine secretion due to better membrane permeability are observed if OM defected, demonstrating significant OM defection impacts for further metabolic engineering, synthetic biology studies and industrial applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyu Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Qin Qin
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yifei Zheng
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Fajin Li
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yiqing Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Guo-Qiang Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; MOE Key Lab of Industrial Biocatalysis, Dept Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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41
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Diederichs KA, Buchanan SK, Botos I. Building Better Barrels - β-barrel Biogenesis and Insertion in Bacteria and Mitochondria. J Mol Biol 2021; 433:166894. [PMID: 33639212 PMCID: PMC8292188 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.166894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
β-barrel proteins are folded and inserted into outer membranes by multi-subunit protein complexes that are conserved across different types of outer membranes. In Gram-negative bacteria this complex is the barrel-assembly machinery (BAM), in mitochondria it is the sorting and assembly machinery (SAM) complex, and in chloroplasts it is the outer envelope protein Oep80. Mitochondrial β-barrel precursor proteins are translocated from the cytoplasm to the intermembrane space by the translocase of the outer membrane (TOM) complex, and stabilized by molecular chaperones before interaction with the assembly machinery. Outer membrane bacterial BamA interacts with four periplasmic accessory proteins, whereas mitochondrial Sam50 interacts with two cytoplasmic accessory proteins. Despite these major architectural differences between BAM and SAM complexes, their core proteins, BamA and Sam50, seem to function the same way. Based on the new SAM complex structures, we propose that the mitochondrial β-barrel folding mechanism follows the budding model with barrel-switching aiding in the release of new barrels. We also built a new molecular model for Tom22 interacting with Sam37 to identify regions that could mediate TOM-SAM supercomplex formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn A Diederichs
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Susan K Buchanan
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Istvan Botos
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Kastenhofer J, Rajamanickam V, Libiseller-Egger J, Spadiut O. Monitoring and control of E. coli cell integrity. J Biotechnol 2021; 329:1-12. [PMID: 33485861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2021.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Soluble expression of recombinant proteins in E. coli is often done by translocation of the product across the inner membrane (IM) into the periplasm, where it is retained by the outer membrane (OM). While the integrity of the IM is strongly coupled to viability and impurity release, a decrease in OM integrity (corresponding to increased "leakiness") leads to accumulation of product in the extracellular space, strongly impacting the downstream process. Whether leakiness is desired or not, differential monitoring and control of IM and OM integrity are necessary for an efficient E. coli bioprocess in compliance with the guidelines of Quality by Design and Process Analytical Technology. In this review, we give an overview of relevant monitoring tools, summarize the research on factors affecting E. coli membrane integrity and provide a brief discussion on how the available monitoring technology can be implemented in real-time control of E. coli cultivations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Kastenhofer
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Research Division Biochemical Engineering, Research Group Integrated Bioprocess Development, Gumpendorfer Strasse 1a, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vignesh Rajamanickam
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Research Division Biochemical Engineering, Research Group Integrated Bioprocess Development, Gumpendorfer Strasse 1a, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julian Libiseller-Egger
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Research Division Biochemical Engineering, Research Group Integrated Bioprocess Development, Gumpendorfer Strasse 1a, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Oliver Spadiut
- TU Wien, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Research Division Biochemical Engineering, Research Group Integrated Bioprocess Development, Gumpendorfer Strasse 1a, 1060, Vienna, Austria.
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43
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Separovic F, Keizer DW, Sani MA. In-cell Solid-State NMR Studies of Antimicrobial Peptides. FRONTIERS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY 2020; 2:610203. [PMID: 35047891 PMCID: PMC8757805 DOI: 10.3389/fmedt.2020.610203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have attracted attention as alternatives to classic antibiotics due to their expected limited pressure on bacterial resistance mechanisms. Yet, their modes of action, in particular in vivo, remain to be elucidated. In situ atomistic-scale details of complex biomolecular assemblies is a challenging requirement for deciphering the complex modes of action of AMPs. The large diversity of molecules that modulate complex interactions limits the resolution achievable using imaging methodology. Herein, the latest advances in in-cell solid-state NMR (ssNMR) are discussed, which demonstrate the power of this non-invasive technique to provide atomic details of molecular structure and dynamics. Practical requirements for investigations of intact bacteria are discussed. An overview of recent in situ NMR investigations of the architecture and metabolism of bacteria and the effect of AMPs on various bacterial structures is presented. In-cell ssNMR revealed that the studied AMPs have a disruptive action on the molecular packing of bacterial membranes and DNA. Despite the limited number of studies, in-cell ssNMR is emerging as a powerful technique to monitor in situ the interplay between bacteria and AMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Separovic
- School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David W. Keizer
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Marc-Antoine Sani
- School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Marc-Antoine Sani
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A small molecule that mitigates bacterial infection disrupts Gram-negative cell membranes and is inhibited by cholesterol and neutral lipids. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1009119. [PMID: 33290418 PMCID: PMC7748285 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria are difficult to fight because these pathogens exclude or expel many clinical antibiotics and host defense molecules. However, mammals have evolved a substantial immune arsenal that weakens pathogen defenses, suggesting the feasibility of developing therapies that work in concert with innate immunity to kill Gram-negative bacteria. Using chemical genetics, we recently identified a small molecule, JD1, that kills Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) residing within macrophages. JD1 is not antibacterial in standard microbiological media, but rapidly inhibits growth and curtails bacterial survival under broth conditions that compromise the outer membrane or reduce efflux pump activity. Using a combination of cellular indicators and super resolution microscopy, we found that JD1 damaged bacterial cytoplasmic membranes by increasing fluidity, disrupting barrier function, and causing the formation of membrane distortions. We quantified macrophage cell membrane integrity and mitochondrial membrane potential and found that disruption of eukaryotic cell membranes required approximately 30-fold more JD1 than was needed to kill bacteria in macrophages. Moreover, JD1 preferentially damaged liposomes with compositions similar to E. coli inner membranes versus mammalian cell membranes. Cholesterol, a component of mammalian cell membranes, was protective in the presence of neutral lipids. In mice, intraperitoneal administration of JD1 reduced tissue colonization by S. Typhimurium. These observations indicate that during infection, JD1 gains access to and disrupts the cytoplasmic membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, and that neutral lipids and cholesterol protect mammalian membranes from JD1-mediated damage. Thus, it may be possible to develop therapeutics that exploit host innate immunity to gain access to Gram-negative bacteria and then preferentially damage the bacterial cell membrane over host membranes.
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Hafeezunnisa M, Sen R. The Rho-Dependent Transcription Termination Is Involved in Broad-Spectrum Antibiotic Susceptibility in Escherichia coli. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:605305. [PMID: 33329496 PMCID: PMC7734253 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.605305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the major ways of acquiring multidrug resistance in bacteria is via drug influx and efflux pathways. Here, we show that E. coli with compromised Rho-dependent transcription termination function has enhanced broad-spectrum antibiotic susceptibility, which arises from the inefficient TolC-efflux process and increased permeability of the membrane. The Rho mutants have altered morphology, distinct cell surface, and increased levels of lipopolysaccharide in their outer membrane, which might have rendered the TolC efflux pumps inefficient. These alterations are due to the upregulations of poly-N-acetyl-glucosamine and lipopolysaccharide synthesis operons because of inefficient Rho functions. The Rho mutants are capable of growing on various dipeptides and carbohydrate sources, unlike their WT counterpart. Dipeptides uptake arises from the upregulations of the di-peptide permease operon in these mutants. The metabolomics of the Rho mutants revealed the presence of a high level of novel metabolites. Accumulation of these metabolites in these Rho mutants might titrate out the TolC-efflux pumps, which could further reduce their efficiency. We conclude that the transcription termination factor, Rho, regulates the broad-spectrum antibiotic susceptibility of E. coli through multipartite pathways in a TolC-dependent manner. The involvement of Rho-dependent termination in multiple pathways and its association with antibiotic susceptibility should make Rho-inhibitors useful in the anti-bacterial treatment regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Hafeezunnisa
- Laboratory of Transcription, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Hyderabad, India.,Graduate Studies, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Ranjan Sen
- Laboratory of Transcription, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Hyderabad, India
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Liu Y, Shi J, Tong Z, Jia Y, Yang B, Wang Z. The revitalization of antimicrobial peptides in the resistance era. Pharmacol Res 2020; 163:105276. [PMID: 33161137 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The antibiotic resistance crisis is becoming incredibly thorny due to the indiscriminate employment of antibiotics in agriculture and aquaculture, such as growth promoters, and the emergence of bacteria that are capable of enduring antibiotic treatment in an endless stream. Hence, to reverse this situation, vigorous efforts should be made in the process of identifying other alternative strategies with a lower frequency of resistance. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), originated from host defense peptides, are generally produced by a variety of organisms as defensive weapons to protect the host from other pathogenic bacteria. The unique ability of AMPs to control bacterial infections, as well as low propensity to acquire resistance, provides the basis for it to become one of the promising antibacterial substances. Herein, we present new insights into the biological functions, structural properties, distinct mechanisms of action of AMPs and their resistance determinants. Besides, we separately discuss natural and synthetic AMPs, including their source, screening pathway and antibacterial activity. Lastly, challenges and perspectives to identify novel potent AMPs are highlighted, which will expand our understanding of the chemical space of antimicrobials and provide a pipeline for discovering the next-generation of AMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, The Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Institute of Comparative Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China.
| | - Jingru Shi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Ziwen Tong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Yuqian Jia
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Bingqing Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Zhiqiang Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, The Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China.
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47
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Schäfer AB, Wenzel M. A How-To Guide for Mode of Action Analysis of Antimicrobial Peptides. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:540898. [PMID: 33194788 PMCID: PMC7604286 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.540898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising alternative to classical antibiotics in the fight against multi-resistant bacteria. They are produced by organisms from all domains of life and constitute a nearly universal defense mechanism against infectious agents. No drug can be approved without information about its mechanism of action. In order to use them in a clinical setting, it is pivotal to understand how AMPs work. While many pore-forming AMPs are well-characterized in model membrane systems, non-pore-forming peptides are often poorly understood. Moreover, there is evidence that pore formation may not happen or not play a role in vivo. It is therefore imperative to study how AMPs interact with their targets in vivo and consequently kill microorganisms. This has been difficult in the past, since established methods did not provide much mechanistic detail. Especially, methods to study membrane-active compounds have been scarce. Recent advances, in particular in microscopy technology and cell biological labeling techniques, now allow studying mechanisms of AMPs in unprecedented detail. This review gives an overview of available in vivo methods to investigate the antibacterial mechanisms of AMPs. In addition to classical mode of action classification assays, we discuss global profiling techniques, such as genomic and proteomic approaches, as well as bacterial cytological profiling and other cell biological assays. We cover approaches to determine the effects of AMPs on cell morphology, outer membrane, cell wall, and inner membrane properties, cellular macromolecules, and protein targets. We particularly expand on methods to examine cytoplasmic membrane parameters, such as composition, thickness, organization, fluidity, potential, and the functionality of membrane-associated processes. This review aims to provide a guide for researchers, who seek a broad overview of the available methodology to study the mechanisms of AMPs in living bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michaela Wenzel
- Division of Chemical Biology, Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
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48
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Lundstedt E, Kahne D, Ruiz N. Assembly and Maintenance of Lipids at the Bacterial Outer Membrane. Chem Rev 2020; 121:5098-5123. [PMID: 32955879 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c00587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria is essential for their survival in harsh environments and provides intrinsic resistance to many antibiotics. This membrane is remarkable; it is a highly asymmetric lipid bilayer. The inner leaflet of the outer membrane contains phospholipids, whereas the fatty acyl chains attached to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) comprise the hydrophobic portion of the outer leaflet. This lipid asymmetry, and in particular the exclusion of phospholipids from the outer leaflet, is key to creating an almost impenetrable barrier to hydrophobic molecules that can otherwise pass through phospholipid bilayers. It has long been known that these lipids are not made in the outer membrane. It is now believed that conserved multisubunit protein machines extract these lipids after their synthesis is completed at the inner membrane and transport them to the outer membrane. A longstanding question is how the cell builds and maintains this asymmetric lipid bilayer in coordination with the assembly of the other components of the cell envelope. This Review describes the trans-envelope lipid transport systems that have been identified to participate in outer-membrane biogenesis: LPS transport via the Lpt machine, and phospholipid transport via the Mla pathway and several recently proposed transporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Lundstedt
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Daniel Kahne
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States.,Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Natividad Ruiz
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
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Affinity of Skp to OmpC revealed by single-molecule detection. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14871. [PMID: 32913243 PMCID: PMC7483523 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71608-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Outer membrane proteins (OMPs) are essential to gram-negative bacteria, and molecular chaperones prevent the OMPs from aggregation in the periplasm during the OMPs biogenesis. Skp is one of the molecular chaperones for this purpose. Here, we combined single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy to study the affinity and stoichiometric ratio of Skp in its binding with OmpC at the single-molecule level. The half concentration of the Skp self-trimerization (C1/2) was measured to be (2.5 ± 0.7) × 102 nM. Under an Skp concentration far below the C1/2, OmpC could recruit Skp monomers to form OmpC·Skp3. The affinity to form the OmpC·Skp3 complex was determined to be (5.5 ± 0.4) × 102 pM with a Hill coefficient of 1.6 ± 0.2. Under the micromolar concentrations of Skp, the formation of OmpC·(Skp3)2 was confirmed, and the dissociation constant of OmpC·(Skp3)2 was determined to be 1.2 ± 0.4 μM. The precise information will help us to quantitatively depict the role of Skp in the biogenesis of OMPs.
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50
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Chi X, Fan Q, Zhang Y, Liang K, Wan L, Zhou Q, Li Y. Structural mechanism of phospholipids translocation by MlaFEDB complex. Cell Res 2020; 30:1127-1135. [PMID: 32884137 PMCID: PMC7784689 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-020-00404-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In Gram-negative bacteria, phospholipids are major components of the inner membrane and the inner leaflet of the outer membrane, playing an essential role in forming the unique dual-membrane barrier to exclude the entry of most antibiotics. Understanding the mechanisms of phospholipid translocation between the inner and outer membrane represents one of the major challenges surrounding bacterial phospholipid homeostasis. The conserved MlaFEDB complex in the inner membrane functions as an ABC transporter to drive the translocation of phospholipids between the inner membrane and the periplasmic protein MlaC. However, the mechanism of phospholipid translocation remains elusive. Here we determined three cryo-EM structures of MlaFEDB from Escherichia coli in its nucleotide-free and ATP-bound conformations, and performed extensive functional studies to verify and extend our findings from structural analyses. Our work reveals unique structural features of the entire MlaFEDB complex, six well-resolved phospholipids in three distinct cavities, and large-scale conformational changes upon ATP binding. Together, these findings define the cycle of structural rearrangement of MlaFEDB in action, and suggest that MlaFEDB uses an extrusion mechanism to extract and release phospholipids through the central translocation cavity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximin Chi
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China.,Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China
| | - Qiongxuan Fan
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China.,Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China.,Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China
| | - Ke Liang
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China.,Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China
| | - Li Wan
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China.,Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China
| | - Qiang Zhou
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China. .,Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China.
| | - Yanyan Li
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China. .,Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310024, China.
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