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Petruk G, Petrlova J, Samsudin F, Bond PJ, Schmidtchen A. Thrombin-derived C-terminal peptides bind and form aggregates with sulfated glycosaminoglycans. Heliyon 2024; 10:e35703. [PMID: 39229523 PMCID: PMC11369470 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e35703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) such as heparin and heparan sulfate (HS) play crucial roles in inflammation and wound healing, serving as regulators of growth factors and pro-inflammatory mediators. In this study, we investigated the influence of heparin/HS on thrombin proteolysis and its interaction with the generated 11 kDa thrombin-derived C-terminal peptides (TCPs). Employing various biochemical and biophysical methods, we demonstrated that 11 kDa TCPs aggregate in the presence of GAGs, including heparin, heparan sulfate, and chondroitin sulfate-B. Circular dichroism analysis demonstrated that 11 kDa TCPs, in the presence of GAGs, adopt a β-sheet structure, a finding supported by thioflavin T1 (ThT) fluorescence measurements and visualization of 11 kDa TCP-heparin complexes using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Furthermore, our investigations revealed a stronger binding affinity between 11 kDa TCPs and GAGs with higher sulfate group contents. Congruently, in silico simulations showed that interactions between 11 kDa TCPs and heparin/HS are predominantly electrostatic in nature. Collectively, our study suggests that 11 kDa TCPs have the capacity to aggregate in the presence of GAGs, shedding light on their potential roles in inflammation and wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganna Petruk
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22241, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22241, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health and Society, Malmö University, SE-205 06, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Firdaus Samsudin
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 30 Biopolis Street, #07-01 Matrix, Singapore, 138671, Republic of Singapore
| | - Peter J. Bond
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 30 Biopolis Street, #07-01 Matrix, Singapore, 138671, Republic of Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117543, Republic of Singapore
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22241, Lund, Sweden
- Dermatology, Skane University Hospital, 22185, Lund, Sweden
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2
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Samgane G, Karaçam S, Tunçer Çağlayan S. Unveiling the synergistic potency of chlorhexidine and azithromycin in combined action. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:5975-5987. [PMID: 38376540 PMCID: PMC11329591 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03010-0] [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: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
The growing challenge of antibiotic resistance necessitates novel approaches for combating bacterial infections. This study explores the distinctive synergy between chlorhexidine, an antiseptic and disinfectant agent, and azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, in their impact on bacterial growth and virulence factors using Escherichia coli strain Crooks (ATCC 8739) as a model. Our findings reveal that the chlorhexidine and azithromycin combination demonstrates enhanced anti-bacterial effects compared to individual treatments. Intriguingly, the combination induced oxidative stress, decreased flagellin expression, impaired bacterial motility, and enhanced bacterial autoaggregation. Notably, the combined treatment also demonstrated a substantial reduction in bacterial adherence to colon epithelial cells and downregulated NF-κB in the epithelial cells. In conclusion, these results shed light on the potential of the chlorhexidine and azithromycin synergy as a compelling strategy to address the rising challenge of antibiotic resistance and may pave the way for innovative therapeutic interventions in tackling bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gizem Samgane
- Department of Biotechnology, Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University, Bilecik, 11100, Turkey
| | - Sevinç Karaçam
- Department of Biotechnology, Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University, Bilecik, 11100, Turkey
- Central Research and Application Laboratory, Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University, Bilecik, 11100, Turkey
| | - Sinem Tunçer Çağlayan
- Department of Medical Services and Techniques, Vocational School of Health Services, Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University, Pelitözü Mah. Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bulvarı No:27, Bilecik, 11100, Turkey.
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3
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Newman M, Lynch C, Connery H, Goldsmith W, Nurkiewicz T, Raylman R, Boyd J. Fentanyl overdose: Temporal effects and prognostic factors in SKH1 mice. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2024; 134:460-471. [PMID: 38284460 PMCID: PMC10939806 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Fentanyl exposure and overdose are growing concerns in public health and occupational safety. This study aimed to establish parameters of fentanyl lethality in SKH1 mice for future overdose research. Lethality was determined using the up-down procedure, with subjects monitored post-administration using pulse oximetry (5 min) and then whole-body plethysmography (40 min). Following the determination of subcutaneous dose-response, [18F]Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18 F-FDG PET) was performed after LD10 fentanyl at 40 min, 6 h, 24 h or 7 days post-dose. LD10 and LD50 were observed to be 110 and 135 mg/kg, respectively, and consistent with four-parameter logistic fit values of 111.2 and 134.6 mg/kg (r2 = 0.9996). Overdose (LD10 or greater) yielded three distinct cardiovascular groups: survival, non-survival with blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) minimum ≥37% and non-survival with SpO2 <37%. Breaths per minute, minute volume and inspiratory quotient were significantly different between surviving and non-surviving animals for up to 40 min post-injection. 18 F-FDG PET revealed decreased glucose uptake in the heart, lungs and brain for up to 24 h. These findings provide critical insights into fentanyl lethality in SKH1 mice, including non-invasive respiratory effects and organ-specific impacts that are invaluable for future translational studies investigating the temporal effects of fentanyl overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie Newman
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Orthopaedics, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Cayla Lynch
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Heather Connery
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - William Goldsmith
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Center for Inhalation Toxicology (iTOX), West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Timothy Nurkiewicz
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Center for Inhalation Toxicology (iTOX), West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Raymond Raylman
- Department of Radiology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jonathan Boyd
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Orthopaedics, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Center for Inhalation Toxicology (iTOX), West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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4
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Tiwari K, Patel P, Mondal AH, Mukhopadhyay K. Interaction with lipopolysaccharide is key to efficacy of tryptophan- and arginine-rich α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogs against Gram-negative bacteria. Future Microbiol 2024; 19:195-211. [PMID: 38126934 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0080] [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: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: In order to search for novel antibacterial therapeutics against Gram-negative bacteria, the antibacterial efficacies and mechanism of action of tryptophan- and arginine-rich α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogs were investigated. Materials & methods: We performed a killing assay to determine their efficacy; fluorescence, microscopic studies were used to understand their mechanism and peptide-lipopolysaccharide interaction. A checkerboard assay was used to find the effective combination of peptide and antibiotics. Results: Ana-peptides displayed good killing activity against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Their strong interaction with lipopolysaccharide damaged the bacterial membranes and led to their subsequent death. Ana-5, the highest cationic and hydrophobic analog, emerged as the most potent peptide, showing synergistic action with rifampicin and erythromycin. Conclusion: Ana-5 can be presented as an important therapeutic candidate against bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Tiwari
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Priya Patel
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Aftab H Mondal
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Kasturi Mukhopadhyay
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
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5
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Song B, Wang W, Jia C, Han Z, Yang J, Yang J, Wu Z, Xu H, Qiao M. Identification and Characterization of a Predominant Hydrophobin in the Edible Mushroom Grifola frondosa. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 10:25. [PMID: 38248935 PMCID: PMC10820438 DOI: 10.3390/jof10010025] [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: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Hydrophobins (HFBs) are a group of small, secreted amphipathic proteins of fungi with multiple physiological functions and potential commercial applications. In this study, HFB genes of the edible mushroom, Grifola frondosa, were systematically identified and characterized, and their transcriptional profiles during fungal development were determined. In total, 19 typical class I HFB genes were discovered and bioinformatically analyzed. Gene expression profile examination showed that Gf.hyd9954 was particularly highly upregulated during primordia formation, suggesting its major role as the predominant HFB in the lifecycle of G. frondosa. The wettability alteration profile and the surface modification ability of recombinant rGf.hyd9954 were greater than for the Grifola HFB HGFII-his. rGf.hyd9954 was also demonstrated to form the typical class I HFB characteristic-rodlet bundles. In addition, rGf.hyd9954 was shown to possess nanoparticle characteristics and emulsification activities. This research sheds light on the regulation of fungal development and its association with the expression of HFB genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Song
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300110, China; (B.S.)
| | - Wenjun Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300110, China; (B.S.)
| | - Chunhui Jia
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300110, China; (B.S.)
| | - Zhiqiang Han
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300110, China; (B.S.)
| | - Jiyuan Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300110, China; (B.S.)
| | - Jiuxia Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300110, China; (B.S.)
| | - Zhenzhou Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300110, China; (B.S.)
| | - Haijin Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300110, China; (B.S.)
| | - Mingqiang Qiao
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300110, China; (B.S.)
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030000, China
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6
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Petrlova J, Hartman E, Petruk G, Lim JCH, Adav SS, Kjellström S, Puthia M, Schmidtchen A. Selective protein aggregation confines and inhibits endotoxins in wounds: Linking host defense to amyloid formation. iScience 2023; 26:107951. [PMID: 37817942 PMCID: PMC10561040 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces rapid protein aggregation in human wound fluid. We aimed to characterize these LPS-induced aggregates and their functional implications using a combination of mass spectrometry analyses, biochemical assays, biological imaging, cell experiments, and animal models. The wound-fluid aggregates encompass diverse protein classes, including sequences from coagulation factors, annexins, histones, antimicrobial proteins/peptides, and apolipoproteins. We identified proteins and peptides with a high aggregation propensity and verified selected components through Western blot analysis. Thioflavin T and Amytracker staining revealed amyloid-like aggregates formed after exposure to LPS in vitro in human wound fluid and in vivo in porcine wound models. Using NF-κB-reporter mice and IVIS bioimaging, we demonstrate that such wound-fluid LPS aggregates induce a significant reduction in local inflammation compared with LPS in plasma. The results show that protein/peptide aggregation is a mechanism for confining LPS and reducing inflammation, further emphasizing the connection between host defense and amyloidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Erik Hartman
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Ganna Petruk
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Jeremy Chun Hwee Lim
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Sunil Shankar Adav
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sven Kjellström
- Department of Clinical Sciences, BioMS, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Manoj Puthia
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
- Dermatology, Skane University Hospital, 22185 Lund, Sweden
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7
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Marzhoseyni Z, Mousavi MJ, Saffari M, Ghotloo S. Immune escape strategies of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to establish chronic infection. Cytokine 2023; 163:156135. [PMID: 36724716 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156135] [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: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The infection caused by P. aeruginosa still is dangerous throughout the world. This is partly due to its immune escape mechanisms considerably increasing the bacterial survival in the host. By escape from recognition by TLRs, interference with complement system activation, phagocytosis inhibition, production of ROS, inhibition of NET production, interference with the generation of cytokines, inflammasome inhibition, reduced antigen presentation, interference with cellular and humoral immunity, and induction of apoptotic cell death and MDSc, P. aeruginosa breaks down the barriers of the immune system and causes lethal infections in the host. Recognition of other immune escape mechanisms of P. aeruginosa may provide a basis for the future treatment of the infection. This manuscript may provide new insights and information for the development of new strategies to combat P. aeruginosa infection. In the present manuscript, the escape mechanisms of P. aeruginosa against immune response would be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynab Marzhoseyni
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Mousavi
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Mahmood Saffari
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Somayeh Ghotloo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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8
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Root-Bernstein R. From Co-Infections to Autoimmune Disease via Hyperactivated Innate Immunity: COVID-19 Autoimmune Coagulopathies, Autoimmune Myocarditis and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24033001. [PMID: 36769320 PMCID: PMC9917907 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24033001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neutrophilia and the production of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are two of many measures of increased inflammation in severe COVID-19 that also accompany its autoimmune complications, including coagulopathies, myocarditis and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). This paper integrates currently disparate measures of innate hyperactivation in severe COVID-19 and its autoimmune complications, and relates these to SARS-CoV-2 activation of innate immunity. Aggregated data include activation of Toll-like receptors (TLRs), nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) receptors, NOD leucine-rich repeat and pyrin-domain-containing receptors (NLRPs), retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) and melanoma-differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA-5). SARS-CoV-2 mainly activates the virus-associated innate receptors TLR3, TLR7, TLR8, NLRP3, RIG-1 and MDA-5. Severe COVID-19, however, is characterized by additional activation of TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, NOD1 and NOD2, which are primarily responsive to bacterial antigens. The innate activation patterns in autoimmune coagulopathies, myocarditis and Kawasaki disease, or MIS-C, mimic those of severe COVID-19 rather than SARS-CoV-2 alone suggesting that autoimmunity follows combined SARS-CoV-2-bacterial infections. Viral and bacterial receptors are known to synergize to produce the increased inflammation required to support autoimmune disease pathology. Additional studies demonstrate that anti-bacterial antibodies are also required to account for known autoantigen targets in COVID-19 autoimmune complications.
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9
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Petrlova J, Samsudin F, Bond PJ, Schmidtchen A. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein aggregation is triggered by bacterial lipopolysaccharide. FEBS Lett 2022; 596:2566-2575. [PMID: 36050806 PMCID: PMC9538650 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein is crucial for virus invasion in COVID-19. Here, we showed that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can trigger S protein aggregation at high doses of LPS and S protein. We demonstrated the formation of S protein aggregates by microscopy analyses, aggregation and gel shift assays. LPS at high levels boosts the formation of S protein aggregates as detected by amytracker and thioflavin T dyes that specifically bind to aggregating proteins. We validated the role of LPS by blocking the formation of aggregates by the endotoxin-scavenging thrombin-derived peptide TCP-25. Aggregation-prone sequences in S protein are predicted to be nearby LPS binding sites, while molecular simulations showed stable formation of S protein-LPS higher-order oligomers. Collectively, our results provide evidence of LPS-induced S protein aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical SciencesLund UniversitySweden
| | - Firdaus Samsudin
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)Singapore CitySingapore
| | - Peter J. Bond
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)Singapore CitySingapore
- Department of Biological SciencesNational University of SingaporeSingapore
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical SciencesLund UniversitySweden
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Copenhagen Wound Healing Center, Bispebjerg HospitalUniversity of CopenhagenDenmark
- DermatologySkåne University HospitalLundSweden
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10
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Meng Q, Watanabe Y, Tatsukawa H, Hashimoto H, Hitomi K. Biochemical characterization of medaka (Oryzias latipes) fibrinogen gamma and its gene disruption resulting in anemia as a model fish. J Biochem 2022; 172:293-302. [PMID: 35997167 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvac065] [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: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
At the final stages of blood coagulation, fibrinogen is processed into insoluble fibrin by thrombin resulting in fibril-like structure formation. Via further cross-linking reactions between the fibrin gamma subunit by the catalytic action of blood transglutaminase (Factor XIII), this molecule gains further physical stability. Meanwhile, since fibrinogen is expressed in various cells and tissues, this molecule can exhibit other functions apart from its role in blood coagulation. To create a system studying on aberrant coagulation and investigate the physiological functions, using a model fish medaka (Oryzias latipes), we established gene-deficient mutants of fibrinogen gamma subunit protein in parallel with its biochemical analysis, such as tissue distribution pattern and substrate properties. By genetic deletion via genome-editing, two distinct mutants displayed retardation of blood coagulation. The mutants showed lower hematocrit with aberrant erythrocyte maturation indicating that fibrin deficiency caused severe anemia, and also appeared as a model for investigation of the fibrin function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Meng
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yuko Watanabe
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hideki Tatsukawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hisashi Hashimoto
- Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Kiyotaka Hitomi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
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11
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Kalló G, Kumar A, Tőzsér J, Csősz É. Chemical Barrier Proteins in Human Body Fluids. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071472. [PMID: 35884778 PMCID: PMC9312486 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemical barriers are composed of those sites of the human body where potential pathogens can contact the host cells. A chemical barrier is made up by different proteins that are part of the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory protein/peptide (AMP) family. Proteins of the AMP family exert antibacterial, antiviral, and/or antifungal activity and can modulate the immune system. Besides these proteins, a wide range of proteases and protease inhibitors can also be found in the chemical barriers maintaining a proteolytic balance in the host and/or the pathogens. In this review, we aimed to identify the chemical barrier components in nine human body fluids. The interaction networks of the chemical barrier proteins in each examined body fluid were generated as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergő Kalló
- Proteomics Core Facility, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (A.K.); (J.T.); (É.C.)
- Biomarker Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-52-416432
| | - Ajneesh Kumar
- Proteomics Core Facility, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (A.K.); (J.T.); (É.C.)
- Biomarker Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - József Tőzsér
- Proteomics Core Facility, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (A.K.); (J.T.); (É.C.)
- Biomarker Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Laboratory of Retroviral Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Éva Csősz
- Proteomics Core Facility, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (A.K.); (J.T.); (É.C.)
- Biomarker Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
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12
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Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Apolipoprotein E. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061430. [PMID: 35740451 PMCID: PMC9220183 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Apolipoprotein E (APOE) is a lipid-transport protein that functions as a key mediator of lipid transport and cholesterol metabolism. Recent studies have shown that peptides derived from human APOE display anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Here, we applied in vitro assays and fluorescent microscopy to investigate the anti-bacterial effects of full-length APOE. The interaction of APOE with endotoxins from Escherichia coli was explored using surface plasmon resonance, binding assays, transmission electron microscopy and all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. We also studied the immunomodulatory activity of APOE using in vitro cell assays and an in vivo mouse model in combination with advanced imaging techniques. We observed that APOE exhibits anti-bacterial activity against several Gram-negative bacterial strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. In addition, we showed that APOE exhibits a significant binding affinity for lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipid A as well as heparin. MD simulations identified the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) binding region in helix 4 of APOE as a primary binding site for these molecules via electrostatic interactions. Together, our data suggest that APOE may have an important role in controlling inflammation during Gram-negative bacterial infection.
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13
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Meyers S, Crescente M, Verhamme P, Martinod K. Staphylococcus aureus and Neutrophil Extracellular Traps: The Master Manipulator Meets Its Match in Immunothrombosis. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2022; 42:261-276. [PMID: 35109674 PMCID: PMC8860219 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.121.316930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Over the past 10 years, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have become widely accepted as an integral player in immunothrombosis, due to their complex interplay with both pathogens and components of the coagulation system. While the release of NETs is an attempt by neutrophils to trap pathogens and constrain infections, NETs can have bystander effects on the host by inducing uncontrolled thrombosis, inflammation, and tissue damage. From an evolutionary perspective, pathogens have adapted to bypass the host innate immune response. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), in particular, proficiently overcomes NET formation using several virulence factors. Here we review mechanisms of NET formation and how these are intertwined with platelet activation, the release of endothelial von Willebrand factor, and the activation of the coagulation system. We discuss the unique ability of S. aureus to modulate NET formation and alter released NETs, which helps S. aureus to escape from the host's defense mechanisms. We then discuss how platelets and the coagulation system could play a role in NET formation in S. aureus-induced infective endocarditis, and we explain how targeting these complex cellular interactions could reveal novel therapies to treat this disease and other immunothrombotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Severien Meyers
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Center for Molecular and Vascular Biology, KU Leuven, Belgium (S.M., M.C., P.V., K.M.)
| | - Marilena Crescente
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Center for Molecular and Vascular Biology, KU Leuven, Belgium (S.M., M.C., P.V., K.M.).,Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom (M.C.)
| | - Peter Verhamme
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Center for Molecular and Vascular Biology, KU Leuven, Belgium (S.M., M.C., P.V., K.M.)
| | - Kimberly Martinod
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Center for Molecular and Vascular Biology, KU Leuven, Belgium (S.M., M.C., P.V., K.M.)
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14
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Puthia M, Tanner L, Petruk G, Schmidtchen A. Experimental Model of Pulmonary Inflammation Induced by SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Endotoxin. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:141-148. [PMID: 35774232 PMCID: PMC9239546 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.1c00219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 is characterized by a dysregulated and excessive inflammatory response and, in severe cases, acute respiratory distress syndrome. We have recently demonstrated a previously unknown high-affinity interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein and bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), leading to the boosting of inflammation. Here we present a mouse inflammation model employing the coadministration of aerosolized S protein together with LPS to the lungs. Using NF-κB-RE-Luc reporter and C57BL/6 mice followed by combinations of bioimaging, cytokine, chemokine, fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and histochemistry analyses, we show that the model yields severe pulmonary inflammation and a cytokine profile similar to that observed in COVID-19. Therefore, the model offers utility for analyses of the pathophysiological features of COVID-19 and the development of new treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Puthia
- Division
of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden,
| | - Lloyd Tanner
- Division
of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Ganna Petruk
- Division
of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division
of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden,Bispebjerg
Hospital, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
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15
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Escobar‐Salom M, Torrens G, Jordana‐Lluch E, Oliver A, Juan C. Mammals' humoral immune proteins and peptides targeting the bacterial envelope: from natural protection to therapeutic applications against multidrug‐resistant
Gram
‐negatives. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2022; 97:1005-1037. [PMID: 35043558 PMCID: PMC9304279 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian innate immunity employs several humoral ‘weapons’ that target the bacterial envelope. The threats posed by the multidrug‐resistant ‘ESKAPE’ Gram‐negative pathogens (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.) are forcing researchers to explore new therapeutic options, including the use of these immune elements. Here we review bacterial envelope‐targeting (peptidoglycan and/or membrane‐targeting) proteins/peptides of the mammalian immune system that are most likely to have therapeutic applications. Firstly we discuss their general features and protective activity against ESKAPE Gram‐negatives in the host. We then gather, integrate, and discuss recent research on experimental therapeutics harnessing their bactericidal power, based on their exogenous administration and also on the discovery of bacterial and/or host targets that improve the performance of this endogenous immunity, as a novel therapeutic concept. We identify weak points and knowledge gaps in current research in this field and suggest areas for future work to obtain successful envelope‐targeting therapeutic options to tackle the challenge of antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Escobar‐Salom
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Gabriel Torrens
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Elena Jordana‐Lluch
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Antonio Oliver
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Carlos Juan
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
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16
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Thrombin-Derived C-Terminal Peptide Reduces Candida-Induced Inflammation and Infection In Vitro and In Vivo. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2021; 65:e0103221. [PMID: 34424043 PMCID: PMC8522777 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01032-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections due to the opportunistic fungus Candida have been on the rise in the last decades, especially in immunocompromised individuals and hospital settings. Unfortunately, the treatments available today are limited. Thrombin-derived C-terminal peptide (TCP-25) is an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) with antibacterial and immunomodulatory effects. In this work, we, for the first time, demonstrate the ability of TCP-25 ability to counteract Candidain vitro and in vivo. Using a combination of viable count assay (VCA), radial diffusion assay (RDA), and fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy analyses, TCP-25 was found to exert a direct fungicidal activity. An inhibitory activity of TCP-25 on NF-κB activation induced by both zymosan alone and heat-killed C. albicans was demonstrated in vitro using THP-1 cells, and in vivo using NF-κB reporter mice. Moreover, the immunomodulatory property of TCP-25 was further substantiated in vitro by analyzing cytokine responses in human blood stimulated with zymosan, and in vivo employing a zymosan-induced peritonitis model in C57BL/6 mice. The therapeutic potential of TCP-25 was demonstrated in mice infected with luminescent C. albicans. Finally, the binding between TCP-25 and zymosan was investigated using circular dichroism spectroscopy and intrinsic fluorescence analysis. Taken together, our results show that TCP-25 has a dual function by inhibiting Candida as well as the associated zymosan-induced inflammation. The latter function is accompanied by a change in secondary structure upon binding to zymosan. TCP-25, therefore, shows promise as a novel drug candidate against Candida infections.
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17
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Petruk G, Elvén M, Hartman E, Davoudi M, Schmidtchen A, Puthia M, Petrlova J. The role of full-length apoE in clearance of Gram-negative bacteria and their endotoxins. J Lipid Res 2021; 62:100086. [PMID: 34019903 PMCID: PMC8225977 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2021.100086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
ApoE is a well-known lipid-binding protein that plays a main role in the metabolism and transport of lipids. More recently, apoE-derived peptides have been shown to exert antimicrobial effects. Here, we investigated the antibacterial activity of apoE using in vitro assays, advanced imaging techniques, and in vivo mouse models. The formation of macromolecular complexes of apoE and endotoxins from Gram-negative bacteria was explored using gel shift assays, transmission electron microscopy, and CD spectroscopy followed by calculation of the α-helical content. The binding affinity of apoE to endotoxins was also confirmed by fluorescent spectroscopy detecting the quenching and shifting of tryptophan intrinsic fluorescence. We showed that apoE exhibits antibacterial activity particularly against Gram-negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. ApoE protein folding was affected by binding of bacterial endotoxin components such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipid A, yielding similar increases in the apoE α-helical content. Moreover, high-molecular-weight complexes of apoE were formed in the presence of LPS, but not to the same extent as with lipid A. Together, our results demonstrate the ability of apoE to kill Gram-negative bacteria, interact with their endotoxins, which leads to the structural changes in apoE and the formation of aggregate-like complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganna Petruk
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Institution of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Malin Elvén
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Institution of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Erik Hartman
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Institution of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mina Davoudi
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Institution of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Division of Cancer and Infection Medicine, Institution of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Institution of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Copenhagen Wound Healing Center, Bispebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Dermatology, Skane University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Manoj Puthia
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Institution of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Institution of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
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18
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Transcriptional Regulation of Thrombin-Induced Endothelial VEGF Induction and Proangiogenic Response. Cells 2021; 10:cells10040910. [PMID: 33920990 PMCID: PMC8071415 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Thrombin, the ligand of the protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1), is a well-known stimulator of proangiogenic responses in vascular endothelial cells (ECs), which are mediated through the induction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). However, the transcriptional events underlying this thrombin-induced VEGF induction and angiogenic response are less well understood at present. As reported here, we conducted detailed promotor activation and signal transduction pathway studies in human microvascular ECs, to decipher the transcription factors and the intracellular signaling events underlying the thrombin and PAR-1-induced endothelial VEGF induction. We found that c-FOS is a key transcription factor controlling thrombin-induced EC VEGF synthesis and angiogenesis. Upon the binding and internalization of its G-protein-coupled PAR-1 receptor, thrombin triggers ERK1/2 signaling and activation of the nuclear AP-1/c-FOS transcription factor complex, which then leads to VEGF transcription, extracellular secretion, and concomitant proangiogenic responses of ECs. In conclusion, exposure of human microvascular ECs to thrombin triggers signaling through the PAR-1–ERK1/2–AP-1/c-FOS axis to control VEGF gene transcription and VEGF-induced angiogenesis. These observations offer a greater understanding of endothelial responses to thromboinflammation, which may help to interpret the results of clinical trials tackling the conditions associated with endothelial injury and thrombosis.
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19
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Watanabe Y, Oguri R, Suzuki R, Meng Q, Ishikawa Y, Tatsukawa H, Hashimoto H, Hitomi K. Thrombin-deficient mutant of medaka, a model fish, displays serious retardation in blood coagulation. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2021; 85:824-833. [PMID: 33589932 DOI: 10.1093/bbb/zbaa098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
At the last stage of the blood coagulation cascade, thrombin plays a central role in the processing of fibrinogen for the polymerization and in the additional activation of Factor XIII for the stable cross-linking of fibrin. In addition, thrombin carries out possible multiple roles via processing or interaction with various functional proteins. Several studies conducted in order to elucidate additional physiological significance are ongoing. To clarify further significance of thrombin and to establish an associated disease model, we characterized the orthologue gene for medaka (Oryzias latipes), a research model fish. Tissue distribution of medaka prothrombin has been immunotechnically analyzed. Furthermore, thrombin-deficient medaka mutants were viably established by utilizing a genome-editing method. The established gene-deficient mutants exhibited retarded blood coagulation even in the heterozygous fish. Taking advantage of their ease of handling, this specific model is useful for further investigation in medical research areas on human coagulation diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Watanabe
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Rina Oguri
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Risa Suzuki
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Qi Meng
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yuta Ishikawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hideki Tatsukawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | - Kiyotaka Hitomi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
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20
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Petruk G, Puthia M, Petrlova J, Samsudin F, Strömdahl AC, Cerps S, Uller L, Kjellström S, Bond PJ, Schmidtchen AA. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein binds to bacterial lipopolysaccharide and boosts proinflammatory activity. J Mol Cell Biol 2021; 12:916-932. [PMID: 33295606 PMCID: PMC7799037 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjaa067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a link between high lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels in the blood and the metabolic syndrome, and metabolic syndrome predisposes patients to severe COVID-19. Here, we define an interaction between SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein and LPS, leading to aggravated inflammation in vitro and in vivo. Native gel electrophoresis demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 S protein binds to LPS. Microscale thermophoresis yielded a KD of ∼47 nM for the interaction. Computational modeling and all-atom molecular dynamics simulations further substantiated the experimental results, identifying a main LPS-binding site in SARS-CoV-2 S protein. S protein, when combined with low levels of LPS, boosted nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation in monocytic THP-1 cells and cytokine responses in human blood and peripheral blood mononuclear cells, respectively. The in vitro inflammatory response was further validated by employing NF-κB reporter mice and in vivo bioimaging. Dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and LPS-FITC analyses demonstrated that S protein modulated the aggregation state of LPS, providing a molecular explanation for the observed boosting effect. Taken together, our results provide an interesting molecular link between excessive inflammation during infection with SARS-CoV-2 and comorbidities involving increased levels of bacterial endotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganna Petruk
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Manoj Puthia
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Firdaus Samsudin
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Ann-Charlotte Strömdahl
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Samuel Cerps
- Unit of Respiratory Immunopharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Lena Uller
- Unit of Respiratory Immunopharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Sven Kjellström
- Division of Mass Spectrometry, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Peter J Bond
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138671, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - And Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden.,Copenhagen Wound Healing Center, Bispebjerg Hospital, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Dermatology, Skåne University Hospital, SE-22185 Lund, Sweden
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21
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Saravanan R, Choong YK, Lim CH, Lim LM, Petrlova J, Schmidtchen A. Cell-Free DNA Promotes Thrombin Autolysis and Generation of Thrombin-Derived C-Terminal Fragments. Front Immunol 2021; 12:593020. [PMID: 33717072 PMCID: PMC7943729 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.593020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is the major structural component of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), an innate immune response to infection. Antimicrobial proteins and peptides bound to cfDNA play a critical role in the bactericidal property of NETs. Recent studies have shown that NETs have procoagulant activity, wherein cfDNA triggers thrombin generation through activation of the intrinsic pathway of coagulation. We have recently shown that thrombin binds to NETs in vitro and consequently can alter the proteome of NETs. However, the effect of NETs on thrombin is still unknown. In this study, we report that DNA binding leads to thrombin autolysis and generation of multiple thrombin-derived C-terminal peptides (TCPs) in vitro. Employing a 25-residue prototypic TCP, GKY25 (GKYGFYTHVFRLKKWIQKVIDQFGE), we show that TCPs bind NETs, thus conferring mutual protection against nuclease and protease degradation. Together, our results demonstrate the complex interplay between coagulation, NET formation, and thrombin cleavage and identify a previously undisclosed mechanism for formation of TCPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rathi Saravanan
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yeu Khai Choong
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chun Hwee Lim
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Interdisciplinary Graduate School, NTU Institute for Health Technologies, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Li Ming Lim
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.,Wound Healing Centre, Bispebjerg Hospital, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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22
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Concentration- and pH-Dependent Oligomerization of the Thrombin-Derived C-Terminal Peptide TCP-25. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10111572. [PMID: 33228042 PMCID: PMC7699335 DOI: 10.3390/biom10111572] [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: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide oligomerization dynamics affects peptide structure, activity, and pharmacodynamic properties. The thrombin C-terminal peptide, TCP-25 (GKYGFYTHVFRLKKWIQKVIDQFGE), is currently in preclinical development for improved wound healing and infection prevention. It exhibits turbidity when formulated at pH 7.4, particularly at concentrations of 0.3 mM or more. We used biochemical and biophysical approaches to explore whether the peptide self-associates and forms oligomers. The peptide showed a dose-dependent increase in turbidity as well as α-helical structure at pH 7.4, a phenomenon not observed at pH 5.0. By analyzing the intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence, we demonstrate that TCP-25 is more stable at high concentrations (0.3 mM) when exposed to high temperatures or a high concentration of denaturant agents, which is compatible with oligomer formation. The denaturation process was reversible above 100 µM of peptide. Dynamic light scattering demonstrated that TCP-25 oligomerization is sensitive to changes in pH, time, and temperature. Computational modeling with an active 18-mer region of TCP-25 showed that the peptide can form pH-dependent higher-order end-to-end oligomers and micelle-like structures, which is in agreement with the experimental data. Thus, TCP-25 exhibits pH- and temperature-dependent dynamic changes involving helical induction and reversible oligomerization, which explains the observed turbidity of the pharmacologically developed formulation.
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