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Su R, Ma C, Han B, Zhang H, Liu K. Proteins for Hyperelastic Materials. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2025; 21:e2406388. [PMID: 39910850 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202406388] [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: 08/07/2024] [Revised: 01/23/2025] [Indexed: 02/07/2025]
Abstract
Meticulous engineering and the yielded hyperelastic performance of structural proteins represent a new frontier in developing next-generation functional biomaterials. These materials exhibit outstanding and programmable mechanical properties, including elasticity, resilience, toughness, and active biological characteristics, such as degradability and tissue repairability, compared with their chemically synthetic counterparts. However, there are several critical issues regarding the preparation approaches of hyperelastic protein-based materials: limited natural sequence modules, non-hierarchical assembly, and imbalance between compressive and tensile elasticity, leading to unmet demands. Therefore, it is pivotal to develop an alternative strategy for biofabricating hyperelastic materials. Herein, the molecular design, engineering, and property regulation of hyperelastic structural proteins are overviewed. First, methodologies for deeper exploration of mechanical modules, including machine learning-aided de novo design, random mutations of natural sequences, and multiblock fusion techniques, are actively introduced. These methodologies facilitate the generation of elastomeric protein modules and demonstrate enhanced structural and functional versatility. Subsequently, assembly tactics of hyperelastic proteins (i.e., physical modulation, genetic adaptations, and chemical modifications) are reviewed, yielding hierarchically ordered structures. Finally, advances in biophysical techniques for more nuanced characterization of protein ensembles are discussed, unveiling the tuning mechanisms of protein elasticity across scales. Future developments in structural hyperelastic protein-based biomaterials are also envisioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Su
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Rare Earth Materials, (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Chao Ma
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Rare Earth Materials, (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Xiangfu Laboratory, Building 5, No.828 Zhongxing Road, Xitang Town, Jiashan, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, 314102, China
| | - Bing Han
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, NHC Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, 22 Zhongguancun South Avenue, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Hongjie Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Rare Earth Materials, (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Xiangfu Laboratory, Building 5, No.828 Zhongxing Road, Xitang Town, Jiashan, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, 314102, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Rare Earth Materials, (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Xiangfu Laboratory, Building 5, No.828 Zhongxing Road, Xitang Town, Jiashan, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, 314102, China
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2
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Eom S, Park SG, Koo Y, Noh Y, Choi C, Kim Y, Jun H, Cha C, Joo J, Kang S. In situ forming and self-crosslinkable protein hydrogels for localized cancer therapy and topical wound healing. J Control Release 2025; 378:460-475. [PMID: 39701457 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.12.026] [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: 09/04/2024] [Revised: 12/11/2024] [Accepted: 12/12/2024] [Indexed: 12/21/2024]
Abstract
Proteins, inherently biocompatible and biodegradable, face a challenge in forming stable hydrogels without external chemical crosslinkers. Here, we construct a ring-shaped trimeric SpyTag-fused Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen Protein (ST-PCNA) as a core protein building block, and a dumbbell-shaped tandem dimeric SpyCatcher (SC-SC) as a bridging component. Self-crosslinked PCNA/SC-SC Protein (2SP) hydrogels are successfully formed by simply mixing the solutions of ST-PCNA and SC-SC, without chemical crosslinkers. During their formation by mixing, various cargo molecules, including anti-cancer drugs, photosensitizers, and functional proteins, are efficiently incorporated, producing cargo@2SP hydrogels. Most of the entrapped cargo molecules gradually release as the hydrogels erode. Anti-cancer drug- or photosensitizer-incorporated 2SP hydrogels are successfully formed through localized injection beneath the 4 T1 tumor in mice. The localized gradual release of drugs in physiological microenvironment substantially suppresses tumor growth, and highly localized photosensitizers retained in the 2SP hydrogels raises the local temperature above 45 °C upon laser irradiation, resulting in a significant suppression of tumor growth. Additionally, the topical administration of growth factor proteins-incorporated 2SP hydrogels to the incision wound area effectively regenerates the skin, with rapid reconstruction of extracellular matrix. The injectable and self-crosslinkable 2SP hydrogels developed here offer promise as novel biocompatible scaffolds for local therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soomin Eom
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Guk Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Yonghoe Koo
- Department of Biomedical engineering and Graduate School of Health Science and Technology, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeongjin Noh
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Cholong Choi
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunjung Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Heejin Jun
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Chaenyung Cha
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jinmyoung Joo
- Department of Biomedical engineering and Graduate School of Health Science and Technology, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea; Center for Genomic Integrity, Institute for Basic Science, Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea; Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States.
| | - Sebyung Kang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea.
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Zheng Y, Chen F, Frank S, Quispe Haro JJ, Wegner SV. Three-Color Protein Photolithography with Green, Red, and Far-Red Light. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2405687. [PMID: 39422040 PMCID: PMC11673460 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202405687] [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: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024]
Abstract
Protein photolithography is an invaluable tool for generating protein microchips and regulating interactions between cells and materials. However, the absence of light-responsive molecules that allow for the copatterning of multiple functional proteins with biocompatible visible light poses a significant challenge. Here, a new approach for photopatterning three distinct proteins on a single surface by using green, red, and far-red light is reported. The cofactor of the green light-sensitive protein CarH is engineered such that it also becomes sensitive to red and far-red light. These new cofactors are shown to be compatible with two CarH-based optogenetic tools to regulate bacterial cell-cell adhesions and gene expression in mammalian cells with red and far-red light. Further, by incorporating different CarH variants with varying light sensitivities in layer-by-layer (LbL) multiprotein films, specific layers within the films, along with other protein layers on top are precisely removed by using different colors of light, all with high spatiotemporal accuracy. Notably, with these three distinct colors of visible light, it is possible to incorporate diverse proteins under mild conditions in LbL films based on the reliable interaction between Ni2+- nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) groups and polyhistidine-tags (His-tags)on the proteins and their subsequent photopatterning. This approach has potential applications spanning biofabrication, material engineering, and biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjun Zheng
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and PathobiochemistryUniversity of Münster48149MünsterGermany
| | - Fei Chen
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and PathobiochemistryUniversity of Münster48149MünsterGermany
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical SciencesCentral South UniversityChangsha410083China
| | - Saskia Frank
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and PathobiochemistryUniversity of Münster48149MünsterGermany
| | - Juan José Quispe Haro
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and PathobiochemistryUniversity of Münster48149MünsterGermany
| | - Seraphine V. Wegner
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and PathobiochemistryUniversity of Münster48149MünsterGermany
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4
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Xu C, Chen Y, Zhao S, Li D, Tang X, Zhang H, Huang J, Guo Z, Liu W. Mechanical Regulation of Polymer Gels. Chem Rev 2024; 124:10435-10508. [PMID: 39284130 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
The mechanical properties of polymer gels devote to emerging devices and machines in fields such as biomedical engineering, flexible bioelectronics, biomimetic actuators, and energy harvesters. Coupling network architectures and interactions has been explored to regulate supportive mechanical characteristics of polymer gels; however, systematic reviews correlating mechanics to interaction forces at the molecular and structural levels remain absent in the field. This review highlights the molecular engineering and structural engineering of polymer gel mechanics and a comprehensive mechanistic understanding of mechanical regulation. Molecular engineering alters molecular architecture and manipulates functional groups/moieties at the molecular level, introducing various interactions and permanent or reversible dynamic bonds as the dissipative energy. Molecular engineering usually uses monomers, cross-linkers, chains, and other additives. Structural engineering utilizes casting methods, solvent phase regulation, mechanochemistry, macromolecule chemical reactions, and biomanufacturing technology to construct and tailor the topological network structures, or heterogeneous modulus compositions. We envision that the perfect combination of molecular and structural engineering may provide a fresh view to extend exciting new perspectives of this burgeoning field. This review also summarizes recent representative applications of polymer gels with excellent mechanical properties. Conclusions and perspectives are also provided from five aspects of concise summary, mechanical mechanism, biofabrication methods, upgraded applications, and synergistic methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenggong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Instrumentation Science and Dynamic Measurement, Ministry of Education, North University of China, Taiyuan 030051, China
| | - Siyang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Deke Li
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- School of materials engineering, Lanzhou Institute of Technology, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xing Tang
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Centre for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubeu University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Haili Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Centre for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubeu University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Jinxia Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhiguang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Centre for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubeu University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
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Fok HKF, Dai X, Yi Q, Che CM, Jiang L, Duan L, Huang J, Yang Z, Sun F. Red-Shifting B 12-Dependent Photoreceptor Protein via Optical Coupling for Inducible Living Materials. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024:e202411105. [PMID: 39239776 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202411105] [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: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Cobalamin (B12)-dependent photoreceptors are gaining traction in materials synthetic biology, especially for optically controlling cell-to-cell adhesion in living materials. However, these proteins are mostly responsive to green light, limiting their deep-tissue applications. Here, we present a general strategy for shifting photoresponse of B12-dependent photoreceptor CarHC from green to red/far-red light via optical coupling. Using thiol-maleimide click chemistry, we labeled cysteine-containing CarHC mutants with SulfoCyanine5 (Cy5), a red light-capturing fluorophore. The resulting photoreceptors not only retained the ability to tetramerize in the presence of adenosylcobalamin (AdoB12), but also gained sensitivity to red light; labeled tetramers disassembled on red light exposure. Using genetically encoded click chemistry, we assembled the red-shifted proteins into hydrogels that degraded rapidly in response to red light. Furthermore, Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells were genetically engineered to display CarHC variants, which, alongside in situ Cy5 labeling, led to living materials that could assemble and disassemble in response to AdoB12 and red light, respectively. These results illustrate the CarHC spectrally tuned by optical coupling as a versatile motif for dynamically controlling cell-to-cell interactions within engineered living materials. Given their prevalence and ecological diversity in nature, this spectral tuning method will expand the use of B12-dependent photoreceptors in optogenetics and living materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Kiu Francis Fok
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Xin Dai
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
- Laboratory for Synthetic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Health@InnoHK Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Qikun Yi
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Chi Ming Che
- Laboratory for Synthetic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Health@InnoHK Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Lingxiang Jiang
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology School of Emergent Soft Matter, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Liting Duan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Jinqing Huang
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Zhongguang Yang
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
- Greater Bay Biomedical InnoCenter, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518036, China
- Biomedical Research Institute, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, 518036, China
- Research Institute of Tsinghua Pearl River Delta, Guangzhou, 510530, China
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6
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Luo R, Xiang X, Jiao Q, Hua H, Chen Y. Photoresponsive Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:3612-3630. [PMID: 38816677 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Hydrophilic and biocompatible hydrogels are widely applied as ideal scaffolds in tissue engineering. The "smart" gelation material can alter its structural, physiochemical, and functional features in answer to various endo/exogenous stimuli to better biomimic the endogenous extracellular matrix for the engineering of cells and tissues. Light irradiation owns a high spatial-temporal resolution, complete biorthogonal reactivity, and fine-tunability and can thus induce physiochemical reactions within the matrix of photoresponsive hydrogels with good precision, efficiency, and safety. Both gel structure (e.g., geometry, porosity, and dimension) and performance (like conductivity and thermogenic or mechanical properties) can hence be programmed on-demand to yield the biochemical and biophysical signals regulating the morphology, growth, motility, and phenotype of engineered cells and tissues. Here we summarize the strategies and mechanisms for encoding light-reactivity into a hydrogel and demonstrate how fantastically such responsive gels change their structure and properties with light irradiation as desired and thus improve their applications in tissue engineering including cargo delivery, dynamic three-dimensional cell culture, and tissue repair and regeneration, aiming to provide a basis for more and better translation of photoresponsive hydrogels in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Luo
- Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Xianjing Xiang
- Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Qiangqiang Jiao
- Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Hui Hua
- Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Yuping Chen
- Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
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7
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Gregorio NE, DeForest CA. PhoCoil: An Injectable and Photodegradable Single-component Recombinant Protein Hydrogel for Localized Therapeutic Cell Delivery. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.07.592971. [PMID: 38766128 PMCID: PMC11100756 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.07.592971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogel biomaterials offer great promise for 3D cell culture and therapeutic delivery. Despite many successes, challenges persist in that gels formed from natural proteins are only marginally tunable while those derived from synthetic polymers lack intrinsic bioinstructivity. Towards the creation of biomaterials with both excellent biocompatibility and customizability, recombinant protein-based hydrogels have emerged as molecularly defined and user-programmable platforms that mimic the proteinaceous nature of the extracellular matrix. Here, we introduce PhoCoil, a dynamically tunable recombinant hydrogel formed from a single protein component with unique multi-stimuli responsiveness. Physical crosslinking through coiled-coil interactions promotes rapid shear-thinning and self-healing behavior, rendering the gel injectable, while an included photodegradable motif affords on-demand network dissolution via visible light. PhoCoil gel photodegradation can be spatiotemporally and lithographically controlled in a dose-dependent manner, through complex tissue, and without harm to encapsulated cells. We anticipate that PhoCoil will enable new applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cole A. DeForest
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, University of Washington
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington
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8
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Pérez-Castaño R, Aranda J, Widner FJ, Kieninger C, Deery E, Warren MJ, Orozco M, Elías-Arnanz M, Padmanabhan S, Kräutler B. The Rhodium Analogue of Coenzyme B 12 as an Anti-Photoregulatory Ligand Inhibiting Bacterial CarH Photoreceptors. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202401626. [PMID: 38416546 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202401626] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Coenzyme B12 (AdoCbl; 5'-deoxy-5'-adenosylcobalamin), the quintessential biological organometallic radical catalyst, has a formerly unanticipated, yet extensive, role in photoregulation in bacteria. The light-responsive cobalt-corrin AdoCbl performs this nonenzymatic role by facilitating the assembly of CarH photoreceptors into DNA-binding tetramers in the dark, suppressing gene expression. Conversely, exposure to light triggers the decomposition of this AdoCbl-bound complex by a still elusive photochemical mechanism, activating gene expression. Here, we have examined AdoRhbl, the non-natural rhodium analogue of AdoCbl, as a photostable isostructural surrogate for AdoCbl. We show that AdoRhbl closely emulates AdoCbl in its uptake by bacterial cells and structural functionality as a regulatory ligand for CarH tetramerization, DNA binding, and repressor activity. Remarkably, we find AdoRhbl is photostable even when bound "base-off/His-on" to CarH in vitro and in vivo. Thus, AdoRhbl, an antivitamin B12, also represents an unprecedented anti-photoregulatory ligand, opening a pathway to precisely target biomimetic inhibition of AdoCbl-based photoregulation, with new possibilities for selective antibacterial applications. Computational biomolecular analysis of AdoRhbl binding to CarH yields detailed structural insights into this complex, which suggest that the adenosyl group of photoexcited AdoCbl bound to CarH may specifically undergo a concerted non-radical syn-1,2-elimination mechanism, an aspect not previously considered for this photoreceptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Pérez-Castaño
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Área de Genética (Unidad Asociada al IQFR-CSIC), Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Juan Aranda
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, IRB Barcelona), Baldiri Reixac 10-12, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Florian J Widner
- Institute of Organic Chemistry & Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, A-6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christoph Kieninger
- Institute of Organic Chemistry & Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, A-6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Evelyne Deery
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK
| | - Martin J Warren
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK
- Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UQ, UK
| | - Modesto Orozco
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, IRB Barcelona), Baldiri Reixac 10-12, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona (Spain); the Joint BSC-IRB Research Program in Computational Biology, and Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 10-12, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Elías-Arnanz
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Área de Genética (Unidad Asociada al IQFR-CSIC), Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - S Padmanabhan
- Instituto de Química Física Blas Cabrera (IQF-CSIC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 119 c/Serrano, 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Bernhard Kräutler
- Institute of Organic Chemistry & Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, A-6020, Innsbruck, Austria
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9
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Zhang S, Jeffreys LN, Poddar H, Yu Y, Liu C, Patel K, Johannissen LO, Zhu L, Cliff MJ, Yan C, Schirò G, Weik M, Sakuma M, Levy CW, Leys D, Heyes DJ, Scrutton NS. Photocobilins integrate B 12 and bilin photochemistry for enzyme control. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2740. [PMID: 38548733 PMCID: PMC10979010 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46995-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptor proteins utilise chromophores to sense light and trigger a biological response. The discovery that adenosylcobalamin (or coenzyme B12) can act as a light-sensing chromophore heralded a new field of B12-photobiology. Although microbial genome analysis indicates that photoactive B12-binding domains form part of more complex protein architectures, regulating a range of molecular-cellular functions in response to light, experimental evidence is lacking. Here we identify and characterise a sub-family of multi-centre photoreceptors, termed photocobilins, that use B12 and biliverdin (BV) to sense light across the visible spectrum. Crystal structures reveal close juxtaposition of the B12 and BV chromophores, an arrangement that facilitates optical coupling. Light-triggered conversion of the B12 affects quaternary structure, in turn leading to light-activation of associated enzyme domains. The apparent widespread nature of photocobilins implies involvement in light regulation of a wider array of biochemical processes, and thus expands the scope for B12 photobiology. Their characterisation provides inspiration for the design of broad-spectrum optogenetic tools and next generation bio-photocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaowei Zhang
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK.
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, China.
| | - Laura N Jeffreys
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - Harshwardhan Poddar
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - Yuqi Yu
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - Chuanyang Liu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, China
| | - Kaylee Patel
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - Linus O Johannissen
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - Lingyun Zhu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, China
| | - Matthew J Cliff
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - Cunyu Yan
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - Giorgio Schirò
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Structurale, F-38044, Grenoble, France
| | - Martin Weik
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Structurale, F-38044, Grenoble, France
| | - Michiyo Sakuma
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - Colin W Levy
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - David Leys
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - Derren J Heyes
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK.
| | - Nigel S Scrutton
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK.
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10
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Fan R, Aranko AS. Catcher/Tag Toolbox: Biomolecular Click-Reactions For Protein Engineering Beyond Genetics. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300600. [PMID: 37851860 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300600] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Manipulating protein architectures beyond genetic control has attracted widespread attention. Catcher/Tag systems enable highly specific conjugation of proteins in vivo and in vitro via an isopeptide-bond. They provide efficient, robust, and irreversible strategies for protein conjugation and are simple yet powerful tools for a variety of applications in enzyme industry, vaccines, biomaterials, and cellular applications. Here we summarize recent development of the Catcher/Tag toolbox with a particular emphasis on the design of Catcher/Tag pairs targeted for specific applications. We cover the current limitations of the Catcher/Tag systems and discuss the pH sensitivity of the reactions. Finally, we conclude some of the future directions in the development of this versatile protein conjugation method and envision that improved control over inducing the ligation reaction will further broaden the range of applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxia Fan
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 02150, Espoo, Finland
| | - A Sesilja Aranko
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 02150, Espoo, Finland
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11
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Quispe Haro JJ, Wegner SV. An Adenosylcobalamin Specific Whole-Cell Biosensor. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300835. [PMID: 37070155 PMCID: PMC11468855 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300835] [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: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is essential for human health and its deficiency results in anemia and neurological damage. Vitamin B12 exists in different forms with various bioactivity but most sensors are unable to discriminate between them. Here, a whole-cell agglutination assay that is specific for adenosylcobalamin (AboB12), which is one of two bioactive forms, is reported. This biosensor consists of Escherichia coli that express the AdoB12 specific binding domain of CarH at their surface. In the presence of AdoB12, CarH forms tetramers, which leads to specific bacterial cell-cell adhesions and agglutination. These CarH tetramers disassemble upon green light illumination such that reversion of the bacterial aggregation can serve as internal quality control. The agglutination assay has a detection limit of 500 nм AdoB12, works in protein-poor biofluids such as urine, and has high specificity to AdoB12 over other forms of vitamin B12 as also demonstrated with commercially available supplements. This work is a proof of concept for a cheap and easy-to-readout AdoB12 sensor that can be implemented at the point-of-care to monitor high-dose vitamin B12 supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan José Quispe Haro
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and PathobiochemistryUniversity of MünsterWaldeyerstrasse 1548149MünsterGermany
| | - Seraphine V. Wegner
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and PathobiochemistryUniversity of MünsterWaldeyerstrasse 1548149MünsterGermany
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12
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Poddar H, Rios-Santacruz R, Heyes DJ, Shanmugam M, Brookfield A, Johannissen LO, Levy CW, Jeffreys LN, Zhang S, Sakuma M, Colletier JP, Hay S, Schirò G, Weik M, Scrutton NS, Leys D. Redox driven B 12-ligand switch drives CarH photoresponse. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5082. [PMID: 37604813 PMCID: PMC10442372 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40817-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
CarH is a coenzyme B12-dependent photoreceptor involved in regulating carotenoid biosynthesis. How light-triggered cleavage of the B12 Co-C bond culminates in CarH tetramer dissociation to initiate transcription remains unclear. Here, a series of crystal structures of the CarH B12-binding domain after illumination suggest formation of unforeseen intermediate states prior to tetramer dissociation. Unexpectedly, in the absence of oxygen, Co-C bond cleavage is followed by reorientation of the corrin ring and a switch from a lower to upper histidine-Co ligation, corresponding to a pentacoordinate state. Under aerobic conditions, rapid flash-cooling of crystals prior to deterioration upon illumination confirm a similar B12-ligand switch occurs. Removal of the upper His-ligating residue prevents monomer formation upon illumination. Combined with detailed solution spectroscopy and computational studies, these data demonstrate the CarH photoresponse integrates B12 photo- and redox-chemistry to drive large-scale conformational changes through stepwise Co-ligation changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshwardhan Poddar
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Ronald Rios-Santacruz
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Structurale, F-38044, Grenoble, France
| | - Derren J Heyes
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Muralidharan Shanmugam
- Photon Science Institute, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Adam Brookfield
- Photon Science Institute, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Linus O Johannissen
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Colin W Levy
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Laura N Jeffreys
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Shaowei Zhang
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Michiyo Sakuma
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Sam Hay
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Giorgio Schirò
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Structurale, F-38044, Grenoble, France
| | - Martin Weik
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Structurale, F-38044, Grenoble, France
| | - Nigel S Scrutton
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - David Leys
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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13
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Tang Y, Wang H, Liu S, Pu L, Hu X, Ding J, Xu G, Xu W, Xiang S, Yuan Z. A review of protein hydrogels: Protein assembly mechanisms, properties, and biological applications. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2022.112973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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14
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Jia M, Luo Z, Chen H, Ma B, Qiao L, Xiao Q, Zhang P, Wang A. Programmable Polyproteams of Tyrosine Ammonia Lyases as Cross-Linked Enzymes for Synthesizing p-Coumaric Acid. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12070997. [PMID: 35883553 PMCID: PMC9313006 DOI: 10.3390/biom12070997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ideal immobilization with enhanced biocatalyst activity and thermostability enables natural enzymes to serve as a powerful tool to yield synthetically useful chemicals in industry. Such an enzymatic method strategy becomes easier and more convenient with the use of genetic and protein engineering. Here, we developed a covalent programmable polyproteam of tyrosine ammonia lyases (TAL-CLEs) by fusing SpyTag and SpyCatcher peptides into the N-terminal and C-terminal of the TAL, respectively. The resulting circular enzymes were clear after the spontaneous isopeptide bonds formed between the SpyTag and SpyCatcher. Furthermore, the catalytic performance of the TAL-CLEs was measured via a synthesis sample of p-Coumaric acid. Our TAL-CLEs showed excellent catalytic efficiency, with 98.31 ± 1.14% yield of the target product—which is 4.15 ± 0.08 times higher than that of traditional glutaraldehyde-mediated enzyme aggregates. They also showed over four times as much enzyme-activity as wild-type TAL does and demonstrated good reusability, and so may become a good candidate for industrial enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Li Qiao
- Correspondence: (L.Q.); (A.W.)
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15
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Månsson LK, Pitenis AA, Wilson MZ. Extracellular Optogenetics at the Interface of Synthetic Biology and Materials Science. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:903982. [PMID: 35774061 PMCID: PMC9237228 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.903982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We review fundamental mechanisms and applications of OptoGels: hydrogels with light-programmable properties endowed by photoswitchable proteins (“optoproteins”) found in nature. Light, as the primary source of energy on earth, has driven evolution to develop highly-tuned functionalities, such as phototropism and circadian entrainment. These functions are mediated through a growing family of optoproteins that respond to the entire visible spectrum ranging from ultraviolet to infrared by changing their structure to transmit signals inside of cells. In a recent series of articles, engineers and biochemists have incorporated optoproteins into a variety of extracellular systems, endowing them with photocontrollability. While other routes exist for dynamically controlling material properties, light-sensitive proteins have several distinct advantages, including precise spatiotemporal control, reversibility, substrate selectivity, as well as biodegradability and biocompatibility. Available conjugation chemistries endow OptoGels with a combinatorially large design space determined by the set of optoproteins and polymer networks. These combinations result in a variety of tunable material properties. Despite their potential, relatively little of the OptoGel design space has been explored. Here, we aim to summarize innovations in this emerging field and highlight potential future applications of these next generation materials. OptoGels show great promise in applications ranging from mechanobiology, to 3D cell and organoid engineering, and programmable cell eluting materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa K. Månsson
- Materials Department, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
| | - Angela A. Pitenis
- Materials Department, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
- Center for BioEngineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Angela A. Pitenis, ; Maxwell Z. Wilson,
| | - Maxwell Z. Wilson
- Center for BioEngineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Angela A. Pitenis, ; Maxwell Z. Wilson,
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