1
|
Gorbushin A, Ruparčič M, Anderluh G. Littoporins: Novel actinoporin-like proteins in caenogastropod genus Littorina. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2024:109698. [PMID: 38871141 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2024.109698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
In the course of searching for genes controlling the immune system in caenogastropod mollusks, we characterized and phylogenetically placed five new actinoporin-like cytolysins expressed in periwinkles of the genus Littorina. These newly discovered proteins, named littoporins (LitP), contain a central cytolysin/lectin domain and exhibit a predicted protein fold that is almost identical to the three-dimensional structures of actinoporins. Two of these proteins, LitP-1 and LitP-2, were found to be upregulated in L. littorea kidney tissues and immune cells in response to natural and experimental infection with the trematode Himasthla elongata, suggesting their potential role as perforins in the systemic anti-trematode immune response. The primary sequence divergence of littoporins is hypothesized to be attributed to the taxonomic range of cell membranes they can recognize and permeabilize.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Gorbushin
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry (IEPhB RAS), St Petersburg, Russia.
| | - Matija Ruparčič
- Department of Molecular Biology and Nanobiotechnology, National Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Anderluh
- Department of Molecular Biology and Nanobiotechnology, National Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gupta LK, Molla J, Prabhu AA. Story of Pore-Forming Proteins from Deadly Disease-Causing Agents to Modern Applications with Evolutionary Significance. Mol Biotechnol 2024; 66:1327-1356. [PMID: 37294530 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00776-1] [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: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Animal venoms are a complex mixture of highly specialized toxic molecules. Among them, pore-forming proteins (PFPs) or toxins (PFTs) are one of the major disease-causing toxic elements. The ability of the PFPs in defense and toxicity through pore formation on the host cell surface makes them unique among the toxin proteins. These features made them attractive for academic and research purposes for years in the areas of microbiology as well as structural biology. All the PFPs share a common mechanism of action for the attack of host cells and pore formation in which the selected pore-forming motifs of the host cell membrane-bound protein molecules drive to the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane and eventually produces water-filled pores. But surprisingly their sequence similarity is very poor. Their existence can be seen both in a soluble state and also in transmembrane complexes in the cell membrane. PFPs are prevalent toxic factors that are predominately produced by all kingdoms of life such as virulence bacteria, nematodes, fungi, protozoan parasites, frogs, plants, and also from higher organisms. Nowadays, multiple approaches to applications of PFPs have been conducted by researchers both in basic as well as applied biological research. Although PFPs are very devastating for human health nowadays researchers have been successful in making these toxic proteins into therapeutics through the preparation of immunotoxins. We have discussed the structural, and functional mechanism of action, evolutionary significance through dendrogram, domain organization, and practical applications for various approaches. This review aims to emphasize the PFTs to summarize toxic proteins together for basic knowledge as well as to highlight the current challenges, and literature gap along with the perspective of promising biotechnological applications for their future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laxmi Kumari Gupta
- Bioprocess Development Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Warangal, Warangal, Telangana, 506004, India
| | - Johiruddin Molla
- Ghatal Rabindra Satabarsiki Mahavidyalaya Ghatal, Paschim Medinipur, Ghatal, West Bengal, 721212, India
| | - Ashish A Prabhu
- Bioprocess Development Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Warangal, Warangal, Telangana, 506004, India.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ma S, Guo Y, Liu D, Zhang X, Guo J, Zhang T, Lai L, Li Y, Chen Q, Yu L. Genome-Wide Analysis of the Membrane Attack Complex and Perforin Genes and Their Expression Pattern under Stress in the Solanaceae. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13193. [PMID: 37686000 PMCID: PMC10487776 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713193] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The Membrane Attack Complex and Perforin (MACPF) proteins play a crucial role in plant development and adaptation to environmental stresses. Heretofore, few MACPF genes have been functionally identified, leaving gaps in our understanding of MACPF genes in other plants, particularly in the Solanaceae family, which includes economically and culturally significant species, such as tomato, potato, and pepper. In this study, we have identified 26 MACPF genes in three Solanaceae species and in the water lily, which serves as the base group for angiosperms. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that angiosperm MACPF genes could be categorized into three distinct groups, with another moss and spikemoss lineage-specific group, which is further supported by the examination of gene structures and domain or motif organizations. Through inter-genome collinearity analysis, it is determined that there are 12 orthologous SolMACPF gene pairs. The expansion of SolMACPF genes is primarily attributed to dispersed duplications, with purifying selection identified as the principal driving force in their evolutionary process, as indicated by the ω values. Furthermore, the analysis of expression patterns revealed that Solanaceae genes are preferentially expressed in reproductive tissues and regulated by various environmental stimuli, particularly induced by submergence. Taken together, these findings offer valuable insights into and a fresh perspective on the evolution and function of SolMACPF genes, thereby establishing a foundation for further investigations into their phenotypic and functional characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lujun Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Plant Resources, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China; (S.M.); (Y.G.); (D.L.); (X.Z.); (J.G.); (T.Z.); (L.L.); (Y.L.); (Q.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Marini G, Poland B, Leininger C, Lukoyanova N, Spielbauer D, Barry JK, Altier D, Lum A, Scolaro E, Ortega CP, Yalpani N, Sandahl G, Mabry T, Klever J, Nowatzki T, Zhao JZ, Sethi A, Kassa A, Crane V, Lu AL, Nelson ME, Eswar N, Topf M, Saibil HR. Structural journey of an insecticidal protein against western corn rootworm. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4171. [PMID: 37443175 PMCID: PMC10344926 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39891-7] [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: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The broad adoption of transgenic crops has revolutionized agriculture. However, resistance to insecticidal proteins by agricultural pests poses a continuous challenge to maintaining crop productivity and new proteins are urgently needed to replace those utilized for existing transgenic traits. We identified an insecticidal membrane attack complex/perforin (MACPF) protein, Mpf2Ba1, with strong activity against the devastating coleopteran pest western corn rootworm (WCR) and a novel site of action. Using an integrative structural biology approach, we determined monomeric, pre-pore and pore structures, revealing changes between structural states at high resolution. We discovered an assembly inhibition mechanism, a molecular switch that activates pre-pore oligomerization upon gut fluid incubation and solved the highest resolution MACPF pore structure to-date. Our findings demonstrate not only the utility of Mpf2Ba1 in the development of biotechnology solutions for protecting maize from WCR to promote food security, but also uncover previously unknown mechanistic principles of bacterial MACPF assembly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guendalina Marini
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of London, Malet St, London, WC1E 7HX, UK
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB), Leibniz-Institut für Virologie (LIV), Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Brad Poland
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA, 50131, USA
| | - Chris Leininger
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA, 50131, USA
- Syngenta, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Natalya Lukoyanova
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of London, Malet St, London, WC1E 7HX, UK
| | | | | | - Dan Altier
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA, 50131, USA
| | - Amy Lum
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA, 50131, USA
- Willow Biosciences, 319 N Bernardo Ave #4, Mountain View, CA, 94043, USA
| | | | - Claudia Pérez Ortega
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA, 50131, USA
- Hologic, Inc., 250 Campus Drive, Marlborough, MA, 01752, USA
| | - Nasser Yalpani
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA, 50131, USA
- Dept. of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan, 3187 University Way, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | | | - Tim Mabry
- Corteva Agriscience, Ivesdale, IL, 61851, USA
| | | | | | | | - Amit Sethi
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA, 50131, USA
| | - Adane Kassa
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA, 50131, USA
| | | | - Albert L Lu
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA, 50131, USA
| | | | | | - Maya Topf
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of London, Malet St, London, WC1E 7HX, UK.
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB), Leibniz-Institut für Virologie (LIV), Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Helen R Saibil
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of London, Malet St, London, WC1E 7HX, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Voisin TB, Couves EC, Tate EW, Bubeck D. Dynamics and Molecular Interactions of GPI-Anchored CD59. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:430. [PMID: 37505699 PMCID: PMC10467114 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15070430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
CD59 is a GPI-anchored cell surface receptor that serves as a gatekeeper to controlling pore formation. It is the only membrane-bound inhibitor of the complement membrane attack complex (MAC), an immune pore that can damage human cells. While CD59 blocks MAC pores, the receptor is co-opted by bacterial pore-forming proteins to target human cells. Recent structures of CD59 in complexes with binding partners showed dramatic differences in the orientation of its ectodomain relative to the membrane. Here, we show how GPI-anchored CD59 can satisfy this diversity in binding modes. We present a PyLipID analysis of coarse-grain molecular dynamics simulations of a CD59-inhibited MAC to reveal residues of complement proteins (C6:Y285, C6:R407 C6:K412, C7:F224, C8β:F202, C8β:K326) that likely interact with lipids. Using modules of the MDAnalysis package to investigate atomistic simulations of GPI-anchored CD59, we discover properties of CD59 that encode the flexibility necessary to bind both complement proteins and bacterial virulence factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomas B. Voisin
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Emma C. Couves
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Edward W. Tate
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Doryen Bubeck
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Rodríguez-Silvestre P, Laub M, Krawczyk PA, Davies AK, Schessner JP, Parveen R, Tuck BJ, McEwan WA, Borner GH, Kozik P. Perforin-2 is a pore-forming effector of endocytic escape in cross-presenting dendritic cells. Science 2023; 380:1258-1265. [PMID: 37347855 PMCID: PMC7614779 DOI: 10.1126/science.adg8802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
During initiation of antiviral and antitumor T cell-mediated immune responses, dendritic cells (DCs) cross-present exogenous antigens on major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. Cross-presentation relies on the unusual "leakiness" of endocytic compartments in DCs, whereby internalized proteins escape into the cytosol for proteasome-mediated generation of MHC I-binding peptides. Given that type 1 conventional DCs excel at cross-presentation, we searched for cell type-specific effectors of endocytic escape. We devised an assay suitable for genetic screening and identified a pore-forming protein, perforin-2 (Mpeg1), as a dedicated effector exclusive to cross-presenting cells. Perforin-2 was recruited to antigen-containing compartments, where it underwent maturation, releasing its pore-forming domain. Mpeg1-/- mice failed to efficiently prime CD8+ T cells to cell-associated antigens, revealing an important role for perforin-2 in cytosolic entry of antigens during cross-presentation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco Laub
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology; Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Alexandra K. Davies
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry; Martinsried, Germany
- Current: School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Julia P. Schessner
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry; Martinsried, Germany
| | | | - Benjamin J. Tuck
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology; Cambridge, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Cambridge, Department of Clinical Neurosciences; Cambridge, UK
| | - William A. McEwan
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Cambridge, Department of Clinical Neurosciences; Cambridge, UK
| | - Georg H.H. Borner
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry; Martinsried, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Couves EC, Gardner S, Voisin TB, Bickel JK, Stansfeld PJ, Tate EW, Bubeck D. Structural basis for membrane attack complex inhibition by CD59. Nat Commun 2023; 14:890. [PMID: 36797260 PMCID: PMC9935631 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36441-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
CD59 is an abundant immuno-regulatory receptor that protects human cells from damage during complement activation. Here we show how the receptor binds complement proteins C8 and C9 at the membrane to prevent insertion and polymerization of membrane attack complex (MAC) pores. We present cryo-electron microscopy structures of two inhibited MAC precursors known as C5b8 and C5b9. We discover that in both complexes, CD59 binds the pore-forming β-hairpins of C8 to form an intermolecular β-sheet that prevents membrane perforation. While bound to C8, CD59 deflects the cascading C9 β-hairpins, rerouting their trajectory into the membrane. Preventing insertion of C9 restricts structural transitions of subsequent monomers and indirectly halts MAC polymerization. We combine our structural data with cellular assays and molecular dynamics simulations to explain how the membrane environment impacts the dual roles of CD59 in controlling pore formation of MAC, and as a target of bacterial virulence factors which hijack CD59 to lyse human cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma C Couves
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Scott Gardner
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Tomas B Voisin
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Jasmine K Bickel
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London, W12 0BZ, United Kingdom
| | - Phillip J Stansfeld
- School of Life Sciences and Department of Chemistry, Gibbet Hill Campus, The University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Edward W Tate
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London, W12 0BZ, United Kingdom
| | - Doryen Bubeck
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Senior MJT, Monico C, Weatherill EE, Gilbert RJ, Heuck AP, Wallace MI. Single-molecule tracking of perfringolysin O assembly and membrane insertion uncoupling. FEBS J 2023; 290:428-441. [PMID: 35989549 PMCID: PMC10086847 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
We exploit single-molecule tracking and optical single channel recording in droplet interface bilayers to resolve the assembly pathway and pore formation of the archetypical cholesterol-dependent cytolysin nanopore, Perfringolysin O. We follow the stoichiometry and diffusion of Perfringolysin O complexes during assembly with 60 ms temporal resolution and 20 nm spatial precision. Our results suggest individual nascent complexes can insert into the lipid membrane where they continue active assembly. Overall, these data support a model of stepwise irreversible assembly dominated by monomer addition, but with infrequent assembly from larger partial complexes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J T Senior
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Carina Monico
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, UK.,Department of Chemistry, King's College London, UK
| | - Eve E Weatherill
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, UK.,Department of Chemistry, King's College London, UK
| | - Robert J Gilbert
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Alejandro P Heuck
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Stanovova MV, Gazizova GR, Gorbushin AM. Transcriptomic profiling of immune-associated molecules in the coelomocytes of lugworm Arenicola marina (Linnaeus, 1758). JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART B, MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2023; 340:34-55. [PMID: 35438249 DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.23135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Organization and functioning of immune system remain unevenly studied in different taxa of lophotrochozoan animals. We analyzed transcriptomic data on coelomocytes of the lugworm Arenicola marina (Linnaeus, 1758; Annelida, Polychaeta) to gain insights into the molecular mechanisms involved in polychaete immunity. Coelomocytes are specialized motile cells populating coelomic fluid of annelids, responsible for cellular defense reactions and providing humoral immune factors. The transcriptome was enriched with immune-related transcripts by challenging the cells in vitro with lipopolysaccharides of Escherichia coli and Zymosan from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Our analysis revealed a multifaceted and complex internal defense system of the lugworm. A. marina possesses orthologs of proto-complement-like factors: six thioester-containing proteins, a complement-like receptor, and a MASP-related serine protease (MReM2). A. marina coelomocytes employ pattern-recognition receptors to detect pathogens and regulate immune responses. Among them, there are 18 Toll-like receptors and various putative lectin-like proteins with evolutionary conserved and taxa-specific domains. C-type lectins and a novel family of Gal-binding and CUB domains containing receptors were the most abundant in the transcriptome. The array of pore-forming proteins in the coelomocytes was surprisingly reduced compared to that of other invertebrate species. We characterized a set of conserved proteins metabolizing reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide and expanded the arsenal of potential antimicrobial peptides. Phenoloxidase activity in immune cells of lugworm is mediated only by laccase enzyme. The described repertoire of immune-associated molecules provides valuable candidates for further functional and comparative research on the immunity of annelids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Stanovova
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Guzel R Gazizova
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Alexander M Gorbushin
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry (IEPhB RAS), St. Petersburg, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cai Y, Lv W, Jiang Y, Li Q, Su P, Pang Y. Molecular evolution of the BRINP and ASTN genes and expression profles in response to pathogens and spinal cord injury repair in lamprey (Lethenteron reissneri). FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 131:274-282. [PMID: 36228880 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.09.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenic protein/retinoic acid inducible neural-specific proteins (BRINPs) and astrotactins (ASTNs) are two members of membrane attack complex/perforin-like (MACPF) superfamily proteins that present high expression in the growing and mature vertebrate neurons. Lamprey has a unique evolutionary status as a representative of the oldest jawless vertebrates, making it an ideal animal model for understanding vertebrate evolution. The evolutionary origins of BRINPs and ASTNs genes in vertebrates, however, have not been shown in lampreys. Here, BRINP and ASTN genes were found in lamprey genomes and the evolutionary relationships of them were investigated by phylogenetic analysis. Protein domains, motifs, genetic structure, and crystal structure analysis revealed that the features of BRINP and ASTN appear to be conserved in vertebrates. Genomic synteny analysis indicated that lamprey BRINP and ASTN neighbor genes differed dramatically from jawed vertebrate. Real-time quantitative results illustrated that the BRINP and ASTN genes family might take part in immune defence and spinal cord injury repair. This study not only enriches a better understanding of the evolution of the BRINP and ASTN genes but also offers a foundation for exploring their roles in the development of the vertebrate central nervous system (CNS).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Cai
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, 116034, China
| | - Wanrong Lv
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, 116034, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, 116034, China
| | - Qingwei Li
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, 116034, China.
| | - Peng Su
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, 116034, China.
| | - Yue Pang
- College of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116081, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, 116034, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Spicer JA, Huttunen KM, Jose J, Dimitrov I, Akhlaghi H, Sutton VR, Voskoboinik I, Trapani J. Small Molecule Inhibitors of Lymphocyte Perforin as Focused Immunosuppressants for Infection and Autoimmunity. J Med Chem 2022; 65:14305-14325. [PMID: 36263926 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
New drugs that precisely target the immune mechanisms critical for cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) and natural killer (NK) cell driven pathologies are desperately needed. In this perspective, we explore the cytolytic protein perforin as a target for therapeutic intervention. Perforin plays an indispensable role in CTL/NK killing and controls a range of immune pathologies, while being encoded by a single copy gene with no redundancy of function. An immunosuppressant targeting this protein would provide the first-ever therapy focused specifically on one of the principal cell death pathways contributing to allotransplant rejection and underpinning multiple autoimmune and postinfectious diseases. No drugs that selectively block perforin-dependent cell death are currently in clinical use, so this perspective will review published novel small molecule inhibitors, concluding with in vivo proof-of-concept experiments performed in mouse models of perforin-mediated immune pathologies that provide a potential pathway toward a clinically useful therapeutic agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Spicer
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, A New Zealand Centre for Research Excellence, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Kristiina M Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jiney Jose
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, A New Zealand Centre for Research Excellence, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Ivo Dimitrov
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, A New Zealand Centre for Research Excellence, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Hedieh Akhlaghi
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Vivien R Sutton
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Ilia Voskoboinik
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Joseph Trapani
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Towards Understanding the Function of Aegerolysins. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14090629. [PMID: 36136567 PMCID: PMC9505663 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14090629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aegerolysins are remarkable proteins. They are distributed over the tree of life, being relatively widespread in bacteria and fungi, but also present in some insects, plants, protozoa, and viruses. Despite their abundance in cells of certain developmental stages and their presence in secretomes, only a few aegerolysins have been studied in detail. Their function, in particular, is intriguing. Here, we summarize previously published findings on the distribution, molecular interactions, and function of these versatile aegerolysins. They have very diverse protein sequences but a common fold. The machine learning approach of the AlphaFold2 algorithm, which incorporates physical and biological knowledge of protein structures and multisequence alignments, provides us new insights into the aegerolysins and their pore-forming partners, complemented by additional genomic support. We hypothesize that aegerolysins are involved in the mechanisms of competitive exclusion in the niche.
Collapse
|
13
|
Jiao F, Dehez F, Ni T, Yu X, Dittman JS, Gilbert R, Chipot C, Scheuring S. Perforin-2 clockwise hand-over-hand pre-pore to pore transition mechanism. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5039. [PMID: 36028507 PMCID: PMC9418332 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32757-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Perforin-2 (PFN2, MPEG1) is a pore-forming protein that acts as a first line of defense in the mammalian immune system, rapidly killing engulfed microbes within the phagolysosome in macrophages. PFN2 self-assembles into hexadecameric pre-pore rings that transition upon acidification into pores damaging target cell membranes. Here, using high-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM) imaging and line-scanning and molecular dynamics simulation, we elucidate PFN2 pre-pore to pore transition pathways and dynamics. Upon acidification, the pre-pore rings (pre-pore-I) display frequent, 1.8 s-1, ring-opening dynamics that eventually, 0.2 s-1, initiate transition into an intermediate, short-lived, ~75 ms, pre-pore-II state, inducing a clockwise pre-pore-I to pre-pore-II propagation. Concomitantly, the first pre-pore-II subunit, undergoes a major conformational change to the pore state that propagates also clockwise at a rate ~15 s-1. Thus, the pre-pore to pore transition is a clockwise hand-over-hand mechanism that is accomplished within ~1.3 s. Our findings suggest a clockwise mechanism of membrane insertion that with variations may be general for the MACPF/CDC superfamily.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fang Jiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York City, NY, USA.
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York City, NY, USA.
- Laboratory of Soft Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - François Dehez
- Laboratoire International Associé, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique et University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Unité Mixte de Recherche no 7019, Université de Lorraine, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy cedex, France
| | - Tao Ni
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, UK
| | - Xiulian Yu
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, UK
- Calleva Research Centre for Evolution and Human Sciences, Magdalen College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jeremy S Dittman
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert Gilbert
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, UK
- Calleva Research Centre for Evolution and Human Sciences, Magdalen College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christophe Chipot
- Laboratoire International Associé, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique et University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Unité Mixte de Recherche no 7019, Université de Lorraine, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy cedex, France
- Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Simon Scheuring
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York City, NY, USA.
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York City, NY, USA.
- Kavli Institute at Cornell for Nanoscale Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wang W, Jiang Q, Niu Y, Ding Q, Yang X, Zheng Y, Hao J, Wei D. Proteomics and bioinformatics analysis of follicular fluid from patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:956406. [PMID: 36072434 PMCID: PMC9441494 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.956406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder with heterogeneous manifestations and complex etiology. We used quantitative proteomics analysis based on mass spectrometry to identify the differences in proteomics profiles for follicular fluid obtained from patients with or without PCOS and explore possible mechanisms underlying PCOS. Methods: Follicular fluid samples were collected from infertile patients with (n = 9) or without (n = 9) PCOS. Total protein was extracted, quantitatively labeled with a tandem mass tag (TMT), and analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC‐MS). TMT-based proteomics and bioinformatics analysis were used to determine the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and understand the protein networks. The analysis included protein annotation, unsupervised hierarchical clustering, functional classification, functional enrichment and clustering, and protein-protein interaction analysis. Selected DEPs were confirmed by ELISA, and correlation analysis was performed between these DEPs and the clinical characteristics. Results: In this study, we have identified 1,216 proteins, including 70 DEPs (32 upregulated proteins, 38 downregulated proteins). Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the inflammatory response, complement and coagulation cascades, activation of the immune response, lipid transport, and regulation of protein metabolic processes were co-enriched in patients with PCOS. Based on ELISA results, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) and apolipoprotein C2 (APOC2) were differentially expressed between patients with and without PCOS. Follicular IGFBP1 showed a positive correlation with the serum levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (r = 0.3046, p = 0.0419), but negatively correlated with the serum levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) (r = –0.2924, p = 0.0354) and triglycerides (r = –0.3177, p = 0.0246). Follicular APOC2 was negatively correlated with the serum apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1) levels (r = 0.4509, p = 0.0002). Conclusion: Our study identified DEPs in the follicular fluid of patients with PCOS. Inflammatory response, complement and coagulation cascades, activation of the immune response, lipid transport, and regulation of protein metabolic process were deregulated in PCOS, which may play essential roles in the pathogenesis of PCOS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenqi Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Qi Jiang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yue Niu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Qiaoqiao Ding
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yanjun Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jing Hao
- Key Laboratory of The Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Hao, ; Daimin Wei,
| | - Daimin Wei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Hao, ; Daimin Wei,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Overexpression of the Arabidopsis MACPF Protein AtMACP2 Promotes Pathogen Resistance by Activating SA Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158784. [PMID: 35955922 PMCID: PMC9369274 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune response in plants is tightly regulated by the coordination of the cell surface and intracellular receptors. In animals, the membrane attack complex/perforin-like (MACPF) protein superfamily creates oligomeric pore structures on the cell surface during pathogen infection. However, the function and molecular mechanism of MACPF proteins in plant pathogen responses remain largely unclear. In this study, we identified an Arabidopsis MACP2 and investigated the responsiveness of this protein during both bacterial and fungal pathogens. We suggest that MACP2 induces programmed cell death, bacterial pathogen resistance, and necrotrophic fungal pathogen sensitivity by activating the biosynthesis of tryptophan-derived indole glucosinolates and the salicylic acid signaling pathway dependent on the activity of enhanced disease susceptibility 1 (EDS1). Moreover, the response of MACP2 mRNA isoforms upon pathogen attack is differentially regulated by a posttranscriptional mechanism: alternative splicing. In comparison to previously reported MACPFs in Arabidopsis, MACP2 shares a redundant but nonoverlapping role in plant immunity. Thus, our findings provide novel insights and genetic tools for the MACPF family in maintaining SA accumulation in response to pathogens in Arabidopsis.
Collapse
|
16
|
Four Cholesterol-Recognition Motifs in the Pore-Forming and Translocation Domains of Adenylate Cyclase Toxin Are Essential for Invasion of Eukaryotic Cells and Lysis of Erythrocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158703. [PMID: 35955837 PMCID: PMC9369406 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158703] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenylate Cyclase Toxin (ACT or CyaA) is one of the important virulence factors secreted by Bordetella pertussis, the bacterium causative of whooping cough. ACT debilitates host defenses by production of unregulated levels of cAMP into the cell cytosol upon delivery of its N-terminal domain with adenylate cyclase activity (AC domain) and by forming pores in the plasma membrane of macrophages. Binding of soluble toxin monomers to the plasma membrane of target cells and conversion into membrane-integrated proteins are the first and last step for these toxin activities; however, the molecular determinants in the protein or the target membrane that govern this conversion to an active toxin form are fully unknown. It was previously reported that cytotoxic and cytolytic activities of ACT depend on membrane cholesterol. Here we show that ACT specifically interacts with membrane cholesterol, and find in two membrane-interacting ACT domains, four cholesterol-binding motifs that are essential for AC domain translocation and lytic activities. We hypothesize that direct ACT interaction with membrane cholesterol through those four cholesterol-binding motifs drives insertion and stabilizes the transmembrane topology of several helical elements that ultimately build the ACT structure for AC delivery and pore-formation, thereby explaining the cholesterol-dependence of the ACT activities. The requirement for lipid-mediated stabilization of transmembrane helices appears to be a unifying mechanism to modulate toxicity in pore-forming toxins.
Collapse
|
17
|
Schäfer N, Grässel S. Involvement of complement peptides C3a and C5a in osteoarthritis pathology. Peptides 2022; 154:170815. [PMID: 35598724 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2022.170815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) affects more than 500 million people worldwide and is among the five diseases in Germany causing the highest suffering of the patients and cost for the society. The quality of life of OA patients is severely compromised, and adequate therapy is lacking owing to a knowledge gap that acts as a major barrier to finding safe and effective solutions. Chronic, low-grade inflammation plays a central role in OA pathogenesis and is associated with both OA pain and disease progression. Innate immune pathways, such as the complement- and pattern-recognition receptor pathways, are pivotal to the inflammation in OA and key components of the innate immune system implicated in OA include DAMP-TLR signaling, the complement system, carboxypeptidase B (CPB), and mononuclear cells. Anaphylatoxins C3a and C5a are small polypeptides (77 and 74 amino acids, respectively) which are released by proteolytic cleavage of the complement components C3 and C5. The alternative complement pathway seems to play a crucial role in OA pathogenesis as these complement components, mostly C3 and its activation peptide C3a, were detected at high levels in osteoarthritic cartilage, synovial membrane, and cultured chondrocytes. Targeting the complement system by using anti-complement drugs as a therapeutic option bears the risk of major side effects such as increasing the risk of infection, interfering with cell regeneration and metabolism, and suppressing the clearance of immune complexes. Despite those adverse effects, several synthetic complement peptide antagonists show promising effects in ameliorating inflammatory cell responses also in joint tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Schäfer
- Experimental Orthopaedics, Centre for Medical Biotechnology (ZMB), Bio Park 1, University of Regensburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Grässel
- Experimental Orthopaedics, Centre for Medical Biotechnology (ZMB), Bio Park 1, University of Regensburg, Germany; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Regensburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Yu C, Li L, Liang D, Wu A, Dong Q, Jia S, Li Y, Li Y, Guo X, Zang H. Glycosaminoglycan-based injectable hydrogels with multi-functions in the alleviation of osteoarthritis. Carbohydr Polym 2022; 290:119492. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2022.119492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
19
|
Couves EC, Bubeck D. Capturing pore-forming intermediates of MACPF and binary toxin assemblies by cryoEM. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2022; 75:102401. [PMID: 35700576 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2022.102401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Deployed by both pathogenic bacteria and host immune systems, pore-forming proteins rupture target membranes and can serve as conduits for effector proteins. Understanding how these proteins work relies on capturing assembly intermediates. Advances in cryoEM allowing in silico purification of heterogeneous assemblies has led to new insights into two main classes of pore-forming proteins: membrane attack complex perforin (MACPF) proteins and binary toxins. The structure of an immune activation complex, sMAC, shows how pores form by sequential templating and insertion of β-hairpins. CryoEM structures of bacterial binary toxins present a series of transitions along the pore formation pathway and reveal a general mechanism of effector protein translocation. Future developments in time-resolved cryoEM could capture and place short-lived states along the trajectory of pore-formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma C Couves
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Sir Ernst Chain Building, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom. https://twitter.com/@EmmaCouves
| | - Doryen Bubeck
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Sir Ernst Chain Building, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Jiang K, Nie H, Yin Z, Yan X, Li Q. Apextrin from Ruditapes philippinarum functions as pattern recognition receptor and modulates NF-κB pathway. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 214:33-44. [PMID: 35697169 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.06.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Apextrin belongs to ApeC-containing proteins (ACPs) and features a signal-peptide, an N-terminal membrane attack complex component/perforin (MACPF) domain, and a C-terminal ApeC domain. Recently, apextrin-like proteins were identified as pattern recognition receptor (PRR), which recognize the bacterial cell wall component and participate in innate immunity. Here, an apextrin (Rpape) was identified and characterized in Ruditapes philippinarum. Our results showed that Rpape mRNA was significantly induced under bacterial challenges. The Rpape recombinant protein exhibited a significant inhibitory effect on gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus) and bound with Vibrio anguillarum, S. aureus and B. subtilis. We found Rpape protein positively activated the NF-κB signaling cascade and increased the activity of Nitric oxide (NO). This study revealed the immunity role of apextrin in R. philippinarum and provided a reference for further study on the role of apextrin in bivalves.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kunyin Jiang
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 116023 Dalian, China; Engineering Research Center of Shellfish Culture and Breeding in Liaoning Province, Dalian Ocean University, 116023 Dalian, China; Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Hongtao Nie
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 116023 Dalian, China; Engineering Research Center of Shellfish Culture and Breeding in Liaoning Province, Dalian Ocean University, 116023 Dalian, China.
| | - Zhihui Yin
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 116023 Dalian, China; Engineering Research Center of Shellfish Culture and Breeding in Liaoning Province, Dalian Ocean University, 116023 Dalian, China
| | - Xiwu Yan
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 116023 Dalian, China; Engineering Research Center of Shellfish Culture and Breeding in Liaoning Province, Dalian Ocean University, 116023 Dalian, China
| | - Qi Li
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266237, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Mining folded proteomes in the era of accurate structure prediction. PLoS Comput Biol 2022; 18:e1009930. [PMID: 35333855 PMCID: PMC8986115 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein structure fundamentally underpins the function and processes of numerous biological systems. Fold recognition algorithms offer a sensitive and robust tool to detect structural, and thereby functional, similarities between distantly related homologs. In the era of accurate structure prediction owing to advances in machine learning techniques and a wealth of experimentally determined structures, previously curated sequence databases have become a rich source of biological information. Here, we use bioinformatic fold recognition algorithms to scan the entire AlphaFold structure database to identify novel protein family members, infer function and group predicted protein structures. As an example of the utility of this approach, we identify novel, previously unknown members of various pore-forming protein families, including MACPFs, GSDMs and aerolysin-like proteins. Virtually every cellular process in all organisms on Earth is driven by molecular nano-machines known as proteins. The diverse functions of proteins are the result of the unique three-dimensional shape adopted by a given protein molecule. It is therefore important to determine the shape of a given protein, which unlike DNA and our genes, cannot be known from its sequence alone. Since two proteins with similar shapes typically have a similar function, knowing a protein shape provides crucial clues about its function. By virtue of decades of experimental work and advances in artificial intelligence, this complex shape can now be computationally predicted for any protein whose composition is known. Scientists have used these and other methods to produce enormous libraries of protein shapes consisting of nearly a million unique entries. However, these libraries are too large and too complex for researchers to ‘read’. We use shape-comparison algorithms to carefully check these shape-libraries to gain insight into the potential function and biological role of previously unknown proteins. Furthermore, we identified new members of protein families using this technique. We show that shape-matching algorithms and computationally generated shape-libraries can be used effectively together to yield new insights and expedite scientific endeavours.
Collapse
|
22
|
Kraševec N, Panevska A, Lemež Š, Razinger J, Sepčić K, Anderluh G, Podobnik M. Lipid-Binding Aegerolysin from Biocontrol Fungus Beauveria bassiana. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:820. [PMID: 34822604 PMCID: PMC8624791 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13110820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungi are the most common pathogens of insects and thus important regulators of their populations. Lipid-binding aegerolysin proteins, which are commonly found in the fungal kingdom, may be involved in several biologically relevant processes including attack and defense against other organisms. Aegerolysins act alone or together with membrane-attack-complex/perforin (MACPF)-like proteins to form transmembrane pores that lead to cell lysis. We performed an in-depth bioinformatics analysis of aegerolysins in entomopathogenic fungi and selected a candidate aegerolysin, beauveriolysin A (BlyA) from Beauveria bassiana. BlyA was expressed as a recombinant protein in Escherichia coli, and purified to further determine its functional and structural properties, including lipid-binding ability. Aegerolysins were found to be encoded in genomes of entomopathogenic fungi, such as Beauveria, Cordyceps, Metarhizium and Ophiocordyceps. Detailed bioinformatics analysis revealed that they are linked to MACPF-like genes in most genomes. We also show that BlyA interacts with an insect-specific membrane lipid. These results were placed in the context of other fungal and bacterial aegerolysins and their partner proteins. We believe that aegerolysins play a role in promoting the entomopathogenic and antagonistic activity of B. bassiana, which is an active ingredient of bioinsecticides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nada Kraševec
- Department of Molecular Biology and Nanobiotechnology, National Institute of Chemistry, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (Š.L.); (G.A.); (M.P.)
| | - Anastasija Panevska
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Špela Lemež
- Department of Molecular Biology and Nanobiotechnology, National Institute of Chemistry, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (Š.L.); (G.A.); (M.P.)
- Biotechnology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jaka Razinger
- Plant Protection Department, Agricultural Institute of Slovenia, Hacquetova 17, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Kristina Sepčić
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Gregor Anderluh
- Department of Molecular Biology and Nanobiotechnology, National Institute of Chemistry, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (Š.L.); (G.A.); (M.P.)
| | - Marjetka Podobnik
- Department of Molecular Biology and Nanobiotechnology, National Institute of Chemistry, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (Š.L.); (G.A.); (M.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Sannigrahi A, Chattopadhyay K. Pore formation by pore forming membrane proteins towards infections. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2021; 128:79-111. [PMID: 35034727 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Over the last 25 years, the biology of membrane proteins, including the PFPs-membranes interactions is seeking attention for the development of successful drug molecules against a number of infectious diseases. Pore forming toxins (PFTs), the largest family of PFPs are considered as a group of virulence factors produced in a large number of pathogenic systems which include streptococcus, pneumonia, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, group A and B streptococci, Corynebacterium diphtheria and many more. PFTs are generally utilized by the disease causing pathogens to disrupt the host first line of defense i.e. host cell membranes through pore formation strategy. Although, pore formation is the principal mode of action of the PFTs but they can have additional adverse effects on the hosts including immune evasion. Recently, structural investigation of different PFTs have imparted the molecular mechanistic insights into how PFTs get transformed from its inactive state to active toxic state. On the basis of their structural entity, PFTs have been classified in different types and their mode of actions alters in terms of pore formation and corresponding cellular toxicity. Although pathogen genome analysis can identify the probable PFTs depending upon their structural diversity, there are so many PFTs which utilize the local environmental conditions to generate their pore forming ability using a novel strategy which is known as "conformational switch" of a protein. This conformational switch is considered as characteristics of the phase shifting proteins which were often utilized by many pathogenic systems to protect them from the invaders through allosteric communication between distant regions of the protein. In this chapter, we discuss the structure function relationships of PFTs and how activity of PFTs varies with the change in the environmental conditions has been explored. Finally, we demonstrate these structural insights to develop therapeutic potential to treat the infections caused by multidrug resistant pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Achinta Sannigrahi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
| | - Krishnananda Chattopadhyay
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Yu C, Zang H, Yang C, Liang D, Quan S, Li D, Li Y, Dong Q, Wang F, Li L. Study of chondroitin sulfate E oligosaccharide as a promising complement C5 inhibitor for osteoarthritis alleviation. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2021; 127:112234. [PMID: 34225875 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2021.112234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease which is highly prevalent worldwide. However, no therapy for blocking OA pathogenesis is available currently. In this study, chondroitin sulfate (CS) E oligosaccharides were prepared and we identified disaccharide as the functional unit showing the strongest anti-complement activity and screened out complement C5 as its target in the complement system. We determined that CS-E disaccharide produced anti-inflammatory effects to treat OA by regulating the complement system: it inhibited the formation of complement-dependent complexes such as the membrane-attack complex (MAC) by targeting C5 and suppressed MAC-induced protein expression and the activation of downstream MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways accordingly. By identifying CS-E disaccharide which could be regarded as a complement regulator or inhibitor exhibiting high anti-complement activity and revealing its OA-alleviating mechanism, this study not only provides a new strategy for OA treatment and drug development, but also potentially offers a promising C5 target therapy for other associated diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Yu
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Institute of Biochemical and Biotechnological Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Hengchang Zang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Institute of Biochemical and Biotechnological Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Glycobiology, National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Cui Yang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Institute of Biochemical and Biotechnological Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Dong Liang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Institute of Biochemical and Biotechnological Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Shuang Quan
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Institute of Biochemical and Biotechnological Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Danyang Li
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Institute of Biochemical and Biotechnological Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Yanni Li
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Qin Dong
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Institute of Biochemical and Biotechnological Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Fengshan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Institute of Biochemical and Biotechnological Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Glycobiology, National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Lian Li
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Institute of Biochemical and Biotechnological Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Hernández-Castañeda MA, Lavergne M, Casanova P, Nydegger B, Merten C, Subramanian BY, Matthey P, Lannes N, Mantel PY, Walch M. A Profound Membrane Reorganization Defines Susceptibility of Plasmodium falciparum Infected Red Blood Cells to Lysis by Granulysin and Perforin. Front Immunol 2021; 12:643746. [PMID: 34093532 PMCID: PMC8170093 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.643746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria remains one of the most serious health problems in developing countries. The causative agent of malaria, Plasmodium spp., have a complex life cycle involving multiple developmental stages as well as different morphological, biochemical and metabolic requirements. We recently found that γδ T cells control parasite growth using pore-forming proteins to deliver their cytotoxic proteases, the granzymes, into blood residing parasites. Here, we follow up on the molecular mechanisms of parasite growth inhibition by human pore-forming proteins. We confirm that Plasmodium falciparum infection efficiently depletes the red blood cells of cholesterol, which renders the parasite surrounding membranes susceptible to lysis by prokaryotic membrane disrupting proteins, such as lymphocytic granulysin or the human cathelicidin LL-37. Interestingly, not the cholesterol depletion but rather the simultaneous exposure of phosphatidylserine, a negatively charged phospholipid, triggers resistance of late stage parasitized red blood cells towards the eukaryotic pore forming protein perforin. Overall, by revealing the molecular events we establish here a pathogen-host interaction that involves host cell membrane remodeling that defines the susceptibility towards cytolytic molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Andrea Hernández-Castañeda
- Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Marilyne Lavergne
- Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Pierina Casanova
- Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Bryan Nydegger
- Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Carla Merten
- Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Bibin Yesodha Subramanian
- Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Matthey
- Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Nils Lannes
- Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Pierre-Yves Mantel
- Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Michael Walch
- Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Roumia AF, Tsirigos KD, Theodoropoulou MC, Tamposis IA, Hamodrakas SJ, Bagos PG. OMPdb: A Global Hub of Beta-Barrel Outer Membrane Proteins. FRONTIERS IN BIOINFORMATICS 2021; 1:646581. [PMID: 36303794 PMCID: PMC9581022 DOI: 10.3389/fbinf.2021.646581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OMPdb (www.ompdb.org) was introduced as a database for β-barrel outer membrane proteins from Gram-negative bacteria in 2011 and then included 69,354 entries classified into 85 families. The database has been updated continuously using a collection of characteristic profile Hidden Markov Models able to discriminate between the different families of prokaryotic transmembrane β-barrels. The number of families has increased ultimately to a total of 129 families in the current, second major version of OMPdb. New additions have been made in parallel with efforts to update existing families and add novel families. Here, we present the upgrade of OMPdb, which from now on aims to become a global repository for all transmembrane β-barrel proteins, both eukaryotic and bacterial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed F. Roumia
- Department of Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, University of Thessaly, Lamia, Greece
| | | | | | - Ioannis A. Tamposis
- Department of Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, University of Thessaly, Lamia, Greece
| | - Stavros J. Hamodrakas
- Section of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, School of Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Pantelis G. Bagos
- Department of Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, University of Thessaly, Lamia, Greece
- *Correspondence: Pantelis G. Bagos
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Branching out the aerolysin, ETX/MTX-2 and Toxin_10 family of pore forming proteins. J Invertebr Pathol 2021; 186:107570. [PMID: 33775676 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2021.107570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Organisms have evolved mechanisms in which cellular membranes can both be targeted and punctured thereby killing the targeted cell. One such mechanism involves the deployment of pore forming proteins (PFPs) which function by oligomerizing on cell membranes and inserting a physical pore spanning the membrane. This pore can lead to cell death by either causing osmotic flux or allowing the delivery of a secondary toxin. Pore forming proteins can be broadly classified into different families depending on the structure of the final pore; either α-PFPs using channels made from α -helices or β-PFPs using channels made from β-barrels. There are many different β-PFPs and an emerging superfamily is the aerolysin-ETX/MTX-2 superfamily. A comparison between the members of this superfamily reveals the pore forming domain is a common module yet the receptor binding region is highly variable. These structural and architectural variations lead to differences in the target recognition and determine the site of activity. Closer investigation of the topology of the family also suggests that the Toxin_10 family of PFPs could be considered as part of the aerolysin-ETX/MTX-2 superfamily. Comparatively, far less is known about how Toxin_10 proteins assemble into the final pore structure than aerolysin-ETX/MTX-2 proteins. This review aims to collate the pore forming protein members and bridge the structural similarities between the aerolysin-ETX/MTX-2 superfamily and the insecticidal Toxin_10 subfamily.
Collapse
|
28
|
Spicer BA, Dunstone MA. Going full circle: Determining the structures of complement component 9. Methods Enzymol 2021; 649:103-123. [PMID: 33712184 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2021.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Pore forming proteins (PFPs) undergo dramatic conformational changes to punch holes in the target membrane. These PFPs have the ability to self-assemble, by way of oligomerization, and have the capacity to transform from a water soluble state (commonly referred to as fluid phase) to a membrane adhered form. Accordingly, PFPs are metastable, that is they are inert until the right conditions cause the release of potential energy stored in the conformational fold leading to a vast structural rearrangement into a membrane-inserted oligomeric form. However, the metastable state of PFPs poses a problem of leading to aggregation and precipitation in conditions typically required for structural biology techniques. Here, we discuss the protein chemistry of the MACPF protein complement component 9 (C9). C9 is part of a larger complex assembly known as the membrane attack complex (MAC) that has been studied extensively for its ability to form pores in bacteria. An unusual artifact of human C9 is the ability to form a soluble oligomeric state of the channel portion of the MAC, called polyC9. PolyC9 formation does not require the presence of membranes or other complement factors. It is only in recent years that structural studies of the MAC have become successful owing to improved recombinant DNA expression systems and the improvement of high-resolution techniques (both X-ray crystallography and single particle cryo-EM). We discuss the expression and purification of recombinant C9, crystallization of the soluble monomeric form of C9 and the preparation of the oligomeric polyC9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bradley A Spicer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
| | - Michelle A Dunstone
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Holmes DR, Bredow M, Thor K, Pascetta SA, Sementchoukova I, Siegel KR, Zipfel C, Monaghan J. A novel allele of the Arabidopsis thaliana MACPF protein CAD1 results in deregulated immune signaling. Genetics 2021; 217:6144930. [PMID: 33779749 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyab022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune recognition in plants is governed by two major classes of receptors: pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat receptors (NLRs). Located at the cell surface, PRRs bind extracellular ligands originating from microbes (indicative of "non-self") or damaged plant cells (indicative of "infected-self"), and trigger signaling cascades to protect against infection. Located intracellularly, NLRs sense pathogen-induced physiological changes and trigger localized cell death and systemic resistance. Immune responses are under tight regulation in order to maintain homeostasis and promote plant health. In a forward-genetic screen to identify regulators of PRR-mediated immune signaling, we identified a novel allele of the membrane-attack complex and perforin (MACPF)-motif containing protein CONSTITUTIVE ACTIVE DEFENSE 1 (CAD1) resulting from a missense mutation in a conserved N-terminal cysteine. We show that cad1-5 mutants display deregulated immune signaling and symptoms of autoimmunity dependent on the lipase-like protein ENHANCED DISEASE SUSCEPTIBILITY 1 (EDS1), suggesting that CAD1 integrity is monitored by the plant immune system. We further demonstrate that CAD1 localizes to both the cytosol and plasma membrane using confocal microscopy and subcellular fractionation. Our results offer new insights into immune homeostasis and provide tools to further decipher the intriguing role of MACPF proteins in plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danalyn R Holmes
- Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston K7L 3N6, Ontario, Canada
| | - Melissa Bredow
- Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston K7L 3N6, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kathrin Thor
- The Sainsbury Laboratory, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Sydney A Pascetta
- Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston K7L 3N6, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Kristen R Siegel
- Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston K7L 3N6, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cyril Zipfel
- The Sainsbury Laboratory, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK.,Department of Plant and Microbial Biology and Zurich-Basel Plant Science Center, University of Zurich, Zurich CH-8008, Switzerland
| | - Jacqueline Monaghan
- Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston K7L 3N6, Ontario, Canada.,The Sainsbury Laboratory, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Drabavicius G, Daelemans D. Intermedilysin cytolytic activity depends on heparan sulfates and membrane composition. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009387. [PMID: 33577603 PMCID: PMC7906465 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs), of which intermedilysin (ILY) is an archetypal member, are a group of pore-forming toxins secreted by a large variety of pathogenic bacteria. These toxins, secreted as soluble monomers, oligomerize upon interaction with cholesterol in the target membrane and transect it as pores of diameters of up to 100 to 300 Å. These pores disrupt cell membranes and result in cell lysis. The immune receptor CD59 is a well-established cellular factor required for intermedilysin pore formation. In this study, we applied genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 knock-out screening to reveal additional cellular co-factors essential for ILY-mediated cell lysis. We discovered a plethora of genes previously not associated with ILY, many of which are important for membrane constitution. We show that heparan sulfates facilitate ILY activity, which can be inhibited by heparin. Furthermore, we identified hits in both protein and lipid glycosylation pathways and show a role for glucosylceramide, demonstrating that membrane organization is important for ILY activity. We also cross-validated identified genes with vaginolysin and pneumolysin and found that pneumolysin's cytolytic activity strongly depends on the asymmetric distribution of membrane phospholipids. This study shows that membrane-targeting toxins combined with genetic screening can identify genes involved in biological membrane composition and metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gediminas Drabavicius
- KU Leuven Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Rega Institute, Leuven, Belgium
- Vilnius University, Life Sciences Center, Institute of Biotechnology, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Dirk Daelemans
- KU Leuven Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Rega Institute, Leuven, Belgium
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Johnstone BA, Christie MP, Morton CJ, Parker MW. X-ray crystallography shines a light on pore-forming toxins. Methods Enzymol 2021; 649:1-46. [PMID: 33712183 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
A common form of cellular attack by pathogenic bacteria is to secrete pore-forming toxins (PFTs). Capable of forming transmembrane pores in various biological membranes, PFTs have also been identified in a diverse range of other organisms such as sea anemones, earthworms and even mushrooms and trees. The mechanism of pore formation by PFTs is associated with substantial conformational changes in going from the water-soluble to transmembrane states of the protein. The determination of the crystal structures for numerous PFTs has shed much light on our understanding of these proteins. Other than elucidating the atomic structural details of PFTs and the conformational changes that must occur for pore formation, crystal structures have revealed structural homology that has led to the discovery of new PFTs and new PFT families. Here we review some key crystallographic results together with complimentary approaches for studying PFTs. We discuss how these studies have impacted our understanding of PFT function and guided research into biotechnical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bronte A Johnstone
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Michelle P Christie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Craig J Morton
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael W Parker
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia; St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Li Y, Li Y, Mengist HM, Shi C, Zhang C, Wang B, Li T, Huang Y, Xu Y, Jin T. Structural Basis of the Pore-Forming Toxin/Membrane Interaction. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13020128. [PMID: 33572271 PMCID: PMC7914777 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13020128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
With the rapid growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, it is urgent to develop alternative therapeutic strategies. Pore-forming toxins (PFTs) belong to the largest family of virulence factors of many pathogenic bacteria and constitute the most characterized classes of pore-forming proteins (PFPs). Recent studies revealed the structural basis of several PFTs, both as soluble monomers, and transmembrane oligomers. Upon interacting with host cells, the soluble monomer of bacterial PFTs assembles into transmembrane oligomeric complexes that insert into membranes and affect target cell-membrane permeability, leading to diverse cellular responses and outcomes. Herein we have reviewed the structural basis of pore formation and interaction of PFTs with the host cell membrane, which could add valuable contributions in comprehensive understanding of PFTs and searching for novel therapeutic strategies targeting PFTs and interaction with host receptors in the fight of bacterial antibiotic-resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yajuan Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; (Y.L.); (C.S.); (B.W.); (T.L.); (Y.H.)
| | - Yuelong Li
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Laboratory of Structural Immunology, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China; (Y.L.); (H.M.M.); (C.Z.)
| | - Hylemariam Mihiretie Mengist
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Laboratory of Structural Immunology, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China; (Y.L.); (H.M.M.); (C.Z.)
| | - Cuixiao Shi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; (Y.L.); (C.S.); (B.W.); (T.L.); (Y.H.)
| | - Caiying Zhang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Laboratory of Structural Immunology, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China; (Y.L.); (H.M.M.); (C.Z.)
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; (Y.L.); (C.S.); (B.W.); (T.L.); (Y.H.)
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; (Y.L.); (C.S.); (B.W.); (T.L.); (Y.H.)
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; (Y.L.); (C.S.); (B.W.); (T.L.); (Y.H.)
| | - Yuanhong Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; (Y.L.); (C.S.); (B.W.); (T.L.); (Y.H.)
- Correspondence: (Y.X.); (T.J.); Tel.: +86-13505694447 (Y.X.); +86-17605607323 (T.J.)
| | - Tengchuan Jin
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Laboratory of Structural Immunology, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China; (Y.L.); (H.M.M.); (C.Z.)
- Correspondence: (Y.X.); (T.J.); Tel.: +86-13505694447 (Y.X.); +86-17605607323 (T.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Shivappagowdar A, Garg S, Srivastava A, Hada RS, Kalia I, Singh AP, Garg LC, Pati S, Singh S. Pathogenic Pore Forming Proteins of Plasmodium Triggers the Necrosis of Endothelial Cells Attributed to Malaria Severity. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13010062. [PMID: 33467515 PMCID: PMC7839052 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13010062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum poses a major global health problem with high morbidity and mortality. P. falciparum harbors a family of pore-forming proteins (PFPs), known as perforin like proteins (PLPs), which are structurally equivalent to prokaryotic PFPs. These PLPs are secreted from the parasites and, they contribute to disease pathogenesis by interacting with host cells. The severe malaria pathogenesis is associated with the dysfunction of various barrier cells, including endothelial cells (EC). Several factors, including PLPs secreted by parasites, contribute to the host cell dysfunction. Herein, we have tested the hypothesis that PLPs mediate dysfunction of barrier cells and might have a role in disease pathogenesis. We analyzed various dysfunctions in barrier cells following rPLP2 exposure and demonstrate that it causes an increase in intracellular Ca2+ levels. Additionally, rPLP2 exposed barrier cells displayed features of cell death, including Annexin/PI positivity, depolarized the mitochondrial membrane potential, and ROS generation. We have further performed the time-lapse video microscopy of barrier cells and found that the treatment of rPLP2 triggers their membrane blebbing. The cytoplasmic localization of HMGB1, a marker of necrosis, further confirmed the necrotic type of cell death. This study highlights the role of parasite factor PLP in endothelial dysfunction and provides a rationale for the design of adjunct therapies against severe malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Shivappagowdar
- Department of Life Science, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Chithera, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh 201314, India; (A.S.); (A.S.); (R.S.H.); (S.P.)
| | - Swati Garg
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India;
| | - Akriti Srivastava
- Department of Life Science, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Chithera, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh 201314, India; (A.S.); (A.S.); (R.S.H.); (S.P.)
| | - Rahul S. Hada
- Department of Life Science, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Chithera, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh 201314, India; (A.S.); (A.S.); (R.S.H.); (S.P.)
| | - Inderjeet Kalia
- Infectious Disease Lab, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi 110067, India; (I.K.); (A.P.S.)
| | - Agam P. Singh
- Infectious Disease Lab, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi 110067, India; (I.K.); (A.P.S.)
| | - Lalit C. Garg
- Gene Regulation Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi 110067, India;
| | - Soumya Pati
- Department of Life Science, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Chithera, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh 201314, India; (A.S.); (A.S.); (R.S.H.); (S.P.)
| | - Shailja Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Functional and Structural Variation among Sticholysins, Pore-Forming Proteins from the Sea Anemone Stichodactyla helianthus. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21238915. [PMID: 33255441 PMCID: PMC7727798 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21238915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Venoms constitute complex mixtures of many different molecules arising from evolution in processes driven by continuous prey-predator interactions. One of the most common compounds in these venomous cocktails are pore-forming proteins, a family of toxins whose activity relies on the disruption of the plasmatic membranes by forming pores. The venom of sea anemones, belonging to the oldest lineage of venomous animals, contains a large amount of a characteristic group of pore-forming proteins known as actinoporins. They bind specifically to sphingomyelin-containing membranes and suffer a conformational metamorphosis that drives them to make pores. This event usually leads cells to death by osmotic shock. Sticholysins are the actinoporins produced by Stichodactyla helianthus. Three different isotoxins are known: Sticholysins I, II, and III. They share very similar amino acid sequence and three-dimensional structure but display different behavior in terms of lytic activity and ability to interact with cholesterol, an important lipid component of vertebrate membranes. In addition, sticholysins can act in synergy when exerting their toxin action. The subtle, but important, molecular nuances that explain their different behavior are described and discussed throughout the text. Improving our knowledge about sticholysins behavior is important for eventually developing them into biotechnological tools.
Collapse
|
35
|
Krawczyk PA, Laub M, Kozik P. To Kill But Not Be Killed: Controlling the Activity of Mammalian Pore-Forming Proteins. Front Immunol 2020; 11:601405. [PMID: 33281828 PMCID: PMC7691655 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.601405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pore-forming proteins (PFPs) are present in all domains of life, and play an important role in host-pathogen warfare and in the elimination of cancers. They can be employed to deliver specific effectors across membranes, to disrupt membrane integrity interfering with cell homeostasis, and to lyse membranes either destroying intracellular organelles or entire cells. Considering the destructive potential of PFPs, it is perhaps not surprising that mechanisms controlling their activity are remarkably complex, especially in multicellular organisms. Mammalian PFPs discovered to date include the complement membrane attack complex (MAC), perforins, as well as gasdermins. While the primary function of perforin-1 and gasdermins is to eliminate infected or cancerous host cells, perforin-2 and MAC can target pathogens directly. Yet, all mammalian PFPs are in principle capable of generating pores in membranes of healthy host cells which-if uncontrolled-could have dire, and potentially lethal consequences. In this review, we will highlight the strategies employed to protect the host from destruction by endogenous PFPs, while enabling timely and efficient elimination of target cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja A Krawczyk
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry Division, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Laub
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry Division, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Patrycja Kozik
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry Division, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Bayly-Jones C, Pang SS, Spicer BA, Whisstock JC, Dunstone MA. Ancient but Not Forgotten: New Insights Into MPEG1, a Macrophage Perforin-Like Immune Effector. Front Immunol 2020; 11:581906. [PMID: 33178209 PMCID: PMC7593815 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.581906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophage-expressed gene 1 [MPEG1/Perforin-2 (PRF2)] is an ancient metazoan protein belonging to the Membrane Attack Complex/Perforin (MACPF) branch of the MACPF/Cholesterol Dependent Cytolysin (CDC) superfamily of pore-forming proteins (PFPs). MACPF/CDC proteins are a large and extremely diverse superfamily that forms large transmembrane aqueous channels in target membranes. In humans, MACPFs have known roles in immunity and development. Like perforin (PRF) and the membrane attack complex (MAC), MPEG1 is also postulated to perform a role in immunity. Indeed, bioinformatic studies suggest that gene duplications of MPEG1 likely gave rise to PRF and MAC components. Studies reveal partial or complete loss of MPEG1 causes an increased susceptibility to microbial infection in both cells and animals. To this end, MPEG1 expression is upregulated in response to proinflammatory signals such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Furthermore, germline mutations in MPEG1 have been identified in connection with recurrent pulmonary mycobacterial infections in humans. Structural studies on MPEG1 revealed that it can form oligomeric pre-pores and pores. Strikingly, the unusual domain arrangement within the MPEG1 architecture suggests a novel mechanism of pore formation that may have evolved to guard against unwanted lysis of the host cell. Collectively, the available data suggest that MPEG1 likely functions as an intracellular pore-forming immune effector. Herein, we review the current understanding of MPEG1 evolution, regulation, and function. Furthermore, recent structural studies of MPEG1 are discussed, including the proposed mechanisms of action for MPEG1 bactericidal activity. Lastly limitations, outstanding questions, and implications of MPEG1 models are explored in the context of the broader literature and in light of newly available structural data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles Bayly-Jones
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Siew Siew Pang
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Bradley A Spicer
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - James C Whisstock
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Michelle A Dunstone
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Sassmannshausen J, Pradel G, Bennink S. Perforin-Like Proteins of Apicomplexan Parasites. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:578883. [PMID: 33042876 PMCID: PMC7522308 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.578883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Perforins are secreted proteins of eukaryotes, which possess a membrane attack complex/perforin (MACPF) domain enabling them to form pores in the membranes of target cells. In higher eukaryotes, they are assigned to immune defense mechanisms required to kill invading microbes or infected cells. Perforin-like proteins (PLPs) are also found in apicomplexan parasites. Here they play diverse roles during lifecycle progression of the intracellularly replicating protozoans. The apicomplexan PLPs are best studied in Plasmodium and Toxoplasma, the causative agents of malaria and toxoplasmosis, respectively. The PLPs are expressed in the different lifecycle stages of the pathogens and can target and lyse a variety of cell membranes of the invertebrate and mammalian hosts. The PLPs thereby either function in host cell destruction during exit or in overcoming epithelial barriers during tissue passage. In this review, we summarize the various PLPs known for apicomplexan parasites and highlight their roles in Plasmodium and Toxoplasma lifecycle progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliane Sassmannshausen
- Division of Cellular and Applied Infection Biology, Institute of Zoology, Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Gabriele Pradel
- Division of Cellular and Applied Infection Biology, Institute of Zoology, Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sandra Bennink
- Division of Cellular and Applied Infection Biology, Institute of Zoology, Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
O'Neill K, Pastar I, Tomic-Canic M, Strbo N. Perforins Expression by Cutaneous Gamma Delta T Cells. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1839. [PMID: 32922397 PMCID: PMC7456908 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Gamma delta (GD) T cells are an unconventional T cell type present in both the epidermis and the dermis of human skin. They are critical to regulating skin inflammation, wound healing, and anti-microbial defense. Similar to CD8+ cytotoxic T cells expressing an alpha beta (AB) TCR, GD T cells have cytolytic capabilities. They play an important role in elimination of cutaneous tumors and virally infected cells and have also been implicated in pathogenicity of several autoimmune diseases. T cell cytotoxicity is associated with the expression of the pore forming protein Perforin. Perforin is an innate immune protein containing a membrane attack complex perforin-like (MACPF) domain and functions by forming pores in the membranes of target cells, which allow granzymes and reactive oxygen species to enter the cells and destroy them. Perforin-2, encoded by the gene MPEG1, is a newly discovered member of this protein family that is critical for clearance of intracellular bacteria. Cutaneous GD T cells express both Perforin and Perforin-2, but many questions remain regarding the role that these proteins play in GD T cell mediated cytotoxicity against tumors and bacterial pathogens. Here, we review what is known about Perforin expression by skin GD T cells and the mechanisms that contribute to Perforin activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn O'Neill
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Irena Pastar
- Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Marjana Tomic-Canic
- Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Natasa Strbo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Evolution and Expression of the Membrane Attack Complex and Perforin Gene Family in the Poaceae. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165736. [PMID: 32785137 PMCID: PMC7460961 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Membrane Attack Complex and Perforin (MACPF) proteins play crucial roles in plant development and plant responses to environmental stresses. To date, only four MACPF genes have been identified in Arabidopsis thaliana, and the functions of the MACPF gene family members in other plants, especially in important crop plants, such as the Poaceae family, remain largely unknown. In this study, we identified and analyzed 42 MACPF genes from six completely sequenced and well annotated species representing the major Poaceae clades. A phylogenetic analysis of MACPF genes resolved four groups, characterized by shared motif organizations and gene structures within each group. MACPF genes were unevenly distributed along the Poaceae chromosomes. Moreover, segmental duplications and dispersed duplication events may have played significant roles during MACPF gene family expansion and functional diversification in the Poaceae. In addition, phylogenomic synteny analysis revealed a high degree of conservation among the Poaceae MACPF genes. In particular, Group I, II, and III MACPF genes were exposed to strong purifying selection with different evolutionary rates. Temporal and spatial expression analyses suggested that Group III MACPF genes were highly expressed relative to the other groups. In addition, most MACPF genes were highly expressed in vegetative tissues and up-regulated by several biotic and abiotic stresses. Taken together, these findings provide valuable information for further functional characterization and phenotypic validation of the Poaceae MACPF gene family.
Collapse
|
40
|
Giglio ML, Ituarte S, Milesi V, Dreon MS, Brola TR, Caramelo J, Ip JCH, Maté S, Qiu JW, Otero LH, Heras H. Exaptation of two ancient immune proteins into a new dimeric pore-forming toxin in snails. J Struct Biol 2020; 211:107531. [PMID: 32446810 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2020.107531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The Membrane Attack Complex-Perforin (MACPF) family is ubiquitously found in all kingdoms. They have diverse cellular roles, however MACPFs with pore-forming toxic function in venoms and poisons are very rare in animals. Here we present the structure of PmPV2, a MACPF toxin from the poisonous apple snail eggs, that can affect the digestive and nervous systems of potential predators. We report the three-dimensional structure of PmPV2, at 17.2 Å resolution determined by negative-stain electron microscopy and its solution structure by small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). We found that PV2s differ from nearly all MACPFs in two respects: it is a dimer in solution and protomers combine two immune proteins into an AB toxin. The MACPF chain is linked by a single disulfide bond to a tachylectin chain, and two heterodimers are arranged head-to-tail by non-covalent forces in the native protein. MACPF domain is fused with a putative new Ct-accessory domain exclusive to invertebrates. The tachylectin is a six-bladed β-propeller, similar to animal tectonins. We experimentally validated the predicted functions of both subunits and demonstrated for the first time that PV2s are true pore-forming toxins. The tachylectin "B" delivery subunit would bind to target membranes, and then the MACPF "A" toxic subunit would disrupt lipid bilayers forming large pores altering the plasma membrane conductance. These results indicate that PV2s toxicity evolved by linking two immune proteins where their combined preexisting functions gave rise to a new toxic entity with a novel role in defense against predation. This structure is an unparalleled example of protein exaptation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L Giglio
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Prof. Dr. Rodolfo R. Brenner", INIBIOLP, CONICET CCT La Plata - Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas,1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - S Ituarte
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Prof. Dr. Rodolfo R. Brenner", INIBIOLP, CONICET CCT La Plata - Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas,1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - V Milesi
- Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos, IIFP CONICET CCT La Plata - UNLP, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, 1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - M S Dreon
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Prof. Dr. Rodolfo R. Brenner", INIBIOLP, CONICET CCT La Plata - Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas,1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - T R Brola
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Prof. Dr. Rodolfo R. Brenner", INIBIOLP, CONICET CCT La Plata - Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas,1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - J Caramelo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, IIBBA, CONICET - Fundación Instituto Leloir, Av Patricias Argentinas 435, C1405BWE Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - J C H Ip
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, 224 Waterloo Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - S Maté
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Prof. Dr. Rodolfo R. Brenner", INIBIOLP, CONICET CCT La Plata - Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas,1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - J W Qiu
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, 224 Waterloo Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - L H Otero
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, IIBBA, CONICET - Fundación Instituto Leloir, Av Patricias Argentinas 435, C1405BWE Buenos Aires, Argentina; Plataforma Argentina de Biología Estructural y Metabolómica PLABEM, Av. Patricias Argentinas 435, C1405BWE Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - H Heras
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Prof. Dr. Rodolfo R. Brenner", INIBIOLP, CONICET CCT La Plata - Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas,1900 La Plata, Argentina; Cátedra de Química Biologica, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), 1900 La Plata, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Andreeva A, Kulesha E, Gough J, Murzin AG. The SCOP database in 2020: expanded classification of representative family and superfamily domains of known protein structures. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:D376-D382. [PMID: 31724711 PMCID: PMC7139981 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz1064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Structural Classification of Proteins (SCOP) database is a classification of protein domains organised according to their evolutionary and structural relationships. We report a major effort to increase the coverage of structural data, aiming to provide classification of almost all domain superfamilies with representatives in the PDB. We have also improved the database schema, provided a new API and modernised the web interface. This is by far the most significant update in coverage since SCOP 1.75 and builds on the advances in schema from the SCOP 2 prototype. The database is accessible from http://scop.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonina Andreeva
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | | | - Julian Gough
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Alexey G Murzin
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Garg S, Shivappagowdar A, Hada RS, Ayana R, Bathula C, Sen S, Kalia I, Pati S, Singh AP, Singh S. Plasmodium Perforin-Like Protein Pores on the Host Cell Membrane Contribute in Its Multistage Growth and Erythrocyte Senescence. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:121. [PMID: 32266171 PMCID: PMC7105882 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The pore forming Plasmodium Perforin Like Proteins (PPLP), expressed in all stages of the parasite life cycle are critical for completion of the parasite life cycle. The high sequence similarity in the central Membrane Attack Complex/ Perforin (MACPF) domain among PLPs and their distinct functional overlaps define them as lucrative target for developing multi-stage antimalarial therapeutics. Herein, we evaluated the mechanism of Pan-active MACPF Domain (PMD), a centrally located and highly conserved region of PPLPs, and deciphered the inhibitory potential of specifically designed PMD inhibitors. The E. coli expressed rPMD interacts with erythrocyte membrane and form pores of ~10.5 nm height and ~24.3 nm diameter leading to hemoglobin release and dextran uptake. The treatment with PMD induced erythrocytes senescence which can be hypothesized to account for the physiological effect of disseminated PLPs in loss of circulating erythrocytes inducing malaria anemia. The anti-PMD inhibitors effectively blocked intraerythrocytic growth by suppressing invasion and egress processes and protected erythrocytes against rPMD induced senescence. Moreover, these inhibitors also blocked the hepatic stage and transmission stage parasite development suggesting multi-stage, transmission-blocking potential of these inhibitors. Concievably, our study has introduced a novel set of anti-PMD inhibitors with pan-inhibitory activity against all the PPLPs members which can be developed into potent cross-stage antimalarial therapeutics along with erythrocyte senescence protective potential to occlude PPLPs mediated anemia in severe malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Swati Garg
- Department of Life Science, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Abhishek Shivappagowdar
- Department of Life Science, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Rahul S Hada
- Department of Life Science, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Rajagopal Ayana
- Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and Neuroproteomics, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chandramohan Bathula
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Subhabrata Sen
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Inderjeet Kalia
- Infectious Diseases Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
| | - Soumya Pati
- Department of Life Science, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Agam P Singh
- Infectious Diseases Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
| | - Shailja Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Receptor Tyrosine Kinases in Development: Insights from Drosophila. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010188. [PMID: 31888080 PMCID: PMC6982143 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-to-cell communication mediates a plethora of cellular decisions and behaviors that are crucial for the correct and robust development of multicellular organisms. Many of these signals are encoded in secreted hormones or growth factors that bind to and activate cell surface receptors, to transmit the cue intracellularly. One of the major superfamilies of cell surface receptors are the receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). For nearly half a century RTKs have been the focus of intensive study due to their ability to alter fundamental aspects of cell biology, such as cell proliferation, growth, and shape, and because of their central importance in diseases such as cancer. Studies in model organisms such a Drosophila melanogaster have proved invaluable for identifying new conserved RTK pathway components, delineating their contributions, and for the discovery of conserved mechanisms that control RTK-signaling events. Here we provide a brief overview of the RTK superfamily and the general mechanisms used in their regulation. We further highlight the functions of several RTKs that govern distinct cell-fate decisions in Drosophila and explore how their activities are developmentally controlled.
Collapse
|
44
|
Ni LY, Han Q, Chen HP, Luo XC, Li AX, Dan XM, Li YW. Grouper (Epinephelus coioides) Mpeg1s: Molecular identification, expression analysis, and antimicrobial activity. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 92:690-697. [PMID: 31276788 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2019.06.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Macrophage expressed gene 1 (Mpeg1) is a molecule that can form pores and destroy the cell membrane of invading pathogens. In this study, we identified two Mpeg1 isoforms from the orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) and named them EcMpeg1a and EcMpeg1b. Predicted proteins of the two EcMpeg1s contained a signal peptide, a conserved membrane attack complex/perforin (MACPF) domain, a transmembrane segment, and an intracellular region. Sequence alignment demonstrated that two EcMpeg1 proteins share a high sequence identity with that of other teleosts. Tissue distribution analysis showed that EcMpeg1s were expressed in all tissues tested in healthy grouper, with the highest expression in the head kidney and spleen. After infection with the ciliate parasite Cryptocaryon irritans, expression of the two EcMpeg1s was significantly upregulated in the spleen and gills. Furthermore, the recombinant EcMpeg1a showed antiparasitic and antibacterial activity against Gram-negative and -positive bacteria, whereas EcMpeg1b had an inhibitory effect only against Gram-positive bacteria. These results indicated that EcMpeg1s play an important role in the host response against invading pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu-Yun Ni
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Regions on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Qing Han
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Regions on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Hong-Ping Chen
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Regions on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Xiao-Chun Luo
- School of Bioscience and Bioengineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - An-Xing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol/Guangdong Provincial Key Lab for Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xue-Ming Dan
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Regions on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Yan-Wei Li
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Regions on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The pathogenesis of clostridial myonecrosis or gas gangrene involves an interruption to the blood supply to the infected tissues, often via a traumatic wound, anaerobic growth of the infecting clostridial cells, the production of extracellular toxins, and toxin-mediated cell and tissue damage. This review focuses on host-pathogen interactions in
Clostridium perfringens
-mediated and
Clostridium septicum
-mediated myonecrosis. The major toxins involved are
C. perfringens
α-toxin, which has phospholipase C and sphingomyelinase activity, and
C. septicum
α-toxin, a β-pore-forming toxin that belongs to the aerolysin family. Although these toxins are cytotoxic, their effects on host cells are quite complex, with a range of intracellular cell signaling pathways induced by their action on host cell membranes.
Collapse
|
46
|
An Intermolecular π-Stacking Interaction Drives Conformational Changes Necessary to β-Barrel Formation in a Pore-Forming Toxin. mBio 2019; 10:mBio.01017-19. [PMID: 31266869 PMCID: PMC6606804 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01017-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
A unique feature of the CDC/MACPF/SNTX (cholesterol-dependent cytolysin/membrane attack complex perforin/stonefish toxin) superfamily of pore-forming toxins is that the β-strands that comprise the β-barrel pore are derived from a pair of α-helical bundles. These studies reveal the molecular basis by which the formation of intermolecular interactions within the prepore complex drive the disruption of intramolecular interactions within each monomer of the prepore to trigger the α-helical–to–β-strand transition and formation of the β-barrel pore. The crystal structures of the soluble monomers of the pore-forming cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs) contain two α-helical bundles that flank a twisted core β-sheet. This protein fold is the hallmark of the CDCs, as well as of the membrane attack complex/perforin immune defense proteins and the stonefish toxins. To form the β-barrel pore, a core β-sheet is flattened to align the membrane-spanning β-hairpins. Concomitantly with this conformational change, the two α-helical bundles that flank the core β-sheet break their restraining contacts and refold into two membrane-spanning β-hairpins of the β-barrel pore. The studies herein show that in the monomer structure of the archetype CDC perfringolysin O (PFO), a conserved Met-Met-Phe triad simultaneously contributes to maintaining the twist in this core β-sheet, as well as restricting the α-helical–to–β-strand transition necessary to form one of two membrane-spanning β-hairpins. A previously identified intermolecular π-stacking interaction is now shown to disrupt the interactions mediated by this conserved triad. This is required to establish the subsequent intermolecular electrostatic interaction, which has previously been shown to drive the final conformational changes necessary to form the β-barrel pore. Hence, these studies show that the intermolecular π-stacking and electrostatic interactions work in tandem to flatten the core β-sheet and initiate the α-helical–to–β-strand transitions to form the β-barrel pore.
Collapse
|
47
|
Control of growth factor signalling by MACPF proteins. Biochem Soc Trans 2019; 47:801-810. [PMID: 31209154 DOI: 10.1042/bst20180179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Members of the membrane attack complex/perforin-like (MACPF) protein superfamily have long captured interest because of their unique ability to assemble into large oligomeric pores on the surfaces of cells. The best characterised of these act in vertebrate immunity where they function to deliver pro-apoptotic factors or induce the cytolysis and death of targeted cells. Less appreciated, however, is that rather than causing cell death, MACPF proteins have also evolved to control cellular signalling pathways and influence developmental programmes such as pattern formation and neurogenesis. Torso-like (Tsl) from the fruit fly Drosophila, for example, functions to localise the activity of a growth factor for patterning its embryonic termini. It remains unclear whether these developmental proteins employ an attenuated form of the classical MACPF lytic pore, or if they have evolved to function via alternative mechanisms of action. In this minireview, we examine the evidence that links pore-forming MACPF proteins to the control of growth factor and cytokine signalling. We will then attempt to reconcile how the MACPF domain may have been repurposed during evolution for developmental events rather than cell killing.
Collapse
|
48
|
Gerdol M, Cervelli M, Oliverio M, Modica MV. Piercing Fishes: Porin Expansion and Adaptation to Hematophagy in the Vampire Snail Cumia reticulata. Mol Biol Evol 2019; 35:2654-2668. [PMID: 30099551 PMCID: PMC6231492 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msy156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytolytic pore-forming proteins are widespread in living organisms, being mostly involved in both sides of the host-pathogen interaction, either contributing to the innate defense or promoting infection. In venomous organisms, such as spiders, insects, scorpions, and sea anemones, pore-forming proteins are often secreted as key components of the venom. Coluporins are pore-forming proteins recently discovered in the Mediterranean hematophagous snail Cumia reticulata (Colubrariidae), highly expressed in the salivary glands that discharge their secretion at close contact with the host. To understand their putative functional role, we investigated coluporins' molecular diversity and evolutionary patterns. Coluporins is a well-diversified family including at least 30 proteins, with an overall low sequence similarity but sharing a remarkably conserved actinoporin-like predicted structure. Tracking the evolutionary history of the molluscan porin genes revealed a scattered distribution of this family, which is present in some other lineages of predatory gastropods, including venomous conoidean snails. Comparative transcriptomic analyses highlighted the expansion of porin genes as a lineage-specific feature of colubrariids. Coluporins seem to have evolved from a single ancestral porin gene present in the latest common ancestor of all Caenogastropoda, undergoing massive expansion and diversification in this colubrariid lineage through repeated gene duplication events paired with widespread episodic positive selection. As for other parasites, these findings are congruent with a "one-sided arms race," equipping the parasite with multiple variants in order to broaden its host spectrum. Overall, our results pinpoint a crucial adaptive role for coluporins in the evolution of the peculiar trophic ecology of vampire snails.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Gerdol
- Department of Life Sciences, Trieste University, Italy
| | | | - Marco Oliverio
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University, Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Vittoria Modica
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy.,UMR5247, University of Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
The cholesterol-dependent cytolysin (CDC) genes are present in bacterial species that span terrestrial, vertebrate, and invertebrate niches, which suggests that they have evolved to function under widely different environmental conditions. Using a combination of biophysical and crystallographic approaches, we reveal that the relative stability of an intramolecular interface in the archetype CDC perfringolysin O (PFO) plays a central role in regulating its pore-forming properties. The disruption of this interface allows the formation of the membrane spanning β-barrel pore in all CDCs. We show here that the relative strength of the stabilizing forces at this interface directly impacts the energy barrier posed by the transition state for pore formation, as reflected in the Arrhenius activation energy (Ea) for pore formation. This change directly impacts the kinetics and temperature dependence of pore formation. We further show that the interface structure in a CDC from a terrestrial species enables it to function efficiently across a wide range of temperatures by minimizing changes in the strength of the transition state barrier to pore formation. These studies establish a paradigm that CDCs, and possibly other β-barrel pore-forming proteins/toxins, can evolve significantly different pore-forming properties by altering the stability of this transitional interface, which impacts the kinetic parameters and temperature dependence of pore formation.IMPORTANCE The cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs) are the archetype for the superfamily of oligomeric pore-forming proteins that includes the membrane attack complex/perforin (MACPF) family of immune defense proteins and the stonefish venom toxins (SNTX). The CDC/MACPF/SNTX family exhibits a common protein fold, which forms a membrane-spanning β-barrel pore. We show that changing the relative stability of an extensive intramolecular interface within this fold, which is necessarily disrupted to form the large β-barrel pore, dramatically alters the kinetic and temperature-dependent properties of CDC pore formation. These studies show that the CDCs and other members of the CDC/MACPF/SNTX superfamily have the capacity to significantly alter their pore-forming properties to function under widely different environmental conditions encountered by these species.
Collapse
|
50
|
Zaitseva J, Vaknin D, Krebs C, Doroghazi J, Milam SL, Balasubramanian D, Duck NB, Freigang J. Structure-function characterization of an insecticidal protein GNIP1Aa, a member of an MACPF and β-tripod families. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:2897-2906. [PMID: 30728296 PMCID: PMC6386698 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1815547116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The crystal structure of the Gram-negative insecticidal protein, GNIP1Aa, has been solved at 2.5-Å resolution. The protein consists of two structurally distinct domains, a MACPF (membrane attack complex/PerForin) and a previously uncharacterized type of domain. GNIP1Aa is unique in being a prokaryotic MACPF member to have both its structure and function identified. It was isolated from a Chromobacterium piscinae strain and is specifically toxic to Diabrotica virgifera virgifera larvae upon feeding. In members of the MACPF family, the MACPF domain has been shown to be important for protein oligomerization and formation of transmembrane pores, while accompanying domains define the specificity of the target of the toxicity. In GNIP1Aa the accompanying C-terminal domain has a unique fold composed of three pseudosymmetric subdomains with shared sequence similarity, a feature not obvious from the initial sequence examination. Our analysis places this domain into a protein family, named here β-tripod. Using mutagenesis, we identified functionally important regions in the β-tripod domain, which may be involved in target recognition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Sara L Milam
- Agricultural Solutions, BASF, Morrisville, NC 27560
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|