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Caredio D, Koderman M, Frontzek KJ, Sorce S, Nuvolone M, Bremer J, Mariutti G, Schwarz P, Madrigal L, Mitrovic M, Sellitto S, Streichenberger N, Scheckel C, Aguzzi A. Prion diseases disrupt glutamate/glutamine metabolism in skeletal muscle. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012552. [PMID: 39259763 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
In prion diseases (PrDs), aggregates of misfolded prion protein (PrPSc) accumulate not only in the brain but also in extraneural organs. This raises the question whether prion-specific pathologies arise also extraneurally. Here we sequenced mRNA transcripts in skeletal muscle, spleen and blood of prion-inoculated mice at eight timepoints during disease progression. We detected gene-expression changes in all three organs, with skeletal muscle showing the most consistent alterations. The glutamate-ammonia ligase (GLUL) gene exhibited uniform upregulation in skeletal muscles of mice infected with three distinct scrapie prion strains (RML, ME7, and 22L) and in victims of human sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. GLUL dysregulation was accompanied by changes in glutamate/glutamine metabolism, leading to reduced glutamate levels in skeletal muscle. None of these changes were observed in skeletal muscle of humans with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, or dementia with Lewy bodies, suggesting that they are specific to prion diseases. These findings reveal an unexpected metabolic dimension of prion infections and point to a potential role for GLUL dysregulation in the glutamate/glutamine metabolism in prion-affected skeletal muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Caredio
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maruša Koderman
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Karl J Frontzek
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Silvia Sorce
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mario Nuvolone
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Juliane Bremer
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Giovanni Mariutti
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Petra Schwarz
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lidia Madrigal
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marija Mitrovic
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stefano Sellitto
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Claudia Scheckel
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adriano Aguzzi
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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2
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Karner D, Kvestak D, Kucan Brlic P, Cokaric Brdovcak M, Lisnic B, Brizic I, Juranic Lisnic V, Golemac M, Tomac J, Krmpotic A, Karkeni E, Libri V, Mella S, Legname G, Altmeppen HC, Hasan M, Jonjic S, Lenac Rovis T. Prion protein alters viral control and enhances pathology after perinatal cytomegalovirus infection. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7754. [PMID: 39237588 PMCID: PMC11377837 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51931-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection poses risks to newborns, necessitating effective therapies. Given that the damage includes both viral infection of brain cells and immune system-related damage, here we investigate the involvement of cellular prion protein (PrP), which plays vital roles in neuroprotection and immune regulation. Using a murine model, we show the role of PrP in tempering neonatal T cell immunity during CMV infection. PrP-null mice exhibit enhanced viral control through elevated virus-specific CD8 T cell responses, leading to reduced viral titers and pathology. We further unravel the molecular mechanisms by showing CMV-induced upregulation followed by release of PrP via the metalloproteinase ADAM10, impairing CD8 T cell response specifically in neonates. Additionally, we confirm PrP downregulation in human CMV (HCMV)-infected fibroblasts, underscoring the broader relevance of our observations beyond the murine model. Furthermore, our study highlights how PrP, under the stress of viral pathogenesis, reveals its impact on neonatal immune modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dubravka Karner
- Center for Proteomics; Faculty of Medicine; University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Daria Kvestak
- Center for Proteomics; Faculty of Medicine; University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Paola Kucan Brlic
- Center for Proteomics; Faculty of Medicine; University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | | | - Berislav Lisnic
- Center for Proteomics; Faculty of Medicine; University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Ilija Brizic
- Center for Proteomics; Faculty of Medicine; University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Vanda Juranic Lisnic
- Center for Proteomics; Faculty of Medicine; University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Mijo Golemac
- Department of Histology and Embryology; Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Jelena Tomac
- Department of Histology and Embryology; Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Astrid Krmpotic
- Department of Histology and Embryology; Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Esma Karkeni
- Cytometry and Biomarkers Unit of Technology and Service (CB TechS); Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Valentina Libri
- Cytometry and Biomarkers Unit of Technology and Service (CB TechS); Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Sebastien Mella
- Cytometry and Biomarkers Unit of Technology and Service (CB TechS); Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Giuseppe Legname
- Department of Neuroscience, Prion Biology Laboratory, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati (SISSA), Trieste, Italy
| | - Hermann C Altmeppen
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Milena Hasan
- Cytometry and Biomarkers Unit of Technology and Service (CB TechS); Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Stipan Jonjic
- Center for Proteomics; Faculty of Medicine; University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Tihana Lenac Rovis
- Center for Proteomics; Faculty of Medicine; University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia.
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3
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Lee JC, Ray RM, Scott TA. Prospects and challenges of tissue-derived extracellular vesicles. Mol Ther 2024; 32:2950-2978. [PMID: 38910325 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.06.025] [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: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are considered a vital component of cell-to-cell communication and represent a new frontier in diagnostics and a means to identify pathways for therapeutic intervention. Recently, studies have revealed the importance of tissue-derived EVs (Ti-EVs), which are EVs present in the interstitial spaces between cells, as they better represent the underlying physiology of complex, multicellular tissue microenvironments in biology and disease. EVs are native, lipid bilayer membraned nano-sized particles produced by all cells that are packaged with varied functional biomolecules including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. They are implicated in short- and long-range cellular communication and may elicit functional responses in recipient cells. To date, studies have often utilized cultured cells or biological fluids as a source for EVs that do not capture local molecular signatures of the tissue microenvironment. Recent work utilizing Ti-EVs has elucidated novel biomarkers for disease and provided insights into disease mechanisms that may lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents. Still, there are considerable challenges facing current studies. This review explores the vast potential and unique challenges for Ti-EV research and provides considerations for future studies that seek to advance this exciting field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin C Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Roslyn M Ray
- Gene Therapy Research, CSL Behring, Pasadena, CA 91106, USA
| | - Tristan A Scott
- Center for Gene Therapy, City of Hope, Beckman Research Institute and Hematological Malignancy and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
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4
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Vieira TCRG, Barros CA, Domingues R, Outeiro TF. PrP meets alpha-synuclein: Molecular mechanisms and implications for disease. J Neurochem 2024; 168:1625-1639. [PMID: 37855859 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15992] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of prions has challenged dogmas and has revolutionized our understanding of protein-misfolding diseases. The concept of self-propagation via protein conformational changes, originally discovered for the prion protein (PrP), also applies to other proteins that exhibit similar behavior, such as alpha-synuclein (aSyn), a central player in Parkinson's disease and in other synucleinopathies. aSyn pathology appears to spread from one cell to another during disease progression, and involves the misfolding and aggregation of aSyn. How the transfer of aSyn between cells occurs is still being studied, but one important hypothesis involves receptor-mediated transport. Interestingly, recent studies indicate that the cellular prion protein (PrPC) may play a crucial role in this process. PrPC has been shown to act as a receptor/sensor for protein aggregates in different neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the interaction between aSyn and PrPC and discuss its role in synucleinopathies. We examine the properties of PrP and aSyn, including their structure, function, and aggregation. Additionally, we discuss the current understanding of PrPC's role as a receptor/sensor for aSyn aggregates and identify remaining unanswered questions in this area of research. Ultimately, we posit that exploring the interaction between aSyn and PrPC may offer potential treatment options for synucleinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuane C R G Vieira
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis and National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Caroline A Barros
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis and National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Renato Domingues
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tiago Fleming Outeiro
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
- Scientific Employee with an Honorary Contract at Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
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5
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Do K, Benavente R, Catumbela CSG, Khan U, Kramm C, Soto C, Morales R. Adaptation of the protein misfolding cyclic amplification (PMCA) technique for the screening of anti-prion compounds. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23843. [PMID: 39072789 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400614r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Prion diseases result from the misfolding of the physiological prion protein (PrPC) to a pathogenic conformation (PrPSc). Compelling evidence indicates that prevention and/or reduction of PrPSc replication are promising therapeutic strategies against prion diseases. However, the existence of different PrPSc conformations (or strains) associated with disease represents a major problem when identifying anti-prion compounds. Efforts to identify strain-specific anti-prion molecules are limited by the lack of biologically relevant high-throughput screening platforms to interrogate compound libraries. Here, we describe adaptations to the protein misfolding cyclic amplification (PMCA) technology (able to faithfully replicate PrPSc strains) that increase its throughput to facilitate the screening of anti-prion molecules. The optimized PMCA platform includes a reduction in sample and reagents, as well as incubation/sonication cycles required to efficiently replicate and detect rodent-adapted and cervid PrPSc strains. The visualization of PMCA products was performed via dot blots, a method that contributed to reduced processing times. These technical changes allowed us to evaluate small molecules with previously reported anti-prion activity. This proof-of-principle screening was evaluated for six rodent-adapted prion strains. Our data show that these compounds targeted either none, all or some PrPSc strains at variable concentrations, demonstrating that this PMCA system is suitable to test compound libraries for putative anti-prion molecules targeting specific PrPSc strains. Further analyses of a small compound library against deer prions demonstrate the potential of this new PMCA format to identify strain-specific anti-prion molecules. The data presented here demonstrate the use of the PMCA technique in the selection of prion strain-specific anti-prion compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Do
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Rebeca Benavente
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Celso S G Catumbela
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Uffaf Khan
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Carlos Kramm
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Claudio Soto
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Rodrigo Morales
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
- Centro Integrativo de Biologia y Quimica Aplicada (CIBQA), Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
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6
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Bizingre C, Bianchi C, Baudry A, Alleaume-Butaux A, Schneider B, Pietri M. Post-translational modifications in prion diseases. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1405415. [PMID: 39011540 PMCID: PMC11247024 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1405415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
More than 650 reversible and irreversible post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins have been listed so far. Canonical PTMs of proteins consist of the covalent addition of functional or chemical groups on target backbone amino-acids or the cleavage of the protein itself, giving rise to modified proteins with specific properties in terms of stability, solubility, cell distribution, activity, or interactions with other biomolecules. PTMs of protein contribute to cell homeostatic processes, enabling basal cell functions, allowing the cell to respond and adapt to variations of its environment, and globally maintaining the constancy of the milieu interieur (the body's inner environment) to sustain human health. Abnormal protein PTMs are, however, associated with several disease states, such as cancers, metabolic disorders, or neurodegenerative diseases. Abnormal PTMs alter the functional properties of the protein or even cause a loss of protein function. One example of dramatic PTMs concerns the cellular prion protein (PrPC), a GPI-anchored signaling molecule at the plasma membrane, whose irreversible post-translational conformational conversion (PTCC) into pathogenic prions (PrPSc) provokes neurodegeneration. PrPC PTCC into PrPSc is an additional type of PTM that affects the tridimensional structure and physiological function of PrPC and generates a protein conformer with neurotoxic properties. PrPC PTCC into PrPSc in neurons is the first step of a deleterious sequence of events at the root of a group of neurodegenerative disorders affecting both humans (Creutzfeldt-Jakob diseases for the most representative diseases) and animals (scrapie in sheep, bovine spongiform encephalopathy in cow, and chronic wasting disease in elk and deer). There are currently no therapies to block PrPC PTCC into PrPSc and stop neurodegeneration in prion diseases. Here, we review known PrPC PTMs that influence PrPC conversion into PrPSc. We summarized how PrPC PTCC into PrPSc impacts the PrPC interactome at the plasma membrane and the downstream intracellular controlled protein effectors, whose abnormal activation or trafficking caused by altered PTMs promotes neurodegeneration. We discussed these effectors as candidate drug targets for prion diseases and possibly other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloé Bizingre
- INSERM UMR-S 1124, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, UMR-S 1124, Paris, France
| | - Clara Bianchi
- INSERM UMR-S 1124, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, UMR-S 1124, Paris, France
| | - Anne Baudry
- INSERM UMR-S 1124, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, UMR-S 1124, Paris, France
| | | | - Benoit Schneider
- INSERM UMR-S 1124, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, UMR-S 1124, Paris, France
- Ecole polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, CNRS UMR7654, Palaiseau, France
| | - Mathéa Pietri
- INSERM UMR-S 1124, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, UMR-S 1124, Paris, France
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7
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Burato A, Legname G. Comparing Prion Proteins Across Species: Is Zebrafish a Useful Model? Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04324-z. [PMID: 38918277 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04324-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Despite the considerable body of research dedicated to the field of neurodegeneration, the gap in knowledge on the prion protein and its intricate involvement in brain diseases remains substantial. However, in the past decades, many steps forward have been taken toward a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying both the physiological role of the prion protein and the misfolding event converting it into its pathological counterpart, the prion. This review aims to provide an overview of the main findings regarding this protein, highlighting the advantages of many different animal models that share a conserved amino acid sequence and/or structure with the human prion protein. A particular focus will be given to the species Danio rerio, a compelling research organism for the investigation of prion biology, thanks to its conserved orthologs, ease of genetic manipulation, and cost-effectiveness of high-throughput experimentation. We will explore its potential in filling some of the gaps on physiological and pathological aspects of the prion protein, with the aim of directing the future development of therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Burato
- Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore Di Studi Avanzati (SISSA), Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Legname
- Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore Di Studi Avanzati (SISSA), Trieste, Italy.
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8
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Ghosh S, Jana R, Jana S, Basu R, Chatterjee M, Ranawat N, Das Sarma J. Differential expression of cellular prion protein (PrP C) in mouse hepatitis virus induced neuroinflammation. J Neurovirol 2024; 30:215-228. [PMID: 38922550 DOI: 10.1007/s13365-024-01215-w] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is an extracellular cell membrane protein. Due to its diversified roles, a definite role of PrPC has been difficult to establish. During viral infection, PrPC has been reported to play a pleiotropic role. Here, we have attempted to envision the function of PrPC in the neurotropic m-CoV-MHV-RSA59-induced model of neuroinflammation in C57BL/6 mice. A significant upregulation of PrPC at protein and mRNA levels was evident in infected mouse brains during the acute phase of neuroinflammation. Furthermore, investigation of the effect of MHV-RSA59 infection on PrPC expression in specific neuronal, microglial, and astrocytoma cell lines, revealed a differential expression of prion protein during neuroinflammation. Additionally, siRNA-mediated downregulation of prnp transcripts reduced the expression of viral antigen and viral infectivity in these cell lines. Cumulatively, our results suggest that PrPC expression significantly increases during acute MHV-RSA59 infection and that PrPC also assists in viral infectivity and viral replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satavisha Ghosh
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, Mohanpur, 741246, India
| | - Rishika Jana
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, Mohanpur, 741246, India
| | - Soumen Jana
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, Mohanpur, 741246, India
- Optical NeuroImaging Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Rahul Basu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, Mohanpur, 741246, India
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Madhurima Chatterjee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, Mohanpur, 741246, India
| | - Nishtha Ranawat
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, Mohanpur, 741246, India
- Burke Neurological Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jayasri Das Sarma
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, Mohanpur, 741246, India.
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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9
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Chrobak AA, Pańczyszyn-Trzewik P, Król P, Pawelec-Bąk M, Dudek D, Siwek M. New Light on Prions: Putative Role of PrP c in Pathophysiology of Mood Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2967. [PMID: 38474214 PMCID: PMC10932175 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052967] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Mood disorders are highly prevalent and heterogenous mental illnesses with devastating rates of mortality and treatment resistance. The molecular basis of those conditions involves complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors. Currently, there are no objective procedures for diagnosis, prognosis and personalization of patients' treatment. There is an urgent need to search for novel molecular targets for biomarkers in mood disorders. Cellular prion protein (PrPc) is infamous for its potential to convert its insoluble form, leading to neurodegeneration in Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease. Meanwhile, in its physiological state, PrPc presents neuroprotective features and regulates neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity. The aim of this study is to integrate the available knowledge about molecular mechanisms underlying the impact of PrPc on the pathophysiology of mood disorders. Our review indicates an important role of this protein in regulation of cognitive functions, emotions, sleep and biological rhythms, and its deficiency results in depressive-like behavior and cognitive impairment. PrPc plays a neuroprotective role against excitotoxicity, oxidative stress and inflammation, the main pathophysiological events in the course of mood disorders. Research indicates that PrPc may be a promising biomarker of cognitive decline. There is an urgent need of human studies to elucidate its potential utility in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Andrzej Chrobak
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 21A, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (A.A.C.); (P.K.); (D.D.)
| | - Patrycja Pańczyszyn-Trzewik
- Department of Human Physiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszow University, Kopisto 2a, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland;
| | - Patrycja Król
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 21A, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (A.A.C.); (P.K.); (D.D.)
| | - Magdalena Pawelec-Bąk
- Department of Affective Disorders, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 21A, 31-501 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Dominika Dudek
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 21A, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (A.A.C.); (P.K.); (D.D.)
| | - Marcin Siwek
- Department of Affective Disorders, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 21A, 31-501 Kraków, Poland;
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10
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Adeola AC, Bello SF, Abdussamad AM, Adedokun RAM, Olaogun SC, Abdullahi N, Mark AI, Onoja AB, Sanke OJ, Mangbon GF, Ibrahim J, Dawuda PM, Salako AE, Kdidi S, Yahyaoui MH. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the open reading frame (ORF) of prion protein gene (PRNP) in Nigerian livestock species. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:177. [PMID: 38355406 PMCID: PMC10865551 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10070-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prion diseases, also known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) remain one of the deleterious disorders, which have affected several animal species. Polymorphism of the prion protein (PRNP) gene majorly determines the susceptibility of animals to TSEs. However, only limited studies have examined the variation in PRNP gene in different Nigerian livestock species. Thus, this study aimed to identify the polymorphism of PRNP gene in Nigerian livestock species (including camel, dog, horse, goat, and sheep). We sequenced the open reading frame (ORF) of 65 camels, 31 village dogs and 12 horses from Nigeria and compared with PRNP sequences of 886 individuals retrieved from public databases. RESULTS All the 994 individuals were assigned into 162 haplotypes. The sheep had the highest number of haplotypes (n = 54), and the camel had the lowest (n = 7). Phylogenetic tree further confirmed clustering of Nigerian individuals into their various species. We detected five non-synonymous SNPs of PRNP comprising of G9A, G10A, C11G, G12C, and T669C shared by all Nigerian livestock species and were in Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE). The amino acid changes in these five non-synonymous SNP were all "benign" via Polyphen-2 program. Three SNPs G34C, T699C, and C738G occurred only in Nigerian dogs while C16G, G502A, G503A, and C681A in Nigerian horse. In addition, C50T was detected only in goats and sheep. CONCLUSION Our study serves as the first to simultaneously investigate the polymorphism of PRNP gene in Nigerian livestock species and provides relevant information that could be adopted in programs targeted at breeding for prion diseases resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeniyi C Adeola
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution & Yunnan Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Domestic Animals, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.
- Sino-Africa Joint Research Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.
| | - Semiu F Bello
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, China
| | - Abdussamad M Abdussamad
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Rahamon A M Adedokun
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Sunday C Olaogun
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Nasiru Abdullahi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Akanbi I Mark
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Secretariat, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Anyebe B Onoja
- Department of Virology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Oscar J Sanke
- Taraba State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Jalingo, Nigeria
| | | | - Jebi Ibrahim
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agriculture Makurdi, Makurdi, Nigeria
| | - Philip M Dawuda
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, National University of Lesotho, Maseru, South Africa
| | - Adebowale E Salako
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Samia Kdidi
- Livestock and Wildlife Laboratory, Institut des Régions Arides, Université de Gabes, Route El Djorf, Km 22.5, 4119, Medenine, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Habib Yahyaoui
- Livestock and Wildlife Laboratory, Institut des Régions Arides, Université de Gabes, Route El Djorf, Km 22.5, 4119, Medenine, Tunisia
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11
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Perumal N, Yurugi H, Dahm K, Rajalingam K, Grus FH, Pfeiffer N, Manicam C. Proteome landscape and interactome of voltage-gated potassium channel 1.6 (Kv1.6) of the murine ophthalmic artery and neuroretina. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 257:128464. [PMID: 38043654 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The voltage-gated potassium channel 1.6 (Kv1.6) plays a vital role in ocular neurovascular beds and exerts its modulatory functions via interaction with other proteins. However, the interactome and their potential roles remain unknown. Here, the global proteome landscape of the ophthalmic artery (OA) and neuroretina was mapped, followed by the determination of Kv1.6 interactome and validation of its functionality and cellular localization. Microfluorimetric analysis of intracellular [K+] and Western blot validated the native functionality and cellular expression of the recombinant Kv1.6 channel protein. A total of 54, 9 and 28 Kv1.6-interacting proteins were identified in the mouse OA and, retina of mouse and rat, respectively. The Kv1.6-protein partners in the OA, namely actin cytoplasmic 2, alpha-2-macroglobulin and apolipoprotein A-I, were implicated in the maintenance of blood vessel integrity by regulating integrin-mediated adhesion to extracellular matrix and Ca2+ flux. Many retinal protein interactors, particularly the ADP/ATP translocase 2 and cytoskeleton protein tubulin, were involved in endoplasmic reticulum stress response and cell viability. Three common interactors were found in all samples comprising heat shock cognate 71 kDa protein, Ig heavy constant gamma 1 and Kv1.6 channel. This foremost in-depth investigation enriched and identified the elusive Kv1.6 channel and, elucidated its complex interactome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natarajan Perumal
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Hajime Yurugi
- Cell Biology Unit, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany
| | - Katrin Dahm
- Cell Biology Unit, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany
| | - Krishnaraj Rajalingam
- Cell Biology Unit, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany
| | - Franz H Grus
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Norbert Pfeiffer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Caroline Manicam
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany.
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12
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Posadas Y, Sánchez-López C, Quintanar L. Copper binding and protein aggregation: a journey from the brain to the human lens. RSC Chem Biol 2023; 4:974-985. [PMID: 38033729 PMCID: PMC10685798 DOI: 10.1039/d3cb00145h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Metal ions have been implicated in several proteinopathies associated to degenerative and neurodegenerative diseases. While the molecular mechanisms for protein aggregation are still under investigation, recent findings from Cryo-EM point out to polymorphisms in aggregates obtained from patients, as compared to those formed in vitro, suggesting that several factors may impact aggregation in vivo. One of these factors could be the direct binding of metal ions to the proteins engaged in aggregate formation. In this opinion article, three case studies are discussed to address the question of how metal ion binding to a peptide or protein may impact its conformation, folding, and aggregation, and how this may be relevant in understanding the polymorphic nature of the aggregates related to disease. Specifically, the impact of Cu2+ ions in the amyloid aggregation of amyloid-β and amylin (or IAPP- islet amyloid polypeptide) are discussed and then contrasted to the case of Cu2+-induced non-amyloid aggregation of human lens γ-crystallin proteins. For the intrinsically disordered peptides amyloid-β and IAPP, the impact of Cu2+ ion binding is highly dependent on the relative location of the metal binding site and the hydrophobic regions involved in β-sheet folding and amyloid formation. Further structural studies of how Cu2+ binding impacts amyloid aggregation pathways and the molecular structure of the final amyloid fibril, both, in vitro and in vivo, will certainly shed light into the molecular origins of the polymorphisms observed in diseased tissue. Finally, contrasting these cases to that of Cu2+-induced non-amyloid aggregation of γ-crystallins, it is evident that, although the impact in aggregation - and the nature of the aggregate - may differ in each system, at the molecular level there is a competition between metal ion coordination and the stability of β-sheet structures. Considering the importance of the β-sheet fold in biology, it is fundamental to understand the energetics and molecular details behind such competition. This opinion article aims to highlight future research directions in the field that can help tackle the important question of how metal ion binding may impact protein folding and aggregation and how this relates to disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanahi Posadas
- Center for Research in Aging, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav) Mexico City 14330 Mexico
| | - Carolina Sánchez-López
- Center for Research in Aging, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav) Mexico City 14330 Mexico
| | - Liliana Quintanar
- Center for Research in Aging, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav) Mexico City 14330 Mexico
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav) Mexico City 07350 Mexico
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13
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Gutierrez-Merino C. Brain Hydrophobic Peptides Antagonists of Neurotoxic Amyloid β Peptide Monomers/Oligomers-Protein Interactions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13846. [PMID: 37762148 PMCID: PMC10531495 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloid β (Aβ) oligomers have been linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis and are the main neurotoxic forms of Aβ. This review focuses on the following: (i) the Aβ(1-42):calmodulin interface as a model for the design of antagonist Aβ peptides and its limitations; (ii) proteolytic degradation as the major source of highly hydrophobic peptides in brain cells; and (iii) brain peptides that have been experimentally demonstrated to bind to Aβ monomers or oligomers, Aβ fibrils, or Aβ plaques. It is highlighted that the hydrophobic amino acid residues of the COOH-terminal segment of Aβ(1-42) play a key role in its interaction with intracellular protein partners linked to its neurotoxicity. The major source of highly hydrophobic endogenous peptides of 8-10 amino acids in neurons is the proteasome activity. Many canonical antigen peptides bound to the major histocompatibility complex class 1 are of this type. These highly hydrophobic peptides bind to Aβ and are likely to be efficient antagonists of the binding of Aβ monomers/oligomers concentrations in the nanomolar range with intracellular proteins. Also, their complexation with Aβ will protect them against endopeptidases, suggesting a putative chaperon-like physiological function for Aβ that has been overlooked until now. Remarkably, the hydrophobic amino acid residues of Aβ responsible for the binding of several neuropeptides partially overlap with those playing a key role in its interaction with intracellular protein partners that mediates its neurotoxicity. Therefore, these latter neuropeptides are also potential candidates to antagonize Aβ peptides binding to target proteins. In conclusion, the analysis performed in this review points out that hydrophobic endogenous brain neuropeptides could be valuable biomarkers to evaluate the risk of the onset of sporadic AD, as well as for the prognosis of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Gutierrez-Merino
- Instituto de Biomarcadores de Patologías Moleculares, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain
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14
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Bhopatkar AA, Kayed R. Flanking regions, amyloid cores, and polymorphism: the potential interplay underlying structural diversity. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105122. [PMID: 37536631 PMCID: PMC10482755 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The β-sheet-rich amyloid core is the defining feature of protein aggregates associated with neurodegenerative disorders. Recent investigations have revealed that there exist multiple examples of the same protein, with the same sequence, forming a variety of amyloid cores with distinct structural characteristics. These structural variants, termed as polymorphs, are hypothesized to influence the pathological profile and the progression of different neurodegenerative diseases, giving rise to unique phenotypic differences. Thus, identifying the origin and properties of these structural variants remain a focus of studies, as a preliminary step in the development of therapeutic strategies. Here, we review the potential role of the flanking regions of amyloid cores in inducing polymorphism. These regions, adjacent to the amyloid cores, show a preponderance for being structurally disordered, imbuing them with functional promiscuity. The dynamic nature of the flanking regions can then manifest in the form of conformational polymorphism of the aggregates. We take a closer look at the sequences flanking the amyloid cores, followed by a review of the polymorphic aggregates of the well-characterized proteins amyloid-β, α-synuclein, Tau, and TDP-43. We also consider different factors that can potentially influence aggregate structure and how these regions can be viewed as novel targets for therapeutic strategies by utilizing their unique structural properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anukool A Bhopatkar
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA; Departments of Neurology, Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Rakez Kayed
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA; Departments of Neurology, Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA.
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15
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Pierce S. Life's Mechanism. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1750. [PMID: 37629607 PMCID: PMC10455287 DOI: 10.3390/life13081750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The multifarious internal workings of organisms are difficult to reconcile with a single feature defining a state of 'being alive'. Indeed, definitions of life rely on emergent properties (growth, capacity to evolve, agency) only symptomatic of intrinsic functioning. Empirical studies demonstrate that biomolecules including ratcheting or rotating enzymes and ribozymes undergo repetitive conformation state changes driven either directly or indirectly by thermodynamic gradients. They exhibit disparate structures, but govern processes relying on directional physical motion (DNA transcription, translation, cytoskeleton transport) and share the principle of repetitive uniplanar conformation changes driven by thermodynamic gradients, producing dependable unidirectional motion: 'heat engines' exploiting thermodynamic disequilibria to perform work. Recognition that disparate biological molecules demonstrate conformation state changes involving directional motion, working in self-regulating networks, allows a mechanistic definition: life is a self-regulating process whereby matter undergoes cyclic, uniplanar conformation state changes that convert thermodynamic disequilibria into directed motion, performing work that locally reduces entropy. 'Living things' are structures including an autonomous network of units exploiting thermodynamic gradients to drive uniplanar conformation state changes that perform work. These principles are independent of any specific chemical environment, and can be applied to other biospheres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Pierce
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (DiSAA), University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy
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16
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Cembran A, Fernandez-Funez P. Intrinsic determinants of prion protein neurotoxicity in Drosophila: from sequence to (dys)function. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1231079. [PMID: 37645703 PMCID: PMC10461008 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1231079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are fatal brain disorders characterized by deposition of insoluble isoforms of the prion protein (PrP). The normal and pathogenic structures of PrP are relatively well known after decades of studies. Yet our current understanding of the intrinsic determinants regulating PrP misfolding are largely missing. A 3D subdomain of PrP comprising the β2-α2 loop and helix 3 contains high sequence and structural variability among animals and has been proposed as a key domain regulating PrP misfolding. We combined in vivo work in Drosophila with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, which provide additional insight to assess the impact of candidate substitutions in PrP from conformational dynamics. MD simulations revealed that in human PrP WT the β2-α2 loop explores multiple β-turn conformations, whereas the Y225A (rabbit PrP-like) substitution strongly favors a 310-turn conformation, a short right-handed helix. This shift in conformational diversity correlates with lower neurotoxicity in flies. We have identified additional conformational features and candidate amino acids regulating the high toxicity of human PrP and propose a new strategy for testing candidate modifiers first in MD simulations followed by functional experiments in flies. In this review we expand on these new results to provide additional insight into the structural and functional biology of PrP through the prism of the conformational dynamics of a 3D domain in the C-terminus. We propose that the conformational dynamics of this domain is a sensitive measure of the propensity of PrP to misfold and cause toxicity. This provides renewed opportunities to identify the intrinsic determinants of PrP misfolding through the contribution of key amino acids to different conformational states by MD simulations followed by experimental validation in transgenic flies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Cembran
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Minnesota Duluth, Duluth, MN, United States
| | - Pedro Fernandez-Funez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN, United States
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17
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Cheng X, Zhang J, Xiao Y, Wang Z, He J, Ke M, Liu S, Wang Q, Zhang L. Mitochondrial Regulation of Ferroptosis in Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10037. [PMID: 37373183 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis, characterized by glutamate overload, glutathione depletion, and cysteine/cystine deprivation during iron- and oxidative-damage-dependent cell death, is a particular mode of regulated cell death. It is expected to effectively treat cancer through its tumor-suppressor function, as mitochondria are the intracellular energy factory and a binding site of reactive oxygen species production, closely related to ferroptosis. This review summarizes relevant research on the mechanisms of ferroptosis, highlights mitochondria's role in it, and collects and classifies the inducers of ferroptosis. A deeper understanding of the relationship between ferroptosis and mitochondrial function may provide new strategies for tumor treatment and drug development based on ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Cheng
- School of Basic Medical Science, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Jiale Zhang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yichen Xiao
- School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Zhihang Wang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Jin He
- School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Mengquan Ke
- School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Sijie Liu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Qun Wang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
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18
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Zuo K, Kranjc A, Capelli R, Rossetti G, Nechushtai R, Carloni P. Metadynamics simulations of ligands binding to protein surfaces: a novel tool for rational drug design. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:13819-13824. [PMID: 37184538 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp01388j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Structure-based drug design protocols may encounter difficulties to investigate poses when the biomolecular targets do not exhibit typical binding pockets. In this study, by providing two concrete examples from our labs, we suggest that the combination of metadynamics free energy methods (validated against affinity measurements), along with experimental structural information (by X-ray crystallography and NMR), can help to identify the poses of ligands on protein surfaces. The simulation workflow proposed here was implemented in a widely used code, namely GROMACS, and it could straightforwardly be applied to various drug-design campaigns targeting ligands' binding to protein surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zuo
- Computational Biomedicine, Institute of Advanced Simulation IAS-5 and Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine INM-9, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich 52425, Germany.
- Department of Physics, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen 52074, Germany
- The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Edmond J. Safra Campus at Givat Ram, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
- Department of Physics, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Agata Kranjc
- Computational Biomedicine, Institute of Advanced Simulation IAS-5 and Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine INM-9, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich 52425, Germany.
| | - Riccardo Capelli
- Department of Biosciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 26, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Giulia Rossetti
- Computational Biomedicine, Institute of Advanced Simulation IAS-5 and Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine INM-9, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich 52425, Germany.
- Jülich Supercomputing Center (JSC), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich 52425, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Rachel Nechushtai
- The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Edmond J. Safra Campus at Givat Ram, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Paolo Carloni
- Computational Biomedicine, Institute of Advanced Simulation IAS-5 and Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine INM-9, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich 52425, Germany.
- Department of Physics, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen 52074, Germany
- JARA Institute: Molecular Neuroscience and Imaging, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine INM-11, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich 52425, Germany
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19
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Jaffré N, Delmotte J, Mikol J, Deslys JP, Comoy E. Unexpected decrease of full-length prion protein in macaques inoculated with prion-contaminated blood products. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1164779. [PMID: 37214335 PMCID: PMC10196267 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1164779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of prion infectivity in the blood of patients affected by variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (v-CJD), the human prion disease linked to the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), poses the risk of inter-human transmission of this fatal prion disease through transfusion. In the frame of various experiments, we have previously described that several cynomolgus macaques experimentally exposed to prion-contaminated blood products developed c-BSE/v-CJD, but the vast majority of them developed an unexpected, fatal disease phenotype focused on spinal cord involvement, which does not fulfill the classical diagnostic criteria of v-CJD. Here, we show that extensive analyses with current conventional techniques failed to detect any accumulation of abnormal prion protein (PrPv-CJD) in the CNS of these myelopathic animals, i.e., the biomarker considered responsible for neuronal death and subsequent clinical signs in prion diseases. Conversely, in the spinal cord of these myelopathic primates, we observed an alteration of their physiological cellular PrP pattern: PrP was not detectable under its full-length classical expression but mainly under its physiological terminal-truncated C1 fragment. This observed disappearance of the N-terminal fragment of cellular PrP at the level of the lesions may provide the first experimental evidence of a link between loss of function of the cellular prion protein and disease onset. This original prion-induced myelopathic syndrome suggests an unexpected wide extension in the field of prion diseases that is so far limited to pathologies associated with abnormal changes of the cellular PrP to highly structured conformations.
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20
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Adeola AC, Bello SF, Abdussamad AM, Mark AI, Sanke OJ, Onoja AB, Nneji LM, Abdullahi N, Olaogun SC, Rogo LD, Mangbon GF, Pedro SL, Hiinan MP, Mukhtar MM, Ibrahim J, Saidu H, Dawuda PM, Bala RK, Abdullahi HL, Salako AE, Kdidi S, Yahyaoui MH, Yin TT. Scrapie-associated polymorphisms of the prion protein gene (PRNP) in Nigerian native goats. Gene X 2023; 855:147121. [PMID: 36535463 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.147121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Scrapie is a fatal prion protein disease stiffly associated with single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) of the prion protein gene (PRNP). The prevalence of this deadly disease has been reported in small ruminants, including goats. The Nigerian goats are hardy, trypano-tolerant, and contribute to the protein intake of the increasing population. Although scrapie has been reported in Nigerian goats, there is no study on the polymorphism of the PRNP gene. Herein, we evaluated the genetic and allele distributions of PRNP polymorphism in 132 Nigerian goats and compared them with publicly available studies on scrapie-affected goats. We utilized Polyphen-2, PROVEAN and AMYCO programs to examine structural variations produced by the non-synonymous SNPs. Our study revealed 29 SNPs in Nigerian goats, of which 14 were non-synonymous, and 23 were novel. There were significant differences (P < 0.001) in the allele frequencies of PRNP codons 139, 146, 154 and 193 in Nigerian goats compared with scrapie-affected goats, except for Northern Italian goats at codon 154. Based on the prediction by Polyphen-2, R139S and N146S were 'benign', R154H was 'probably damaging', and T193I was 'possibly damaging'. In contrast, PROVEAN predicted 'neutral' for all non-synonymous SNPs, while AMYCO showed a similar amyloid propensity of PRNP for resistant haplotype and two haplotypes of Nigerian goats. Our study is the first to investigate the polymorphism of scrapie-related genes in Nigerian goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeniyi C Adeola
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution & Yunnan Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Domestic Animals, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China; Sino-Africa Joint Research Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China; Centre for Biotechnology Research, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria.
| | - Semiu F Bello
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Abdussamad M Abdussamad
- Centre for Biotechnology Research, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria; Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Akanbi I Mark
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Secretariat, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Oscar J Sanke
- Taraba State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Jalingo, Nigeria
| | - Anyebe B Onoja
- Department of Virology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Lotanna M Nneji
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, 08544, United States
| | - Nasiru Abdullahi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Sunday C Olaogun
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Lawal D Rogo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Manasseh P Hiinan
- Small Ruminant Section, Solomon Kesinton Agro-Allied Limited Iperu-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Muhammad M Mukhtar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Jebi Ibrahim
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agriculture Makurdi, Makurdi, Nigeria
| | - Hayatu Saidu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Philip M Dawuda
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, National University of Lesotho, South Africa
| | - Rukayya K Bala
- Centre for Biotechnology Research, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Hadiza L Abdullahi
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria; Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Adebowale E Salako
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Samia Kdidi
- Livestock and Wildlife Laboratory, Institut des Régions Arides, Université de Gabes, Route El Djorf, Km 22.5, Medenine 4119, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Habib Yahyaoui
- Livestock and Wildlife Laboratory, Institut des Régions Arides, Université de Gabes, Route El Djorf, Km 22.5, Medenine 4119, Tunisia
| | - Ting-Ting Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution & Yunnan Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Domestic Animals, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
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21
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Tranulis MA, Tryland M. The Zoonotic Potential of Chronic Wasting Disease-A Review. Foods 2023; 12:foods12040824. [PMID: 36832899 PMCID: PMC9955994 DOI: 10.3390/foods12040824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are transmissible neurodegenerative disorders that affect humans and ruminant species consumed by humans. Ruminant prion diseases include bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in cattle, scrapie in sheep and goats and chronic wasting disease (CWD) in cervids. In 1996, prions causing BSE were identified as the cause of a new prion disease in humans; variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD). This sparked a food safety crisis and unprecedented protective measures to reduce human exposure to livestock prions. CWD continues to spread in North America, and now affects free-ranging and/or farmed cervids in 30 US states and four Canadian provinces. The recent discovery in Europe of previously unrecognized CWD strains has further heightened concerns about CWD as a food pathogen. The escalating CWD prevalence in enzootic areas and its appearance in a new species (reindeer) and new geographical locations, increase human exposure and the risk of CWD strain adaptation to humans. No cases of human prion disease caused by CWD have been recorded, and most experimental data suggest that the zoonotic risk of CWD is very low. However, the understanding of these diseases is still incomplete (e.g., origin, transmission properties and ecology), suggesting that precautionary measures should be implemented to minimize human exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A. Tranulis
- Department of Preclinical Sciences and Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 5003 As, Norway
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +47-67232040
| | - Morten Tryland
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, Faculty of Applied Ecology, Agricultural Sciences and Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2480 Koppang, Norway
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22
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Guadagno AH, Medina SH. The manifold role of octapeptide repeats in prion protein assembly. Pept Sci (Hoboken) 2023; 115. [PMID: 37153755 PMCID: PMC10162500 DOI: 10.1002/pep2.24303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Prion protein misfolding is associated with fatal neurodegenerative disorders such as kuru, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, and several animal encephalopathies. While the C-terminal 106-126 peptide has been well studied for its role in prion replication and toxicity, the octapeptide repeat (OPR) sequence found within the N-terminal domain has been relatively under explored. Recent findings that the OPR has both local and long-range effects on prion protein folding and assembly, as well as its ability to bind and regulate transition metal homeostasis, highlights the important role this understudied region may have in prion pathologies. This review attempts to collate this knowledge to advance a deeper understanding on the varied physiologic and pathologic roles the prion OPR plays, and connect these findings to potential therapeutic modalities focused on OPR-metal binding. Continued study of the OPR will not only elucidate a more complete mechanistic model of prion pathology, but may enhance knowledge on other neurodegenerative processes underlying Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy H. Guadagno
- Nanomedicine, Intercollegiate Degree Program Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
| | - Scott H. Medina
- Department of Biomedical Engineering Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
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23
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Alves Conceição C, Assis de Lemos G, Barros CA, Vieira TCRG. What is the role of lipids in prion conversion and disease? Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 15:1032541. [PMID: 36704327 PMCID: PMC9871914 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1032541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular cause of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) involves the conversion of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) into its pathogenic form, called prion scrapie (PrPSc), which is prone to the formation of amorphous and amyloid aggregates found in TSE patients. Although the mechanisms of conversion of PrPC into PrPSc are not entirely understood, two key points are currently accepted: (i) PrPSc acts as a seed for the recruitment of native PrPC, inducing the latter's conversion to PrPSc; and (ii) other biomolecules, such as DNA, RNA, or lipids, can act as cofactors, mediating the conversion from PrPC to PrPSc. Interestingly, PrPC is anchored by a glycosylphosphatidylinositol molecule in the outer cell membrane. Therefore, interactions with lipid membranes or alterations in the membranes themselves have been widely investigated as possible factors for conversion. Alone or in combination with RNA molecules, lipids can induce the formation of PrP in vitro-produced aggregates capable of infecting animal models. Here, we discuss the role of lipids in prion conversion and infectivity, highlighting the structural and cytotoxic aspects of lipid-prion interactions. Strikingly, disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease also seem to be caused by changes in protein structure and share pathogenic mechanisms with TSEs. Thus, we posit that comprehending the process of PrP conversion is relevant to understanding critical events involved in a variety of neurodegenerative disorders and will contribute to developing future therapeutic strategies for these devastating conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyntia Alves Conceição
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Assis de Lemos
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Caroline Augusto Barros
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Tuane C. R. G. Vieira
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,*Correspondence: Tuane C. R. G. Vieira, ✉
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24
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Adua SJ, Arnal-Estapé A, Zhao M, Qi B, Liu ZZ, Kravitz C, Hulme H, Strittmatter N, López-Giráldez F, Chande S, Albert AE, Melnick MA, Hu B, Politi K, Chiang V, Colclough N, Goodwin RJA, Cross D, Smith P, Nguyen DX. Brain metastatic outgrowth and osimertinib resistance are potentiated by RhoA in EGFR-mutant lung cancer. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7690. [PMID: 36509758 PMCID: PMC9744876 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34889-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The brain is a major sanctuary site for metastatic cancer cells that evade systemic therapies. Through pre-clinical pharmacological, biological, and molecular studies, we characterize the functional link between drug resistance and central nervous system (CNS) relapse in Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor- (EGFR-) mutant non-small cell lung cancer, which can progress in the brain when treated with the CNS-penetrant EGFR inhibitor osimertinib. Despite widespread osimertinib distribution in vivo, the brain microvascular tumor microenvironment (TME) is associated with the persistence of malignant cell sub-populations, which are poised to proliferate in the brain as osimertinib-resistant lesions over time. Cellular and molecular features of this poised state are regulated through a Ras homolog family member A (RhoA) and Serum Responsive Factor (SRF) gene expression program. RhoA potentiates the outgrowth of disseminated tumor cells on osimertinib treatment, preferentially in response to extracellular laminin and in the brain. Thus, we identify pre-existing and adaptive features of metastatic and drug-resistant cancer cells, which are enhanced by RhoA/SRF signaling and the brain TME during the evolution of osimertinib-resistant disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally J Adua
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Anna Arnal-Estapé
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Minghui Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Bowen Qi
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Zongzhi Z Liu
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Carolyn Kravitz
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Heather Hulme
- Imaging and Data Analytics, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nicole Strittmatter
- Imaging and Data Analytics, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Sampada Chande
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Mary-Ann Melnick
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Bomiao Hu
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Katerina Politi
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Medicine (Medical Oncology), Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Veronica Chiang
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Richard J A Goodwin
- Imaging and Data Analytics, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Darren Cross
- Global Oncology Medical Affairs, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Paul Smith
- Bioscience, Early Oncology TDE, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Don X Nguyen
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Medicine (Medical Oncology), Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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25
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Cellular Prion Protein Role in Cancer Biology: Is It A Potential Therapeutic Target? Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10112833. [PMID: 36359353 PMCID: PMC9687521 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112833] [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: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancers are worldwide health concerns, whether they are sporadic or hereditary. The fundamental mechanism that causes somatic or oncogenic mutations and ultimately aids cancer development is still unknown. However, mammalian cells with protein-only somatic inheritance may also contribute to cancerous malignancies. Emerging data from a recent study show that prion-like proteins and prions (PrPC) are crucial entities that have a functional role in developing neurological disorders and cancer. Furthermore, excessive PrPC expression profiling has also been detected in non-neuronal tissues, such as the lymphoid cells, kidney, GIT, lung, muscle, and mammary glands. PrPC expression is strongly linked with the proliferation and metastasis of pancreatic, prostate, colorectal, and breast malignancies. Similarly, experimental investigation presented that the PrPC expression, including the prion protein-coding gene (PRNP) and p53 ag are directly associated with tumorigenicity and metastasis (tumor suppressor gene). The ERK2 (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) pathway also confers a robust metastatic capability for PrPC-induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Additionally, prions could alter the epigenetic regulation of genes and overactive the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, which promotes the development of cancer in humans. Protein overexpression or suppression caused by a prion and prion-like proteins has also been linked to oncogenesis and metastasis. Meanwhile, additional studies have discovered resistance to therapeutic targets, highlighting the significance of protein expression levels as potential diagnostic indicators and therapeutic targets.
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26
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Wurz AI, Schulz AM, O’Bryant CT, Sharp JF, Hughes RM. Cytoskeletal dysregulation and neurodegenerative disease: Formation, monitoring, and inhibition of cofilin-actin rods. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:982074. [PMID: 36212686 PMCID: PMC9535683 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.982074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of atypical cytoskeletal dynamics, structures, and associated morphologies is a common theme uniting numerous diseases and developmental disorders. In particular, cytoskeletal dysregulation is a common cellular feature of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease. While the numerous activators and inhibitors of dysregulation present complexities for characterizing these elements as byproducts or initiators of the disease state, it is increasingly clear that a better understanding of these anomalies is critical for advancing the state of knowledge and plan of therapeutic attack. In this review, we focus on the hallmarks of cytoskeletal dysregulation that are associated with cofilin-linked actin regulation, with a particular emphasis on the formation, monitoring, and inhibition of cofilin-actin rods. We also review actin-associated proteins other than cofilin with links to cytoskeleton-associated neurodegenerative processes, recognizing that cofilin-actin rods comprise one strand of a vast web of interactions that occur as a result of cytoskeletal dysregulation. Our aim is to present a current perspective on cytoskeletal dysregulation, connecting recent developments in our understanding with emerging strategies for biosensing and biomimicry that will help shape future directions of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna I. Wurz
- Department of Chemistry, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Anna M. Schulz
- Department of Chemistry, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Collin T. O’Bryant
- Department of Chemistry, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Josephine F. Sharp
- Department of Chemistry, Notre Dame College, South Euclid, OH, United States
| | - Robert M. Hughes
- Department of Chemistry, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Robert M. Hughes,
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27
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Lukiw WJ, Jaber VR, Pogue AI, Zhao Y. SARS-CoV-2 Invasion and Pathological Links to Prion Disease. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1253. [PMID: 36139092 PMCID: PMC9496025 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of the COVID-19 disease, is a highly infectious and transmissible viral pathogen that continues to impact human health globally. Nearly ~600 million people have been infected with SARS-CoV-2, and about half exhibit some degree of continuing health complication, generically referred to as long COVID. Lingering and often serious neurological problems for patients in the post-COVID-19 recovery period include brain fog, behavioral changes, confusion, delirium, deficits in intellect, cognition and memory issues, loss of balance and coordination, problems with vision, visual processing and hallucinations, encephalopathy, encephalitis, neurovascular or cerebrovascular insufficiency, and/or impaired consciousness. Depending upon the patient’s age at the onset of COVID-19 and other factors, up to ~35% of all elderly COVID-19 patients develop a mild-to-severe encephalopathy due to complications arising from a SARS-CoV-2-induced cytokine storm and a surge in cytokine-mediated pro-inflammatory and immune signaling. In fact, this cytokine storm syndrome: (i) appears to predispose aged COVID-19 patients to the development of other neurological complications, especially those who have experienced a more serious grade of COVID-19 infection; (ii) lies along highly interactive and pathological pathways involving SARS-CoV-2 infection that promotes the parallel development and/or intensification of progressive and often lethal neurological conditions, and (iii) is strongly associated with the symptomology, onset, and development of human prion disease (PrD) and other insidious and incurable neurological syndromes. This commentary paper will evaluate some recent peer-reviewed studies in this intriguing area of human SARS-CoV-2-associated neuropathology and will assess how chronic, viral-mediated changes to the brain and CNS contribute to cognitive decline in PrD and other progressive, age-related neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter J. Lukiw
- LSU Neuroscience Center, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Alchem Biotek Research, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, LSU Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Department Neurology, LSU Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Vivian R. Jaber
- LSU Neuroscience Center, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | | | - Yuhai Zhao
- LSU Neuroscience Center, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, LSU Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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28
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Zeng Z, Fichou Y, Vigers M, Tsay K, Han S. Illuminating the Structural Basis of Tau Aggregation by Intramolecular Distance Tracking: A Perspective on Methods. J Phys Chem B 2022; 126:6384-6395. [PMID: 35994024 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.2c02022] [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
The aggregation of the tau protein is central to several neurodegenerative diseases, collectively known as tauopathies. High-resolution views of tau tangles accumulated under pathological conditions in post-mortem brains have been revealed recently by cryogenic electron microscopy. One of the striking discoveries was that fibril folds are unique to and homogeneous within one disease family, but typically different between different tauopathies. It is widely believed that seeded aggregation can achieve structural propagation of tau fibrils and generate pathological fibril structures. However, direct molecular level measurement of structural evolution during aggregation is missing. Here, we discuss our perspective on the biophysical approaches that can contribute to the ongoing debate regarding the prion-like propagation of tau and the role of cofactors. We discuss the unique potential of double electron-electron resonance (DEER)-based intramolecular distance measurement, sensitive to two to several nanometers distances. DEER can track the structural evolution of tau along the course of aggregation from the completely disordered state, to partially ordered and highly ordered fibril states, and has the potential to be a key tool to elucidate the disease-specific tau aggregation pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhikai Zeng
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Yann Fichou
- CNRS, Chemistry and Biology of Membranes and Nanoobjects (CBMN) UMR 5348, Institut Europeen de Chimie et Biologie (IECB), University of Bordeaux, 33600 Pessac, France
| | - Michael Vigers
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Karen Tsay
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Songi Han
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States.,Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
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29
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A conformational switch controlling the toxicity of the prion protein. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2022; 29:831-840. [PMID: 35948768 PMCID: PMC9371974 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-022-00814-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Prion infections cause conformational changes of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) and lead to progressive neurological impairment. Here we show that toxic, prion-mimetic ligands induce an intramolecular R208-H140 hydrogen bond ('H-latch'), altering the flexibility of the α2-α3 and β2-α2 loops of PrPC. Expression of a PrP2Cys mutant mimicking the H-latch was constitutively toxic, whereas a PrPR207A mutant unable to form the H-latch conferred resistance to prion infection. High-affinity ligands that prevented H-latch induction repressed prion-related neurodegeneration in organotypic cerebellar cultures. We then selected phage-displayed ligands binding wild-type PrPC, but not PrP2Cys. These binders depopulated H-latched conformers and conferred protection against prion toxicity. Finally, brain-specific expression of an antibody rationally designed to prevent H-latch formation prolonged the life of prion-infected mice despite unhampered prion propagation, confirming that the H-latch is an important reporter of prion neurotoxicity.
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30
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Pfundstein G, Nikonenko AG, Sytnyk V. Amyloid precursor protein (APP) and amyloid β (Aβ) interact with cell adhesion molecules: Implications in Alzheimer’s disease and normal physiology. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:969547. [PMID: 35959488 PMCID: PMC9360506 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.969547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder in which dysfunction and loss of synapses and neurons lead to cognitive impairment and death. Accumulation and aggregation of neurotoxic amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides generated via amyloidogenic processing of amyloid precursor protein (APP) is considered to play a central role in the disease etiology. APP interacts with cell adhesion molecules, which influence the normal physiological functions of APP, its amyloidogenic and non-amyloidogenic processing, and formation of Aβ aggregates. These cell surface glycoproteins also mediate attachment of Aβ to the neuronal cell surface and induce intracellular signaling contributing to Aβ toxicity. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge surrounding the interactions of cell adhesion molecules with APP and Aβ and analyze the evidence of the critical role these proteins play in regulating the processing and physiological function of APP as well as Aβ toxicity. This is a necessary piece of the complex AD puzzle, which we should understand in order to develop safe and effective therapeutic interventions for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant Pfundstein
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Vladimir Sytnyk
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Vladimir Sytnyk,
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31
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Trachtenbroit I, Cohen OS, Chapman J, Rosenmann H, Nitsan Z, Kahana E, Appel S. Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients with late-onset Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:4275-4279. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-05929-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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32
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Abstract
Copper ions bind to biomolecules (e.g., peptides and proteins) playing an essential role in many biological and physiological pathways in the human body. The resulting complexes may contribute to the initiation of neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and bacterial and viral diseases, or act as therapeutics. Some compounds can chemically damage biological macromolecules and initiate the development of pathogenic states. Conversely, a number of these compounds may have antibacterial, antiviral, and even anticancer properties. One of the most significant current discussions in Cu biochemistry relates to the mechanisms of the positive and negative actions of Cu ions based on the generation of reactive oxygen species, including radicals that can interact with DNA molecules. This review aims to analyze various peptide–copper complexes and the mechanism of their action.
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33
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Extracellular alpha-synuclein: Sensors, receptors, and responses. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 168:105696. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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34
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Hernaiz A, Sanz A, Sentre S, Ranera B, Lopez-Pérez O, Zaragoza P, Badiola JJ, Filali H, Bolea R, Toivonen JM, Martín-Burriel I. Genome-Wide Methylation Profiling in the Thalamus of Scrapie Sheep. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:824677. [PMID: 35252421 PMCID: PMC8888973 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.824677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Scrapie is a neurodegenerative disorder belonging to the group of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE). Scrapie occurs in sheep and goats, which are considered good natural animal models of these TSE. Changes in DNA methylation occur in the central nervous system (CNS) of patients suffering from prion-like neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Nevertheless, potential DNA methylation alterations have not yet been investigated in the CNS of any prion disease model or naturally infected cases, neither in humans nor in animals. Genome-wide DNA methylation patterns were studied in the thalamus obtained from sheep naturally infected with scrapie at a clinical stage (n = 4) and from controls (n = 4) by performing a whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) analysis. Ewes carried the scrapie-susceptible ARQ/ARQ PRNP genotype and were sacrificed at a similar age (4–6 years). Although the average genomic methylation levels were similar between the control and the scrapie animals, we identified 8,907 significant differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and 39 promoters (DMPs). Gene Ontology analysis revealed that hypomethylated DMRs were enriched in genes involved in transmembrane transport and cell adhesion, whereas hypermethylated DMRs were related to intracellular signal transduction genes. Moreover, genes highly expressed in specific types of CNS cells and those previously described to be differentially expressed in scrapie brains contained DMRs. Finally, a quantitative PCR (qPCR) validation indicated differences in the expression of five genes (PCDH19, SNCG, WDR45B, PEX1, and CABIN1) that matched the methylation changes observed in the genomic study. Altogether, these results suggest a potential regulatory role of DNA methylation in prion neuropathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelaida Hernaiz
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Arianne Sanz
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sara Sentre
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Beatriz Ranera
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad San Jorge, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Oscar Lopez-Pérez
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Encefalopatías y Enfermedades Transmisibles Emergentes (CEETE), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Pilar Zaragoza
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Juan J. Badiola
- Centro de Encefalopatías y Enfermedades Transmisibles Emergentes (CEETE), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Hicham Filali
- Centro de Encefalopatías y Enfermedades Transmisibles Emergentes (CEETE), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rosa Bolea
- Centro de Encefalopatías y Enfermedades Transmisibles Emergentes (CEETE), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Janne M. Toivonen
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Martín-Burriel
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Encefalopatías y Enfermedades Transmisibles Emergentes (CEETE), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Inmaculada Martín-Burriel
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35
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Basak A, Basak S. Protein Aggregation and Self Assembly in Health and Disease. CURR PROTEOMICS 2022. [DOI: 10.2174/1570164618666210223160742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
:
Self-attachment of proteins leading to the formation of highly insoluble protein oligomers and aggregates has become an important focus of research owing to its diverse implications in pathophysiology and diseases. This has become a more frequent phenomenon in most neurological and neurodegenerative diseases as well as in dementia. In recent years such event of protein aggregation has linked to other disease conditions, disorders or adverse health conditions. Interestingly, aggregation of protein also plays role in development, growth or metabolism. Most often physiological proteins are initially bio-synthesised in native or nascent geometrical forms or conformations but later they undergo specific folding pattern and thereby acquire a stable configuration that is biologically relevant and active. It is highly important that these proteins remain in their biologically active configuration in order to exert their functional properties. Any alteration or change to this structural configuration can be detrimental to their specific functions and may cause pathological consequences leading to the onset of diseases or disorders. Several factors such as the action of chaperones, binding partners, physiological metal ions, pH level, temperature, ionic strength, interfacial exposure (solid-liquid, liquid-liquid, gas-liquid), mutation and post translational modification, chemical changes, interaction with small molecules such as lipids, hormones, etc. and solvent environment have been either identified or proposed as important factors in conferring the ultimate status of protein structure and configuration.
Among many misfolding protein conformations, self-assembly or aggregation is the most significant. It leads to the formation of highly oligomeric self-aggregates that precipitate and interfere with many biochemical processes with serious pathological consequences. The most common implication of protein aggregation leading to the formation of deposits / plaques of various morphological types is the onset of neurological and neurodegenerative diseases that include Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington, ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), CJD (Creutzfeldt Jakob Dementia), Prion diseases, Amyloidosis and other forms of dementia. However increasingly studies revealed that protein aggregation may also be associated with other diseases such as cancer, type 2 diabetes, renal, corneal and cardiovascular diseases. Protein aggregation diseases are now considered as part of “Proteinopathy” which refers to conditions where proteins become structurally abnormal or fail to fold into stable normal configurations. In this review, we reflect on various aspects of protein self-aggregation, potential underlying causes, mechanism, role of secondary structures, pathological consequences and possible intervention strategies as reported in published literatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajoy Basak
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, U Ottawa, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute,
The Ottawa Hospital, U Ottawa, Canada
| | - Sarmistha Basak
- Formerly of Kidney Research Center, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, U Ottawa, Canada
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Mohammadi B, Song F, Matamoros-Angles A, Shafiq M, Damme M, Puig B, Glatzel M, Altmeppen HC. Anchorless risk or released benefit? An updated view on the ADAM10-mediated shedding of the prion protein. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 392:215-234. [PMID: 35084572 PMCID: PMC10113312 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03582-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The prion protein (PrP) is a broadly expressed glycoprotein linked with a multitude of (suggested) biological and pathological implications. Some of these roles seem to be due to constitutively generated proteolytic fragments of the protein. Among them is a soluble PrP form, which is released from the surface of neurons and other cell types by action of the metalloprotease ADAM10 in a process termed 'shedding'. The latter aspect is the focus of this review, which aims to provide a comprehensive overview on (i) the relevance of proteolytic processing in regulating cellular PrP functions, (ii) currently described involvement of shed PrP in neurodegenerative diseases (including prion diseases and Alzheimer's disease), (iii) shed PrP's expected roles in intercellular communication in many more (patho)physiological conditions (such as stroke, cancer or immune responses), (iv) and the need for improved research tools in respective (future) studies. Deeper mechanistic insight into roles played by PrP shedding and its resulting fragment may pave the way for improved diagnostics and future therapeutic approaches in diseases of the brain and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnam Mohammadi
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- Working Group for Interdisciplinary Neurobiology and Immunology (INI Research), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Feizhi Song
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreu Matamoros-Angles
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mohsin Shafiq
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Damme
- Institute of Biochemistry, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Berta Puig
- Department of Neurology, Experimental Research in Stroke and Inflammation (ERSI), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Glatzel
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
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Kovač V, Čurin Šerbec V. Prion Protein: The Molecule of Many Forms and Faces. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031232. [PMID: 35163156 PMCID: PMC8835406 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored protein most abundantly found in the outer membrane of neurons. Due to structural characteristics (a flexible tail and structured core), PrPC interacts with a wide range of partners. Although PrPC has been proposed to be involved in many physiological functions, only peripheral nerve myelination homeostasis has been confirmed as a bona fide function thus far. PrPC misfolding causes prion diseases and PrPC has been shown to mediate β-rich oligomer-induced neurotoxicity in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease as well as neuroprotection in ischemia. Upon proteolytic cleavage, PrPC is transformed into released and attached forms of PrP that can, depending on the contained structural characteristics of PrPC, display protective or toxic properties. In this review, we will outline prion protein and prion protein fragment properties as well as overview their involvement with interacting partners and signal pathways in myelination, neuroprotection and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Rivillas‐Acevedo L, Grande‐Aztatzi R, Juaristi E, Vela A, Quintanar L. Reversible Stereoisomer‐Specific Cotton Effect of the Ligand Field Transitions at a Copper(II) Binding Site of the Prion Protein. Eur J Inorg Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ejic.202100625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lina Rivillas‐Acevedo
- Centro de Investigación en Dinámica Celular Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos Avenida Universidad #1001 62209 Cuernavaca, México
| | - Rafael Grande‐Aztatzi
- Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias Tecnológico de Monterrey Av. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501 64849 Monterrey Nuevo León, México
| | - Eusebio Juaristi
- Departamento de Química Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav) Av. IPN #2508, Gustavo A. Madero 07360 Ciudad de México México
- El Colegio Nacional Donceles # 104, Centro Histórico 06020 Ciudad de México Mexico
| | - Alberto Vela
- Departamento de Química Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav) Av. IPN #2508, Gustavo A. Madero 07360 Ciudad de México México
| | - Liliana Quintanar
- Departamento de Química Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav) Av. IPN #2508, Gustavo A. Madero 07360 Ciudad de México México
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Matamoros-Angles A, Hervera A, Soriano J, Martí E, Carulla P, Llorens F, Nuvolone M, Aguzzi A, Ferrer I, Gruart A, Delgado-García JM, Del Río JA. Analysis of co-isogenic prion protein deficient mice reveals behavioral deficits, learning impairment, and enhanced hippocampal excitability. BMC Biol 2022; 20:17. [PMID: 35027047 PMCID: PMC8759182 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-021-01203-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a cell surface GPI-anchored protein, usually known for its role in the pathogenesis of human and animal prionopathies. However, increasing knowledge about the participation of PrPC in prion pathogenesis contrasts with puzzling data regarding its natural physiological role. PrPC is expressed in a number of tissues, including at high levels in the nervous system, especially in neurons and glial cells, and while previous studies have established a neuroprotective role, conflicting evidence for a synaptic function has revealed both reduced and enhanced long-term potentiation, and variable observations on memory, learning, and behavior. Such evidence has been confounded by the absence of an appropriate knock-out mouse model to dissect the biological relevance of PrPC, with some functions recently shown to be misattributed to PrPC due to the presence of genetic artifacts in mouse models. Here we elucidate the role of PrPC in the hippocampal circuitry and its related functions, such as learning and memory, using a recently available strictly co-isogenic Prnp0/0 mouse model (PrnpZH3/ZH3). Results We performed behavioral and operant conditioning tests to evaluate memory and learning capabilities, with results showing decreased motility, impaired operant conditioning learning, and anxiety-related behavior in PrnpZH3/ZH3 animals. We also carried in vivo electrophysiological recordings on CA3-CA1 synapses in living behaving mice and monitored spontaneous neuronal firing and network formation in primary neuronal cultures of PrnpZH3/ZH3 vs wildtype mice. PrPC absence enhanced susceptibility to high-intensity stimulations and kainate-induced seizures. However, long-term potentiation (LTP) was not enhanced in the PrnpZH3/ZH3 hippocampus. In addition, we observed a delay in neuronal maturation and network formation in PrnpZH3/ZH3 cultures. Conclusion Our results demonstrate that PrPC promotes neuronal network formation and connectivity. PrPC mediates synaptic function and protects the synapse from excitotoxic insults. Its deletion may underlie an epileptogenic-susceptible brain that fails to perform highly cognitive-demanding tasks such as associative learning and anxiety-like behaviors. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-021-01203-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Matamoros-Angles
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBERNED (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - A Hervera
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBERNED (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Soriano
- Departament de Física de la Materia Condensada, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - E Martí
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Bioinformatics and Genomics, Center for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona, Spain
| | - P Carulla
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBERNED (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Llorens
- CIBERNED (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Neurology, University Medical School, Göttingen, Germany.,Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
| | - M Nuvolone
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.,Amyloidosis Center, Foundation IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - A Aguzzi
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - I Ferrer
- CIBERNED (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Senior Consultant, Bellvitge University Hospital, IDIBELL (Bellvitge Biomedical Research Centre), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain.,Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Gruart
- Division of Neurosciences, Pablo de Olavide University, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - J M Delgado-García
- Division of Neurosciences, Pablo de Olavide University, 41013, Seville, Spain.
| | - J A Del Río
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain. .,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain. .,CIBERNED (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain. .,Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Uliassi E, Nikolic L, Bolognesi ML, Legname G. Therapeutic strategies for identifying small molecules against prion diseases. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 392:337-347. [PMID: 34989851 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-021-03573-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Prion diseases are fatal neurodegenerative disorders, for which there are no effective therapeutic and diagnostic agents. The main pathological hallmark has been identified as conformational changes of the cellular isoform prion protein (PrPC) to a misfolded isoform of the prion protein (PrPSc). Targeting PrPC and its conversion to PrPSc is still the central dogma in prion drug discovery, particularly in in silico and in vitro screening endeavors, leading to the identification of many small molecules with therapeutic potential. Nonetheless, multiple pathological targets are critically involved in the intricate pathogenesis of prion diseases. In this context, multi-target-directed ligands (MTDLs) emerge as valuable therapeutic approach for their potential to effectively counteract the complex etiopathogenesis by simultaneously modulating multiple targets. In addition, diagnosis occurs late in the disease process, and consequently a successful therapeutic intervention cannot be provided. In this respect, small molecule theranostics, which combine imaging and therapeutic properties, showed tremendous potential to cure and diagnose in vivo prion diseases. Herein, we review the major advances in prion drug discovery, from anti-prion small molecules identified by means of in silico and in vitro screening approaches to two rational strategies, namely MTDLs and theranostics, that have led to the identification of novel compounds with an expanded anti-prion profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Uliassi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lea Nikolic
- Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore Di Studi Avanzati (SISSA), Trieste, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Bolognesi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Legname
- Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore Di Studi Avanzati (SISSA), Trieste, Italy.
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APP deficiency and HTRA2 modulates PrPc proteostasis in human cancer cells. BBA ADVANCES 2022; 2:100035. [PMID: 37082595 PMCID: PMC10074928 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadva.2021.100035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular protein homeostasis (proteostasis) requires an accurate balance between protein biosynthesis, folding, and degradation, and its instability is causally related to human diseases and cancers. Here, we created numerous engineered cancer cell lines targeting APP (amyloid ß precursor protein) and/or PRNP (cellular prion) genes and we showed that APP knocking-down impaired PRNP mRNA level and vice versa, suggesting a link between their gene regulation. PRNPKD, APPKD and PRNPKD/APPKD HeLa cells encountered major difficulties to grow in a 3D tissue-like environment. Unexpectedly, we found a cytoplasmic accumulation of the PrPc protein without PRNP gene up regulation, in both APPKD and APPKO HeLa cells. Interestingly, APP and/or PRNP gene ablation enhanced the chaperone/serine protease HTRA2 gene expression, which is a protein processing quality factor involved in Alzheimer's disease. Importantly, HTRA2 gene silencing decreased PRNP mRNA level and lowered PrPc protein amounts, and conversely, HTRA2 overexpression increased PRNP gene regulation and enhanced membrane-anchored and cytoplasmic PrPc fractions. PrPc, APP and HTRA2 destabilized membrane-associated CD24 protein, suggesting changes in the lipid raft structure. Our data show for the first time that APP and the dual chaperone/serine protease HTRA2 protein could modulate PrPc proteostasis hampering cancer cell behavior.
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Panes JD, Saavedra P, Pineda B, Escobar K, Cuevas ME, Moraga-Cid G, Fuentealba J, Rivas CI, Rezaei H, Muñoz-Montesino C. PrP C as a Transducer of Physiological and Pathological Signals. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:762918. [PMID: 34880726 PMCID: PMC8648500 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.762918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
After the discovery of prion phenomenon, the physiological role of the cellular prion protein (PrP C ) remained elusive. In the past decades, molecular and cellular analysis has shed some light regarding interactions and functions of PrP C in health and disease. PrP C , which is located mainly at the plasma membrane of neuronal cells attached by a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor, can act as a receptor or transducer from external signaling. Although the precise role of PrP C remains elusive, a variety of functions have been proposed for this protein, namely, neuronal excitability and viability. Although many issues must be solved to clearly define the role of PrP C , its connection to the central nervous system (CNS) and to several misfolding-associated diseases makes PrP C an interesting pharmacological target. In a physiological context, several reports have proposed that PrP C modulates synaptic transmission, interacting with various proteins, namely, ion pumps, channels, and metabotropic receptors. PrP C has also been implicated in the pathophysiological cell signaling induced by β-amyloid peptide that leads to synaptic dysfunction in the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD), as a mediator of Aβ-induced cell toxicity. Additionally, it has been implicated in other proteinopathies as well. In this review, we aimed to analyze the role of PrP C as a transducer of physiological and pathological signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D Panes
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Paulina Saavedra
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.,Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Benjamin Pineda
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Kathleen Escobar
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.,Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Magdalena E Cuevas
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Gustavo Moraga-Cid
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Jorge Fuentealba
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Coralia I Rivas
- Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Human Rezaei
- Virologie et Immunologie Moléculaires (VIM), Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (UVSQ), Versailles, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Carola Muñoz-Montesino
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
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Sánchez-López C, Quintanar L. β-cleavage of the human prion protein impacts Cu(II) coordination at its non-octarepeat region. J Inorg Biochem 2021; 228:111686. [PMID: 34929540 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2021.111686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a membrane-anchored copper binding protein that undergoes proteolytic processing. β-cleavage of PrPC is associated with a pathogenic condition and it yields two fragments: N2 with residues 23-89, and C2 including residues 90-231. The membrane-bound C2 fragment retains the Cu binding sites at His96 and His111, but it also has a free N-terminal NH2 group. In this study, the impact of β-cleavage of PrPC in its Cu(II) binding properties was evaluated, using the peptide of the human prion protein hPrP(90-115) as a model for the C2 fragment. The Cu(II) coordination properties of hPrP(90-115) were studied using circular dichroism (CD) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR); while the H96A and H111A substitutions and its acetylated variants were also studied. Cu binding to hPrP(90-115) is dependent on metal ion concentration: At low copper concentrations the participation of His96 and free NH2-terminus is evident, while at high copper concentrations the His111 site is populated without participation of the N-terminal NH2 group. The presence of a free NH2-terminal group in the C2 fragment significantly impacts the Cu(II) coordination properties of the His96 site, where the NH2 group also anchors the metal ion. This study provides further insights into the impact of proteolytic processing of PrPC in the Cu binding properties of this important neuronal protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Sánchez-López
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Liliana Quintanar
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav), Mexico City, Mexico.
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Pollock NM, Leighton P, Neil G, Allison WT. Transcriptomic analysis of zebrafish prion protein mutants supports conserved cross-species function of the cellular prion protein. Prion 2021; 15:70-81. [PMID: 34139950 PMCID: PMC8216189 DOI: 10.1080/19336896.2021.1924557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular Prion Protein (PrPC) is a well-studied protein as the substrate for various progressive untreatable neurodegenerative diseases. Normal functions of PrPC are poorly understood, though recent proteomic and transcriptomic approaches have begun to reveal common themes. We use our compound prp1 and prp2 knockout mutant zebrafish at three days post fertilization to take a transcriptomic approach to investigating potentially conserved PrPC functions during development. Gene ontology analysis shows the biological processes with the largest changes in gene expression include redox processing, transport and cell adhesion. Within these categories several different gene families were prevalent including the solute carrier proteins, cytochrome p450 enzymes and protocadherins. Continuing from previous studies identifying cell adhesion as an important function of PrPC we found that in addition to the protocadherins there was a significant reduction in transcript abundance of both ncam1a and st8sia2. These two genes are involved in the early development of vertebrates. The alterations in cell adhesion transcripts were consistent with past findings in zebrafish and mouse prion protein mutants; however E-cadherin processing after prion protein knockdown failed to reveal any differences compared with wild type in either our double prp1/prp2 mutant fish or after prp1 morpholino knockdown. Our data supports a cross species conserved role for PrPC in the development and maintenance of the central nervous system, particularly by regulating various and important cell adhesion processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niall Mungo Pollock
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Centre for Prions & Protein Folding Disease, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Patricia Leighton
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Centre for Prions & Protein Folding Disease, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Gavin Neil
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - W. Ted Allison
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Centre for Prions & Protein Folding Disease, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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Crestini A, Santilli F, Martellucci S, Carbone E, Sorice M, Piscopo P, Mattei V. Prions and Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Focus on Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 85:503-518. [PMID: 34864675 DOI: 10.3233/jad-215171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Specific protein misfolding and aggregation are mechanisms underlying various neurodegenerative diseases such as prion disease and Alzheimer's disease (AD). The misfolded proteins are involved in prions, amyloid-β (Aβ), tau, and α-synuclein disorders; they share common structural, biological, and biochemical characteristics, as well as similar mechanisms of aggregation and self-propagation. Pathological features of AD include the appearance of plaques consisting of deposition of protein Aβ and neurofibrillary tangles formed by the hyperphosphorylated tau protein. Although it is not clear how protein aggregation leads to AD, we are learning that the cellular prion protein (PrPC) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of AD. Herein, we first examined the pathogenesis of prion and AD with a focus on the contribution of PrPC to the development of AD. We analyzed the mechanisms that lead to the formation of a high affinity bond between Aβ oligomers (AβOs) and PrPC. Also, we studied the role of PrPC as an AβO receptor that initiates an AβO-induced signal cascade involving mGluR5, Fyn, Pyk2, and eEF2K linking Aβ and tau pathologies, resulting in the death of neurons in the central nervous system. Finally, we have described how the PrPC-AβOs interaction can be used as a new potential therapeutic target for the treatment of PrPC-dependent AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Crestini
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Santilli
- Biomedicine and Advanced Technologies Rieti Center, "Sabina Universitas", Rieti, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Martellucci
- Biomedicine and Advanced Technologies Rieti Center, "Sabina Universitas", Rieti, Italy
| | - Elena Carbone
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Sorice
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Piscopo
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mattei
- Biomedicine and Advanced Technologies Rieti Center, "Sabina Universitas", Rieti, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University, Rome, Italy
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Agarwal A, Rai SK, Avni A, Mukhopadhyay S. An intrinsically disordered pathological prion variant Y145Stop converts into self-seeding amyloids via liquid-liquid phase separation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2100968118. [PMID: 34737230 PMCID: PMC8609423 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2100968118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensation via liquid-liquid phase separation of intrinsically disordered proteins/regions (IDPs/IDRs) along with other biomolecules is proposed to control critical cellular functions, whereas aberrant phase transitions are associated with a range of neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we show that a disease-associated stop codon mutation of the prion protein (PrP) at tyrosine 145 (Y145Stop), resulting in a truncated, highly disordered, N-terminal IDR, spontaneously phase-separates into dynamic liquid-like droplets. Phase separation of this highly positively charged N-terminal segment is promoted by the electrostatic screening and a multitude of weak, transient, multivalent, intermolecular interactions. Single-droplet Raman measurements, in conjunction with an array of bioinformatic, spectroscopic, microscopic, and mutagenesis studies, revealed a highly mobile internal organization within the liquid-like condensates. The phase behavior of Y145Stop is modulated by RNA. Lower RNA:protein ratios promote condensation at a low micromolar protein concentration under physiological conditions. At higher concentrations of RNA, phase separation is abolished. Upon aging, these highly dynamic liquid-like droplets gradually transform into ordered, β-rich, amyloid-like aggregates. These aggregates formed via phase transitions display an autocatalytic self-templating characteristic involving the recruitment and binding-induced conformational conversion of monomeric Y145Stop into amyloid fibrils. In contrast to this intrinsically disordered truncated variant, the wild-type full-length PrP exhibits a much lower propensity for both condensation and maturation into amyloids, hinting at a possible protective role of the C-terminal domain. Such an interplay of molecular factors in modulating the protein phase behavior might have much broader implications in cell physiology and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Agarwal
- Centre for Protein Science, Design and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Punjab 140306, India
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali 140306 Punjab, India
| | - Sandeep K Rai
- Centre for Protein Science, Design and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Punjab 140306, India
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali 140306 Punjab, India
| | - Anamika Avni
- Centre for Protein Science, Design and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Punjab 140306, India
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali 140306 Punjab, India
| | - Samrat Mukhopadhyay
- Centre for Protein Science, Design and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Punjab 140306, India;
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali 140306 Punjab, India
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali 140306 Punjab, India
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Posadas Y, López-Guerrero VE, Segovia J, Perez-Cruz C, Quintanar L. Dissecting the copper bioinorganic chemistry of the functional and pathological roles of the prion protein: Relevance in Alzheimer's disease and cancer. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2021; 66:102098. [PMID: 34768088 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.102098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a metal-binding biomolecule that can interact with different protein partners involved in pivotal physiological processes, such as neurogenesis and neuronal plasticity. Recent studies profile copper and PrPC as important players in the pathological mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease and cancer. Although the copper-PrPC interaction has been characterized extensively, the role of the metal ion in the physiological and pathological roles of PrPC has been barely explored. In this article, we discuss how copper binding and proteolytic processing may impact the ability of PrPC to recruit protein partners for its functional roles. The importance to dissect the role of copper-PrPC interactions in health and disease is also underscored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanahi Posadas
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav), Mexico City, 07350, Mexico; Department of Pharmacology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav), Mexico City, 07350, Mexico
| | - Victor E López-Guerrero
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav), Mexico City, 07350, Mexico; Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Neurosciences, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav), Mexico City, 07350, Mexico
| | - José Segovia
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Neurosciences, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav), Mexico City, 07350, Mexico
| | - Claudia Perez-Cruz
- Department of Pharmacology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav), Mexico City, 07350, Mexico
| | - Liliana Quintanar
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav), Mexico City, 07350, Mexico.
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Structural and Computational Study of the GroEL-Prion Protein Complex. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111649. [PMID: 34829878 PMCID: PMC8615626 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular chaperone GroEL is designed to promote protein folding and prevent aggregation. However, the interaction between GroEL and the prion protein, PrPC, could lead to pathogenic transformation of the latter to the aggregation-prone PrPSc form. Here, the molecular basis of the interactions in the GroEL-PrP complex is studied with cryo-EM and molecular dynamics approaches. The obtained cryo-EM structure shows PrP to be bound to several subunits of GroEL at the level of their apical domains. According to MD simulations, the disordered N-domain of PrP forms much more intermolecular contacts with GroEL. Upon binding to the GroEL, the N-domain of PrP begins to form short helices, while the C-domain of PrP exhibits a tendency to unfold its α2-helix. In the absence of the nucleotides in the system, these processes are manifested at the hundred nanoseconds to microsecond timescale.
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Pathak BK, Dey S, Mozumder S, Sengupta J. The role of membranes in function and dysfunction of intrinsically disordered amyloidogenic proteins. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2021; 128:397-434. [PMID: 35034725 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2021.08.001] [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
Membrane-protein interactions play a major role in human physiology as well as in diseases pathology. Interaction of a protein with the membrane was previously thought to be dependent on well-defined three-dimensional structure of the protein. In recent decades, however, it has become evident that a large fraction of the proteome, particularly in eukaryotes, stays disordered in solution and these proteins are termed as intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs). Also, a vast majority of human proteomes have been reported to contain substantially long disordered regions, called intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs), in addition to the structurally ordered regions. IDPs exist in an ensemble of conformations and the conformational flexibility enables IDPs to achieve functional diversity. IDPs (and IDRs) are found to be important players in cell signaling, where biological membranes act as anchors for signaling cascades. Therefore, IDPs modulate the membrane architectures, at the same time membrane composition also affects the binding of IDPs. Because of intrinsic disorders, misfolding of IDPs often leads to formation of oligomers, protofibrils and mature fibrils through progressive self-association. Accumulation of amyloid-like aggregates of some of the IDPs is a known causative agent for numerous diseases. In this chapter we highlight recent advances in understanding membrane interactions of some of the intrinsically disordered proteins involved in the pathogenesis of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bani Kumar Pathak
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Jadavpur, Kolkata, India
| | - Sandip Dey
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Jadavpur, Kolkata, India
| | - Sukanya Mozumder
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Jadavpur, Kolkata, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Jayati Sengupta
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Jadavpur, Kolkata, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India.
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Gielnik M, Taube M, Zhukova L, Zhukov I, Wärmländer SKTS, Svedružić Ž, Kwiatek WM, Gräslund A, Kozak M. Zn(II) binding causes interdomain changes in the structure and flexibility of the human prion protein. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21703. [PMID: 34737343 PMCID: PMC8568922 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00495-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a mainly α-helical 208-residue protein located in the pre- and postsynaptic membranes. For unknown reasons, PrPC can undergo a structural transition into a toxic, β-sheet rich scrapie isoform (PrPSc) that is responsible for transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). Metal ions seem to play an important role in the structural conversion. PrPC binds Zn(II) ions and may be involved in metal ion transport and zinc homeostasis. Here, we use multiple biophysical techniques including optical and NMR spectroscopy, molecular dynamics simulations, and small angle X-ray scattering to characterize interactions between human PrPC and Zn(II) ions. Binding of a single Zn(II) ion to the PrPC N-terminal domain via four His residues from the octarepeat region induces a structural transition in the C-terminal α-helices 2 and 3, promotes interaction between the N-terminal and C-terminal domains, reduces the folded protein size, and modifies the internal structural dynamics. As our results suggest that PrPC can bind Zn(II) under physiological conditions, these effects could be important for the physiological function of PrPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Gielnik
- Department of Macromolecular Physics, Faculty of Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
| | - Michał Taube
- Department of Macromolecular Physics, Faculty of Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
| | - Lilia Zhukova
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Igor Zhukov
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106, Warszawa, Poland
| | | | - Željko Svedružić
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Wojciech M Kwiatek
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-342, Kraków, Poland
| | - Astrid Gräslund
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maciej Kozak
- Department of Macromolecular Physics, Faculty of Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614, Poznań, Poland.
- National Synchrotron Radiation Centre SOLARIS, Jagiellonian University, 30-392, Kraków, Poland.
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