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Shi K, Bagchi S, Bickel J, Esfahani SH, Yin L, Cheng T, Karamyan VT, Aihara H. Structural basis of divergent substrate recognition and inhibition of human neurolysin. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18420. [PMID: 39117724 PMCID: PMC11310207 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-67639-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
A zinc metallopeptidase neurolysin (Nln) processes diverse bioactive peptides to regulate signaling in the mammalian nervous system. To understand how Nln interacts with various peptides with dissimilar sequences, we determined crystal structures of Nln in complex with diverse peptides including dynorphins, angiotensin, neurotensin, and bradykinin. The structures show that Nln binds these peptides in a large dumbbell-shaped interior cavity constricted at the active site, making minimal structural changes to accommodate different peptide sequences. The structures also show that Nln readily binds similar peptides with distinct registers, which can determine whether the peptide serves as a substrate or a competitive inhibitor. We analyzed the activities and binding of Nln toward various forms of dynorphin A peptides, which highlights the promiscuous nature of peptide binding and shows how dynorphin A (1-13) potently inhibits the Nln activity while dynorphin A (1-8) is efficiently cleaved. Our work provides insights into the broad substrate specificity of Nln and may aid in the future design of small molecule modulators for Nln.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Shi
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Sounak Bagchi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
| | - Jordis Bickel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
| | - Shiva H Esfahani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
- Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
| | - Lulu Yin
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Tiffany Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Vardan T Karamyan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA.
- Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA.
| | - Hideki Aihara
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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R HC, Datta A, S UK, Zayed H, D TK, C GPD. Decoding genetic and pathophysiological mechanisms in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and primary lateral sclerosis: A comparative study of differentially expressed genes and implicated pathways in motor neuron disorders. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2024; 141:177-201. [PMID: 38960473 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Motor Neuron Disorders (MNDs), characterized by the degradation and loss of function of motor neurons, are recognized as fatal conditions with limited treatment options and no known cure. The present study aimed to identify the pathophysiological functions and affected genes in patients with MNDs, specifically Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS). The GSE56808 dataset comprised three sample groups: six patients diagnosed with ALS (GSM1369650, GSM1369652, GSM1369654, GSM1369656, GSM1369657, GSM1369658), five patients diagnosed with PLS (GSM1369648, GSM1369649, GSM1369653, GSM1369655, GSM1369659), and six normal controls (GSM1369642, GSM1369643, GSM1369644, GSM1369645, GSM1369646, and GSM1369647). The application of computational analysis of microarray gene expression profiles enabled us to identify 346 significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 169 genes for the ALS sample study, and 177 genes for the PLS sample study. Enrichment was carried out using MCODE, a Cytoscape plugin. Functional annotation of DEGs was carried out via ClueGO/CluePedia (v2.5.9) and further validated via the DAVID database. NRP2, SEMA3D, ROBO3 and, CACNB1, CACNG2 genes were identified as the gene of interest for ALS and PLS sample groups, respectively. Axonal guidance (GO:0007411) and calcium ion transmembrane transport (GO:0070588) were identified to be some of the significantly dysregulated gene ontology (GO) terms, with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (KEGG:05412) to be the top relevant KEGG pathway which is affected in MND patients. ROBO3 gene was observed to have distinctive roles in ALS and PLS-affected patients, hinting towards the differential progression of ALS from PLS. The insights derived from our comprehensive analysis accentuate the distinct variances in the underlying molecular pathogenesis of ALS and PLS. Further research should investigate the mechanistic roles of the identified DEGs and molecular pathways, leading to potential targeted therapies for ALS and PLS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hephzibah Cathryn R
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ankur Datta
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Udhaya Kumar S
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India; Department of Medicine, Division Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Hatem Zayed
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Thirumal Kumar D
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - George Priya Doss C
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Moisoi N. Mitochondrial proteases modulate mitochondrial stress signalling and cellular homeostasis in health and disease. Biochimie 2024:S0300-9084(24)00141-X. [PMID: 38906365 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Maintenance of mitochondrial homeostasis requires a plethora of coordinated quality control and adaptations' mechanisms in which mitochondrial proteases play a key role. Their activation or loss of function reverberate beyond local mitochondrial biochemical and metabolic remodelling into coordinated cellular pathways and stress responses that feedback onto the mitochondrial functionality and adaptability. Mitochondrial proteolysis modulates molecular and organellar quality control, metabolic adaptations, lipid homeostasis and regulates transcriptional stress responses. Defective mitochondrial proteolysis results in disease conditions most notably, mitochondrial diseases, neurodegeneration and cancer. Here, it will be discussed how mitochondrial proteases and mitochondria stress signalling impact cellular homeostasis and determine the cellular decision to survive or die, how these processes may impact disease etiopathology, and how modulation of proteolysis may offer novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoleta Moisoi
- Leicester School of Pharmacy, Leicester Institute for Pharmaceutical Health and Social Care Innovations, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, The Gateway, Hawthorn Building 1.03, LE1 9BH, Leicester, UK.
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Zhang Y, Sharma S, Jonnalagadda S, Kumari S, Queen A, Esfahani SH, Archie SR, Nozohouri S, Patel D, Trippier PC, Karamyan VT, Abbruscato TJ. Discovery of the Next Generation of Non-peptidomimetic Neurolysin Activators with High Blood-Brain Barrier Permeability: a Pharmacokinetics Study in Healthy and Stroke Animals. Pharm Res 2023; 40:2747-2758. [PMID: 37833570 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-023-03619-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is growing interest in seeking pharmacological activation of neurolysin (Nln) for stroke treatment. Discovery of central nervous system drugs remains challenging due to the protection of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The previously reported peptidomimetic Nln activators display unsatisfactory BBB penetration. Herein, we investigate the next generation of non-peptidomimetic Nln activators with high BBB permeability. METHODS A BBB-mimicking model was used to evaluate their in vitro BBB permeability. Protein binding, metabolic stability, and efflux assays were performed to determine their unbound fraction, half-lives in plasma and brains, and dependence of BBB transporter P-glycoprotein (P-gp). The in vivo pharmacokinetic profiles were elucidated in healthy and stroke mice. RESULTS Compounds KS52 and KS73 out of this generation exhibit improved peptidase activity and BBB permeability compared to the endogenous activator and previous peptidomimetic activators. They show reasonable plasma and brain protein binding, improved metabolic stability, and independence of P-gp-mediated efflux. In healthy animals, they rapidly distribute into brains and reach peak levels of 18.69% and 12.10% injected dose (ID)/ml at 10 min. After 4 h, their total brain concentrations remain 7.78 and 12.34 times higher than their A50(minimal concentration required for enhancing 50% peptidase activity). Moreover, the ipsilateral hemispheres of stroke animals show comparable uptake to the corresponding contralateral hemispheres and healthy brains. CONCLUSIONS This study provides essential details about the pharmacokinetic properties of a new generation of potent non-peptidomimetic Nln activators with high BBB permeability and warrants the future development of these agents as potential neuroprotective pharmaceutics for stroke treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry. H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
- Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, Jerry. H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
| | - Sejal Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry. H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
- Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, Jerry. H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
| | - Shirisha Jonnalagadda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, NE, 68106, USA
- UNMC Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, NE, 68106, USA
| | - Shikha Kumari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, NE, 68106, USA
- UNMC Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, NE, 68106, USA
| | - Aarfa Queen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, NE, 68106, USA
- UNMC Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, NE, 68106, USA
| | - Shiva Hadi Esfahani
- Department of Foundational Medical Studies, William Beaumont School of Medicine, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
- Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disease & Drug Discovery, William Beaumont School of Medicine, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
| | - Sabrina Rahman Archie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry. H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
- Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, Jerry. H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
| | - Saeideh Nozohouri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry. H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
- Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, Jerry. H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
| | - Dhavalkumar Patel
- Office of Sciences, Jerry. H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
| | - Paul C Trippier
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, NE, 68106, USA
- UNMC Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, NE, 68106, USA
| | - Vardan T Karamyan
- Department of Foundational Medical Studies, William Beaumont School of Medicine, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
- Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disease & Drug Discovery, William Beaumont School of Medicine, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
| | - Thomas J Abbruscato
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry. H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA.
- Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, Jerry. H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA.
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Cavalcanti DMLP, Teófilo TS, D Rodrigues T, Barbosa TNS, Fontenele-Neto JD. Thimet oligopeptidase (THOP 1) distribution in cane toad (Bufo Marinus, Linnaeus, 1758) brain. J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 133:102345. [PMID: 37778734 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102345] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Thimet oligopeptides (THOP 1) is a metal-dependent peptidase involved in the metabolism of neuropeptides and the presentation of peptides via MHC-1. It has been shown to play a role in the regulation of protein-protein interactions and the metabolism of intracellular peptides. THOP 1 is associated with important biological processes such as metabolism and neurodegenerative diseases, among others. The objective of this study is to elucidate the distribution of THOP 1 in the Bufo marinus brain. The analysis of THOP 1 amino acid sequences indicates that they have been conserved throughout evolution, with significant homology observed across various phyla. When comparing amphibians with other species, more than 70% identity can be identified. Immunohistochemistry analysis of the toad's brain has demonstrated that the enzyme has a ubiquitous distribution, consistent with previous findings in mammals. THOP 1 can be found in important areas of the brain, such as bulb, thalamic nuclei, striatum, hypothalamus, and among others. Nonetheless, THOP 1 is consistently localized within the nucleus, a pattern also observed in the rat brain. Therefore, based on these results, the toad appears to be an excellent model for studying the general biology of THOP 1, given the substantial homology of this enzyme with mammals and its similarity in distribution within the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo M L P Cavalcanti
- Laboratory of Tissue and Development Biology, Medicine College, Department of Health Science, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal Rural do Semiárido - UFERSA, Brazil.
| | - Tiago S Teófilo
- Laboratory of Tissue and Development Biology, Medicine College, Department of Health Science, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal Rural do Semiárido - UFERSA, Brazil
| | - Tayline D Rodrigues
- Master's Degree Students, Multicentric Graduate Program in the area of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (PMBqBM), Universidade do Estado do Rio Grande do Norte - UERN, Brazil
| | - Tayssa N S Barbosa
- Master's Degree Students, Multicentric Graduate Program in the area of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (PMBqBM), Universidade do Estado do Rio Grande do Norte - UERN, Brazil
| | - José D Fontenele-Neto
- Laboratory of Tissue and Development Biology, Veterinary Medicine College, Department of Animal Science, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal Rural do Semiárido - UFERSA, Brazil
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Cho-Clark MJ, Watkins A, Wu TJ. The role of GnRH metabolite, GnRH-(1-5), in endometrial cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1183278. [PMID: 37124730 PMCID: PMC10140499 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1183278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
From the time of its discovery and isolation in the mammalian hypothalamus, the decapeptide, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), has also been found to be expressed in non-hypothalamic tissues and can elicit a diverse array of functions both in the brain and periphery. In cancer, past studies have targeted the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors (GnRHR) as a way to treat reproductive cancers due to its anti-tumorigenic effects. On the contrary, its metabolite, GnRH-(1-5), behaves divergently from its parental peptide through putative orphan G-protein coupled receptor (oGPCR), GPR101. In this review, we will focus on the potential roles of GnRH-(1-5) in the periphery with an emphasis on its effects on endometrial cancer progression.
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Probing the Conformational States of Thimet Oligopeptidase in Solution. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137297. [PMID: 35806299 PMCID: PMC9266445 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Thimet oligopeptidase (TOP) is a metallopeptidase involved in the metabolism of oligopeptides inside and outside cells of various tissues. It has been proposed that substrate or inhibitor binding in the TOP active site induces a large hinge-bending movement leading to a closed structure, in which the bound ligand is enclosed. The main goal of the present work was to study this conformational change, and fluorescence techniques were used. Four active TOP mutants were created, each equipped with a single-Trp residue (fluorescence donor) and a p-nitro-phenylalanine (pNF) residue as fluorescence acceptor at opposite sides of the active site. pNF was biosynthetically incorporated with high efficiency using the amber codon suppression technology. Inhibitor binding induced shorter Donor-Acceptor (D-A) distances in all mutants, supporting the view that a hinge-like movement is operative in TOP. The activity of TOP is known to be dependent on the ionic strength of the assay buffer and D-A distances were measured at different ionic strengths. Interestingly, a correlation between the D-A distance and the catalytic activity of TOP was observed: the highest activities corresponded to the shortest D-A distances. In this study for the first time the hinge-bending motion of a metallopeptidase in solution could be studied, yielding insight about the position of the equilibrium between the open and closed conformation. This information will contribute to a more detailed understanding of the mode of action of these enzymes, including therapeutic targets like neurolysin and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2).
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In-Vivo and Ex-Vivo Brain Uptake Studies of Peptidomimetic Neurolysin Activators in Healthy and Stroke Animals. Pharm Res 2022; 39:1587-1598. [PMID: 35239135 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03218-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Neurolysin (Nln) is a peptidase that functions to preserve the brain following ischemic stroke by hydrolyzing various neuropeptides. Nln activation has emerged as an attractive drug discovery target for treatment of ischemic stroke. Among first-in-class peptidomimetic Nln activators, we selected three lead compounds (9d, 10c, 11a) for quantitative pharmacokinetic analysis to provide valuable information for subsequent preclinical development. METHODS Pharmacokinetic profile of these compounds was studied in healthy and ischemic stroke-induced mice after bolus intravenous administration. Brain concentration and brain uptake clearance (Kin) was calculated from single time point analysis. The inter-relationship between LogP with in-vitro and in-vivo permeability was studied to determine CNS penetration. Brain slice uptake method was used to study tissue binding, whereas P-gp-mediated transport was evaluated to understand the potential brain efflux of these compounds. RESULTS According to calculated parameters, all three compounds showed a detectable amount in the brain after intravenous administration at 4 mg/kg; however, 11a had the highest brain concentration and brain uptake clearance. A strong correlation was documented between in-vitro and in-vivo permeability data. The efflux ratio of 10c was ~6-fold higher compared to 11a and correlated well with its lower Kin value. In experimental stroke animals, the Kin of 11a was significantly higher in ischemic vs. contralateral and intact hemispheres, though it remained below its A50 value required to activate Nln. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, these preclinical pharmacokinetic studies reveal promising BBB permeability of 11a and indicate that it can serve as an excellent lead for developing improved drug-like Nln activators.
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Jayaraman S, Kocot J, Esfahani SH, Wangler NJ, Uyar A, Mechref Y, Trippier PC, Abbruscato TJ, Dickson A, Aihara H, Ostrov DA, Karamyan VT. Identification and Characterization of Two Structurally Related Dipeptides that Enhance Catalytic Efficiency of Neurolysin. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2021; 379:191-202. [PMID: 34389655 PMCID: PMC8626779 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.121.000840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurolysin (Nln) is a recently recognized endogenous mechanism functioning to preserve the brain from ischemic injury. To further understand the pathophysiological function of this peptidase in stroke and other neurologic disorders, the present study was designed to identify small molecule activators of Nln. Using a computational approach, the structure of Nln was explored, which was followed by docking and in silico screening of ∼140,000 molecules from the National Cancer Institute Developmental Therapeutics Program database. Top ranking compounds were evaluated in an Nln enzymatic assay, and two hit histidine-dipeptides were further studied in detail. The identified dipeptides enhanced the rate of synthetic substrate hydrolysis by recombinant (human and rat) and mouse brain-purified Nln in a concentration-dependent manner (micromolar A50 and Amax ≥ 300%) but had negligible effect on activity of closely related peptidases. Both dipeptides also enhanced hydrolysis of Nln endogenous substrates neurotensin, angiotensin I, and bradykinin and increased efficiency of the synthetic substrate hydrolysis (Vmax/Km ratio) in a concentration-dependent manner. The dipeptides and competitive inhibitor dynorphin A (1-13) did not affect each other's affinity for Nln, suggesting differing nature of their respective binding sites. Lastly, drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) and differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) assays confirmed concentration-dependent interaction of Nln with the activator molecule. This is the first study demonstrating that Nln activity can be enhanced by small molecules, although the peptidic nature and low potency of the activators limit their application. The identified dipeptides provide a chemical scaffold to develop high-potency, drug-like molecules as research tools and potential drug leads. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study describes discovery of two molecules that selectively enhance activity of peptidase Nln-a newly recognized cerebroprotective mechanism in the poststroke brain. The identified molecules will serve as a chemical scaffold for development of drug-like molecules to further study Nln and may become lead structures for a new class of drugs. In addition, our conceptual and methodological framework and research findings might be used for other peptidases and enzymes, the activation of which bears therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinidhi Jayaraman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
| | - Joanna Kocot
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
| | - Shiva Hadi Esfahani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
| | - Naomi J Wangler
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
| | - Arzu Uyar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
| | - Yehia Mechref
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
| | - Paul C Trippier
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
| | - Thomas J Abbruscato
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
| | - Alex Dickson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
| | - Hideki Aihara
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
| | - David A Ostrov
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
| | - Vardan T Karamyan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (S.J., J.K., S.H.E., N.J.W., T.J.A., V.T.K.) and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research (T.J.A., V.T.K.), School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (A.U., A.D.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas (Y.M.); Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (P.C.T.); Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.); and Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (D.A.O.)
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10
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Abstract
Peptidases generate bioactive peptides that can regulate cell signaling and mediate intercellular communication. While the processing of peptide precursors is initiated intracellularly, some modifications by peptidases may be conducted extracellularly. Thimet oligopeptidase (TOP) is a peptidase that processes neuroendocrine peptides with roles in mood, metabolism, and immune responses, among other functions. TOP also hydrolyzes angiotensin I to angiotensin 1–7, which may be involved in the pathophysiology of COVID-19 infection. Although TOP is primarily cytosolic, it can also be associated with the cell plasma membrane or secreted to the extracellular space. Recent work indicates that membrane-associated TOP can be released with extracellular vesicles (EVs) to the extracellular space. Here we briefly summarize the enzyme’s classical function in extracellular processing of neuroendocrine peptides, as well as its more recently understood role in intracellular processing of various peptides that impact human diseases. Finally, we discuss new findings of EV-associated TOP in the extracellular space.
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11
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Mehranfard D, Perez G, Rodriguez A, Ladna JM, Neagra CT, Goldstein B, Carroll T, Tran A, Trivedi M, Speth RC. Alterations in Gene Expression of Renin-Angiotensin System Components and Related Proteins in Colorectal Cancer. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2021; 2021:9987115. [PMID: 34285715 PMCID: PMC8277508 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9987115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
MATERIALS AND METHODS Quantitative expression of the RNA of these 17 genes in normal and cancerous tissues obtained using chip arrays from the public functional genomics data repository, Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) application, was compared statistically. RESULTS Expression of four genes, AGT (angiotensinogen), ENPEP (aminopeptidase A) MME (neprilysin), and PREP (prolyl endopeptidase), was significantly upregulated in CRC specimens. Expression of REN (renin), THOP (thimet oligopeptidase), NLN (neurolysin), PRCP (prolyl carboxypeptidase), ANPEP (aminopeptidase N), and MAS1 (Mas receptor) was downregulated in CRC specimens. CONCLUSIONS Presuming gene expression parallel protein expression, these results suggest that increased production of the angiotensinogen precursor of angiotensin (ANG) peptides, with the reduction of the enzymes that metabolize it to ANG II, can lead to accumulation of angiotensinogen in CRC tissues. Downregulation of THOP, NLN, PRCP, and MAS1 gene expression, whose proteins contribute to the ACE2/ANG 1-7/Mas axis, suggests that reduced activity of this RAS branch could be permissive for oncogenicity. Components of the RAS may be potential therapeutic targets for treatment of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danial Mehranfard
- College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Gabriela Perez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Palmetto General Hospital, Hialeah, FL, USA
| | - Andres Rodriguez
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | | | | | - Timothy Carroll
- College of Psychology, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Alice Tran
- Halmos College of Arts and Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Malav Trivedi
- College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Robert C. Speth
- College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
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12
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Karamyan VT. Between two storms, vasoactive peptides or bradykinin underlie severity of COVID-19? Physiol Rep 2021; 9:e14796. [PMID: 33687143 PMCID: PMC7941673 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.14796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [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: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), continues to be a world-wide pandemic with overwhelming socioeconomic impact. Since inflammation is one of the major causes of COVID-19 complications, the associated molecular mechanisms have been the focus of many studies to better understand this disease and develop improved treatments for patients contracting SARS-CoV-2. Among these, strong emphasis has been placed on pro-inflammatory cytokines, associating severity of COVID-19 with so-called "cytokine storm." More recently, peptide bradykinin, its dysregulated signaling or "bradykinin storm," has emerged as a primary mechanism to explain COVID-19-related complications. Unfortunately, this important development may not fully capture the main molecular players that underlie the disease severity. To this end, in this focused review, several lines of evidence are provided to suggest that in addition to bradykinin, two closely related vasoactive peptides, substance P and neurotensin, are also likely to drive microvascular permeability and inflammation, and be responsible for development of COVID-19 pathology. Furthermore, based on published experimental observations, it is postulated that in addition to ACE and neprilysin, peptidase neurolysin (Nln) is also likely to contribute to accumulation of bradykinin, substance P and neurotensin, and progression of the disease. In conclusion, it is proposed that "vasoactive peptide storm" may underlie severity of COVID-19 and that simultaneous inhibition of all three peptidergic systems could be therapeutically more advantageous rather than modulation of any single mechanism alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vardan T. Karamyan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Blood Brain Barrier ResearchSchool of PharmacyTTUHSCAmarilloTXUSA
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13
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Al-Ahmad AJ, Pervaiz I, Karamyan VT. Neurolysin substrates bradykinin, neurotensin and substance P enhance brain microvascular permeability in a human in vitro model. J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e12931. [PMID: 33506602 PMCID: PMC8166215 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Increased brain microvascular permeability and disruption of blood-brain barrier (BBB) function are among hallmarks of several acute neurodegenerative disorders, including stroke. Numerous studies suggest the involvement of bradykinin (BK), neurotensin (NT) and substance P (SP) in BBB impairment and oedema formation after stroke; however, there is paucity of data in regard to the direct effects of these peptides on the brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) and BBB. The present study aimed to evaluate the direct effects of BK, NT and SP on the permeability of BBB in an in vitro model based on human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived BMECs. Our data indicate that all three peptides increase BBB permeability in a concentration-dependent manner in an in vitro model formed from two different iPSC lines (CTR90F and CTR65M) and widely used hCMEC/D3 human BMECs. The combination of BK, NT and SP at a sub-effective concentration also resulted in increased BBB permeability in the iPSC-derived model indicating potentiation of their action. Furthermore, we observed abrogation of BK, NT and SP effects with pretreatment of pharmacological blockers targeting their specific receptors. Additional mechanistic studies indicate that the short-term effects of these peptides are not mediated through alteration of tight-junction proteins claudin-5 and occludin, but likely involve redistribution of F-actin and secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor. This is the first experimental study to document the increased permeability of the BBB in response to direct action of NT in an in vitro model. In addition, our study confirms the expected but not well-documented, direct effect of SP on BBB permeability and adds to the well-recognised actions of BK on BBB. Lastly, we demonstrate that peptidase neurolysin can neutralise the effects of these peptides on BBB, suggesting potential therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham J Al-Ahmad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Iqra Pervaiz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Vardan T Karamyan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, TX, USA
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14
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Abstract
Current experimental stroke research has evolved to focus on detailed understanding of the brain’s self-protective and restorative mechanisms, and harness this knowledge for development of new therapies. In this context, the role of peptidases and neuropeptides is of growing interest. In this focused review, peptidase neurolysin (Nln) and its extracellular peptide substrates are briefly discussed in relation to pathophysiology of ischemic stroke. Upregulation of Nln following stroke is viewed as a compensatory cerebroprotective mechanism in the acute phase of stroke, because the main neuropeptides inactivated by Nln are neuro/cerebrotoxic (bradykinin, substance P, neurotensin, angiotensin II, hemopressin), whereas the peptides generated by Nln are neuro/cerebroprotective (angiotensin-(1–7), Leu-/Met-enkephalins). This notion is confirmed by experimental studies documenting aggravation of stroke outcomes in mice after inhibition of Nln following stroke, and dramatic improvement of stroke outcomes in mice overexpressing Nln in the brain. The role of Nln in the (sub)chronic phase of stroke is less clear and it is likely, that this peptidase does not have a major role in neural repair mechanisms. This is because, the substrates of Nln are less uniform in modulating neurorestorative mechanisms in one direction, some appearing to have neural repair enhancing/stimulating potential, whereas others doing the opposite. Future studies focusing on the role of Nln in pathophysiology of stroke should determine its potential as a cerebroprotective target for stroke therapy, because its unique ability to modulate multiple neuropeptide systems critically involved in brain injury mechanisms is likely advantageous over modulation of one pathogenic pathway for stroke pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vardan T Karamyan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, TX, USA
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15
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Abstract
The metallopeptidases thimet oligopeptidase (THOP, EC 3.4.24.25) and neurolysin (NEL, EC 3.4.24.26) are enzymes that belong to the zinc endopeptidase M13 family. Numerous studies suggest that these peptidases participate in the processing of bioactive peptides such as angiotensins and bradykinin. Efforts have been conducted to develop biotechnological tools to make possible the use of both proteases to regulate blood pressure in mice, mainly limited by the low plasmatic stability of the enzymes. In the present study, it was investigated the use of nanotechnology as an efficient strategy for to circumvent the low stability of the proteases. Recombinant THOP and NEL were immobilized in gold nanoparticles (GNPs) synthesized in situ using HEPES and the enzymes as reducing and stabilizing agents. The formation of rTHOP-GNP and rNEL-GNP was characterized by the surface plasmon resonance band, zeta potential and atomic force microscopy. The gain of structural stability and activity of rTHOP and rNEL immobilized on GNPs was demonstrated by assays using fluorogenic substrates. The enzymes were also efficiently immobilized on GNPs fabricated with sodium borohydride. The efficient immobilization of the oligopeptidases in gold nanoparticles with gain of stability may facilitate the use of the enzymes in therapies related to pressure regulation and stroke, and as a tool for studying the physiological and pathological roles of both proteases.
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16
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Jayaraman S, Al Shoyaib A, Kocot J, Villalba H, Alamri FF, Rashid M, Wangler NJ, Chowdhury EA, German N, Arumugam TV, Abbruscato TJ, Karamyan VT. Peptidase neurolysin functions to preserve the brain after ischemic stroke in male mice. J Neurochem 2019; 153:120-137. [PMID: 31486527 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies documented up-regulation of peptidase neurolysin (Nln) after brain ischemia, however, the significance of Nln function in the post-stroke brain remained unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the functional role of Nln in the brain after ischemic stroke. Administration of a specific Nln inhibitor Agaricoglyceride A (AgaA) to mice after stroke in a middle cerebral artery occlusion model, dose-dependently aggravated injury measured by increased infarct and edema volumes, blood-brain barrier disruption, increased levels of interleukin 6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, neurological and motor deficit 24 h after stroke. In this setting, AgaA resulted in inhibition of Nln in the ischemic hemisphere leading to increased levels of Nln substrates bradykinin, neurotensin, and substance P. AgaA lacked effects on several physiological parameters and appeared non-toxic to mice. In a reverse approach, we developed an adeno-associated viral vector (AAV2/5-CAG-Nln) to overexpress Nln in the mouse brain. Applicability of AAV2/5-CAG-Nln to transduce catalytically active Nln was confirmed in primary neurons and in vivo. Over-expression of Nln in the mouse brain was also accompanied by decreased levels of its substrates. Two weeks after in vivo transduction of Nln using the AAV vector, mice were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion and the same outcome measures were evaluated 72 h later. These experiments revealed that abundance of Nln in the brain protects animals from stroke. This study is the first to document functional significance of Nln in pathophysiology of stroke and provide evidence that Nln is an endogenous mechanism functioning to preserve the brain from ischemic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinidhi Jayaraman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Abdullah Al Shoyaib
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Joanna Kocot
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Heidi Villalba
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Faisal F Alamri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Mamoon Rashid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Naomi J Wangler
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Ekram A Chowdhury
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Nadezhda German
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Thiruma V Arumugam
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Thomas J Abbruscato
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA.,Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Vardan T Karamyan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA.,Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, Texas, USA
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17
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Thimet Oligopeptidase (EC 3.4.24.15) Key Functions Suggested by Knockout Mice Phenotype Characterization. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9080382. [PMID: 31431000 PMCID: PMC6722639 DOI: 10.3390/biom9080382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Thimet oligopeptidase (THOP1) is thought to be involved in neuropeptide metabolism, antigen presentation, neurodegeneration, and cancer. Herein, the generation of THOP1 C57BL/6 knockout mice (THOP1−/−) is described showing that they are viable, have estrus cycle, fertility, and a number of puppies per litter similar to C57BL/6 wild type mice (WT). In specific brain regions, THOP1-/- exhibit altered mRNA expression of proteasome beta5, serotonin 5HT2a receptor and dopamine D2 receptor, but not of neurolysin (NLN). Peptidomic analysis identifies differences in intracellular peptide ratios between THOP1-/- and WT mice, which may affect normal cellular functioning. In an experimental model of multiple sclerosis THOP1-/- mice present worse clinical behavior scores compared to WT mice, corroborating its possible involvement in neurodegenerative diseases. THOP1-/- mice also exhibit better survival and improved behavior in a sepsis model, but also a greater peripheral pain sensitivity measured in the hot plate test after bradykinin administration in the paw. THOP1-/- mice show depressive-like behavior, as well as attention and memory retention deficits. Altogether, these results reveal a role of THOP1 on specific behaviors, immune-stimulated neurodegeneration, and infection-induced inflammation.
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18
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Karamyan VT. Peptidase neurolysin is an endogenous cerebroprotective mechanism in acute neurodegenerative disorders. Med Hypotheses 2019; 131:109309. [PMID: 31443781 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2019.109309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI) are significant clinical problems characterized by high rate of mortality and long-lasting disabilities, and an unmet need for new treatments. Current experimental stroke and TBI research are evolving to focus more on understanding the brain's self-protective mechanisms to meet the critical need of developing new therapies for these disorders. In this hypothesis-based manuscript, I provide several lines of evidence that peptidase neurolysin (Nln) is one of the brain's potent, self-protective mechanisms promoting preservation and recovery of the brain after acute injury. Based on published experimental observations and ongoing studies in our laboratory, I posit that Nln is a compensatory and cerebroprotective mechanism in the post-stroke/TBI brain that functions to process a diverse group of extracellular neuropeptides and by that to reduce excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, edema formation, blood brain barrier hyper-permeability, and neuroinflammation. If this hypothesis is correct, Nln could potentially serve as a single therapeutic target to modulate the function of multiple targets, the involved neuropeptide systems, critically involved in various mechanisms of brain injury and cerebroprotection/restoration. Such multi-pathway target would be highly desired for pharmacotherapy of stroke and TBI, because targeting one pathophysiological pathway has proven to be ineffective for such complex disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vardan T Karamyan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Blood Brain Barrier Research, School of Pharmacy, TTUHSC, Amarillo, TX, United States.
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19
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Preparation and preliminary characterization of recombinant neurolysin for in vivo studies. J Biotechnol 2016; 234:105-115. [PMID: 27496565 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to produce milligram quantities of pure, catalytically active, endotoxin-free recombinant neurolysin (rNln) in standard laboratory conditions for use as a research tool. To this end, we transformed E. coli cells with a plasmid construct for polyhistidine-tagged rNln, selected a high-expressing clone and determined the optimal time-point for translation of rNln. rNln was purified to homogeneity from the soluble pool of the cell lysate using Ni-NTA affinity and size-exclusion chromatography, followed by removal of endotoxins. Using this protocol ∼3mg pure, catalytically active and nearly endotoxin-free (≈0.003EU/μg protein) rNln was reproducibly obtained from 1l of culture. Lack of cytotoxicity of rNln preparation was documented in cultured mouse cells, whereas stability in whole mouse blood. Intraperitonealy administered rNln in mice reached the systemic circulation in intact and enzymatically active form with Tmax of 1h and T1/2 of ∼30min. Administration of rNln (2 and 10mg/kg) did not alter arterial blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature and blood glucose levels in mice. These studies demonstrate that the rNln preparation is suitable for cell culture and in vivo studies and can serve as a research tool to investigate the (patho)physiological function of this peptidase.
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20
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Wagner L, Björkqvist M, Lundh SH, Wolf R, Börgel A, Schlenzig D, Ludwig HH, Rahfeld JU, Leavitt B, Demuth HU, Petersén Å, von Hörsten S. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) in cerebrospinal fluid from patients with Huntington's Disease: increased NPY levels and differential degradation of the NPY1-30
fragment. J Neurochem 2016; 137:820-37. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Revised: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Leona Wagner
- Deutschsprachige Selbsthilfegruppe für Alkaptonurie (DSAKU) e.V.; Stuttgart Germany
- Probiodrug AG; Halle (Saale) Germany
- Department of Experimental Therapy; Franz-Penzoldt-Center; Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg; Erlangen Germany
| | - Maria Björkqvist
- Brain Disease Biomarker Unit; Department of Experimental Medical Science; Wallenberg Neuroscience Centre; Lund University; Lund Sweden
| | - Sofia Hult Lundh
- Translational Neuroendocrine Research Unit; Lund University; Lund Sweden
| | - Raik Wolf
- Probiodrug AG; Halle (Saale) Germany
- Center for Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology and Transfusion; Klinikum St. Georg GmbH; Leipzig Germany
| | - Arne Börgel
- Probiodrug AG; Halle (Saale) Germany
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB); Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz; Mainz Germany
| | - Dagmar Schlenzig
- Department of Drug Design and Target Validation; Fraunhofer-Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology; Halle (Saale) Germany
| | | | - Jens-Ulrich Rahfeld
- Department of Drug Design and Target Validation; Fraunhofer-Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology; Halle (Saale) Germany
| | - Blair Leavitt
- The Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics Child and Family Research Institute; BC Children's Hospital; The University of British Columbia; Vancouver British Columbia
| | - Hans-Ulrich Demuth
- Department of Drug Design and Target Validation; Fraunhofer-Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology; Halle (Saale) Germany
| | - Åsa Petersén
- Translational Neuroendocrine Research Unit; Lund University; Lund Sweden
| | - Stephan von Hörsten
- Department of Experimental Therapy; Franz-Penzoldt-Center; Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg; Erlangen Germany
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21
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Qi L, Li SH, Si LB, Lu M, Tian H. Expression of THOP1 and its relationship to prognosis in non-small cell lung cancer. PLoS One 2014; 9:e106665. [PMID: 25180910 PMCID: PMC4152321 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0106665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study was designed to detect the expression level of thimet oligopeptidase (THOP1) protein in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and investigate its correlation with clinicopathologic features and prognosis. METHODS Immunohistochemical staining was used to determine the expression of THOP1 protein in 120 NSCLC specimens and 53 distant normal lung tissues. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting were employed to measure the expression of THOP1 in 16 pairs of primary NSCLC and corresponding normal tissues. RESULTS Analysis of immunohistochemical staining suggested low THOP1 expression was found in 71 (59.2%) of the 120 NSCLC specimens and significantly correlated with positive lymph node metastasis (P = 0.048). However, low THOP1 expression was found in 22 (41.5%) of the 53 normal lung tissues. Chi-square test suggested that the expression of THOP1 was significantly higher in the normal lung tissues than that in the NSCLC specimens (P = 0.032). Real-Time PCR and western blotting showed that NSCLC specimens had decreased THOP1 mRNA and protein expression compared to corresponding normal tissues. Univariate analysis demonstrated that low THOP1 expression significantly predicted decreased 5-year disease-free survival (P = 0.038) and overall survival (P = 0.017). In addition, positive lymph node metastasis (P = 0.025) and advanced TNM stage (P = 0.009) significantly predicted decreased 5-year overall survival. However, multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that only low THOP1 expression retained its significance as an independent prognostic factor for unfavorable 5-year disease-free survival (P = 0.046) and overall survival (P = 0.021). CONCLUSIONS THOP1 may have clinical potentials to be employed as a promising biomarker to identify individuals with better prognosis and a novel antitumor agent for therapy of patients with NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Qi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qi Lu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Shu-hai Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qi Lu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Li-bo Si
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qi Lu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ming Lu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qi Lu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hui Tian
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qi Lu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
- * E-mail:
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22
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Marshall AC, Pirro NT, Rose JC, Diz DI, Chappell MC. Evidence for an angiotensin-(1-7) neuropeptidase expressed in the brain medulla and CSF of sheep. J Neurochem 2014; 130:313-23. [PMID: 24661079 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2014] [Revised: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] is an alternative product of the brain renin-angiotensin system that exhibits central actions to lower blood pressure and improve baroreflex sensitivity. We previously identified a peptidase that metabolizes Ang-(1-7) to the inactive metabolite product Ang-(1-4) in CSF of adult sheep. This study purified the peptidase 1445-fold from sheep brain medulla and characterized this activity. The peptidase was sensitive to the chelating agents o-phenanthroline and EDTA, as well as the mercury compound p-chloromercuribenzoic acid (PCMB). Selective inhibitors to angiotensin-converting enzyme, neprilysin, neurolysin, and thimet oligopeptidase did not attenuate activity; however, the metallopeptidase agent JMV-390 was a potent inhibitor of Ang-(1-7) hydrolysis (Ki = 0.8 nM). Kinetic studies using (125) I-labeled Ang-(1-7), Ang II, and Ang I revealed comparable apparent Km values (2.6, 2.8, and 4.3 μM, respectively), but a higher apparent Vmax for Ang-(1-7) (72 vs. 30 and 6 nmol/min/mg, respectively; p < 0.01). HPLC analysis of the activity confirmed the processing of unlabeled Ang-(1-7) to Ang-(1-4) by the peptidase, but revealed < 5% hydrolysis of Ang II or Ang I, and no hydrolysis of neurotensin, bradykinin or apelin-13. The unique characteristics of the purified neuropeptidase may portend a novel pathway to influence actions of Ang-(1-7) within the brain. Angiotensin-(1-7) actions are mediated by the AT7 /Mas receptor and include reduced blood pressure, decreased oxidative stress, enhanced baroreflex sensitivity, and increased nitric oxide (NO). Ang-(1-7) is directly formed from Ang I by neprilysin (NEP). We identify a new pathway for Ang-(1-7) metabolism in the brain distinct from angiotensin-converting enzyme-dependent hydrolysis. The Ang-(1-7) endopeptidase (A7-EP) degrades the peptide to Ang-(1-4) and may influence central Ang-(1-7) tone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyson C Marshall
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, North Carolina, USA
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23
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Peptidomic analysis of the neurolysin-knockout mouse brain. J Proteomics 2014; 111:238-48. [PMID: 24727097 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2014.03.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2014] [Revised: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED A large number of intracellular peptides are constantly produced following protein degradation by the proteasome. A few of these peptides function in cell signaling and regulate protein-protein interactions. Neurolysin (Nln) is a structurally defined and biochemically well-characterized endooligopeptidase, and its subcellular distribution and biological activity in the vertebrate brain have been previously investigated. However, the contribution of Nln to peptide metabolism in vivo is poorly understood. In this study, we used quantitative mass spectrometry to investigate the brain peptidome of Nln-knockout mice. An additional in vitro digestion assay with recombinant Nln was also performed to confirm the identification of the substrates and/or products of Nln. Altogether, the data presented suggest that Nln is a key enzyme in the in vivo degradation of only a few peptides derived from proenkephalin, such as Met-enkephalin and octapeptide. Nln was found to have only a minor contribution to the intracellular peptide metabolism in the entire mouse brain. However, further studies appear necessary to investigate the contribution of Nln to the peptide metabolism in specific areas of the murine brain. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE Neurolysin was first identified in the synaptic membranes of the rat brain in the middle 80's by Frederic Checler and colleagues. Neurolysin was well characterized biochemically, and its brain distribution has been confirmed by immunohistochemical methods. The neurolysin contribution to the central and peripheral neurotensin-mediated functions in vivo has been delineated through inhibitor-based pharmacological approaches, but its genuine contribution to the physiological inactivation of neuropeptides remains to be firmly established. As a result, the main significance of this work is the first characterization of the brain peptidome of the neurolysin-knockout mouse. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Proteomics, mass spectrometry and peptidomics, Cancun 2013. Guest Editors: César López-Camarillo, Victoria Pando-Robles and Bronwyn Jane Barkla.
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24
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Cavalcanti DMLP, Castro LM, Rosa Neto JC, Seelaender M, Neves RX, Oliveira V, Forti FL, Iwai LK, Gozzo FC, Todiras M, Schadock I, Barros CC, Bader M, Ferro ES. Neurolysin knockout mice generation and initial phenotype characterization. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:15426-40. [PMID: 24719317 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.539148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The oligopeptidase neurolysin (EC 3.4.24.16; Nln) was first identified in rat brain synaptic membranes and shown to ubiquitously participate in the catabolism of bioactive peptides such as neurotensin and bradykinin. Recently, it was suggested that Nln reduction could improve insulin sensitivity. Here, we have shown that Nln KO mice have increased glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and gluconeogenesis. KO mice have increased liver mRNA for several genes related to gluconeogenesis. Isotopic label semiquantitative peptidomic analysis suggests an increase in specific intracellular peptides in gastrocnemius and epididymal adipose tissue, which likely is involved with the increased glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in the KO mice. These results suggest the exciting new possibility that Nln is a key enzyme for energy metabolism and could be a novel therapeutic target to improve glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leandro M Castro
- Pharmacology, Support Center for Research in Proteolysis and Cell Signaling, Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil, the Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 04039-032, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Vitor Oliveira
- the Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Fábio L Forti
- the Department of Biochemistry, Support Center for Research in Proteolysis and Cell Signaling, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Leo K Iwai
- the Special Laboratory of Applied Toxinology, Center of Toxins, Immune Response and Cell Signaling, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP 05503-000, Brazil
| | - Fabio C Gozzo
- the Institute of Chemistry, State University of Campinas, Campinas, SP 13083-862, Brazil
| | - Mihail Todiras
- the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, D-13125, Berlin, Germany, and
| | - Ines Schadock
- the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, D-13125, Berlin, Germany, and
| | - Carlos C Barros
- the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, D-13125, Berlin, Germany, and the Department of Nutrition, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS 96010-610, Brazil
| | - Michael Bader
- the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, D-13125, Berlin, Germany, and
| | - Emer S Ferro
- Pharmacology, Support Center for Research in Proteolysis and Cell Signaling, Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil,
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25
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Simões PSR, Visniauskas B, Perosa SR, Yacubian EMT, Centeno R, Canzian M, Lopes-Cendes I, Maurer Morelli CV, Carrete H, Cavalheiro EA, Tufik S, Chagas JR, Naffah Mazzacoratti MDG. Expression and activity of thimet oligopeptidase (TOP) are modified in the hippocampus of subjects with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Epilepsia 2014; 55:754-762. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bruna Visniauskas
- Psychobiology Department; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - Sandra Regina Perosa
- Neurology/Neurosurgery Department; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
| | | | - Ricardo Centeno
- Neurology/Neurosurgery Department; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - Mauro Canzian
- Pathology Department, Heart Institute-Medicine School University of São Paulo; (INCOR-FMUSP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - Iscia Lopes-Cendes
- Department of Medical Genetics; University of Campinas (UNICAMP); Campinas Brazil
| | | | - Henrique Carrete
- Image and Diagnostic Department; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - Esper Abrão Cavalheiro
- Neurology/Neurosurgery Department; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - Sergio Tufik
- Psychobiology Department; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - Jair Ribeiro Chagas
- Psychobiology Department; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
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26
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Nomoto S, Hishida M, Inokawa Y, Takano N, Kanda M, Nishikawa Y, Fujii T, Koike M, Sugimoto H, Kodera Y. Expression analysis of THOP1 in background liver, a prognostic predictive factor in hepatocellular carcinoma, extracted by multiarray analysis. Ann Surg Oncol 2014; 21 Suppl 3:S443-50. [PMID: 24604581 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-014-3581-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) often recurs and multicentric occurrence is more common than intrahepatic metastases after surgery. Prognostic prediction is insufficient when considering only factors in resected primary tumor. METHODS Control samples, termed supernormal (SN) liver, were taken from 11 cases of metastatic secondary malignancies of the liver. We selected adjacent nonneoplastic liver tissue from a patient with HCC and liver cirrhosis by hepatitis C (CN) for comparison. Expression profiling and methylation arrays were performed. We identified genes showing differences in both arrays. Prognosis was predicted for 179 cases of HCC based on gene expression. RESULTS Expression profiling showed that expression of thimet oligopeptidase (THOP1) gene was decreased 4.119-fold in CN. Methylation array showed a higher value for CN (0.869) than SN (0.488). We studied THOP1 gene expression by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The average expression level of THOP1 (THOP1 value × 10(3)/GAPDH) decreased in matching normal tissue (14.53 ± 10.14) relative to SN (78.14 ± 44.50). The group with higher than average THOP1 expression (n = 74) showed significant correlations with prolonged survival (P = 0.0383). Strongly reduced THOP1 expression (<3.0, n = 50) was shown to be an independent prognostic factor by multivariate analysis (P = 0.0024). CONCLUSIONS Expression of the THOP1 gene in the background liver of HCC is likely to be a good biomarker for risk of HCC development. When assessing HCC, it is important to extract prognostic factors from background liver tissue as well as considering malignant factors of the primary cancer lesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuji Nomoto
- Department of Surgery II, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan,
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27
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Altered peptidase activities in thyroid neoplasia and hyperplasia. DISEASE MARKERS 2013; 35:825-32. [PMID: 24379520 PMCID: PMC3860089 DOI: 10.1155/2013/970736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2013] [Revised: 09/29/2013] [Accepted: 10/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background. Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), follicular thyroid adenoma (FTA), and thyroid nodular hyperplasia (TNH) are the most frequent diseases of the thyroid gland. Previous studies described the involvement of dipeptidyl-peptidase IV (DPPIV/CD26) in the development of thyroid neoplasia and proposed it as an additional tool in the diagnosis/prognosis of these diseases. However, very little is known about the involvement of other peptidases in neoplastic and hyperplastic processes of this gland. Methods. The catalytic activity of 10 peptidases in a series of 30 PTC, 10 FTA, and 14 TNH was measured fluorimetrically in tumour and nontumour adjacent tissues. Results. The activity of DPPIV/CD26 was markedly higher in PTC than in FTA, TNH, and nontumour tissues. Aspartyl aminopeptidase (AspAP), alanyl aminopeptidase (AlaAP), prolyl endopeptidase, pyroglutamyl peptidase I, and aminopeptidase B activities were significantly increased in thyroid neoplasms when compared to nontumour tissues. AspAP and AlaAP activities were also significantly higher in PTC than in FTA and TNH. Conclusions. These data suggest the involvement of DPPIV/CD26 and some cytosolic peptidases in the neoplastic development of PTC and FTA. Further studies will help to define the possible clinical usefulness of AlaAP and AspAP in the diagnosis/prognosis of thyroid neoplasms.
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28
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Rashid M, Wangler NJ, Yang L, Shah K, Arumugam TV, Abbruscato TJ, Karamyan VT. Functional up-regulation of endopeptidase neurolysin during post-acute and early recovery phases of experimental stroke in mouse brain. J Neurochem 2013; 129:179-89. [PMID: 24164478 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2013] [Revised: 10/10/2013] [Accepted: 10/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we provide evidence for the first time that membrane-bound endopeptidase neurolysin is up-regulated in different parts of mouse brain affected by focal ischemia-reperfusion in a middle cerebral artery occlusion model of stroke. Radioligand binding, enzymatic and immunoblotting experiments in membrane preparations of frontoparietal cortex, striatum, and hippocampus isolated from the ischemic hemisphere of mouse brain 24 h after reperfusion revealed statistically significant increase (≥ twofold) in quantity and activity of neurolysin compared with sham-operated controls. Cerebellar membranes isolated from the ischemic hemisphere served as negative control supporting the observations that up-regulation of neurolysin occurs in post-ischemic brain regions. This study also documents sustained functional up-regulation of neurolysin in frontoparietal cortical membranes for at least 7 days after stroke, which appears not to be transcriptionally or translationally regulated, but rather depends on translocation of cytosolic neurolysin to the membranes and mitochondria. Considering diversity of endogenous neurolysin substrates (neurotensin, bradykinin, angiotensins I/II, substance P, hemopressin, dynorphin A(1-8), metorphamide, somatostatin) and the well-documented role of these peptidergic systems in pathogenesis of stroke, resistance to ischemic injury and/or post-stroke brain recovery, our findings suggest that neurolysin may play a role in processes modulating the brain's response to stroke and its recovery after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamoon Rashid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas, USA
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29
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Swindle JD, Santos KL, Speth RC. Pharmacological characterization of a novel non-AT1, non-AT2 angiotensin binding site identified as neurolysin. Endocrine 2013; 44:525-31. [PMID: 23412923 PMCID: PMC3742649 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-013-9898-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2012] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of a novel non-AT1, non-AT2 binding site for angiotensins in the rodent brain and testis that is unmasked by the organomercurial compound para-chloromercuribenzoic acid (PCMB) has catalyzed efforts to purify and characterize this protein. We recently reported that this protein is neurolysin and now report upon the specificity of this binding site for various neuropeptides. Competition binding assays in rat brain and testis used (125)I-Sar(1), Ile(8) angiotensin II (Ang II) as the radioligand in the presence of saturating concentrations of AT1 and AT2 receptor antagonists and 100 μM parachloromercuribenzoate. Primary screening of 36 peptides and other compounds at 10 μM concentration revealed seven peptides that inhibited specific binding >50 %: ghrelin, Tyr(1) S36057 (a melanin-concentrating hormone receptor ligand), orphanin FQ and its congeners (Tyr(1) and Tyr(14)), Dynorphin A (1-8), and Ang (1-9). The selective neurolysin inhibitor Proline-Isoleucine dipeptide was inactive at 1 mM. These results suggest that the ability of PCMB to unmask high affinity binding of Ang II to neurolysin is a pharmacological effect and that neurolysin may significantly affect the activity of the renin-angiotensin system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamala D. Swindle
- Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. 33314
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. 33328
| | - Kira L. Santos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. 33328
| | - Robert C. Speth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. 33328
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Fl., 32610
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Guinan AF, Rochfort KD, Fitzpatrick PA, Walsh TG, Pierotti AR, Phelan S, Murphy RP, Cummins PM. Shear stress is a positive regulator of thimet oligopeptidase (EC3.4.24.15) in vascular endothelial cells: consequences for MHC1 levels. Cardiovasc Res 2013; 99:545-54. [DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvt127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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31
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Chen S, Ge X, Chen Y, Lv N, Liu Z, Yuan W. Advances with RNA interference in Alzheimer's disease research. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2013; 7:117-25. [PMID: 23459401 PMCID: PMC3582316 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s40229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized clinically by memory and cognitive dysfunction. Unfortunately, there is no effective therapeutic method for AD treatment or ways to halt disease progression. Many mechanisms are involved in the disease, including genes mutation and protein dysfunction. RNA interference (RNAi) technology may potentially be able to control AD. It can inhibit the protein expression of specific genes by activating a sequence-specific RNA degradation process. This is a powerful tool with which to study gene function, investigate the mechanism of the disease, and validate drug targets. In this review, we highlight the advances in RNAi technology in the investigation and treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai
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Larco DO, Semsarzadeh NN, Cho-Clark M, Mani SK, John Wu T. The Novel Actions of the Metabolite GnRH-(1-5) are Mediated by a G Protein-Coupled Receptor. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2013; 4:83. [PMID: 23847594 PMCID: PMC3703583 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2013.00083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2013] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) was originally isolated from the mammalian hypothalamus for its role as the primary regulator of reproductive function. Since its discovery, GnRH has also been shown to be located in non-hypothalamic tissues and is known to have diverse functions. Although the regulation of GnRH synthesis and release has been extensively studied, there is additional evidence to suggest that the processing of GnRH to the metabolite GnRH-(1-5) represents another layer of regulation. The focus of this review will be on the current evidence for the action of the pentapeptide metabolite GnRH-(1-5) in regulating cellular migration. We discuss the potential role of GnRH-(1-5) in regulating GnRH neuronal migration during development. Furthermore, we demonstrate these actions are mediated by the activation of a G protein-coupled receptor. Our findings suggest that GnRH-(1-5) may play a developmental function in addition to regulating developing cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darwin Omar Larco
- Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nina Nashat Semsarzadeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Madelaine Cho-Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Shaila K. Mani
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - T. John Wu
- Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
- *Correspondence: T. John Wu, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA e-mail:
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Cho-Clark M, Larco DO, Semsarzadeh NN, Vasta F, Mani SK, Wu TJ. GnRH-(1-5) transactivates EGFR in Ishikawa human endometrial cells via an orphan G protein-coupled receptor. Mol Endocrinol 2013; 28:80-98. [PMID: 24264576 DOI: 10.1210/me.2013-1203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The decapeptide GnRH is known for its central role in the regulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis. In addition, it is also known to have local effects within peripheral tissues. The zinc metalloendopeptidase, EC 3.4.24.15 (EP24.15), can cleave GnRH at the Tyr(5)-Gly(6) bond to form the pentapeptide, GnRH-(1-5). The central and peripheral effect of GnRH-(1-5) is different from its parent peptide, GnRH. In the current study, we examined the effect of GnRH-(1-5) on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) phosphorylation and cellular migration. Using the Ishikawa cell line as a model of endometrial cancer, we demonstrate that GnRH-(1-5) stimulates epidermal growth factor release, increases the phosphorylation of EGFR (P < .05) at three tyrosine sites (992, 1045, 1068), and promotes cellular migration. In addition, we also demonstrate that these actions of GnRH-(1-5) are mediated by the orphan G protein-coupled receptor 101 (GPR101). Down-regulation of GPR101 expression blocked the GnRH-(1-5)-mediated release of epidermal growth factor and the subsequent phosphorylation of EGFR and cellular migration. These results suggest that GPR101 is a critical requirement for GnRH-(1-5) transactivation of EGFR in Ishikawa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madelaine Cho-Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (T.J.W., M.C., F.V.) and the Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology (D.O.L., T.J.W.), Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, Maryland 20814; and Departments of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Neuroscience (S.K.M.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
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Mansfeld FM, Toth I. Lipidated analogues of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) reduce serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) after oral administration. Int J Pharm 2012; 439:216-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2012.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2012] [Revised: 09/11/2012] [Accepted: 09/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Bernardo L, Prinsi B, Negri AS, Cattivelli L, Espen L, Valè G. Proteomic characterization of the Rph15 barley resistance gene-mediated defence responses to leaf rust. BMC Genomics 2012; 13:642. [PMID: 23167439 PMCID: PMC3541957 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-13-642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Leaf rust, caused by the biotrophic fungal pathogen Puccinia hordei, is one of the most important foliar disease of barley (Hordeum vulgare) and represents a serious threat in many production regions of the world. The leaf rust resistance gene Rph15 is of outstanding interest for resistance breeding because it confers resistance to over 350 Puccinia hordei isolates collected from around the world. Molecular and biochemical mechanisms responsible for the Rph15 effectiveness are currently not investigated. The aim of the present work was to study the Rph15-based defence responses using a proteomic approach. Results Protein pattern changes in response to the leaf rust pathogen infection were investigated in two barley near isogenic lines (NILs), Bowman (leaf rust susceptible) and Bowman-Rph15 (leaf rust resistant), differing for the introgression of the leaf rust resistance gene Rph15. Two infection time points, 24 hours and four days post inoculation (dpi), were analysed. No statistically significant differences were identified at the early time point, while at 4 dpi eighteen protein spots were significantly up or down regulated with a fold-change equal or higher than two in response to pathogen infection. Almost all the pathogen-responsive proteins were identified in the Bowman-Rph15 resistant NIL. Protein spots were characterized by LC-MS/MS analysis and found to be involved in photosynthesis and energy metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, protein degradation and defence. Proteomic data were complemented by transcriptional analysis of the respective genes. The identified proteins can be related to modulation of the photosynthetic apparatus components, re-direction of the metabolism to sustain defence responses and deployment of defence proteins. Conclusions The identification of leaf rust infection-modulated defence responses restricted to the resistant NIL support the hypothesis that basal defence responses of Bowman, but not the Rph15 resistance gene-based ones, are suppressed or delayed by pathogen effectors to levels below the detection power of the adopted proteomic approach. Additionally, Rph15-mediated resistance processes identified mainly resides on a modulation of primary metabolism, affecting photosyntesis and carbohydrate pool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Bernardo
- CRA-Consiglio per la ricerca e la sperimentazione in agricoltura, Genomics Research Centre, Via S. Protaso 302, Fiorenzuola d'Arda, PC I-29017, Italy
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36
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Larrinaga G, Blanco L, Sanz B, Perez I, Gil J, Unda M, Andrés L, Casis L, López JI. The impact of peptidase activity on clear cell renal cell carcinoma survival. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2012; 303:F1584-91. [PMID: 23019229 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00477.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies have proposed that protease expression and activity may have a predictive value in the survival of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC). Most efforts on this issue have been focused on the analysis of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and very little on the role of other proteases, such as peptidases. The catalytic activity of 9 peptidases (APN, APB, ASP, CAP, DPP-IV, NEP/CD10, PEP, PGI, and PSA) was quantified by fluorometric methods in a series of 79 CCRCC patients, and the results obtained were analyzed for survival (Kaplan-Meier curves, log-rank test, and Cox multivariate analysis). CCRCC patients with higher activity levels of membrane-bound APN and soluble APN, DPP-IV, and CAP had significantly shorter 5-yr survival rates than those with lower levels. By contrast, higher soluble APB activity significantly correlated with longer survival. Our data suggest the involvement of peptidases in the biological aggressiveness of CCRCC and support the usefulness of measuring these proteases to assess the prognosis of patients with CCRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gorka Larrinaga
- Dept. of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Cruces, Plaza de Cruces s/n, Bizkaia, Spain
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Bruce LA, Cyr NE, Qiao JW, DeFries CC, Tetel MJ, Wolfson AJ. Neuropeptidase activity is down-regulated by estradiol in steroid-sensitive regions of the hypothalamus in female mice. Neuropeptides 2012; 46:167-72. [PMID: 22672888 PMCID: PMC3404208 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2012.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2012] [Revised: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 04/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Thimet oligopeptidase (TOP) and prolyl endopeptidase (PEP) are neuropeptidases involved in the hydrolysis of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, a key component of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. GnRH is regulated in part by feedback from steroid hormones such as estradiol. Previously, we demonstrated that TOP levels are down-regulated by estradiol in reproductively-relevant regions of the female rodent brain. The present study supports these findings by showing that TOP enzyme activity, as well as protein levels, in the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus of female mice is controlled by estradiol. We further demonstrate that PEP levels in this same brain region are down-regulated by estradiol in parallel with those of TOP. These findings provide evidence that these neuropeptidases are part of the fine control of hormone levels in the HPG axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A. Bruce
- Chemistry Department, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA. USA
| | - Nicole E. Cyr
- Chemistry Department, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA. USA
| | - Jana W. Qiao
- Chemistry Department, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA. USA
| | | | - Marc J. Tetel
- Neuroscience Program, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA. USA
| | - Adele J. Wolfson
- Chemistry Department, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA. USA
- Corresponding author: Chemistry Department, Wellesley College, 106 Central St., Wellesley, MA 01746 USA; 781-283-3106 (tel); 781-283-3642 (fax);
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Dalio FM, Visniauskas B, Bicocchi ES, Perry JC, Freua R, Gesteira TF, Nader HB, Machado MFM, Tufik S, Ferro ES, Andersen ML, Toledo CAB, Chagas JR, Oliveira V. Acute cocaine treatment increases thimet oligopeptidase in the striatum of rat brain. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 419:724-727. [PMID: 22387539 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.02.088] [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: 02/08/2012] [Accepted: 02/15/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Many studies indicate that thimet oligopeptidase (EC3.4.24.15; TOP) can be implicated in the metabolism of bioactive peptides, including dynorphin 1-8, α-neoendorphin, β-neoendorphin and GnRH. Furthermore, the higher levels of this peptidase are found in neuroendocrine tissue and testis. In the present study, we have evaluated the effect of acute cocaine administration in male rats on TOP specific activity and mRNA levels in prosencephalic brain areas related with the reward circuitry; ventral striatum, hippocampus, and frontal cortex. No significant differences on TOP specific activity were detected in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of cocaine treated animals compared to control vehicle group. However, a significant increase in activity was observed in the ventral striatum of cocaine treated-rats. The increase occurred in both, TOP specific activity and TOP relative mRNA amount determined by real time RT-PCR. As TOP can be implicated in the processing of many neuropeptides, and previous studies have shown that cocaine also alters the gene expression of proenkephalin and prodynorphin in the striatum, the present findings suggest that TOP changes in the brain could play important role in the balance of neuropeptide level correlated with cocaine effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda M Dalio
- Departamento de Biofísica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Bai G, Pfaff SL. Protease regulation: the Yin and Yang of neural development and disease. Neuron 2011; 72:9-21. [PMID: 21982365 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2011.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The formation, maintenance, and plasticity of neural circuits rely upon a complex interplay between progressive and regressive events. Increasingly, new functions are being identified for axon guidance molecules in the dynamic processes that occur within the embryonic and adult nervous system. The magnitude, duration, and spatial activity of axon guidance molecule signaling are precisely regulated by a variety of molecular mechanisms. Here we focus on recent progress in understanding the role of protease-mediated cleavage of guidance factors required for directional axon growth, with a particular emphasis on the role of metalloprotease and γ-secretase. Since axon guidance molecules have also been linked to neural degeneration and regeneration in adults, studies of guidance receptor proteolysis are beginning to define new relationships between neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration. These findings raise the possibility that the signaling checkpoints controlled by proteases could be useful targets to enhance regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Bai
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Gene Expression Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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40
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Antinociceptive effect of [Met5]enkephalin semicarbazide is not affected by dipeptidyl carboxypeptidase-I. J Pept Sci 2011; 18:92-6. [DOI: 10.1002/psc.1420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2011] [Revised: 08/17/2011] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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41
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Human matrix metalloproteinases: an ubiquitarian class of enzymes involved in several pathological processes. Mol Aspects Med 2011; 33:119-208. [PMID: 22100792 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2011.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2011] [Accepted: 10/29/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Human matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) belong to the M10 family of the MA clan of endopeptidases. They are ubiquitarian enzymes, structurally characterized by an active site where a Zn(2+) atom, coordinated by three histidines, plays the catalytic role, assisted by a glutamic acid as a general base. Various MMPs display different domain composition, which is very important for macromolecular substrates recognition. Substrate specificity is very different among MMPs, being often associated to their cellular compartmentalization and/or cellular type where they are expressed. An extensive review of the different MMPs structural and functional features is integrated with their pathological role in several types of diseases, spanning from cancer to cardiovascular diseases and to neurodegeneration. It emerges a very complex and crucial role played by these enzymes in many physiological and pathological processes.
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Larrinaga G, Perez I, Sanz B, Irazusta A, Zarrazquin I, Sanchez CE, Rey ASD, Zabala A, Santaolalla F. Activity of soluble aminopeptidase A and dipeptidyl peptidase IV and membrane-bound aminopeptidase B and pyroglutamyl peptidase I in adenoid hyperplasia, tonsillar hyperplasia and chronic tonsillitis. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2011; 75:1399-403. [PMID: 21937126 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2011.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2011] [Revised: 07/29/2011] [Accepted: 07/31/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze soluble and membrane-bound peptidase activities in the tonsils and adenoids removed from patients with adenoid hyperplasia, tonsillar hyperplasia and chronic tonsillitis. METHODS A total of 48 tissue samples from patients undergoing adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy for adenoid hyperplasia, tonsillar hyperplasia or chronic tonsillitis were analyzed. The catalytic activity of a pool of peptidases in the soluble (dipeptidyl peptidase IV, aminopeptidase A, aminopeptidase N and cystinyl aminopeptidase) and membrane-bound (prolyl endopeptidase, aspartyl aminopeptidase, aminopeptidase B and pyroglutamyl peptidase I) fractions was measured fluorometrically. RESULTS The activity of membrane-bound aminopeptidase B was higher in cases of chronic tonsillitis and adenoid hyperplasia than in tonsillar hyperplasia, p=0.004. Soluble dipeptidyl peptidase IV and membrane-bound pyroglutamyl peptidase I were found to be more active in tissues from male chronic tonsillitis tissues, p<0.05, while membrane-bound aminopeptidase B activity was higher in tissues of females with tonsillar hyperplasia, p<0.001. In the case of chronic tonsillitis, soluble aminopeptidase A was found to have a higher level of activity in tissues from children than those from adults, p=0.005. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest a potential role of soluble aminopeptidase A, soluble dipeptidyl peptidase IV, membrane-bound aminopeptidase B and membrane-bound pyroglutamyl peptidase I in the pathobiology of adenoid hyperplasia, tonsillar hyperplasia and chronic tonsillitis that is differently regulated as a function of gender. These finfings may modify in the future the clinical approach to these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gorka Larrinaga
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of the Basque Country, Spain
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43
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Ghale G, Ramalingam V, Urbach AR, Nau WM. Determining protease substrate selectivity and inhibition by label-free supramolecular tandem enzyme assays. J Am Chem Soc 2011; 133:7528-35. [PMID: 21513303 DOI: 10.1021/ja2013467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
An analytical method has been developed for the continuous monitoring of protease activity on unlabeled peptides in real time by fluorescence spectroscopy. The assay is enabled by a reporter pair comprising the macrocycle cucurbit[7]uril (CB7) and the fluorescent dye acridine orange (AO). CB7 functions by selectively recognizing N-terminal phenylalanine residues as they are produced during the enzymatic cleavage of enkephalin-type peptides by the metalloendopeptidase thermolysin. The substrate peptides (e.g., Thr-Gly-Ala-Phe-Met-NH(2)) bind to CB7 with moderately high affinity (K ≈ 10(4) M(-1)), while their cleavage products (e.g., Phe-Met-NH(2)) bind very tightly (K > 10(6) M(-1)). AO signals the reaction upon its selective displacement from the macrocycle by the high affinity product of proteolysis. The resulting supramolecular tandem enzyme assay effectively measures the kinetics of thermolysin, including the accurate determination of sequence specificity (Ser and Gly instead of Ala), stereospecificity (d-Ala instead of l-Ala), endo- versus exopeptidase activity (indicated by differences in absolute fluorescence response), and sensitivity to terminal charges (-CONH(2) vs -COOH). The capability of the tandem assay to measure protease inhibition constants was demonstrated on phosphoramidon as a known inhibitor to afford an inhibition constant of (17.8 ± 0.4) nM. This robust and label-free approach to the study of protease activity and inhibition should be transferable to other endo- and exopeptidases that afford products with N-terminal aromatic amino acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garima Ghale
- School of Engineering and Science, Jacobs University Bremen, Campus Ring 1, D-28759 Bremen, Germany
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44
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The Enigma of Tripeptidyl-Peptidase II: Dual Roles in Housekeeping and Stress. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2010; 2010. [PMID: 20847939 PMCID: PMC2933905 DOI: 10.1155/2010/128478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2009] [Revised: 05/25/2010] [Accepted: 07/12/2010] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The tripeptidyl-peptidase II complex consists of repeated 138 kDa subunits, assembled into two twisted strands that form a high molecular weight complex (>5 MDa). TPPII, like many other cytosolic peptidases, plays a role in the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway downstream of the proteasome as well as in the production and destruction of MHC class I antigens and degradation of neuropeptides. Tripeptidyl-peptidase II activity is increased in cells with an increased demand for protein degradation, but whether degradation of cytosolic peptides is the only cell biological role for TPPII has remained unclear. Recent data indicated that TPPII translocates into the nucleus to control DNA damage responses in malignant cells, supporting that cytosolic “housekeeping peptidases” may have additional roles in cell biology, besides their contribution to protein turnover. Overall, TPPII has an emerging importance in several cancer-related fields, such as metabolism, cell death control, and control of genome integrity; roles that are not understood in detail. The present paper reviews the cell biology of TPPII and discusses distinct roles for TPPII in the nucleus and cytosol.
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45
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Cyr NE, Kua LH, Bruce LA, Chadwick JG, Tetel MJ, Wolfson AJ. Nuclear Thimet oligopeptidase is coexpressed with oestrogen receptor alpha in hypothalamic cells and regulated by oestradiol in female mice. J Neuroendocrinol 2010; 22:936-43. [PMID: 20456597 PMCID: PMC2921797 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2010.02009.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Thimet oligopeptidase (EC 3.4.24.15; also called EP24.15 and TOP; referred to here as TOP) is a neuropeptidase involved in the regulation of several physiological functions including reproduction. Among its substrates is gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH), an important hypothalamic hormone that regulates the synthesis and release of oestradiol and facilitates female sexual behaviour. Using immunohistochemistry, we found that TOP is expressed in the nucleus of cells throughout the female mouse brain, and in high levels in steroid-sensitive regions of the hypothalamus, which is consistent with previous findings in male rats. Furthermore, dual-label immunofluorescence revealed that TOP and oestrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) coexpress in several reproductively-relevant brain regions, including the medial preoptic area (mPOA), arcuate nucleus (ARC), ventrolateral portion of the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMNvl) and the midbrain central grey (MCG). Previous studies in rats have shown that oestradiol decreases hypothalamic TOP levels or activity, possibly potentiating the effects of GnRH. In the present study, analysis by immunohistochemistry revealed that oestradiol decreased TOP immunoreactivity in the VMNvl, whereas no differences were detected in the mPOA, ARC or median eminence. Overall, the present findings indicate that TOP is coexpressed with ERalpha, and oestradiol regulates TOP expression in a brain region-specific manner in female mice, providing neuroanatomical evidence that TOP may function in reproductive physiology and/or behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- N E Cyr
- Chemistry Department, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA 02481-8203, USA
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46
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Increased prolyl endopeptidase activity in human neoplasia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 163:102-6. [PMID: 20362629 DOI: 10.1016/j.regpep.2010.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2010] [Revised: 03/22/2010] [Accepted: 03/25/2010] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Prolyl endopeptidase (EC 3.4.21.26) (PEP) is a serine peptidase that converts several biologically active peptides. This enzyme has been linked to several neurological, digestive, cardiovascular and infectous disorders. However, little is known about its involvement in neoplastic processes. This study analyzes fluorimetrically cytosolic and membrane-bound PEP activity in a large series (n=122) of normal and neoplastic tissues from the kidney, colon, oral cavity, larynx, thyroid gland and testis. Cytosolic PEP activity significantly increased in clear cell renal cell carcinoma, urothelial carcinoma of the renal pelvis and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Both cytosolic and membrane-bound PEP activity were also increased in colorectal adenomatous polyps. These data suggest the involvement of PEP in some mechanisms that underlie neoplastic processes.
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47
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Sigman J, Patwa T, Tablante A, Joseph C, Glucksman M, Wolfson A. Flexibility in substrate recognition by thimet oligopeptidase as revealed by denaturation studies. Biochem J 2009; 388:255-61. [PMID: 15647004 PMCID: PMC1186714 DOI: 10.1042/bj20041481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Thimet oligopeptidase (TOP) is a soluble metalloendopeptidase belonging to a family of enzymes including neurolysin and neprilysin that utilize the HEXXH metal-binding motif. TOP is widely distributed among cell types and is able to cleave a number of structurally unrelated peptides. A recent focus of interest has been on structure-function relationships in substrate selectivity by TOP. The enzyme's structural fold comprises two domains that are linked at the bottom of a deep substrate-binding cleft via several flexible loop structures. In the present study, fluorescence spectroscopy has been used to probe structural changes in TOP induced by the chemical denaturant urea. Fluorescence emission, anisotropy and collisional quenching data support a two-step unfolding process for the enzyme in which complete loss of the tertiary structure occurs in the second step. Complete loss of activity and loss of catalytic Zn(II) from the active site, monitored by absorption changes of the metal chelator 4-(2-pyridylazo)-resorcinol, are also connected with the second step. In contrast, the first unfolding event, which is linked to changes in the non-catalytic domain, leads to a sharp increase in kcat towards a 9-residue substrate and a sharp decrease in kcat for a 5-residue substrate. Thus a conformational change in TOP has been directly correlated with a change in substrate selectivity. These results provide insight into how the enzyme can process the range of structurally unrelated peptides necessary for its many physiological roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A. Sigman
- *Chemistry Department, Saint Mary's College of California, 1928 St. Mary's Road, Moraga, CA 94556, U.S.A
| | - Tasneem H. Patwa
- †Chemistry Department, Wellesley College, 106 Central Street, Wellesley, MA 02841, U.S.A
| | - Ana V. Tablante
- †Chemistry Department, Wellesley College, 106 Central Street, Wellesley, MA 02841, U.S.A
| | - Calleen D. Joseph
- †Chemistry Department, Wellesley College, 106 Central Street, Wellesley, MA 02841, U.S.A
| | - Marc J. Glucksman
- ‡Midwest Proteome Center and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, 3333 Green Bay Road, N. Chicago, IL 60064, U.S.A
| | - Adele J. Wolfson
- †Chemistry Department, Wellesley College, 106 Central Street, Wellesley, MA 02841, U.S.A
- To whom correspondence should be addressed (email )
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Fowler JH, Narváez-Vásquez J, Aromdee DN, Pautot V, Holzer FM, Walling LL. Leucine aminopeptidase regulates defense and wound signaling in tomato downstream of jasmonic acid. THE PLANT CELL 2009; 21:1239-51. [PMID: 19376935 PMCID: PMC2685619 DOI: 10.1105/tpc.108.065029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2008] [Revised: 02/23/2009] [Accepted: 03/23/2009] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Leucine aminopeptidase A (LapA) is a late wound-response gene of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). To elucidate the role of LapA, transgenic plants that overexpressed or abolished LapA gene expression were used. The early wound-response gene RNA levels were similar in wild-type and Lap-silenced (LapA-SI), -antisense (LapA-AS), and -overexpressing (LapA-OX) plants. By contrast, late wound-response gene RNA levels and protection against Manduca sexta damage were influenced by LapA RNA and protein levels. While LapA-OX plants had elevated levels of LapA RNAs and protein, ectopic expression of LapA was not sufficient to induce Pin (Ser proteinase inhibitor) or PPO (polyphenol oxidase) transcripts in nonwounded leaves. M. sexta larvae damaged less foliage and displayed delays in growth and development when feeding on LapA-OX plants. By contrast, LapA-SI and LapA-AS lines had lower levels of Pin and PPO RNAs than wild-type controls. Furthermore, larvae consumed more foliage and attained larger masses when feeding on LapA-SI plants. Jasmonic acid (JA) did not complement the wound-signaling phenotype of LapA-SI plants. Based on root elongation in the presence of JA, JA perception appeared to be intact in LapA-SI lines. Collectively, these data suggested that LAP-A has a role in modulating essential defenses against herbivores by promoting late wound responses and acting downstream of JA biosynthesis and perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan H Fowler
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Center for Plant Cell Biology and University of California, Riverside, California 92521-0124, USA
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49
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Abstract
Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) was first isolated in the mammal and shown to be the primary regulator of the reproductive system through its initiation of pituitary gonadotrophin release. Subsequent to its discovery, this form of GnRH has been shown to be one of many structural variants found in the brain and peripheral tissues. Accordingly, the original form first discovered and cloned in the mammal is commonly referred to as GnRH-I. In addition to the complex regulation of GnRH-I synthesis, release and function, further evidence suggests that the processing of GnRH-I produces yet another layer of complexity in its activity. GnRH-I is processed by a zinc metalloendopeptidase EC 3.4.24.15 (EP24.15), which cleaves the hormone at the covalent bond between the fifth and sixth residue of the decapeptide (Tyr(5)-Gly(6)) to form GnRH-(1-5). It was previously thought that the cleavage of GnRH-I by EP24.15 represents the initiation of its degradation. Here, we review the evidence for the involvement of GnRH-(1-5), the metabolite of GnRH-I, in the regulation of GnRH-I synthesis, secretion and facilitation of reproductive behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- T John Wu
- Program in Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
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50
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Preta G, Marescotti D, Fortini C, Carcoforo P, Castelli C, Masucci M, Gavioli R. Inhibition of serine-peptidase activity enhances the generation of a survivin-derived HLA-A2-presented CTL epitope in colon-carcinoma cells. Scand J Immunol 2008; 68:579-88. [PMID: 19000094 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3083.2008.02175.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Cytotoxic T lymphocytes eliminate tumor cells expressing antigenic peptides in the context of MHC-I molecules. Peptides are generated during protein degradation by the proteasome and resulting products, surviving cytosolic amino-peptidases activity, may be presented by MHC-I molecules. The MHC-I processing pathway is altered in a large number of malignancies and modulation of antigen generation is one strategy employed by cells to evade immune control. In this study we analyzed the generation and presentation of a survivin-derived CTL epitope in HLA-A2-positive colon-carcinoma cells. Although all cell lines expressed the anti-apoptotic protein survivin, some tumors were poorly recognized by ELTLGEFLKL (ELT)-specific CTL cultures. The expression of MHC-I or TAP molecules was similar in all cell lines suggesting that tumors not recognized by CTLs may present defects in the generation of the ELT-epitope which could be due either to lack of generation or to subsequent degradation of the epitope. The cells were analyzed for the expression and the activity of extra-proteasomal peptidases. A significant overexpression and higher activity of TPPII was observed in colon-carcinoma cells which are not killed by ELT-specific CTLs, suggesting a possible role of TPPII in the degradation of the ELT-epitope. To confirm the role of TPPII in the degradation of the ELT-peptide, we showed that treatment of colon-carcinoma cells with a TPPII inhibitor resulted in a dose-dependent increased sensitivity to ELT-specific CTLs. These results suggest that TPPII is involved in degradation of the ELT-peptide, and its overexpression may contribute to the immune escape of colon-carcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Preta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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