1
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López-Merino E, Fernández-Rodrigo A, Jiang JG, Gutiérrez-Eisman S, Fernández de Sevilla D, Fernández-Medarde A, Santos E, Guerra C, Barbacid M, Esteban JA, Briz V. Different Ras isoforms regulate synaptic plasticity in opposite directions. EMBO J 2025; 44:2106-2133. [PMID: 39984756 PMCID: PMC11961722 DOI: 10.1038/s44318-025-00390-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 01/27/2025] [Accepted: 01/30/2025] [Indexed: 02/23/2025] Open
Abstract
The small GTPase Ras is an intracellular signaling hub required for long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus and for memory formation. Genetic alterations in Ras signaling (i.e., RASopathies) are linked to cognitive disorders in humans. However, it remains unclear how Ras controls synaptic plasticity, and whether different Ras isoforms play overlapping or distinct roles in neurons. Using genetically modified mice, we show here that H-Ras (the most abundant isoform in the brain) does not promote LTP, but instead long-term depression mediated by metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR-LTD). Mechanistically, H-Ras is activated locally in spines during mGluR-LTD via c-Src, and is required to trigger Erk activation and de novo protein synthesis. Furthermore, H-Ras deletion impairs object recognition as well as social and spatial memory. Conversely, K-Ras is the isoform specifically required for LTP. This functional specialization correlates with a differential synaptic distribution of the two isoforms H-Ras and K-Ras, which may have important implications for RASopathies and cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alba Fernández-Rodrigo
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Inserm Université de Bordeaux, U1215 Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jessie G Jiang
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Alberto Fernández-Medarde
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca), Salamanca, Spain
- CIBERONC (Instituto de Salud Carlos III), Madrid, Spain
| | - Eugenio Santos
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca), Salamanca, Spain
- CIBERONC (Instituto de Salud Carlos III), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Guerra
- CIBERONC (Instituto de Salud Carlos III), Madrid, Spain
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mariano Barbacid
- CIBERONC (Instituto de Salud Carlos III), Madrid, Spain
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - José A Esteban
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Víctor Briz
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain.
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Ambiental (Instituto de Salud Carlos III), Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
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2
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Boto T, Tomchik SM. Functional Imaging of Learning-Induced Plasticity in the Central Nervous System with Genetically Encoded Reporters in Drosophila. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2024; 2024:pdb.top107799. [PMID: 37197830 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.top107799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Learning and memory allow animals to adjust their behavior based on the predictive value of their past experiences. Memories often exist in complex representations, spread across numerous cells and synapses in the brain. Studying relatively simple forms of memory provides insights into the fundamental processes that underlie multiple forms of memory. Associative learning occurs when an animal learns the relationship between two previously unrelated sensory stimuli, such as when a hungry animal learns that a particular odor is followed by a tasty reward. Drosophila is a particularly powerful model to study how this type of memory works. The fundamental principles are widely shared among animals, and there is a wide range of genetic tools available to study circuit function in flies. In addition, the olfactory structures that mediate associative learning in flies, such as the mushroom body and its associated neurons, are anatomically organized, relatively well-characterized, and readily accessible to imaging. Here, we review the olfactory anatomy and physiology of the olfactory system, describe how plasticity in the olfactory pathway mediates learning and memory, and explain the general principles underlying calcium imaging approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Boto
- Department of Physiology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
- Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Seth M Tomchik
- Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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3
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Linghu C, Johnson SL, Valdes PA, Shemesh OA, Park WM, Park D, Piatkevich KD, Wassie AT, Liu Y, An B, Barnes SA, Celiker OT, Yao CC, Yu CCJ, Wang R, Adamala KP, Bear MF, Keating AE, Boyden ES. Spatial Multiplexing of Fluorescent Reporters for Imaging Signaling Network Dynamics. Cell 2020; 183:1682-1698.e24. [PMID: 33232692 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2020.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In order to analyze how a signal transduction network converts cellular inputs into cellular outputs, ideally one would measure the dynamics of many signals within the network simultaneously. We found that, by fusing a fluorescent reporter to a pair of self-assembling peptides, it could be stably clustered within cells at random points, distant enough to be resolved by a microscope but close enough to spatially sample the relevant biology. Because such clusters, which we call signaling reporter islands (SiRIs), can be modularly designed, they permit a set of fluorescent reporters to be efficiently adapted for simultaneous measurement of multiple nodes of a signal transduction network within single cells. We created SiRIs for indicators of second messengers and kinases and used them, in hippocampal neurons in culture and intact brain slices, to discover relationships between the speed of calcium signaling, and the amplitude of PKA signaling, upon receiving a cAMP-driving stimulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changyang Linghu
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Shannon L Johnson
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Pablo A Valdes
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Or A Shemesh
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Won Min Park
- Tim Taylor Department of Chemical Engineering, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Demian Park
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Kiryl D Piatkevich
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024, China
| | - Asmamaw T Wassie
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Yixi Liu
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Bobae An
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Stephanie A Barnes
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Orhan T Celiker
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Chun-Chen Yao
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Chih-Chieh Jay Yu
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Ru Wang
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Katarzyna P Adamala
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Mark F Bear
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Amy E Keating
- Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biology, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Koch Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Edward S Boyden
- Department of Media Arts and Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for Neurobiological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Koch Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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4
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Ripoll C, Roldan M, Contreras-Montoya R, Diaz-Mochon JJ, Martin M, Ruedas-Rama MJ, Orte A. Mitochondrial pH Nanosensors for Metabolic Profiling of Breast Cancer Cell Lines. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3731. [PMID: 32466332 PMCID: PMC7279253 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The main role of mitochondria, as pivotal organelles for cellular metabolism, is the production of energy (ATP) through an oxidative phosphorylation system. During this process, the electron transport chain creates a proton gradient that drives the synthesis of ATP. One of the main features of tumoral cells is their altered metabolism, providing alternative routes to enhance proliferation and survival. Hence, it is of utmost importance to understand the relationship between mitochondrial pH, tumoral metabolism, and cancer. In this manuscript, we develop a highly specific nanosensor to accurately measure the intramitochondrial pH using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). Importantly, we have applied this nanosensor to establish differences that may be hallmarks of different metabolic pathways in breast cancer cell models, leading to the characterization of different metabophenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Consuelo Ripoll
- Departamento de Fisicoquimica, Facultad de Farmacia, Unidad de Excelencia en Quimica Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Universidad de Granada, Campus Cartuja, 18071 Granada, Spain; (C.R.); (M.J.R.-R.)
| | - Mar Roldan
- GENYO, Pfizer-Universidad de Granada-Junta de Andalucia Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Avda Ilustracion 114, PTS, 18016 Granada, Spain; (M.R.); (J.J.D.-M.); (M.M)
| | - Rafael Contreras-Montoya
- Departamento de Quimica Organica, Facultad de Ciencias, Unidad de Excelencia en Quimica Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Universidad de Granada, Campus Fuentenueva, 18071 Granada, Spain;
| | - Juan J. Diaz-Mochon
- GENYO, Pfizer-Universidad de Granada-Junta de Andalucia Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Avda Ilustracion 114, PTS, 18016 Granada, Spain; (M.R.); (J.J.D.-M.); (M.M)
- Departamento de Quimica Farmaceutica y Organica, Facultad de Farmacia, Unidad de Excelencia en Quimica Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Universidad de Granada, Campus Cartuja, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Miguel Martin
- GENYO, Pfizer-Universidad de Granada-Junta de Andalucia Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Avda Ilustracion 114, PTS, 18016 Granada, Spain; (M.R.); (J.J.D.-M.); (M.M)
- Departamento de Bioquimica y Biologia Celular I, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, Campus Fuentenueva, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Maria J. Ruedas-Rama
- Departamento de Fisicoquimica, Facultad de Farmacia, Unidad de Excelencia en Quimica Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Universidad de Granada, Campus Cartuja, 18071 Granada, Spain; (C.R.); (M.J.R.-R.)
| | - Angel Orte
- Departamento de Fisicoquimica, Facultad de Farmacia, Unidad de Excelencia en Quimica Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Universidad de Granada, Campus Cartuja, 18071 Granada, Spain; (C.R.); (M.J.R.-R.)
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5
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Tu X, Yasuda R, Colgan LA. Rac1 is a downstream effector of PKCα in structural synaptic plasticity. Sci Rep 2020; 10:1777. [PMID: 32019972 PMCID: PMC7000694 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-58610-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Structural and functional plasticity of dendritic spines is the basis of animal learning. The rapid remodeling of actin cytoskeleton is associated with spine enlargement and shrinkage, which are essential for structural plasticity. The calcium-dependent protein kinase C isoform, PKCα, has been suggested to be critical for this actin-dependent plasticity. However, mechanisms linking PKCα and structural plasticity of spines are unknown. Here, we examine the spatiotemporal activation of actin regulators, including small GTPases Rac1, Cdc42 and Ras, in the presence or absence of PKCα during single-spine structural plasticity. Removal of PKCα expression in the postsynapse attenuated Rac1 activation during structural plasticity without affecting Ras or Cdc42 activity. Moreover, disruption of a PDZ binding domain within PKCα led to impaired Rac1 activation and deficits in structural spine remodeling. These results demonstrate that PKCα positively regulates the activation of Rac1 during structural plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Tu
- Neuronal Signal Transduction Group, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, FL, USA
- International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior, Jupiter, FL, USA
- FAU/Max Planck Florida Institute Joint Graduate Program in Integrative Biology and Neuroscience, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Ryohei Yasuda
- Neuronal Signal Transduction Group, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, FL, USA.
- International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior, Jupiter, FL, USA.
- FAU/Max Planck Florida Institute Joint Graduate Program in Integrative Biology and Neuroscience, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA.
| | - Lesley A Colgan
- Neuronal Signal Transduction Group, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, FL, USA.
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6
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Abstract
The Mushroom Body (MB) is the primary location of stored associative memories in the Drosophila brain. We discuss recent advances in understanding the MB's neuronal circuits made using advanced light microscopic methods and cell-type-specific genetic tools. We also review how the compartmentalized nature of the MB's organization allows this brain area to form and store memories with widely different dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Aso
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Gerald M Rubin
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
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7
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Mclaurin JD, Weiner OD. Multiple sources of signal amplification within the B-cell Ras/MAPK pathway. Mol Biol Cell 2019; 30:1610-1620. [PMID: 31042097 PMCID: PMC6727637 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e18-09-0560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ras-Map kinase (MAPK) cascade underlies functional decisions in a wide range of cell types and organisms. In B-cells, positive feedback-driven Ras activation is the proposed source of the digital (all or none) MAPK responses following antigen stimulation. However, an inability to measure endogenous Ras activity in living cells has hampered our ability to test this model directly. Here we leverage biosensors of endogenous Ras and ERK activity to revisit this question. We find that B-cell receptor (BCR) ligation drives switch-like Ras activation and that lower BCR signaling output is required for the maintenance versus the initiation of Ras activation. Surprisingly, digital ERK responses persist in the absence of positive feedback-mediated Ras activation, and digital ERK is observed at a threshold level of Ras activation. These data suggest an independent analogue-to-digital switch downstream of Ras activation and reveal that multiple sources of signal amplification exist within the Ras-ERK module of the BCR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin D Mclaurin
- Cardiovascular Research Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158
| | - Orion D Weiner
- Cardiovascular Research Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158
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8
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Intensiometric biosensors visualize the activity of multiple small GTPases in vivo. Nat Commun 2019; 10:211. [PMID: 30643148 PMCID: PMC6331645 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-08217-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Ras and Rho small GTPases are critical for numerous cellular processes including cell division, migration, and intercellular communication. Despite extensive efforts to visualize the spatiotemporal activity of these proteins, achieving the sensitivity and dynamic range necessary for in vivo application has been challenging. Here, we present highly sensitive intensiometric small GTPase biosensors visualizing the activity of multiple small GTPases in single cells in vivo. Red-shifted sensors combined with blue light-controllable optogenetic modules achieved simultaneous monitoring and manipulation of protein activities in a highly spatiotemporal manner. Our biosensors revealed spatial dynamics of Cdc42 and Ras activities upon structural plasticity of single dendritic spines, as well as a broad range of subcellular Ras activities in the brains of freely behaving mice. Thus, these intensiometric small GTPase sensors enable the spatiotemporal dissection of complex protein signaling networks in live animals. FRET sensors hardly achieve visualization of spatiotemporal dynamics of protein activity in vivo. Here the authors present intensiometric small GTPase biosensors based on dimerization-dependent fluorescent proteins that enable monitoring of activity of small GTPases in the brains of behaving mice at a single spine resolution.
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9
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Greenwald EC, Mehta S, Zhang J. Genetically Encoded Fluorescent Biosensors Illuminate the Spatiotemporal Regulation of Signaling Networks. Chem Rev 2018; 118:11707-11794. [PMID: 30550275 PMCID: PMC7462118 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.8b00333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 359] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cellular signaling networks are the foundation which determines the fate and function of cells as they respond to various cues and stimuli. The discovery of fluorescent proteins over 25 years ago enabled the development of a diverse array of genetically encodable fluorescent biosensors that are capable of measuring the spatiotemporal dynamics of signal transduction pathways in live cells. In an effort to encapsulate the breadth over which fluorescent biosensors have expanded, we endeavored to assemble a comprehensive list of published engineered biosensors, and we discuss many of the molecular designs utilized in their development. Then, we review how the high temporal and spatial resolution afforded by fluorescent biosensors has aided our understanding of the spatiotemporal regulation of signaling networks at the cellular and subcellular level. Finally, we highlight some emerging areas of research in both biosensor design and applications that are on the forefront of biosensor development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric C Greenwald
- University of California , San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, BRFII , La Jolla , CA 92093-0702 , United States
| | - Sohum Mehta
- University of California , San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, BRFII , La Jolla , CA 92093-0702 , United States
| | - Jin Zhang
- University of California , San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, BRFII , La Jolla , CA 92093-0702 , United States
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10
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Gao XJ, Chong LS, Kim MS, Elowitz MB. Programmable protein circuits in living cells. Science 2018; 361:1252-1258. [PMID: 30237357 DOI: 10.1126/science.aat5062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 225] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic protein-level circuits could enable engineering of powerful new cellular behaviors. Rational protein circuit design would be facilitated by a composable protein-protein regulation system in which individual protein components can regulate one another to create a variety of different circuit architectures. In this study, we show that engineered viral proteases can function as composable protein components, which can together implement a broad variety of circuit-level functions in mammalian cells. In this system, termed CHOMP (circuits of hacked orthogonal modular proteases), input proteases dock with and cleave target proteases to inhibit their function. These components can be connected to generate regulatory cascades, binary logic gates, and dynamic analog signal-processing functions. To demonstrate the utility of this system, we rationally designed a circuit that induces cell death in response to upstream activators of the Ras oncogene. Because CHOMP circuits can perform complex functions yet be encoded as single transcripts and delivered without genomic integration, they offer a scalable platform to facilitate protein circuit engineering for biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing J Gao
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Broad Center, California Institute of Technology, 1200 East California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Lucy S Chong
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Broad Center, California Institute of Technology, 1200 East California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Matthew S Kim
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Broad Center, California Institute of Technology, 1200 East California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Michael B Elowitz
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Broad Center, California Institute of Technology, 1200 East California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
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11
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Chen L, Leng WB, Li DZ, Xia HW, Ren M, Tang QL, Gong QY, Gao FB, Bi F. Noninvasive Imaging of Ras Activity by Monomolecular Biosensor Based on Split-Luciferase Complementary Assay. Sci Rep 2017; 7:9945. [PMID: 28855513 PMCID: PMC5577193 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-08358-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Deregulated activity of Ras GTPases has been observed in many types of human cancers, and contributes to the diverse aspects of carcinogenesis. Although the significance in tumorigenesis has been widely accepted and many therapeutic drugs are under development, little attention has been dedicated to the development of sensors for the Ras activity in vivo. Therefore, based on the split firefly luciferase complementation strategy, we developed a monomolecular bioluminescent biosensor to image endogenous Ras activity in living subject. In this biosensor, two inactive luciferase fragments are sandwiched by Raf-1, whose conformation changes upon GTP-Ras binding. Thus, the Ras activity can be surrogated by the intensity of the complementary luciferase. The bioluminescence analyses demonstrated that this novel biosensor behaved the robust and sensitive reporting efficiency in response to the dynamical changes of Ras activity, both in living colorectal cancer cells and in vivo. Compared to the traditional method, such as the pull-down assay, the bioluminescent sensor is simply, noninvasive, faster and more sensitive for the analysis of the endogenous Ras activity. This innovative work opens up the way for monitoring the preclinical curative effect and high-throughput screening of therapeutic drugs targeting Ras pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Bing Leng
- Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - De Zhi Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hong Wei Xia
- Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Min Ren
- Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiu Lin Tang
- Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qi Yong Gong
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Fa Bao Gao
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Feng Bi
- Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China. .,Department of Medical Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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12
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ShadowY: a dark yellow fluorescent protein for FLIM-based FRET measurement. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6791. [PMID: 28754922 PMCID: PMC5533704 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07002-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM)-based Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) measurement (FLIM-FRET) is one of the powerful methods for imaging of intracellular protein activities such as protein–protein interactions and conformational changes. Here, using saturation mutagenesis, we developed a dark yellow fluorescent protein named ShadowY that can serve as an acceptor for FLIM-FRET. ShadowY is spectrally similar to the previously reported dark YFP but has a much smaller quantum yield, greater extinction coefficient, and superior folding property. When ShadowY was paired with mEGFP or a Clover mutant (CloverT153M/F223R) and applied to a single-molecule FRET sensor to monitor a light-dependent conformational change of the light-oxygen-voltage domain 2 (LOV2) in HeLa cells, we observed a large FRET signal change with low cell-to-cell variability, allowing for precise measurement of individual cell responses. In addition, an application of ShadowY to a separate-type Ras FRET sensor revealed an EGF-dependent large FRET signal increase. Thus, ShadowY in combination with mEGFP or CloverT153M/F223R is a promising FLIM-FRET acceptor.
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13
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Abstract
Genetically encoded fluorescent sensors are essential tools in modern biological research, and recent advances in fluorescent proteins (FPs) have expanded the scope of sensor design and implementation. In this review we compare different sensor platforms, including Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) sensors, fluorescence-modulated single FP-based sensors, translocation sensors, complementation sensors, and dimerization-based sensors. We discuss elements of sensor design and engineering for each platform, including the incorporation of new types of FPs and sensor screening techniques. Finally, we summarize the wide range of sensors in the literature, exploring creative new sensor architectures suitable for different applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Sanford
- University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Amy Palmer
- University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States.
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14
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Talking to the neighbours: The molecular and physiological mechanisms of clustered synaptic plasticity. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 71:352-361. [PMID: 27659124 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Synaptic connectivity forms the basis for neuronal communication and the storage of information. Experiences and learning of new abilities can drive remodelling of this connectivity and promotes the formation of spine clusters; dendritic segments with a higher spine density. Spines located within these segments are frequently co-activated, undergo different dynamics than synapses located outside of this dendritic compartment and have, in general, a longer lifetime. Several lines of evidence have shown that chemical synapses located close to each other share or compete for intracellular signalling molecules and structural resources. This sharing and competition directly influences spine dynamics. Spines can grow, shrink, increase or decrease the surface expression of receptors, channels and adhesion molecules or remain stable and unchanged over extended periods of time. Here we summarize recent discoveries and provide a closer look at spine clustering, dendritic segment-specific signalling and potential molecular mechanisms underlying associative and heterosynaptic plasticity.
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15
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Abstract
High-resolution deep tissue imaging is possible with two-photon excitation microscopy. With the combined application of two-photon imaging and perfusion with a polar fluorescent tracer, we have established a method to detect exocytic events inside secretory tissues. This method displays the spatiotemporal distribution of exocytic sites, dynamics of fusion pores, and modes of exocytosis. In glucose-stimulated pancreatic islets, exocytic events were observed to be synchronized with an increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) concentrations. Full fusion of a single secretory granule is the typical mode of exocytosis and compound exocytosis is inhibited. Because two-photon excitation enables simultaneous multicolor imaging due to the broadened excitation spectra, the distributions and conformational changes in fluorescent-labeled molecules can be simultaneously visualized with exocytic events. Therefore, we can analyze the dynamics of the molecules involved in membrane fusion and their association with exocytosis in living tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Takahashi
- Laboratory of Structural Physiology, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo
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16
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Stanley RJ, Thomas GMH. Activation of G Proteins by Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factors Relies on GTPase Activity. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0151861. [PMID: 26986850 PMCID: PMC4795700 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0151861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
G proteins are an important family of signalling molecules controlled by guanine nucleotide exchange and GTPase activity in what is commonly called an 'activation/inactivation cycle'. The molecular mechanism by which guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) catalyse the activation of monomeric G proteins is well-established, however the complete reversibility of this mechanism is often overlooked. Here, we use a theoretical approach to prove that GEFs are unable to positively control G protein systems at steady-state in the absence of GTPase activity. Instead, positive regulation of G proteins must be seen as a product of the competition between guanine nucleotide exchange and GTPase activity--emphasising a central role for GTPase activity beyond merely signal termination. We conclude that a more accurate description of the regulation of G proteins via these processes is as a 'balance/imbalance' mechanism. This result has implications for the understanding of intracellular signalling processes, and for experimental strategies that rely on modulating G protein systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob J. Stanley
- CoMPLEX, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Geraint M. H. Thomas
- CoMPLEX, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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17
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Murakoshi H, Shibata ACE, Nakahata Y, Nabekura J. A dark green fluorescent protein as an acceptor for measurement of Förster resonance energy transfer. Sci Rep 2015; 5:15334. [PMID: 26469148 PMCID: PMC4606784 DOI: 10.1038/srep15334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Measurement of Förster resonance energy transfer by fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM-FRET) is a powerful method for visualization of intracellular signaling activities such as protein-protein interactions and conformational changes of proteins. Here, we developed a dark green fluorescent protein (ShadowG) that can serve as an acceptor for FLIM-FRET. ShadowG is spectrally similar to monomeric enhanced green fluorescent protein (mEGFP) and has a 120-fold smaller quantum yield. When FRET from mEGFP to ShadowG was measured using an mEGFP-ShadowG tandem construct with 2-photon FLIM-FRET, we observed a strong FRET signal with low cell-to-cell variability. Furthermore, ShadowG was applied to a single-molecule FRET sensor to monitor a conformational change of CaMKII and of the light oxygen voltage (LOV) domain in HeLa cells. These sensors showed reduced cell-to-cell variability of both the basal fluorescence lifetime and response signal. In contrast to mCherry- or dark-YFP-based sensors, our sensor allowed for precise measurement of individual cell responses. When ShadowG was applied to a separate-type Ras FRET sensor, it showed a greater response signal than did the mCherry-based sensor. Furthermore, Ras activation and translocation of its effector ERK2 into the nucleus could be observed simultaneously. Thus, ShadowG is a promising FLIM-FRET acceptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideji Murakoshi
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Precursory Research for Embryonic Science and Technology, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Kawaguchi, Saitama 332-0012, Japan
| | - Akihiro C. E. Shibata
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Nakahata
- Division of Homeostatic Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Junichi Nabekura
- Department of Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Division of Homeostatic Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Kawaguchi, Saitama 332-0012, Japan
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18
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Abstract
In dendritic spines, Ras plays a critical role in synaptic plasticity but its regulation mechanism is not fully understood. Here, using a fluorescence resonance energy transfer/fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy-based Ras imaging technique in combination with 2-photon glutamate uncaging, we show that neurofibromin, in which loss-of-function mutations cause Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1), contributes to the majority (∼90%) of Ras inactivation in dendritic spines of pyramidal neurons in the CA1 region of the rat hippocampus. Loss of neurofibromin causes sustained Ras activation in spines, which leads to impairment of spine structural plasticity and loss of spines in an activity-dependent manner. Therefore, deregulation of postsynaptic Ras signaling may explain, at least in part, learning disabilities associated with NF1.
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Oldach L, Zhang J. Genetically encoded fluorescent biosensors for live-cell visualization of protein phosphorylation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 21:186-97. [PMID: 24485761 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2013.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2013] [Revised: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Fluorescence-based, genetically encodable biosensors are widely used tools for real-time analysis of biological processes. Over the last few decades, the number of available genetically encodable biosensors and the types of processes they can monitor have increased rapidly. Here, we aim to introduce the reader to general principles and practices in biosensor development and highlight ways in which biosensors can be used to illuminate outstanding questions of biological function. Specifically, we focus on sensors developed for monitoring kinase activity and use them to illustrate some common considerations for biosensor design. We describe several uses to which kinase and second-messenger biosensors have been put, and conclude with considerations for the use of biosensors once they are developed. Overall, as fluorescence-based biosensors continue to diversify and improve, we expect them to continue to be widely used as reliable and fruitful tools for gaining deeper insights into cellular and organismal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel Oldach
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 307 Hunterian Building, 725 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 307 Hunterian Building, 725 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 307 Hunterian Building, 725 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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20
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Leray A, Padilla-Parra S, Roul J, Héliot L, Tramier M. Spatio-Temporal Quantification of FRET in living cells by fast time-domain FLIM: a comparative study of non-fitting methods [corrected]. PLoS One 2013; 8:e69335. [PMID: 23874948 PMCID: PMC3715500 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0069335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2013] [Accepted: 06/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) measured with Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (FLIM) is a powerful technique to investigate spatio-temporal regulation of protein-protein interactions in living cells. When using standard fitting methods to analyze time domain FLIM, the correct estimation of the FRET parameters requires a high number of photons and therefore long acquisition times which are incompatible with the observation of dynamic protein-protein interactions. Recently, non-fitting strategies have been developed for the analysis of FLIM images: the polar plot or "phasor" and the minimal fraction of interacting donor mfD . We propose here a novel non-fitting strategy based on the calculation of moments. We then compare the performance of these three methods when shortening the acquisition time: either by reducing the number of counted photons N or the number of temporal channels Nch , which is particularly adapted for the original fast-FLIM prototype presented in this work that employs the time gated approach. Based on theoretical calculations, Monte Carlo simulations and experimental data, we determine the domain of validity of each method. We thus demonstrate that the polar approach remains accurate for a large range of conditions (low N, Nch or small fractions of interacting donor fD ). The validity domain of the moments method is more restricted (not applicable when fD <0.25 or when Nch = 4) but it is more precise than the polar approach. We also demonstrate that the mfD is robust in all conditions and it is the most precise strategy; although it does not strictly provide the fraction of interacting donor. We show using the fast-FLIM prototype (with an acquisition rate up to 1 Hz) that these non-fitting strategies are very powerful for on-line analysis on a standard computer and thus for quantifying automatically the spatio-temporal activation of Rac-GTPase in living cells by FRET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aymeric Leray
- Institut de Recherche Interdisciplinaire, USR 3078 CNRS, Université de Lille-Nord de France, Biophotonique Cellulaire Fonctionnelle, Villeneuve d'Ascq, France.
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