1
|
Weber S, Sitte S, Voegele AL, Sologub L, Wilfer A, Rath T, Nägel A, Zundler S, Franchi L, Opipari AW, Sonnewald S, Reid S, Hartmann A, Eichhorn P, Handtrack C, Weber K, Grützmann R, Neufert C, Schellerer VS, Naschberger E, Ekici AB, Büttner C, Neurath MF, Atreya R. NLRP3 Inhibition Leads to Impaired Mucosal Fibroblast Function in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. J Crohns Colitis 2024; 18:446-461. [PMID: 37748021 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjad164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are characterized by mucosal inflammation and sequential fibrosis formation, but the exact role of the hyperactive NLRP3 inflammasome in these processes is unclear. Thus, we studied the expression and function of the NLRP3 inflammasome in the context of inflammation and fibrosis in IBD. METHODS We analysed intestinal NLRP3 expression in mucosal immune cells and fibroblasts from IBD patients and NLRP3-associated gene expression via single-cell RNA sequencing and microarray analyses. Furthermore, cytokine secretion of NLRP3 inhibitor treated blood and mucosal cells, as well as proliferation, collagen production, and cell death of NLRP3 inhibitor treated intestinal fibroblasts from IBD patients were studied. RESULTS We found increased NLRP3 expression in the inflamed mucosa of IBD patients and NLRP3 inhibition led to reduced IL-1β and IL-18 production in blood cells and diminished the bioactive form of mucosal IL-1β. Single cell analysis identified overlapping expression patterns of NLRP3 and IL-1β in classically activated intestinal macrophages and we also detected NLRP3 expression in CD163+ macrophages. In addition, NLRP3 expression was also found in intestinal fibroblasts from IBD patients. Inhibition of NLRP3 led to reduced proliferation of intestinal fibroblasts, which was associated with a marked decrease in production of collagen type I and type VI in IBD patients. Moreover, NLRP3 inhibition in intestinal fibroblasts induced autophagy, a cellular process involved in collagen degradation. CONCLUSIONS In the presented study, we demonstrate that inhibiting NLRP3 might pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches in IBD, especially to prevent the severe complication of intestinal fibrosis formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Weber
- First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie [DZI], Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Selina Sitte
- First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie [DZI], Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Voegele
- First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie [DZI], Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ludmilla Sologub
- First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie [DZI], Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Angelika Wilfer
- First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie [DZI], Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Timo Rath
- First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie [DZI], Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Nägel
- First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie [DZI], Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Zundler
- First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie [DZI], Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Luigi Franchi
- SVP, Translational Medicine, Odyssey Therapeutics, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stephen Reid
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Department of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Philip Eichhorn
- Department of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Claudia Handtrack
- Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Klaus Weber
- Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Robert Grützmann
- Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Clemens Neufert
- First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie [DZI], Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Vera S Schellerer
- Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Division of Molecular and Experimental Surgery, Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Naschberger
- Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Division of Molecular and Experimental Surgery, Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arif B Ekici
- Institute of Human Genetics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Büttner
- Institute of Human Genetics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus F Neurath
- First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie [DZI], Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Raja Atreya
- First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie [DZI], Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Koch L, Lehretz GG, Sonnewald U, Sonnewald S. Yield reduction caused by elevated temperatures and high nitrogen fertilization is mitigated by SP6A overexpression in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Plant J 2024; 117:1702-1715. [PMID: 38334712 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.16679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) are a fundamental staple for millions of people worldwide. They provide essential amino acids, vitamins, and starch - a vital component of the human diet, providing energy and serving as a source of fiber. Unfortunately, global warming is posing a severe threat to this crop, leading to significant yield losses, and thereby endangering global food security. Industrial agriculture traditionally relies on excessive nitrogen (N) fertilization to boost yields. However, it remains uncertain whether this is effective in combating heat-related yield losses of potato. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the combinatory effects of heat stress and N fertilization on potato tuber formation. We demonstrate that N levels and heat significantly impact tuber development. The combination of high N and heat delays tuberization, while N deficiency initiates early tuberization, likely through starvation-induced signals, independent of SELF-PRUNING 6A (SP6A), a critical regulator of tuberization. We also found that high N levels in combination with heat reduce tuber yield rather than improve it. However, our study revealed that SP6A overexpression can promote tuberization under these inhibiting conditions. By utilizing the excess of N for accumulating tuber biomass, SP6A overexpressing plants exhibit a shift in biomass distribution towards the tubers. This results in an increased yield compared to wild-type plants. Our results highlight the role of SP6A overexpression as a viable strategy for ensuring stable potato yields in the face of global warming. As such, our findings provide insights into the complex factors impacting potato crop productivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Koch
- Department of Biology, Chair of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Günter G Lehretz
- Department of Biology, Chair of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Uwe Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Chair of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Chair of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Raffeiner M, Üstün S, Guerra T, Spinti D, Fitzner M, Sonnewald S, Baldermann S, Börnke F. The Xanthomonas type-III effector XopS stabilizes CaWRKY40a to regulate defense responses and stomatal immunity in pepper (Capsicum annuum). Plant Cell 2022; 34:1684-1708. [PMID: 35134217 PMCID: PMC9048924 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koac032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
As a critical part of plant immunity, cells that are attacked by pathogens undergo rapid transcriptional reprogramming to minimize virulence. Many bacterial phytopathogens use type III effector (T3E) proteins to interfere with plant defense responses, including this transcriptional reprogramming. Here, we show that Xanthomonas outer protein S (XopS), a T3E of Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria (Xcv), interacts with and inhibits proteasomal degradation of WRKY40, a transcriptional regulator of defense gene expression. Virus-induced gene silencing of WRKY40 in pepper (Capsicum annuum) enhanced plant tolerance to Xcv infection, indicating that WRKY40 represses immunity. Stabilization of WRKY40 by XopS reduces the expression of its targets, which include salicylic acid-responsive genes and the jasmonic acid signaling repressor JAZ8. Xcv bacteria lacking XopS display significantly reduced virulence when surface inoculated onto susceptible pepper leaves. XopS delivery by Xcv, as well as ectopic expression of XopS in Arabidopsis thaliana or Nicotiana benthamiana, prevented stomatal closure in response to bacteria and biotic elicitors. Silencing WRKY40 in pepper or N. benthamiana abolished XopS's ability to prevent stomatal closure. This suggests that XopS interferes with both preinvasion and apoplastic defense by manipulating WRKY40 stability and downstream gene expression, eventually altering phytohormone crosstalk to promote pathogen proliferation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margot Raffeiner
- Leibniz-Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ), Großbeeren 14979, Germany
| | | | - Tiziana Guerra
- Leibniz-Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ), Großbeeren 14979, Germany
| | - Daniela Spinti
- Leibniz-Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ), Großbeeren 14979, Germany
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam 14476, Germany
| | - Maria Fitzner
- Leibniz-Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ), Großbeeren 14979, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität, Erlangen 91058, Germany
| | - Susanne Baldermann
- Leibniz-Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ), Großbeeren 14979, Germany
- Department of Food Chemistry, Institute of Nutritional Science, University of Potsdam, Nuthetal 14558, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lehretz GG, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U. Assimilate highway to sink organs - Physiological consequences of SP6A overexpression in transgenic potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). J Plant Physiol 2021; 266:153530. [PMID: 34610522 DOI: 10.1016/j.jplph.2021.153530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Leaf/stem-specific overexpression of SP6A, the FLOWERING LOCUS T homolog in potato (Solanum tuberosum), was previously shown to induce tuberization leading to higher tuber numbers and yield under ambient and abiotic stress conditions. In this study, we investigated the mechanism underlying SP6A action. Overexpression of SP6A reduced shoot growth, mainly by inhibition of stem elongation and secondary growth, and by repression of apical bud outgrowth. In contrast, root growth and lateral shoot emergence from basal nodes was promoted. Tracer experiments using the fluorescent sucrose analogue esculin revealed that stems of SP6A overexpressing plants transport assimilates more efficiently to belowground sinks, e.g. roots and tubers, compared to wild-type plants. This was accompanied by a lower level of sucrose leakage from the transport phloem into neighboring parenchyma cells and the inhibition of flower formation. We demonstrate the ability of SP6A to control assimilate allocation to belowground sinks and postulate that selection of beneficial SP6A alleles will enable potato breeding to alter plant architecture and to increase tuber yield under conditions of expected climate change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Günter G Lehretz
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Uwe Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Abstract
Root and tuber crops have been an important part of human nutrition since the early days of humanity, providing us with essential carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins. Today, they are especially important in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, where they help to feed an ever-growing population. Early induction and storage organ size are important agricultural traits, as they determine yield over time. During potato tuberization, environmental and metabolic status are sensed, ensuring proper timing of tuberization mediated by phloem-mobile signals. Coordinated cellular restructuring and expansion growth, as well as controlled storage metabolism in the tuber, are executed. This review summarizes our current understanding of potato tuber development and highlights similarities and differences to important tuberous root crop species like sweetpotato and cassava. Finally, we point out knowledge gaps that need to be filled before a complete picture of storage organ development can emerge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Zierer
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany; , , ,
| | - David Rüscher
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany; , , ,
| | - Uwe Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany; , , ,
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany; , , ,
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Friedrich A, Beare PA, Schulze-Luehrmann J, Cordsmeier A, Pazen T, Sonnewald S, Lührmann A. The Coxiella burnetii effector protein CaeB modulates endoplasmatic reticulum (ER) stress signalling and is required for efficient replication in Galleria mellonella. Cell Microbiol 2021; 23:e13305. [PMID: 33355405 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The obligate intracellular pathogen Coxiella burnetii is the causative agent of the zoonosis Q fever. C. burnetii infection can have severe outcomes due to the development of chronic infection. To establish and maintain an infection, C. burnetii depends on a functional type IVB secretion system (T4BSS) and, thus, on the translocation of effector proteins into the host cell. Here, we showed that the C. burnetii T4BSS effector protein CaeB targets the conserved endoplasmatic reticulum (ER) stress sensor IRE1 during ER stress in mammalian and plant cells. CaeB-induced upregulation of IRE1 RNase activity was essential for CaeB-mediated inhibition of ER stress-induced cell death. Our data reveal a novel role for CaeB in ER stress signalling modulation and demonstrate that CaeB is involved in pathogenicity in vivo. Furthermore, we provide evidence that C. burnetii infection leads to modulation of the ER stress sensors IRE1 and PERK, but not ATF6 during ER stress. While the upregulation of the RNase activity of IRE1 during ER stress depends on CaeB, modulation of PERK is CaeB independent, suggesting that C. burnetii encodes several factors influencing ER stress during infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anja Friedrich
- Mikrobiologisches Institut - Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Lehrstuhl für Biochemie, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Paul A Beare
- Coxiella Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Bacteriology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Montana, USA
| | - Jan Schulze-Luehrmann
- Mikrobiologisches Institut - Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arne Cordsmeier
- Mikrobiologisches Institut - Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tobias Pazen
- Mikrobiologisches Institut - Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Lehrstuhl für Biochemie, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anja Lührmann
- Mikrobiologisches Institut - Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Karlusich JJP, Arce RC, Shahinnia F, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U, Zurbriggen MD, Hajirezaei MR, Carrillo N. Transcriptional and Metabolic Profiling of Potato Plants Expressing a Plastid-Targeted Electron Shuttle Reveal Modulation of Genes Associated to Drought Tolerance by Chloroplast Redox Poise. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7199. [PMID: 33003500 PMCID: PMC7582712 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Water limitation represents the main environmental constraint affecting crop yield worldwide. Photosynthesis is a primary drought target, resulting in over-reduction of the photosynthetic electron transport chain and increased production of reactive oxygen species in plastids. Manipulation of chloroplast electron distribution by introducing alternative electron transport sinks has been shown to increase plant tolerance to multiple environmental challenges including hydric stress, suggesting that a similar strategy could be used to improve drought tolerance in crops. We show herein that the expression of the cyanobacterial electron shuttle flavodoxin in potato chloroplasts protected photosynthetic activities even at a pre-symptomatic stage of drought. Transcriptional and metabolic profiling revealed an attenuated response to the adverse condition in flavodoxin-expressing plants, correlating with their increased stress tolerance. Interestingly, 5-6% of leaf-expressed genes were affected by flavodoxin in the absence of drought, representing pathways modulated by chloroplast redox status during normal growth. About 300 of these genes potentially contribute to stress acclimation as their modulation by flavodoxin proceeds in the same direction as their drought response in wild-type plants. Tuber yield losses under chronic water limitation were mitigated in flavodoxin-expressing plants, indicating that the flavoprotein has the potential to improve major agronomic traits in potato.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan J. Pierella Karlusich
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR-UNR/CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), Rosario 2000, Argentina; (J.J.P.K.); (R.C.A.)
| | - Rocío C. Arce
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR-UNR/CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), Rosario 2000, Argentina; (J.J.P.K.); (R.C.A.)
| | - Fahimeh Shahinnia
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, OT Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse, D-06466 Stadt Seeland, Germany;
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nurenberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany; (S.S.); (U.S.)
| | - Uwe Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nurenberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany; (S.S.); (U.S.)
| | - Matias D. Zurbriggen
- Institute of Synthetic Biology and CEPLAS, University of Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr, 1 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Mohammad-Reza Hajirezaei
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, OT Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse, D-06466 Stadt Seeland, Germany;
| | - Néstor Carrillo
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR-UNR/CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), Rosario 2000, Argentina; (J.J.P.K.); (R.C.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Schmitt H, Ulmschneider J, Billmeier U, Vieth M, Scarozza P, Sonnewald S, Reid S, Atreya I, Rath T, Zundler S, Langheinrich M, Schüttler J, Hartmann A, Winkler T, Admyre C, Knittel T, Dieterich Johansson C, Zargari A, Neurath MF, Atreya R. The TLR9 Agonist Cobitolimod Induces IL10-Producing Wound Healing Macrophages and Regulatory T Cells in Ulcerative Colitis. J Crohns Colitis 2020; 14:508-524. [PMID: 31630153 PMCID: PMC7242005 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjz170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The topically applied Toll-like receptor 9 [TLR9] agonist cobitolimod is a first-in-class DNA-based oligonucleotide with demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in clinical trials with ulcerative colitis [UC] patients. We here characterized its anti-inflammatory mechanism in UC. METHODS Luminal cobitolimod administration was evaluated in an experimental dextran sodium sulfate [DSS]-induced colitis model. Cultured blood and mucosal cells from UC patients were treated with cobitolimod and analysed via microarray, quantitative real-time PCR, ELISA and flow cytometry. Intestinal slides of cobitolimod-treated UC patients were analysed by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Cobitolimod administration markedly suppressed experimental colitis activity, and microarray analyses demonstrated mucosal IL10 upregulation and suppression of IL17 signalling pathways. Cobitolimod treatment was associated with significant induction of mucosal IL10+Tr1 and Treg cells and suppression of Th17 cells. TLR9 knockout mice indicated that cobitolimod requires TLR9 signalling for IL10 induction. In UC patients, mucosal TLR9 levels correlated with severity of inflammation. Cobitolimod inhibited IL17A and IL17F, but increased IL10 and FoxP3 expression in cultured intestinal UC T cells. Cobitolimod-mediated suppression of intestinal IL17+T cells was abrogated by IL10 blockade. Furthermore, cobitolimod led to heightened IL10 production by wound healing macrophages. Immunohistochemistry in intestinal biopsies of cobitolimod-treated UC patients indicated increased presence of IL10+mononuclear and regulatory T cells, as well as reduction of IL17+cells. CONCLUSION Activation of TLR9 via cobitolimod might represent a novel therapeutic approach in UC, as it suppresses Th17 cells and induces anti-inflammatory IL10+macrophages and regulatory T cells, thereby modifying the dysregulated intestinal cytokine balance. PODCAST This article has an associated podcast which can be accessed at https://academic.oup.com/ecco-jcc/pages/podcast.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heike Schmitt
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julia Ulmschneider
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Billmeier
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Vieth
- Institute of Pathology, Klinikum Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Patrizio Scarozza
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany,Internal Medicine Department, University Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stephen Reid
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Imke Atreya
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Timo Rath
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Zundler
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Melanie Langheinrich
- Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jürgen Schüttler
- Department for Anesthesiology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Department of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thomas Winkler
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Markus F Neurath
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Raja Atreya
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany,Corresponding author: Prof. Raja Atreya, MD, First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Ulmenweg 18, 91054 Erlangen, Germany. Tel: 49 9131 85 35115; Fax: 49 9131 85 35116;
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Fernie AR, Bachem CWB, Helariutta Y, Neuhaus HE, Prat S, Ruan YL, Stitt M, Sweetlove LJ, Tegeder M, Wahl V, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U. Synchronization of developmental, molecular and metabolic aspects of source-sink interactions. Nat Plants 2020; 6:55-66. [PMID: 32042154 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-020-0590-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Plants have evolved a multitude of strategies to adjust their growth according to external and internal signals. Interconnected metabolic and phytohormonal signalling networks allow adaption to changing environmental and developmental conditions and ensure the survival of species in fluctuating environments. In agricultural ecosystems, many of these adaptive responses are not required or may even limit crop yield, as they prevent plants from realizing their fullest potential. By lifting source and sink activities to their maximum, massive yield increases can be foreseen, potentially closing the future yield gap resulting from an increasing world population and the transition to a carbon-neutral economy. To do so, a better understanding of the interplay between metabolic and developmental processes is required. In the past, these processes have been tackled independently from each other, but coordinated efforts are required to understand the fine mechanics of source-sink relations and thus optimize crop yield. Here, we describe approaches to design high-yielding crop plants utilizing strategies derived from current metabolic concepts and our understanding of the molecular processes determining sink development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alisdair R Fernie
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Potsdam, Germany.
| | | | - Yrjö Helariutta
- The Sainsbury Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - H Ekkehard Neuhaus
- University of Kaiserslautern Pflanzenphysiologie, Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Salomé Prat
- Department of Plant Molecular Genetics, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yong-Ling Ruan
- School of Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark Stitt
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Lee J Sweetlove
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mechthild Tegeder
- School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Vanessa Wahl
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Uwe Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lehretz GG, Sonnewald S, Lugassi N, Granot D, Sonnewald U. Future-Proofing Potato for Drought and Heat Tolerance by Overexpression of Hexokinase and SP6A. Front Plant Sci 2020; 11:614534. [PMID: 33510758 PMCID: PMC7835534 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.614534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Crop yield is largely affected by global climate change. Especially periods of heat and drought limit crop productivity worldwide. According to current models of future climate scenarios, heatwaves and periods of drought are likely to increase. Potato, as an important food crop of temperate latitudes, is very sensitive to heat and drought which impact tuber yield and quality. To improve abiotic stress resilience of potato plants, we aimed at co-expressing hexokinase 1 from Arabidopsis thaliana (AtHXK1) in guard cells and SELF-PRUNING 6A (SP6A) using the leaf/stem-specific StLS1 promoter in order to increase water use efficiency as well as tuberization under drought and heat stress. Guard cell-specific expression of AtHXK1 decreased stomatal conductance and improved water use efficiency of transgenic potato plants as has been shown for other crop plants. Additionally, co-expression with the FT-homolog SP6A stimulated tuberization and improved assimilate allocation to developing tubers under control as well as under single and combined drought and heat stress conditions. Thus, co-expression of both proteins provides a novel strategy to improve abiotic stress tolerance of potato plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Günter G. Lehretz
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nitsan Lugassi
- The Volcani Center, Institute of Plant Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Rishon Le-Zion, Israel
| | - David Granot
- The Volcani Center, Institute of Plant Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Rishon Le-Zion, Israel
| | - Uwe Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Uwe Sonnewald,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Krüger J, Richter P, Stoltze J, Strauch SM, Krüger M, Daiker V, Prasad B, Sonnewald S, Reid S, Lebert M. Changes of Gene Expression in Euglena gracilis Obtained During the 29 th DLR Parabolic Flight Campaign. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14260. [PMID: 31582787 PMCID: PMC6776534 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50611-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Parabolic flight maneuvers of Novespace's Airbus A310 ZERO-G produce subsequent phases of hypergravity (about 20 s), microgravity (about 22 s) and another 20 s hypergravity on experiments located in the experiment area of the aircraft. The 29th DLR parabolic flight campaign consisted of four consecutive flight days with thirty-one parabolas each day. Euglena gracilis cells were fixed with TRIzol during different acceleration conditions at the first and the last parabola of each flight. Samples were collected and analyzed with microarrays for one-color gene expression analysis. The data indicate significant changes in gene expression in E. gracilis within short time. Hierarchical clustering shows that changes induced by the different accelerations yield reproducible effects at independent flight days. Transcription differed between the first and last parabolas indicating adaptation effects in the course of the flight. Different gene groups were found to be affected in different phases of the parabolic flight, among others, genes involved in signal transduction, calcium signaling, transport mechanisms, metabolic pathways, and stress-response as well as membrane and cytoskeletal proteins. In addition, transcripts of other areas, e.g., DNA and protein modification, were altered. The study contributes to the understanding of short-term effects of microgravity and different accelerations on cells at a molecular level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Krüger
- Cell Biology Division: Gravitational Biology Group, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstraße 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Peter Richter
- Cell Biology Division: Gravitational Biology Group, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstraße 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julia Stoltze
- Cell Biology Division: Gravitational Biology Group, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstraße 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sebastian M Strauch
- Cell Biology Division: Gravitational Biology Group, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstraße 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
- Postgraduate Program in Health and Environment, University of Joinville Region, Rua Paulo Malschitzki, 10 - Zona Industrial Norte, Joinville, SC, CEP 89219-710, Brazil
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Straße 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Viktor Daiker
- Cell Biology Division: Gravitational Biology Group, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstraße 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Binod Prasad
- Cell Biology Division: Gravitational Biology Group, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstraße 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Biochemistry Division, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstraße 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stephen Reid
- Biochemistry Division, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstraße 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Lebert
- Cell Biology Division: Gravitational Biology Group, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstraße 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Schmitt H, Billmeier U, Dieterich W, Rath T, Sonnewald S, Reid S, Hirschmann S, Hildner K, Waldner MJ, Mudter J, Hartmann A, Grützmann R, Neufert C, Münster T, Neurath MF, Atreya R. Expansion of IL-23 receptor bearing TNFR2+ T cells is associated with molecular resistance to anti-TNF therapy in Crohn's disease. Gut 2019; 68:814-828. [PMID: 29848778 PMCID: PMC6580782 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2017-315671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) antibodies are successfully used for treatment of Crohn's disease. Nevertheless, approximately 40% of patients display failure to anti-TNF therapy. Here, we characterised molecular mechanisms that are associated with endoscopic resistance to anti-TNF therapy. DESIGN Mucosal and blood cells were isolated from patients with Crohn's disease prior and during anti-TNF therapy. Cytokine profiles, cell surface markers, signalling proteins and cell apoptosis were assessed by microarray, immunohistochemistry, qPCR, ELISA, whole organ cultures and FACS. RESULTS Responders to anti-TNF therapy displayed a significantly higher expression of TNF receptor 2 (TNFR2) but not IL23R on T cells than non-responders prior to anti-TNF therapy. During anti-TNF therapy, there was a significant upregulation of mucosal IL-23p19, IL23R and IL-17A in anti-TNF non-responders but not in responders. Apoptosis-resistant TNFR2+IL23R+ T cells were significantly expanded in anti-TNF non-responders compared with responders, expressed the gut tropic integrins α4β7, and exhibited increased expression of IFN-γ, T-bet, IL-17A and RORγt compared with TNFR2+IL23R- cells, indicating a mixed Th1/Th17-like phenotype. Intestinal TNFR2+IL23R+ T cells were activated by IL-23 derived from CD14+ macrophages, which were significantly more present in non-responders prior to anti-TNF treatment. Administration of IL-23 to anti-TNF-treated mucosal organ cultures led to the expansion of CD4+IL23R+TNFR2+ lymphocytes. Functional studies demonstrated that anti-TNF-induced apoptosis in mucosal T cells is abrogated by IL-23. CONCLUSIONS Expansion of apoptosis-resistant intestinal TNFR2+IL23R+ T cells is associated with resistance to anti-TNF therapy in Crohn's disease. These findings identify IL-23 as a suitable molecular target in patients with Crohn's disease refractory to anti-TNF therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heike Schmitt
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Billmeier
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Walburga Dieterich
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Timo Rath
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stephen Reid
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Simon Hirschmann
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Kai Hildner
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Maximilian J Waldner
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Arndt Hartmann
- Department of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Robert Grützmann
- Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Clemens Neufert
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tino Münster
- Department of Anesthesiology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus F Neurath
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Raja Atreya
- First Department of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abelenda JA, Bergonzi S, Oortwijn M, Sonnewald S, Du M, Visser RGF, Sonnewald U, Bachem CWB. Source-Sink Regulation Is Mediated by Interaction of an FT Homolog with a SWEET Protein in Potato. Curr Biol 2019; 29:1178-1186.e6. [PMID: 30905604 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2019.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Potato plants form tuberous storage organs on underground modified stems called stolons. Tubers are rich in starch, proteins, and other important nutrients, making potato one of the most important staple food crops. The timing of tuber development in wild potato is regulated by day length through a mechanism that is closely related to floral transition [1, 2]. Tuberization is also known to be regulated by the availability of assimilates, in particular sucrose, the transported form of sugar, required for starch synthesis. During the onset of tuber development, the mode of sucrose unloading switches from apoplastic to symplastic [3]. Here, we show that this switch may be mediated by the interaction between the tuberization-specific FT homolog StSP6A and the sucrose efflux transporter StSWEET11 [4]. The binding of StSP6A to StSWEET11 blocked the leakage of sucrose to the apoplast, and is therefore likely to promote symplastic sucrose transport. The direct physical interaction between StSWEET11 and StSP6A proteins represents a link between the sugar and photoperiodic pathways for the regulation of potato tuber formation. Our data suggest that a previously undiscovered function for the FT family of proteins extends their role as mobile signals to mediators of source-sink partitioning, opening the possibility for modifying source-sink interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José A Abelenda
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 386, 6700 AJ Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sara Bergonzi
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 386, 6700 AJ Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Marian Oortwijn
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 386, 6700 AJ Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Miru Du
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 386, 6700 AJ Wageningen, the Netherlands; Inner Mongolia Potato Engineering & Technology Research Centre, Inner Mongolia University, West College Road 235, Hohhot 010021, China
| | - Richard G F Visser
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 386, 6700 AJ Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Uwe Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian W B Bachem
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 386, 6700 AJ Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hastilestari BR, Lorenz J, Reid S, Hofmann J, Pscheidt D, Sonnewald U, Sonnewald S. Deciphering source and sink responses of potato plants (Solanum tuberosum L.) to elevated temperatures. Plant Cell Environ 2018; 41:2600-2616. [PMID: 29869794 DOI: 10.1111/pce.13366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Potato is an important staple food with increasing popularity worldwide. Elevated temperatures significantly impair tuber yield and quality. Breeding heat-tolerant cultivars is therefore an urgent need to ensure sustainable potato production in the future. An integrated approach combining physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology was undertaken to contribute to a better understanding of heat effects on source- (leaves) and sink-organs (tubers) in a heat-susceptible cultivar. An experimental set-up was designed allowing tissue-specific heat application. Elevated day and night (29°C/27°C) temperatures impaired photosynthesis and assimilate production. Biomass allocation shifted away from tubers towards leaves indicating reduced sink strength of developing tubers. Reduced sink strength of tubers was paralleled by decreased sucrose synthase activity and expression under elevated temperatures. Heat-mediated inhibition of tuber growth coincided with a decreased expression of the phloem-mobile tuberization signal SP6A in leaves. SP6A expression and photosynthesis were also affected, when only the belowground space was heated, and leaves were kept under control conditions. By contrast, the negative effects on tuber metabolism were attenuated, when only the shoot was subjected to elevated temperatures. This, together with transcriptional changes discussed, indicated a bidirectional communication between leaves and tubers to adjust the source capacity and/or sink strength to environmental conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernadetta Rina Hastilestari
- Department of Biology, Chair of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julia Lorenz
- Department of Biology, Chair of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stephen Reid
- Department of Biology, Chair of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg Hofmann
- Department of Biology, Chair of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Pscheidt
- Department of Biology, Chair of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Uwe Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Chair of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Chair of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Nietzsche M, Guerra T, Alseekh S, Wiermer M, Sonnewald S, Fernie AR, Börnke F. STOREKEEPER RELATED1/G-Element Binding Protein (STKR1) Interacts with Protein Kinase SnRK1. Plant Physiol 2018; 176:1773-1792. [PMID: 29192025 PMCID: PMC5813543 DOI: 10.1104/pp.17.01461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Sucrose nonfermenting related kinase1 (SnRK1) is a conserved energy sensor kinase that regulates cellular adaptation to energy deficit in plants. Activation of SnRK1 leads to the down-regulation of ATP-consuming biosynthetic processes and the stimulation of energy-generating catabolic reactions by transcriptional reprogramming and posttranslational modifications. Although considerable progress has been made during the last years in understanding the SnRK1 signaling pathway, many of its components remain unidentified. Here, we show that the catalytic α-subunits KIN10 and KIN11 of the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) SnRK1 complex interact with the STOREKEEPER RELATED1/G-Element Binding Protein (STKR1) inside the plant cell nucleus. Overexpression of STKR1 in transgenic Arabidopsis plants led to reduced growth, a delay in flowering, and strongly attenuated senescence. Metabolite profiling revealed that the transgenic lines exhausted their carbohydrates during the dark period to a greater extent than the wild type and accumulated a range of amino acids. At the global transcriptome level, genes affected by STKR1 overexpression were broadly associated with systemic acquired resistance, and transgenic plants showed enhanced resistance toward a virulent strain of the biotrophic oomycete pathogen Hyaloperonospora arabidopsidis Noco2. We discuss a possible connection of STKR1 function, SnRK1 signaling, and plant immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madlen Nietzsche
- Plant Metabolism Group, Leibniz-Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, 14979 Grossbeeren, Germany
| | - Tiziana Guerra
- Plant Metabolism Group, Leibniz-Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, 14979 Grossbeeren, Germany
| | - Saleh Alseekh
- Max-Planck-Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - Marcel Wiermer
- University of Goettingen, Albrecht-von-Haller Institute for Plant Sciences, RG Molecular Biology of Plant-Microbe Interactions, 37077 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität, Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alisdair R Fernie
- Max-Planck-Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - Frederik Börnke
- Plant Metabolism Group, Leibniz-Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, 14979 Grossbeeren, Germany
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hannemann N, Jordan J, Paul S, Reid S, Baenkler HW, Sonnewald S, Bäuerle T, Vera J, Schett G, Bozec A. The AP-1 Transcription Factor c-Jun Promotes Arthritis by Regulating Cyclooxygenase-2 and Arginase-1 Expression in Macrophages. J Immunol 2017; 198:3605-3614. [PMID: 28298526 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1601330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Activation of proinflammatory macrophages is associated with the inflammatory state of rheumatoid arthritis. Their polarization and activation are controlled by transcription factors such as NF-κB and the AP-1 transcription factor member c-Fos. Surprisingly, little is known about the role of the AP-1 transcription factor c-Jun in macrophage activation. In this study, we show that mRNA and protein levels of c-Jun are increased in macrophages following pro- or anti-inflammatory stimulations. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment cluster analyses of microarray data using wild-type and c-Jun-deleted macrophages highlight the central function of c-Jun in macrophages, in particular for immune responses, IL production, and hypoxia pathways. Mice deficient for c-Jun in macrophages show an amelioration of inflammation and bone destruction in the serum-induced arthritis model. In vivo and in vitro gene profiling, together with chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis of macrophages, revealed direct activation of the proinflammatory factor cyclooxygenase-2 and indirect inhibition of the anti-inflammatory factor arginase-1 by c-Jun. Thus, c-Jun regulates the activation state of macrophages and promotes arthritis via differentially regulating cyclooxygenase-2 and arginase-1 levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Hannemann
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jutta Jordan
- Preclinical Imaging Platform Erlangen, Institute of Radiology, University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sushmita Paul
- Laboratory of Systems Tumor Immunology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; and
| | - Stephen Reid
- Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hanns-Wolf Baenkler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tobias Bäuerle
- Preclinical Imaging Platform Erlangen, Institute of Radiology, University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julio Vera
- Laboratory of Systems Tumor Immunology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; and
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aline Bozec
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany;
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Van Harsselaar JK, Lorenz J, Senning M, Sonnewald U, Sonnewald S. Genome-wide analysis of starch metabolism genes in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). BMC Genomics 2017; 18:37. [PMID: 28056783 PMCID: PMC5217216 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-016-3381-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Starch is the principle constituent of potato tubers and is of considerable importance for food and non-food applications. Its metabolism has been subject of extensive research over the past decades. Despite its importance, a description of the complete inventory of genes involved in starch metabolism and their genome organization in potato plants is still missing. Moreover, mechanisms regulating the expression of starch genes in leaves and tubers remain elusive with regard to differences between transitory and storage starch metabolism, respectively. This study aimed at identifying and mapping the complete set of potato starch genes, and to study their expression pattern in leaves and tubers using different sets of transcriptome data. Moreover, we wanted to uncover transcription factors co-regulated with starch accumulation in tubers in order to get insight into the regulation of starch metabolism. Results We identified 77 genomic loci encoding enzymes involved in starch metabolism. Novel isoforms of many enzymes were found. Their analysis will help to elucidate mechanisms of starch biosynthesis and degradation. Expression analysis of starch genes led to the identification of tissue-specific isoenzymes suggesting differences in the transcriptional regulation of starch metabolism between potato leaf and tuber tissues. Selection of genes predominantly expressed in developing potato tubers and exhibiting an expression pattern indicative for a role in starch biosynthesis enabled the identification of possible transcriptional regulators of tuber starch biosynthesis by co-expression analysis. Conclusions This study provides the annotation of the complete set of starch metabolic genes in potato plants and their genomic localizations. Novel, so far undescribed, enzyme isoforms were revealed. Comparative transcriptome analysis enabled the identification of tuber- and leaf-specific isoforms of starch genes. This finding suggests distinct regulatory mechanisms in transitory and storage starch metabolism. Putative regulatory proteins of starch biosynthesis in potato tubers have been identified by co-expression and their expression was verified by quantitative RT-PCR. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-016-3381-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica K Van Harsselaar
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julia Lorenz
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Melanie Senning
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Uwe Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Pierella Karlusich JJ, Zurbriggen MD, Shahinnia F, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U, Hosseini SA, Hajirezaei MR, Carrillo N. Chloroplast Redox Status Modulates Genome-Wide Plant Responses during the Non-host Interaction of Tobacco with the Hemibiotrophic Bacterium Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria. Front Plant Sci 2017; 8:1158. [PMID: 28725231 PMCID: PMC5495832 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2017.01158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Non-host resistance is the most ample and durable form of plant resistance against pathogen infection. It includes induction of defense-associated genes, massive metabolic reprogramming, and in many instances, a form of localized cell death (LCD) at the site of infection, purportedly designed to limit the spread of biotrophic and hemibiotrophic microorganisms. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been proposed to act as signals for LCD orchestration. They are produced in various cellular compartments including chloroplasts, mitochondria and apoplast. We have previously reported that down-regulation of ROS build-up in chloroplasts by expression of a plastid-targeted flavodoxin (Fld) suppressed LCD in tobacco leaves inoculated with the non-host bacterium Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria (Xcv), while other defensive responses were unaffected, suggesting that chloroplast ROS and/or redox status play a major role in the progress of LCD. To better understand these effects, we compare here the transcriptomic alterations caused by Xcv inoculation on leaves of Fld-expressing tobacco plants and their wild-type siblings. About 29% of leaf-expressed genes were affected by Xcv and/or Fld. Surprisingly, 5.8% of them (1,111 genes) were regulated by Fld in the absence of infection, presumably representing pathways responsive to chloroplast ROS production and/or redox status during normal growth conditions. While the majority (∼75%) of pathogen-responsive genes were not affected by Fld, many Xcv responses were exacerbated, attenuated, or regulated in opposite direction by expression of this protein. Particularly interesting was a group of 384 genes displaying Xcv responses that were already triggered by Fld in the absence of infection, suggesting that the transgenic plants had a larger and more diversified suite of constitutive defenses against the attacking microorganism compared to the wild type. Fld modulated many genes involved in pathogenesis, signal transduction, transcriptional regulation and hormone-based pathways. Remarkable interactions with proteasomal protein degradation were observed. The results provide the first genome-wide, comprehensive picture illustrating the relevance of chloroplast redox status in biotic stress responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan J. Pierella Karlusich
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de RosarioRosario, Argentina
| | - Matias D. Zurbriggen
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de RosarioRosario, Argentina
| | - Fahimeh Shahinnia
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant ResearchGatersleben, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-NurembergErlangen, Germany
| | - Uwe Sonnewald
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-NurembergErlangen, Germany
| | - Seyed A. Hosseini
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant ResearchGatersleben, Germany
| | - Mohammad-Reza Hajirezaei
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant ResearchGatersleben, Germany
- *Correspondence: Mohammad-Reza Hajirezaei, Néstor Carrillo,
| | - Néstor Carrillo
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de RosarioRosario, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Mohammad-Reza Hajirezaei, Néstor Carrillo,
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Schmitt H, Sell S, Koch J, Seefried M, Sonnewald S, Daniel C, Winkler TH, Nitschke L. Siglec-H protects from virus-triggered severe systemic autoimmunity. J Exp Med 2016; 213:1627-44. [PMID: 27377589 PMCID: PMC4986536 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20160189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Siglec-H is a key negative regulator of the type I interferon pathway, reducing the incidence of autoimmunity after viral infection. It is controversial whether virus infections can contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases. Type I interferons (IFNs) are critical antiviral cytokines during virus infections and have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus. Type I IFN is mainly produced by plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). The secretion of type I IFN of pDCs is modulated by Siglec-H, a DAP12-associated receptor on pDCs. In this study, we show that Siglec-H–deficient pDCs produce more of the type I IFN, IFN-α, in vitro and that Siglec-H knockout (KO) mice produce more IFN-α after murine cytomegalovirus (mCMV) infection in vivo. This did not impact control of viral replication. Remarkably, several weeks after a single mCMV infection, Siglec-H KO mice developed a severe form of systemic lupus–like autoimmune disease with strong kidney nephritis. In contrast, uninfected aging Siglec-H KO mice developed a mild form of systemic autoimmunity. The induction of systemic autoimmune disease after virus infection in Siglec-H KO mice was accompanied by a type I IFN signature and fully dependent on type I IFN signaling. These results show that Siglec-H normally serves as a modulator of type I IFN responses after infection with a persistent virus and thereby prevents induction of autoimmune disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heike Schmitt
- Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sabrina Sell
- Nikolaus-Fiebiger-Zentrum, Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julia Koch
- Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Martina Seefried
- Nikolaus-Fiebiger-Zentrum, Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Daniel
- Department of Nephropathology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thomas H Winkler
- Nikolaus-Fiebiger-Zentrum, Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lars Nitschke
- Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Landgraf R, Smolka U, Altmann S, Eschen-Lippold L, Senning M, Sonnewald S, Weigel B, Frolova N, Strehmel N, Hause G, Scheel D, Böttcher C, Rosahl S. The ABC transporter ABCG1 is required for suberin formation in potato tuber periderm. Plant Cell 2014; 26:3403-15. [PMID: 25122151 PMCID: PMC4371835 DOI: 10.1105/tpc.114.124776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Revised: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The lipid biopolymer suberin plays a major role as a barrier both at plant-environment interfaces and in internal tissues, restricting water and nutrient transport. In potato (Solanum tuberosum), tuber integrity is dependent on suberized periderm. Using microarray analyses, we identified ABCG1, encoding an ABC transporter, as a gene responsive to the pathogen-associated molecular pattern Pep-13. Further analyses revealed that ABCG1 is expressed in roots and tuber periderm, as well as in wounded leaves. Transgenic ABCG1-RNAi potato plants with downregulated expression of ABCG1 display major alterations in both root and tuber morphology, whereas the aerial part of the ABCG1-RNAi plants appear normal. The tuber periderm and root exodermis show reduced suberin staining and disorganized cell layers. Metabolite analyses revealed reduction of esterified suberin components and hyperaccumulation of putative suberin precursors in the tuber periderm of RNA interference plants, suggesting that ABCG1 is required for the export of suberin components.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramona Landgraf
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Department of Stress and Developmental Biology, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Ulrike Smolka
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Department of Stress and Developmental Biology, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Simone Altmann
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Department of Stress and Developmental Biology, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Lennart Eschen-Lippold
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Department of Stress and Developmental Biology, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Melanie Senning
- Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Department of Biology, D-91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Department of Biology, D-91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Benjamin Weigel
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Nadezhda Frolova
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Department of Stress and Developmental Biology, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Nadine Strehmel
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Department of Stress and Developmental Biology, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Gerd Hause
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Biocenter, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Dierk Scheel
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Department of Stress and Developmental Biology, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Christoph Böttcher
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Department of Stress and Developmental Biology, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Sabine Rosahl
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Department of Stress and Developmental Biology, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
Following tuber induction, potato tubers undergo a period of dormancy during which visible bud growth is inhibited. The length of the dormancy period is under environmental, physiological and hormonal control. Sucrose availability is one prerequisite for bud break. In the absence of sucrose, no bud break occurs. Thus, sucrose is likely to serve as nutrient and signal molecule at the same time. The mode of sucrose sensing is only vaguely understood, but most likely involves trehalose-6-phosphate and SnRK1 signalling networks. This conclusion is supported by the observation that ectopically manipulation of trehalose-6-phosphate levels influences the length of the dormancy period. Once physiological competence is achieved, sprouting is controlled by the level of phytohormones. Two phytohormones, ABA and ethylene, are supposed to suppress tuber sprouting; however, the exact role of ethylene remains to be elucidated. Cytokinins and gibberellins are required for bud break and sprout growth, respectively. The fifth classical phytohormone, auxin, seems to play a role in vascular development. During the dormancy period, buds are symplastically isolated, which changes during bud break. In parallel to the establishment of symplastic connectivity, vascular tissue develops below the growing bud most likely to support the outgrowing sprout with assimilates mobilised in parenchyma cells. Sprouting leads to major quality losses of stored potato tubers. Therefore, control of tuber sprouting is a major objective in potato breeding. Although comparative transcriptome analysis revealed a large number of genes differentially expressed in growing versus dormant buds, no master-regulator of potato tuber sprouting has been identified so far.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Sonnewald
- Lehrstuhl für Biochemie, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany,
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Jeßberger N, Lu Y, Amon J, Titgemeyer F, Sonnewald S, Reid S, Burkovski A. Nitrogen starvation-induced transcriptome alterations and influence of transcription regulator mutants in Mycobacterium smegmatis. BMC Res Notes 2013; 6:482. [PMID: 24266988 PMCID: PMC4222082 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-6-482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As other bacteria, Mycobacterium smegmatis needs adaption mechanisms to cope with changing nitrogen sources and to survive situations of nitrogen starvation. In the study presented here, transcriptome analyses were used to characterize the response of the bacterium to nitrogen starvation and to elucidate the role of specific transcriptional regulators. Results In response to nitrogen deprivation, a general starvation response is induced in M. smegmatis. This includes changes in the transcription of several hundred genes encoding e.g. transport proteins, proteins involved in nitrogen metabolism and regulation, energy generation and protein turnover. The specific nitrogen-related changes at the transcriptional level depend mainly on the presence of GlnR, while the AmtR protein controls only a small number of genes. Conclusions M. smegmatis is able to metabolize a number of different nitrogen sources and nitrogen control in M. smegmatis is similar to control mechanisms characterized in streptomycetes, while the master regulator of nitrogen control in corynebacteria, AmtR, is plays a minor role in this regulatory network.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadja Jeßberger
- Lehrstuhl für Mikrobiologie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hiery E, Adam S, Reid S, Hofmann J, Sonnewald S, Burkovski A. Genome-wide transcriptome analysis of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis grown in xylem mimicking medium. J Biotechnol 2013; 168:348-54. [PMID: 24060828 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2013.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2013] [Revised: 09/10/2013] [Accepted: 09/12/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The interaction between Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis with its host, the tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum), is poorly understood and only few virulence factors are known. While studying of the bacteria in planta is time-consuming and difficult, the analysis in vitro would facilitate research. Therefore, a xylem mimicking medium (XMM) for C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis was established in this study based on an apoplast medium for Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria. In contrast to the apoplast medium, XMM contains no sugars, but amino acids which serve as nitrogen and carbon source. As a result, growth in XMM induced transcriptional changes of genes encoding putative sugar, amino acid and iron uptake systems. In summary, mRNA levels of about 8% of all C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis genes were changed when XMM-grown bacteria were compared to M9 minimal medium-grown cells. Almost no transcriptional changes of genes encoding hydrolytic enzymes were detected, leading to the idea that XMM reflects the situation in the beginning of infection and therefore allows the characterization of virulence factors in this early stage of infection. The addition of the plant wound substance acetosyringone to the XMM medium led to a change in transcript amount, including genes coding for proteins involved in protein transport, iron uptake and regulation processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Hiery
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Lehrstuhl für Mikrobiologie, Staudtstr. 5, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Bauer H, Ache P, Wohlfart F, Al-Rasheid KAS, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U, Kneitz S, Hetherington AM, Hedrich R. How do stomata sense reductions in atmospheric relative humidity? Mol Plant 2013; 6:1703-1706. [PMID: 23536729 DOI: 10.1093/mp/sst055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hubert Bauer
- Julius-von-Sachs-Institut für Biowissenschaften, Biozentrum, University of Würzburg, D-97082 Würzburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Sonnewald S, Priller JPR, Schuster J, Glickmann E, Hajirezaei MR, Siebig S, Mudgett MB, Sonnewald U. Regulation of cell wall-bound invertase in pepper leaves by Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria type three effectors. PLoS One 2012; 7:e51763. [PMID: 23272161 PMCID: PMC3522709 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0051763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria (Xcv) possess a type 3 secretion system (T3SS) to deliver effector proteins into its Solanaceous host plants. These proteins are involved in suppression of plant defense and in reprogramming of plant metabolism to favour bacterial propagation. There is increasing evidence that hexoses contribute to defense responses. They act as substrates for metabolic processes and as metabolic semaphores to regulate gene expression. Especially an increase in the apoplastic hexose-to-sucrose ratio has been suggested to strengthen plant defense. This shift is brought about by the activity of cell wall-bound invertase (cw-Inv). We examined the possibility that Xcv may employ type 3 effector (T3E) proteins to suppress cw-Inv activity during infection. Indeed, pepper leaves infected with a T3SS-deficient Xcv strain showed a higher level of cw-Inv mRNA and enzyme activity relative to Xcv wild type infected leaves. Higher cw-Inv activity was paralleled by an increase in hexoses and mRNA abundance for the pathogenesis-related gene PRQ. These results suggest that Xcv suppresses cw-Inv activity in a T3SS-dependent manner, most likely to prevent sugar-mediated defense signals. To identify Xcv T3Es that regulate cw-Inv activity, a screen was performed with eighteen Xcv strains, each deficient in an individual T3E. Seven Xcv T3E deletion strains caused a significant change in cw-Inv activity compared to Xcv wild type. Among them, Xcv lacking the xopB gene (Xcv ΔxopB) caused the most prominent increase in cw-Inv activity. Deletion of xopB increased the mRNA abundance of PRQ in Xcv ΔxopB-infected pepper leaves, but not of Pti5 and Acre31, two PAMP-triggered immunity markers. Inducible expression of XopB in transgenic tobacco inhibited Xcv-mediated induction of cw-Inv activity observed in wild type plants and resulted in severe developmental phenotypes. Together, these data suggest that XopB interferes with cw-Inv activity in planta to suppress sugar-enhanced defense responses during Xcv infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Sonnewald
- Lehrstuhl für Biochemie, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Bauer H, Ache P, Lautner S, Fromm J, Hartung W, Al-Rasheid KAS, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U, Kneitz S, Lachmann N, Mendel RR, Bittner F, Hetherington AM, Hedrich R. The stomatal response to reduced relative humidity requires guard cell-autonomous ABA synthesis. Curr Biol 2012; 23:53-7. [PMID: 23219726 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2012.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 276] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2012] [Revised: 10/18/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Stomata are pores on the leaf surface, bounded by two guard cells, which control the uptake of CO(2) for photosynthesis and the concomitant loss of water vapor. In 1898, Francis Darwin showed that stomata close in response to reduced atmospheric relative humidity (rh); however, our understanding of the signaling pathway responsible for coupling changes in rh to alterations in stomatal aperture is fragmentary. The results presented here highlight the primacy of abscisic acid (ABA) in the stomatal response to drying air. We show that guard cells possess the entire ABA biosynthesis pathway and that it appears upregulated by positive feedback by ABA. When wild-type Arabidopsis and the ABA-deficient mutant aba3-1 were exposed to reductions in rh, the aba3-1 mutant wilted, whereas the wild-type did not. However, when aba3-1 plants, in which ABA synthesis had been specifically rescued in guard cells, were challenged with dry air, they did not wilt. These data indicate that guard cell-autonomous ABA synthesis is required for and is sufficient for stomatal closure in response to low rh. Guard cell-autonomous ABA synthesis allows the plant to tailor leaf gas exchange exquisitely to suit the prevailing environmental conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hubert Bauer
- Institute for Molecular Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Biocenter, University of Wuerzburg, 97082 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Horst RJ, Zeh C, Saur A, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U, Voll LM. The Ustilago maydis Nit2 homolog regulates nitrogen utilization and is required for efficient induction of filamentous growth. Eukaryot Cell 2012; 11:368-80. [PMID: 22247264 PMCID: PMC3294441 DOI: 10.1128/ec.05191-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2011] [Accepted: 12/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Nitrogen catabolite repression (NCR) is a regulatory strategy found in microorganisms that restricts the utilization of complex and unfavored nitrogen sources in the presence of favored nitrogen sources. In fungi, this concept has been best studied in yeasts and filamentous ascomycetes, where the GATA transcription factors Gln3p and Gat1p (in yeasts) and Nit2/AreA (in ascomycetes) constitute the main positive regulators of NCR. The reason why functional Nit2 homologs of some phytopathogenic fungi are required for full virulence in their hosts has remained elusive. We have identified the Nit2 homolog in the basidiomycetous phytopathogen Ustilago maydis and show that it is a major, but not the exclusive, positive regulator of nitrogen utilization. By transcriptome analysis of sporidia grown on artificial media devoid of favored nitrogen sources, we show that only a subset of nitrogen-responsive genes are regulated by Nit2, including the Gal4-like transcription factor Ton1 (a target of Nit2). Ustilagic acid biosynthesis is not under the control of Nit2, while nitrogen starvation-induced filamentous growth is largely dependent on functional Nit2. nit2 deletion mutants show the delayed initiation of filamentous growth on maize leaves and exhibit strongly compromised virulence, demonstrating that Nit2 is required to efficiently initiate the pathogenicity program of U. maydis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin J Horst
- Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstr. 5, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Jungkunz I, Link K, Vogel F, Voll LM, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U. AtHsp70-15-deficient Arabidopsis plants are characterized by reduced growth, a constitutive cytosolic protein response and enhanced resistance to TuMV. Plant J 2011; 66:983-95. [PMID: 21418353 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-313x.2011.04558.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Arabidopsis thaliana contains 18 genes encoding Hsp70s. This heat shock protein superfamily is divided into two sub-families: DnaK and Hsp110/SSE. In order to functionally characterize members of the Hsp70 superfamily, loss-of-function mutants with reduced cytosolic Hsp70 expression were studied. AtHsp70-1 and AtHsp70-2 are constitutively expressed and represent the major cytosolic Hsp70 isoforms under ambient conditions. Analysis of single and double mutants did not reveal any difference compared to wild-type controls. In yeast, SSE protein has been shown to act as a nucleotide exchange factor, essential for Hsp70 function. To test whether members of the Hsp110/SSE sub-family serve essential functions in plants, two members of the sub-family, AtHsp70-14 and AtHsp70-15, were analysed. Both genes are highly homologous and constitutively expressed. Deficiency of AtHsp70-15 but not of AtHsp70-14 led to severe growth retardation. AtHsp70-15-deficient plants were smaller than wild-type and exhibited a slightly different leaf shape. Stomatal closure under ambient conditions and in response to ABA was impaired in the AtHsp70-15 transgenic plants, but ABA-dependent inhibition of germination was not affected. Heat treatment of AtHsp70-15-deficient plants resulted in drastically increased mortality, indicating that AtHsp70-15 plays an essential role during normal growth and in the heat response of Arabidopsis plants. AtHsp70-15-deficient plants are more tolerant to infection by turnip mosaic virus. Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed that AtHsp70-15-deficient plants display a constitutive stress response similar to the cytosolic protein response. Based on these results, AtHsp70-15 is likely to be a key factor in proper folding of cytosolic proteins, and may function as nucleotide exchange factor as proposed for yeast.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Jungkunz
- Department of Biology, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Hartmann A, Senning M, Hedden P, Sonnewald U, Sonnewald S. Reactivation of meristem activity and sprout growth in potato tubers require both cytokinin and gibberellin. Plant Physiol 2011; 155:776-96. [PMID: 21163959 PMCID: PMC3032466 DOI: 10.1104/pp.110.168252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Reactivation of dormant meristems is of central importance for plant fitness and survival. Due to their large meristem size, potato (Solanum tuberosum) tubers serve as a model system to study the underlying molecular processes. The phytohormones cytokinins (CK) and gibberellins (GA) play important roles in releasing potato tuber dormancy and promoting sprouting, but their mode of action in these processes is still obscure. Here, we established an in vitro assay using excised tuber buds to study the dormancy-releasing capacity of GA and CK and show that application of gibberellic acid (GA(3)) is sufficient to induce sprouting. In contrast, treatment with 6-benzylaminopurine induced bud break but did not support further sprout growth unless GA(3) was administered additionally. Transgenic potato plants expressing Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) GA 20-oxidase or GA 2-oxidase to modify endogenous GA levels showed the expected phenotypical changes as well as slight effects on tuber sprouting. The isopentenyltransferase (IPT) from Agrobacterium tumefaciens and the Arabidopsis cytokinin oxidase/dehydrogenase1 (CKX) were exploited to modify the amounts of CK in transgenic potato plants. IPT expression promoted earlier sprouting in vitro. Strikingly, CKX-expressing tubers exhibited a prolonged dormancy period and did not respond to GA(3). This supports an essential role of CK in terminating tuber dormancy and indicates that GA is not sufficient to break dormancy in the absence of CK. GA(3)-treated wild-type and CKX-expressing tuber buds were subjected to a transcriptome analysis that revealed transcriptional changes in several functional groups, including cell wall metabolism, cell cycle, and auxin and ethylene signaling, denoting events associated with the reactivation of dormant meristems.
Collapse
|
30
|
Le LQ, Mahler V, Scheurer S, Foetisch K, Braun Y, Weigand D, Enrique E, Lidholm J, Paulus KE, Sonnewald S, Vieths S, Sonnewald U. Yeast profilin complements profilin deficiency in transgenic tomato fruits and allows development of hypoallergenic tomato fruits. FASEB J 2010; 24:4939-47. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.10-163063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Vera Mahler
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Kay Foetisch
- Division of Allergology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
| | - Yvonne Braun
- Division of Allergology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
| | - Daniela Weigand
- Division of Allergology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
| | | | - Jonas Lidholm
- Phadia AB, Research and Development, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | | | - Stefan Vieths
- Division of Allergology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Le LQ, Mahler V, Scheurer S, Foetisch K, Braun Y, Weigand D, Enrique E, Lidholm J, Paulus KE, Sonnewald S, Vieths S, Sonnewald U. Yeast profilin complements profilin deficiency in transgenic tomato fruits and allows development of hypoallergenic tomato fruits. FASEB J 2010. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.10.163063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lien Q. Le
- Department of BiologyUniversity Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg Erlangen Germany
| | - Vera Mahler
- Department of DermatologyUniversity Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg Erlangen Germany
| | | | - Kay Foetisch
- Division of AllergologyPaul-Ehrlich-Institut Langen Germany
| | - Yvonne Braun
- Division of AllergologyPaul-Ehrlich-Institut Langen Germany
| | | | | | | | - Kathrin E. Paulus
- Department of BiologyUniversity Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg Erlangen Germany
| | - Sophia Sonnewald
- Department of BiologyUniversity Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg Erlangen Germany
| | - Stefan Vieths
- Division of AllergologyPaul-Ehrlich-Institut Langen Germany
| | - Uwe Sonnewald
- Department of BiologyUniversity Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg Erlangen Germany
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Ferreira SJ, Senning M, Sonnewald S, Kessling PM, Goldstein R, Sonnewald U. Comparative transcriptome analysis coupled to X-ray CT reveals sucrose supply and growth velocity as major determinants of potato tuber starch biosynthesis. BMC Genomics 2010; 11:93. [PMID: 20137087 PMCID: PMC2827413 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-11-93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2009] [Accepted: 02/05/2010] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Even though the process of potato tuber starch biosynthesis is well understood, mechanisms regulating biosynthesis are still unclear. Transcriptome analysis provides valuable information as to how genes are regulated. Therefore, this work aimed at investigating transcriptional regulation of starch biosynthetic genes in leaves and tubers of potato plants under various conditions. More specifically we looked at gene expression diurnally in leaves and tubers, during tuber induction and in tubers growing at different velocities. To determine velocity of potato tuber growth a new method based on X-ray Computed Tomography (X-ray CT) was established. RESULTS Comparative transcriptome analysis between leaves and tubers revealed striking similarities with the same genes being differentially expressed in both tissues. In tubers, oscillation of granule bound starch synthase (GBSS) expression) was observed which could be linked to sucrose supply from source leaves. X-ray CT was used to determine time-dependent changes in tuber volume and the growth velocity was calculated. Although there is not a linear correlation between growth velocity and expression of starch biosynthetic genes, there are significant differences between growing and non-growing tubers. Co-expression analysis was used to identify transcription factors positively correlating with starch biosynthetic genes possibly regulating starch biosynthesis. CONCLUSION Most starch biosynthetic enzymes are encoded by gene families. Co-expression analysis revealed that the same members of these gene families are co-regulated in leaves and tubers. This suggests that regulation of transitory and storage starch biosynthesis in leaves and tubers, respectively, is surprisingly similar. X-ray CT can be used to monitor growth and development of belowground organs and allows to link tuber growth to changes in gene expression. Comparative transcriptome analysis provides a useful tool to identify transcription factors possibly involved in the regulation of starch biosynthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanus J Ferreira
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Staudtstrasse 5, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Schäfer P, Pfiffi S, Voll LM, Zajic D, Chandler PM, Waller F, Scholz U, Pons-Kühnemann J, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U, Kogel KH. Manipulation of plant innate immunity and gibberellin as factor of compatibility in the mutualistic association of barley roots with Piriformospora indica. Plant J 2009; 59:461-74. [PMID: 19392709 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-313x.2009.03887.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Fungi of the order Sebacinales (Basidiomycota) are involved in a wide spectrum of mutualistic symbioses with various plants, thereby exhibiting unique potential for biocontrol strategies. Piriformospora indica, a model organism of this fungal order, is able to increase the biomass and grain yield of crop plants, and induces local and systemic resistance to fungal diseases and tolerance to abiotic stress. To elucidate the molecular basis for root colonization, we characterized the interaction of P. indica with barley roots by combining global gene expression profiling, metabolic profiling, and genetic studies. At the metabolic level, we show that fungal colonization reduces the availability of free sugars and amino acids to the root tip. At the transcriptional level, consecutive interaction stages covering pre-penetration-associated events and progressing through to root colonization showed differential regulation of signal perception and transduction components, secondary metabolism, and genes associated with membrane transport. Moreover, we observed stage-specific up-regulation of genes involved in phytohormone metabolism, mainly encompassing gibberellin, auxin and abscisic acid, but salicylic acid-associated gene expression was suppressed. The changes in hormone homoeostasis were accompanied with a general suppression of the plant innate immune system. Further genetic studies showed reduced fungal colonization in mutants that are impaired in gibberellin synthesis as well as perception, and implicate gibberellin as a modulator of the root's basal defence. Our data further reveal the complexity of compatibility mechanisms in host-microbe interactions, and identify gibberellin signaling as potential target for successful fungi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Schäfer
- Research Centre for Biosystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Schäfer P, Pfiffi S, Voll LM, Zajic D, Chandler PM, Waller F, Scholz U, Pons-Kühnemann J, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U, Kogel KH. Manipulation of plant innate immunity and gibberellin as factor of compatibility in the mutualistic association of barley roots with Piriformospora indica. Plant J 2009. [PMID: 19392709 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365313x.2009.03887.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Fungi of the order Sebacinales (Basidiomycota) are involved in a wide spectrum of mutualistic symbioses with various plants, thereby exhibiting unique potential for biocontrol strategies. Piriformospora indica, a model organism of this fungal order, is able to increase the biomass and grain yield of crop plants, and induces local and systemic resistance to fungal diseases and tolerance to abiotic stress. To elucidate the molecular basis for root colonization, we characterized the interaction of P. indica with barley roots by combining global gene expression profiling, metabolic profiling, and genetic studies. At the metabolic level, we show that fungal colonization reduces the availability of free sugars and amino acids to the root tip. At the transcriptional level, consecutive interaction stages covering pre-penetration-associated events and progressing through to root colonization showed differential regulation of signal perception and transduction components, secondary metabolism, and genes associated with membrane transport. Moreover, we observed stage-specific up-regulation of genes involved in phytohormone metabolism, mainly encompassing gibberellin, auxin and abscisic acid, but salicylic acid-associated gene expression was suppressed. The changes in hormone homoeostasis were accompanied with a general suppression of the plant innate immune system. Further genetic studies showed reduced fungal colonization in mutants that are impaired in gibberellin synthesis as well as perception, and implicate gibberellin as a modulator of the root's basal defence. Our data further reveal the complexity of compatibility mechanisms in host-microbe interactions, and identify gibberellin signaling as potential target for successful fungi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Schäfer
- Research Centre for Biosystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Schäfer P, Pfiffi S, Voll LM, Zajic D, Chandler PM, Waller F, Scholz U, Pons-Kühnemann J, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U, Kogel KH. Phytohormones in plant root-Piriformospora indica mutualism. Plant Signal Behav 2009; 4:669-71. [PMID: 19820343 PMCID: PMC2710571 DOI: 10.4161/psb.4.7.9038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2009] [Accepted: 05/18/2009] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Piriformospora indica is a mutualistic root-colonising basidiomycete that tranfers various benefits to colonized host plants including growth promotion, yield increases as well as abiotic and biotic stress tolerance. The fungus is characterized by a broad host spectrum encompassing various monocots and dicots. Our recent microarray-based studies indicate a general plant defense suppression by P. indica and significant changes in the GA biosynthesis pathway. Furthermore, barley plants impaired in GA synthesis and perception showed a significant reduction in mutualistic colonization, which was associated with an elevated expression of defense-related genes. Here, we discuss the importance of plant hormones for compatibility in plant root-P. indica associations. Our data might provide a first explanation for the colonization success of the fungus in a wide range of higher plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Schäfer
- Research Centre for Biosystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Bartetzko V, Sonnewald S, Vogel F, Hartner K, Stadler R, Hammes UZ, Börnke F. The Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria type III effector protein XopJ inhibits protein secretion: evidence for interference with cell wall-associated defense responses. Mol Plant Microbe Interact 2009; 22:655-64. [PMID: 19445590 DOI: 10.1094/mpmi-22-6-0655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The phytopathogenic bacterium Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria uses the type III secretion system (T3SS) to inject effector proteins into cells of its Solanaceous host plants. It is generally assumed that these effectors manipulate host pathways to favor bacterial replication and survival. However, the molecular mechanisms by which type III effectors suppress host defense responses are far from being understood. Based on sequence similarity, Xanthomonas outer protein J (XopJ) is a member of the YopJ/AvrRxv family of SUMO peptidases and acetyltranferases, although its biochemical activity has not yet been demonstrated. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusions of XopJ are targeted to the plasma membrane when expressed in plant cells, which most likely involves N-myristoylation. In contrast to a XopJ(C235A) mutant disrupted in the catalytic triad sequence, the wild-type effector GFP fusion protein was also localized in vesicle-like structures colocalizing together with a Golgi marker protein, suggesting an effect of XopJ on vesicle trafficking. To explore an effect of XopJ on protein secretion, we used a GFP-based secretion assay. When a secreted (sec)GFP marker was coexpressed with XopJ in leaves of Nicotiana benthamiana, GFP fluorescence was retained in reticulate structures. In contrast, in plant cells expressing secGFP alone or along with the XopJ(C235A) mutant, no GFP fluorescence accumulated within the cells. Moreover, coexpressing secGFP together with XopJ led to a reduced accumulation of secGFP within the apoplastic fluid of N. benthamiana leaves, further showing that XopJ affects protein secretion. Transgenic expression of XopJ in Arabidopsis suppressed callose deposition elicited by a T3SS-negative mutant of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000. A role of XopJ in the inhibition of cell wall-based defense responses is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Verena Bartetzko
- Institut für Biologie, Lehrstuhl für Biochemie, Friedrich Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstr. 5, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Kocal N, Sonnewald U, Sonnewald S. Cell wall-bound invertase limits sucrose export and is involved in symptom development and inhibition of photosynthesis during compatible interaction between tomato and Xanthomonas campestris pv vesicatoria. Plant Physiol 2008; 148:1523-36. [PMID: 18784281 PMCID: PMC2577280 DOI: 10.1104/pp.108.127977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2008] [Accepted: 09/05/2008] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Cell wall-bound invertase (cw-Inv) plays an important role in carbohydrate partitioning and regulation of sink-source interaction. There is increasing evidence that pathogens interfere with sink-source interaction, and induction of cw-Inv activity has frequently been shown in response to pathogen infection. To investigate the role of cw-Inv, transgenic tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants silenced for the major leaf cw-Inv isoforms were generated and analyzed during normal growth and during the compatible interaction with Xanthomonas campestris pv vesicatoria. Under normal growth conditions, activities of sucrolytic enzymes as well as photosynthesis and respiration were unaltered in the transgenic plants compared with wild-type plants. However, starch levels of source leaves were strongly reduced, which was most likely caused by an enhanced sucrose exudation rate. Following X. campestris pv vesicatoria infection, cw-Inv-silenced plants showed an increased sucrose to hexose ratio in the apoplast of leaves. Symptom development, inhibition of photosynthesis, and expression of photosynthetic genes were clearly delayed in transgenic plants compared with wild-type plants. In addition, induction of senescence-associated and pathogenesis-related genes observed in infected wild-type plants was abolished in cw-Inv-silenced tomato lines. These changes were not associated with decreased bacterial growth. In conclusion, cw-Inv restricts carbon export from source leaves and regulates the sucrose to hexose ratio in the apoplast. Furthermore, an increased apoplastic hexose to sucrose ratio can be linked to inhibition of photosynthesis and induction of pathogenesis-related gene expression but does not significantly influence bacterial growth. Indirectly, bacteria may benefit from low invertase activity, since the longevity of host cells is raised and basal defense might be dampened.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nurcan Kocal
- Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Lehrstuhl für Biochemie, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Essmann J, Schmitz-Thom I, Schön H, Sonnewald S, Weis E, Scharte J. RNA interference-mediated repression of cell wall invertase impairs defense in source leaves of tobacco. Plant Physiol 2008; 147:1288-99. [PMID: 18502974 PMCID: PMC2442523 DOI: 10.1104/pp.108.121418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2008] [Accepted: 05/19/2008] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The significance of cell wall invertase (cwINV) for plant defense was investigated by comparing wild-type tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) Samsun NN (SNN) with plants with RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated repression of cwINV (SNNcwINV). In source leaves of SNNcwINV, the activity of cwINV was repressed by about 90%. Sucrose export and apoplastic carbohydrate levels were significantly reduced, while photosynthesis and dark respiration exhibited little or no change. Activities of sucrose synthase and phosphofructokinase were depressed moderately, while ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase was diminished greatly. Yet, the content of cytosolic/vacuolar carbohydrates was not significantly lower, which correlated with the absence of phenotypic effects in SNNcwINV under normal growing conditions. By contrast, defense-related processes in primary metabolism and hypersensitive cell death were impaired and delayed in correlation with repression of cwINV. The increase in cwINV observed in source leaves of the resistant wild type following infection with Phytophthora nicotianae was absent in SNNcwINV. Also, defense-related callose deposition at cell-to-cell interfaces, the related decline in sugar export, and accumulation of apoplastic carbohydrates were reduced and delayed. Expression of pathogenesis-related proteins and increase in phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities were alleviated. Formation of hydrogen peroxide and development of hypersensitive lesions were weak and heterogeneous, and the pathogen was able to sporulate. We conclude that in photosynthetically active leaves of the apoplastic phloem loader, tobacco cwINV plays an essential role for acquisition of carbohydrates during plant-pathogen interactions and that the availability of these carbohydrates supports the onset of the hypersensitive reaction and ensures successful defense.
Collapse
|
39
|
Kloosterman B, De Koeyer D, Griffiths R, Flinn B, Steuernagel B, Scholz U, Sonnewald S, Sonnewald U, Bryan GJ, Prat S, Bánfalvi Z, Hammond JP, Geigenberger P, Nielsen KL, Visser RGF, Bachem CWB. Genes driving potato tuber initiation and growth: identification based on transcriptional changes using the POCI array. Funct Integr Genomics 2008; 8:329-40. [PMID: 18504629 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-008-0083-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2008] [Revised: 04/04/2008] [Accepted: 04/06/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The increasing amount of available expressed gene sequence data makes whole-transcriptome analysis of certain crop species possible. Potato currently has the second largest number of publicly available expressed sequence tag (EST) sequences among the Solanaceae. Most of these ESTs, plus other proprietary sequences, were combined and used to generate a unigene assembly. The set of 246,182 sequences produced 46,345 unigenes, which were used to design a 44K 60-mer oligo array (Potato Oligo Chip Initiative: POCI). In this study, we attempt to identify genes controlling and driving the process of tuber initiation and growth by implementing large-scale transcriptional changes using the newly developed POCI array. Major gene expression profiles could be identified exhibiting differential expression at key developmental stages. These profiles were associated with functional roles in cell division and growth. A subset of genes involved in the regulation of the cell cycle, based on their Gene Ontology classification, exhibit a clear transient upregulation at tuber onset indicating increased cell division during these stages. The POCI array allows the study of potato gene expression on a much broader level than previously possible and will greatly enhance analysis of transcriptional control mechanisms in a wide range of potato research areas. POCI sequence and annotation data are publicly available through the POCI database ( http://pgrc.ipk-gatersleben.de/poci ).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bjorn Kloosterman
- Wageningen UR Plant Breeding, Wageningen University and Research Center, P.O. Box 386, 6700, AJ, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|